Your feet work hard. They help you stand, walk, run, and play. But many people forget to care for them. A good foot care routine keeps your feet healthy and pain-free.
At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, we want you to feel your best. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, a trusted Podiatrist in Scottsdale, shares simple steps for daily foot care. These tips are easy for everyone—kids and adults.
Let’s learn how to keep your feet happy every day!
Wash and Dry Your Feet
Clean feet are healthy feet. Wash your feet every day with warm water and mild soap. This helps remove dirt, sweat, and germs.
After washing, dry your feet well. Be sure to dry between your toes. If skin stays wet, fungus can grow. This can cause athlete’s foot or infections.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says clean, dry feet lower your risk of skin problems.
Moisturize Daily (But Skip Between Toes)
After you wash and dry your feet, use lotion to keep the skin soft. Dry, cracked feet can hurt and bleed. Cracks also let germs enter your skin.
Use a gentle foot cream or lotion. Rub it on your heels and soles. But do not put lotion between your toes. Too much moisture there can cause fungus.
If you have diabetes, dry skin is common. Daily moisturizing helps protect your skin and prevent sores.
Check Your Feet Every Day
Look at your feet each day. This helps you spot small problems early. Use a mirror if needed to see the bottom of your feet.
Check for:
- Red spots
- Swelling
- Blisters or cuts
- Cracked heels
- Color changes
- Ingrown toenails
If something doesn’t look or feel right, don’t wait. A podiatrist can help. Dr. DiNucci, your Podiatrist in Scottsdale, can check your feet and treat any issues.
The American Podiatric Medical Association says early care keeps small problems from getting worse.
Wear the Right Shoes and Socks
Shoes should fit well and feel good. Bad shoes can hurt your feet and cause problems like bunions, blisters, and heel pain.
Choose shoes with:
- A soft inside
- Good arch support
- A wide toe box
- A flat, non-slip sole
Avoid flip-flops or high heels for long walks. Socks are important too. Wear clean, dry socks made of cotton or moisture-wicking fabric.
If you’re unsure which shoes are best, ask us. Dr. DiNucci helps patients find shoes that support healthy feet.
Trim Toenails the Right Way
Cutting toenails may seem simple, but doing it the wrong way can cause pain or infection.
Here’s how to do it right:
- Use clean clippers
- Cut nails straight across
- Don’t cut too short
- Don’t round the corners
Rounding corners may cause ingrown toenails. If you have trouble cutting your nails, ask for help.
Stretch and Move Your Feet
Feet have muscles too! Stretching keeps them strong and helps blood flow. Try these moves:
- Point and flex your toes
- Roll a tennis ball under your foot
- Stand on your toes for 10 seconds
- Stretch your calf muscles
Daily stretching keeps your feet flexible and helps prevent pain.
Never Ignore Foot Pain
Pain is a warning sign. If your foot hurts, don’t wait for it to go away. Pain could mean:
- A sprain
- A fracture
- Plantar fasciitis
- Tendinitis
- Flat feet
Over 75% of Americans will have foot pain in their life, says the APMA. Getting help early makes treatment easier.
Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, a top Podiatrist in Scottsdale, offers expert care for all types of foot pain. We help you feel better fast.
About the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona
We believe you deserve kind, expert care. At our clinic in Scottsdale, AZ, we treat all foot and ankle problems. From sore feet to sports injuries, we’re here to help.
Our staff is friendly. We take time to listen and explain everything in easy words. Whether you’re a child, teen, adult, or senior—we’ll care for your feet with respect.
FAQs
How often should I check my feet?
Check your feet every day. This helps you spot problems early and keep your feet healthy.
What shoes are best for everyday use?
Look for shoes with soft padding, arch support, and room for your toes.
When should I visit a podiatrist?
See a podiatrist if you have foot pain, swelling, cuts that don’t heal, or any foot changes.
Conclusion
Healthy feet help you enjoy life. A daily foot care routine is simple and quick. Wash and dry your feet. Moisturize them. Check for problems. Wear good shoes. Trim your nails right. Stretch often. And never ignore foot pain.
If you need help, we’re here for you. At the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona, Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, your expert Podiatrist in Scottsdale, will make sure your feet get the best care.
Contact us today through our Contact Us or Request an Appointment pages. We’ll help your feet feel great!