(ThyBlackMan.com) You might focus on elements of staying healthy, such as a balanced diet and exercise. However, do you understand the importance of looking after your feet? If your feet have been neglected for too long, here is a guide for African Americans to caring for you and your family’s ankles, soles, and toes.
1. Get the Right Footwear
Although you might be able to care for your feet well enough indoors, the outside world can be harsh on your feet, especially if you love to stay active and explore uneven terrain. If that is the case, you need to make sure that you invest in appropriate footwear. For instance, you might consider getting men’s Western cowboy boots if you will be farming, hiking, or horse riding a lot. The right footwear can support your feet, absorb shock, and prevent you from tripping up. It can also stop your feet from getting too cold in winter or sweating in summer. However, you should always ensure you have the right footwear size to prevent your feet from getting squashed and cramping.
2. Wash Them Twice a Day
You might shower in the morning or the evening, and this might be the time you choose to wash your feet. However, bacteria can build up under your nails overnight and during your day-to-day activities, and this can lead to fungal nail infections and other problems. This means that you should try to wash them twice a day with soap and water. This may only add a few minutes to your routine, but it can save you a lot of time and expense. However, if you do wash your feet twice a day, it is paramount that you dry them properly to prevent toxic substances from growing and impacting your feet.
3. Wear Socks
Socks can also keep your feet healthy. As well as preventing issues such as chilblains during the winter and blisters, they can also prevent bacteria from attacking your feet. If you do develop blisters, there are many products on the market that can help you, and you should avoid creating friction over the same spot. Socks can stop stones and other debris from lodging in your feet and are especially important for those with Raynaud’s. However, you should always make sure you change socks daily to prevent infections and other problems. You might also look for socks in breathable materials.
4. Know Your Risk
African Americans may be more at risk of certain foot conditions than others and so it is important that you are aware of these and know the signs of potential issues. This will ensure that you are able to get problems diagnosed and treated quicker to ensure that your feet can remain healthy for longer. You should also stay aware of hereditary conditions. If you believe that you are at risk or are developing a foot issue, you might consider booking an appointment with a chiropractor.
Healthy feet are vital for a positive quality of life, and yet fungal nail infections, chilblains, and even other long-term conditions such as diabetes can impact your mobility and the health of your feet. This is why it is important for African Americans to put their feet first.
Staff Writer; Sherry Jackson
