Start at Ground Level for Healthy, Happy Feet

Have you ever noticed the simple, symmetrical balance of a child's foot? The skin is without callous. The entwining muscles, bones and ligaments work together efficiently. Nothing has yet occurred to change nature's fine work.

Flash forward a few decades over countless pairs of ill-fitting shoes, worn out, stinky sneakers and for some, killer high heels. Add on a few sports injuries, stress, smoking and dubious dietary habits and those tender little tootsies are no longer the perfect picture of health.

Even the most powerful athlete can come to a complete standstill because of foot, ankle or toe pain. While women spring for a pretty pedicure now and then, other than appearance, most people take their feet for granted. Until something hurts.

There are many common foot problems. Some are a result of athletics. Others a side effect of weight gain and hormonal shifts during pregnancy. And a great many stem from the stylish pinch of fashionable shoes.

Complaints of the foot vary from mild to severe. Some of the most frequently experienced issues are:

1. Athlete's Foot.
   A fungal infection that presents as peeling, redness and itching. Over the counter anti-fungal medications (found at or ) usually do the trick. Fungus breeds in moist areas so keeping the feet in a dry environment is key. Wear cotton socks and change them frequently.
2. Broken Toes.
   Usually there is nothing much to be done for a toe break other than to ride out the pain with ice and some anti-inflammatory medication. Still, if you suspect your toe has a break it is important to have a doctor confirm your hunch. There are some instances when a medical practitioner will choose to set a broken toe. Crutches or a cane may be necessary to keep weight off the injury. 
3. Shin Splints.
   Characterized by pain and/or swelling in the lower leg. Shin splints are often caused by running in old sneakers lacking proper support. Shin splints really hurt. A lot. Rest plays an essential component in recovery but it's essential to replace your running, aerobic or tennis shoes frequently.
   
   Many people buy very expensive athletic shoes which due to frequent use, lose their traction and support. There are many excellent quality, moderate and lower priced sneakers available that offer equal performance as compared to more pricey brands. Check out the truly great deals at for sneakers, tennis shoes and other athletic footwear.
   
   Another cause of shin splints is playing a sport, such as tennis, with a lot of stop and start quick movements. The type of floor that you play on is essential. At the , the flooring is properly calibrated to assist in both your game and avoiding injury.
4. Calluses, Corns and Dry, Flaking Skin.
   TLC is the best cure for all three. Usually the result of shoes rubbing against tender areas of the feet, it's important to treat these painful conditions gently.
   
   The offers the perfect antidote to neglected feet--the "Sole Food" treatment. As cited by the online menu of services, Sole Food is a one-hour treatment where "a warm salt scrub exfoliates and prepares for an application of warm paraffin. This is followed by a half hour reflexology foot massage. Your hooves will be thanking you after this treatment!"

As we age, our shoe size changes. Feet are slightly bigger by evening, after they have spent the day carting around our weight. Carrying extra pounds is particularly stressful on the muscles, tendons and nerves of the feet, yet another reason to maintain a healthy weight.

Treat your tired feet to a restorative soak once a week. Simply fill the tub up to ankle-level with comfortably warm water and add a cup of warm (not hot!) green, white or black tea. Soak for 15 minutes, then dry. Rub gently with a bit of moisturizing olive oil (a bit....otherwise you'll skid across the bathroom floor!). These simple kitchen staples can be picked up at the local or when you are grocery shopping.

Ultimately, much of the foot discomfort we experience can be aided with some TLC, proper footwear and attention to keeping the area clean and dry. Pain that persists can be symptomatic of larger issues, such as Plantar Fasclitis (an inflammation of tendons and ligaments) or Neuroma (a swollen nerve which has excess tissue accumulating around it).

Rather than ignore any condition that continues on an ongoing basis, check out our local Mecca for feet: . Along with treatment of common (and uncommon) foot problems, this specialist offers patients access to a fitness program called The Transitions Lifestyle System. The weight/foot connection is an important one and at In Step Foot & Ankle these linked issues can both be addressed.

Shoes can only hide so much for so long. Ignoring foot health eventually leads down a rocky path. Take good care of your feet and they'll take you through a lifetime!