Secrets to smooth & pain free feet!

With the festive party season in full swing and holidays just around the corner, podiatrists are urging everyone to take extra caution, to stay safe, injury-free and happy this Christmas. The best Christmas present you can yourself and family is...healthy feet!

As much as we love this holiday and celebration period, it can sometimes take its toll on our feet. Whether it is lugging heavy Christmas presents around the shopping centre in not so ideal shoes or it’s an injury from an intense run along the beach after months of inactivity, it can be a stressful time on the feet and body in many ways.

In order to enjoy a healthy and injury-free holiday we have some simple tips on how to keep you and your feet happy and healthy into the new year.

Invest in footwear that supports and fits you
Since we only have one set of feet, it’s important to have shoes that not only compliment us, but comfort us as we go through our day. Purchasing proper sandals, supportive thongs and footwear that focuses on ensuring support and safety will save you money and health concerns in the long run. Here at Active Foot Clinic we have a supportive footwear range complete with our Wagga, Albury & Wodonga podiatrists ticks of approval! No appointment is needed, just turn up for your expert fitting.  

Mix up your heel height
Girls, if you find yourself wearing heels more often during this period its a good idea to switch between higher and lower heeled shoes. Wear supportive flats and trainers where possible to allow your feet to restore your foot health. Limit your time in stiletto heels, favour wedges or block heels which offer more support and comfort. Calf and hamstring stretches daily can help with tight muscles caused by wearing high heels.

Keep your skin looking and feeling amazing
Exfoliate your feet regularlyUse a pumice stone or foot file to keep your feet feeling soft and smooth. If the build up of hard, dry skin is beyond the humble pumice stone, or you really want to get rid of it properly, avoid the urge to use sharp instruments on your feet. Instead, book in with one of our Wagga, Albury or Wodonga podiatrists for super smooth, supple brand new feet! It only takes 30 minutes for us to give you the most thorough treatment available and get rid of all of that hard skin to bring you back to baby smooth! We also have the best heel balm on hand for you to use at home to help maintain your new feet and you will also be given the best tips to keep your skin glowing and looking brand new when your feet are on show! All you need to do is request a general treatment appointment. 

Moisturise your feet daily
Be sure to apply cream to the soles of your feet as well as the tops and avoid applying moisturiser in between your toes as this can lead to fungal infection.  

Don't tough it out with pain
While it’s easy to be stoic, hoping things will improve on their own it’s not the best solution. Address any pain issues with us early in the new year before you have pain in two or more places! All you need to do is book a foot pain assessment to find your simple solution.

Put your feet up
Warm weather and standing for long periods, salt and alcohol intake  can all lead to swelling in your feet and ankles. Limit what you should as much as possible and elevate your legs above the level of your heart to reduce any swelling which may develop.

Be sun smart
The feet are often overlooked when applying sun cream, however, they are an area that is prone to skin cancers. Don’t forget to protect your feet from the sun this summer!

Cristy Houghton