by Ihor Magun, MD, FACP
It has been said that our eyes are windows to our souls, but our soles are often windows to our health. We walk thousands of steps daily, pounding the pavement and even keeping track with apps, yet when it comes to self-care, our feet often tend to be the last on our list. This month's articles focuses on the most common conditions that have an impact on feet and presents some suggestions for achieving and maintaining healthier feet.
Sweaty Feet. The soles of our feet have more sweat glands than any other part of our body. Socks come in direct contact with our feet, so choosing the correct type of sock will help reduce sweaty feet, which can be a risk for blisters, bacterial/fungal infections, and nail infections. Socks made of polyester, nylon, and blends of both cotton and polyester are the most effective in keeping sweaty feet dry and cool. These materials are actually moisture-wicking, thereby moving sweat to the outer surface of socks, allowing the sweat to evaporate freely. Pure cotton socks for sweaty feet are not recommended because they do not wick away moisture. If you do not have sweaty feet, the choice of socks does not matter. In addition, if you sweat only when you exercise, then consider the recommended sock choices during those activities. And while we are on the topic of socks, if our goal is to find warm socks, then cotton, wool, or alpaca are good cold-weather options.
Athlete's Foot. Tinea pedis, the official medical term, is quite common and frequently seen in individuals whose feet have been sweaty. Symptoms include an itch (especially right after taking off our shoes and socks) and a scaling rash. This condition can affect one or both feet, can be contagious, and can spread easily via contaminated towels, floors, or clothing. There are many over-the-counter medications to treat this condition, including powders and creams. Resistant cases require prescription medication. Obvious tips to avoid this condition include wearing proper footwear in public places and alternating footwear to give shoes some time to dry after wearing. Wash your feet daily, making sure to dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, and use a paper towel in between toes to remove any residual moisture.
Fungal Nail Infection. This condition, formally named onychomycosis, is not serious but is bothersome because it appears unattractive. The nail can become discolored and thick and can have lines visible. Small cracks in the nail and surrounding skin permit the fungus to enter the nail bed. This condition, if confirmed by a physician, can be treated with oral medications. Topical applications of medications do not work because the medications cannot penetrate the nail bed. Treatment usually requires a 12-week treatment regimen, and results will not be seen for nine to 12 months, the time required for the nail to grow out completely. Even after this treatment, the infection may return.
Blisters. Pressure and traction on our feet can produce a blister. Friction causes inflammation, resulting in a fluid-filled sac. Shoes that fit too tightly can rub against the skin, resulting in the build-up of fluid. While you shouldn't burst a blister, draining it may provide relief from any discomfort. To properly drain a blister at home, wash your hands well, disinfect a needle with rubbing alcohol, clean the blister with an antiseptic, and use the needle to puncture near the edge of the blister, allowing the fluid to drain completely. Then apply an antibacterial ointment and cover with a bandage until the blister heals.
Corns and Calluses. If you develop thick patches in the top layer of the skin on your feet, you have a corn or a callus. A callus spreads outward, while a corn grows inward. Corns are rounded bumps that are discolored, waxy, and dry. Calluses are flat areas of thickened skin on the bottom of our feet and are caused by repeated pressure, most commonly with ill-fitting shoes. Calluses can be removed using a pumice stone. Corns are treated with cushioned pads. These can be purchased in any pharmacy.
A few additional tips: Always cut your toenails straight across, and smooth the edges with a nail file. do not leave spikes of nail that can grow into your skin. Consider purchasing an exfoliating foot mask as a "treat"; it will soften cracked heels and moisturize the skin. Invest in footwear that is well-fitting and comfortable. Do not purchase shoes that feel marginal when you try them on, and that you hope will eventually break in. Use all these suggestions, and your feet will be grateful - and you will be proud to show them off every time you are barefoot.
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