Top 10 tips for happy healthy feet
- Michelle Reynolds
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Our feet carry us through life — quite literally. Despite their importance, they’re often overlooked until something goes wrong. Whether you're on your feet all day, a weekend walker, or just trying to avoid future foot problems, following good foot care habits can make a big difference.
Here are 10 essential tips to keep your feet in great shape:
1. Wash Your Feet Daily
It sounds simple, but feet are prone to bacteria and fungal infections, especially between the toes. Use warm water and mild soap, and make sure to dry thoroughly. Take particular care to make sure you dry well between your toes.
Tip: Avoid soaking feet too long as this can dry out the skin. And where possible avoid skincare products that contain SLS (sodium lauryl sulphate) as this chemical is a degreaser and really dries out the skin.
2. Moisturise – But Not Between the Toes
Dry skin can lead to painful cracks and calluses. Use a foot cream daily. However, avoid putting cream between your toes - this area does not need moisturising and can get too damp is cream is used, increasing the risk of fungal and bacterial infections.
Recommended: Foot creams containing 10% urea for dry or cracked skin
3. Trim Nails Properly
Cut toenails straight across, and file the corners so they are not sharp. Don’t cut them too short, and use proper nail clippers, not scissors.
Tip: If you have thickened, damaged or deformed toenails these can be particularly awkward to cut – book in with your podiatrist who can advise you how to manage them appropriately
4. Choose the Right Footwear
Wear shoes that fit well and suit your activity. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to pain, corns, blisters, and long-term damage. Leave some toe room and avoid high heels or pointy shoes for everyday use - save them for special occasions!
Rule of thumb: There should be about 1cm of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
5. Change Socks Daily
Always wear clean, dry socks — preferably made from moisture-wicking materials such as bamboo. Damp socks increase your risk of fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
Tip: If you find socks are tight around the ankles or your feet/legs swell, you may benefit from soft top socks such as Gentle Grip. Visit our online sock store for more information: www.sockshop.co.uk/mrp
6. Don’t Ignore Foot Pain or problems
Pain isn’t normal. If you experience for example persistent pain, discomfort, or changes in skin/nail condition, see a podiatrist. Early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Remember: This is especially important for people with diabetes, where small issues can escalate quickly.
7. Check Your Feet Regularly
Look out for:
Cuts or wounds that don’t heal as quickly as you would normally expect
Swelling
Changes in colour
Nail issues
Dry, cracked skin
Lumps and bumps
If you have diabetes, daily checks are critical to avoid ulcers or infections.
8. Buy new shoes in the afternoon
Feet swell throughout the day. Purchasing new shoes is best done later in the day to ensure you don’t buy shoes that end up being too tight!
Tip: You can be a different shoe size in different brands of footwear, or different styles. So always try a few sizes to see which feels the most comfortable.
9. Don’t use corn plasters.
These products can contain acids that burn your skin. You can be left with a nasty wound, a potential infection, and at the end of the day still have a corn!
Tip: If you think you have a corn visit your podiatrist who can remove it and help you avoid it coming back
10. Visit a Podiatrist Annually
Even if you don’t have problems, an annual foot health check is advised. Problems detected at an early stage are more easily managed. Your podiatrist can then advise you on how to keep your feet in tip top condition.
Final Thoughts
Healthy feet mean a healthier, more active you. With just a few simple habits, you can prevent many common foot problems and stay on your toes — literally.
We hope these top tips are useful. If you have any concerns about your feet, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with our podiatry team. Prevention is always better than cure.
Call 0161 427 4937 or email info@mrpodiatrist.co.uk to schedule an appointment