Consequences of Improper Foot Care

Last updated 7 months ago

Your feet are responsible for supporting the weight of your body and enabling you to perform daily tasks with ease. However, the things you do on a daily basis can have a direct impact on the health and integrity of your feet. Read on to learn more about the consequences of improper foot care.

Athlete’s Foot

While it is important to gently scrub your feet on a daily basis, thoroughly drying your feet after bathing is just as important. Individuals who fail to fully dry their feet after bathing are at a greater risk for developing fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot. Those individuals who fail to wear flip-flops or water-socks while in public showers, pools, or locker rooms are also more likely to develop a fungal infection.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are often the result of trimming your toenails in an uneven manner or wearing ill-fitting footwear. Individuals with a preexisting foot deformity, congenital toenail malformation, or those with naturally short toenails may also be at a greater risk for developing ingrown toenails.

Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses refer to areas of hardened, thick dead skin that form in response to persistent friction or pressure. Individuals who wear shoes with a small toe box, high heels, or loose shoes that allow their feet to slide often develop corns and calluses.

Bunions

Bunions are among some of the most painful foot conditions caused by improper foot care. A bunion develops when your big toe is pushed up against your other toes, forcing it in the opposite direction and resulting in an enlarged toe joint. Reduce your risk of bunion development by avoiding high heels and wearing toes that provide sufficient room within the toe box.

A good way to protect the health of your feet is to visit your podiatrist on a regular basis. Let Dr. Teles with All South Bay Footcare improve your foot health. Contact us at (310) 986-2925, and visit us online to learn more about our services. We also offer custom-made orthotics!