Looking after your Feet.

Looking after your feet (foot care) and treating common foot problems - such as corns, calluses, bunions, and ingrown toenails - can help to prevent problems that make you unsteady on your feet and at risk of a fall.

Wearing footwear that's safe, appropriate and in good repair can also help to prevent falls.

Foot care

Good foot care doesn't need to be too laboured, and can include:

• Keeping them clean and dry - especially between your toes.
• Checking them regularly for cuts or sores, redness, swelling or bruising. Get to know your feet well and know what is normal.
• Applying moisturiser if your skin is dry to prevent it from cracking and improve its texture.
• Filing dry or hard skin using a foot file or pumice stone.
• You should check, and care for, your feet regularly - including cutting and filing your toenails if needed. Schedule a regular time, 10 minutes, once a week is sufficient.

Footwear

As well as caring for your feet, you should pay attention to your footwear as this can also affect your walking and balance.

A good shoe should support and protect your foot and allow natural movement during walking. Poorly fitting shoes can cause foot problems - such as corns, calluses, bunions, and ingrown toenails.

When replacing your shoes, look for:

• An upper made of leather or breathable natural or synthetic materials with seam-free linings.
• A deep and roomy toe-box at the front of the shoe to prevent pressure on the toes and joints on the side of the foot.
• A cushioned and flexible light rubber sole with good grip.
• A heel no more than 3 centimetres (one and a half inches) high and broad enough to provide stability.
• Laces, buckles or Velcro strap fastenings that hold the shoe comfortably and securely on the foot. Avoid slip on shoes.

And avoid:

• Shoes that are too big or small, or with squashed backs.
• Smooth leather or plastic soles, and thick rubber soles that extend over the toe.
• Lace up shoes that become untied or without laces.
• High heeled or backless shoes.

Age Cymru Powys- Footcare support

Chiropodists & Podiatrists in Powys- Dewis Cymru