San Saba News & Star
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Carolyn's Corner
Thursday, August 16, 2012 • Posted August 16, 2012

Did you know that your foot has 26 bones, 33 joints, over 100 tendons, 250,000 sweat glands in it? Your foot bears tons of weight in an average day of walking. Most people take an average of 8,000 – 10,000 steps per day. One in four people experience foot discomfort. Most people believe that foot pain is normal and do not realize treatment is easy. Here are ten foot health tips that could really help you.• Foot pain is not normal. If you have a pain in your foot and it persists, see a foot doctor.• Look at your feet often. Pay attention to changes in color and temperature of your feet. Look for thick or discolored nails (a sign of developing fungus) and check for cracks or cuts in the skin. Peeling or scaling on the soles of your feet may indicate athlete’s foot. Any growth on or in your foot is not considered normal.• Wash and dry your feet regularly. Be sure to wash between your toes and dry them also.•Your toenails should be trimmed straight across. Do not cut your toenails too short. Cutting the toenails in the corners or on the sides can lead to ingrown toenails. If you have diabetes, poor circulation or a heart condition, go to a professional as your foot is more prone to infection.• It is really important for your shoes to fit properly. Buy new shoes late in the day as feet tend to be at the largest then. Replace worn shoes as soon as possible.• Your shoes should match the activity that you are doing. (running shoes for running).• Don’t wear the same pair of shoes every day. Alternate your shoes.• Going barefoot exposes your feet to injury and infection. Apply sunscreen to your feet when you are wearing sandals and could end up getting a sunburn.• Self treatment of your feet can often turn a minor problem into a major problem. Be careful about using home remedies. • It is very important for people with diabetes to get a physician to check their feet at least once a year.

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