Advice on Foot Care

The following is part of a press release from the APMA on 10/1/07.

FOOT-FRIENDLY TIPS OFFER FEET RELIEF DURING COLDER MONTHS

BETHESDA, Md. – As the summer months dwindle, consumers everywhere switch gears in preparation for cooler temperatures. Sandals and flip-flops give way to heavy socks and close-toed shoes. Podiatric physicians from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) offer advice on how to successfully transition those sun-tanned feet into hibernation. “Proper foot care should not fluctuate with the seasons, said Dr. Christian Robertozzi, APMA president. “Dry, cold air can contribute to a myriad of pesky foot ailments.” Properly caring for the feet, including keeping them clean and moisturized, is essential to maintaining foot health during the fall and winter.”

In fact a study commissioned by the APMA found that 41 percent of women aged 18 to 49 reported that moisturizing their feet is the most common way they show them they care. The following tips suggest a few more ways to keep feet looking and feeling good once sandal season ends:

• Practice good hygiene and wash feet with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
• Change your shoes, socks and hosiery daily.
• Take time to get your feet measured while shoe shopping to find the right fit.
• When possible, wear shower shoes in public showers
• Use a quality foot powder. Talcum, not starch, will help deter infection.
• Avoid wearing tight hosiery, which promotes moisture.
• Wear socks made of synthetic fibers that tend to wick away moisture faster.

Founded in 1912, the American Podiatric Medical Association represents the nation’s premier foot and ankle physicians. The Association has component societies in 53 locations in the US and its territories and a membership close to 11,500 doctors of podiatric medicine. For free foot health information, contact APMA at 1-800-FOOTCARE (1-800-366-8227).

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