To maintain healthy feet, our Springfield VA podiatrist stresses the importance of moisturization to all our patients. Although applying lotion to your skin is a daily routine for many people, the focus tends to be on easy-to-reach body parts and not the parts you’re on the most – your feet! Think about it. Your feet bear the weight of your entire body and take thousands of steps every day. Why don’t they get the attention they deserve? As the foundation of your body, your feet need proper care to stay healthy. Long-term neglect can lead to serious health issues. Luckily, following the below advice from our Springfield podiatrist will help keep your feet in prime condition.
Learn How to Maintain Healthy Feet with Advice from Our Springfield VA Podiatrist
#1 – Know What Causes Dry Skin
To stay on top of dry skin, it’s important to get to the root of the issue. A dry climate is often the culprit, but our Springfield podiatrist warns that other causes could be:
- Dehydration
- Harsh body soaps
- Walking barefoot
- Wearing improper shoes
- Obesity
- A health condition like diabetes or psoriasis
#2 – Avoid the Risks of Dry Feet
According to our Springfield VA podiatrist, lack of moisture in your feet will not only cause dry, itchy skin, but also has the potential to cause serious health issues. If left untreated, severe cases can lead to cracked heels, which makes your feet vulnerable to bacteria and infection.
Cellulitis is a common bacterial infection of the skin that’s generally contracted through a tear in the skin. If not addressed properly, cellulitis can quickly spread to other parts of the body and become life-threatening. Symptoms range from high fever and nausea to pain and numbness in the infected area. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, contact our Springfield podiatrist.
#3 – Treatments for Dry Feet
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to maintain healthy feet. Our Springfield VA podiatrist recommends using a foot lotion at least once daily and a pumice stone a few times a week to slough off dead skin. Wearing socks and supportive shoes will also help to keep your feet protected. For those who live in a dry climate, try using a humidifier in your home to keep moisture in the air and dry skin at bay.
Avoid Dry Feet with Help from Our Springfield VA Podiatrist
With a little preventative work and regular maintenance, your feet can be as healthy and moisturized as the rest of your body. Just a few minutes each day will keep the foundation of your body going strong. Contact our Springfield podiatrist for more information.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Springfield VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
