According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), nearly 53 percent of men ages 18 to 60 reported experiencing foot pain severe enough to hamper daily activities. Most of this stems from neglect. But this doesn't have to be the case. With a few preventative measures, you can avoid nauseating odor, itchy athlete's foot, and other foot afflictions.
1. Get a pedicure. With warm weather comes open-toed shoes, and no one, including you, wants to see blemish-riddled feet. More and more men are heading to the local spa to receive pedicures not only for aesthetic advantages, but for physiological benefits as well. Pedicures can help address issues from foot fungus to ingrown toenails. So, man-up. Head to your local spa, pamper yourself, and make sure your feet are both healthy and attractive.
2. Trim with care. When trimming your toenails, be careful not to go too short. Cutting the nail and exposing the tissue beneath can expose the nail to infection.
3. Clean and dry. Keeping your feet clean is easy. Keeping them dry isn't. A warm, moist environment is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungus. So, if you're prone to sweaty feet, use anti-fungal foot powder or lotion and change your socks regularly.
4. Find the perfect fit. Well-fitting shoes provide more than comfort. They allow the foot to move naturally without putting added pressure on the toes or heel. However, if your shoes are causing friction, you could develop corns, calluses, or bunions. Be sure to avoid any shoes that compress the toes and that raise the heel too high.
5. Use a pumice stone. If you do suffer from corns or calluses, soak your feet in warm water for approximately 15 minutes. Once softened, remove the problem areas with a pumice stone. If you begin to experience pain, stop immediately.
6. Rock the socks. Cotton socks can do wonders for your feet. They keep your feet dry and odor free. Change your socks at least once a day, and avoid wearing the same pair two days in a row.
7. See a doctor. Typically, men tend to avoid the doctor at all costs; however, according to the APMA's 2007 Foot Ailments Survey, men are more likely to see a doctor about foot problems than women. If you feel persistent discomfort in your feet or if they're giving off a foul odor, keep up the trend, and seek help from a physician.
Sources:
American Podiatric Medical Association
Foot Ailments Survey
www.apma.org/MainMenu/News/Surveys/2007/FootAilmentsSurvey2007
Real Men, Mature Men, Get Pedicures
http://www.aarp.org/health/conditions-treatments/info-06-2010/real_men_mature_men_get_pedicures.html
