Tony Gavin – Walk Into Summer With Happy Healthy Feet

Taking care of feet should be the ultimate summer beauty routine priority.  Once the sun comes out and the temperature warms up outcome sandals, flip flops and wedges and our feet are on display 24/7 so it’s a good excuse to give them some TLC and keep them happy and healthy at the same time.

Whether it’s holidaying abroad or a camping holiday in the UK pampering feet so they are healthy and ready for summer should include a trip to your local Podiatrist so they can remove hard skin, callus, corns and trim toenails to the correct size.

Here’s Five Quick, Easy Wins:

• In the weeks leading up to your holiday use a good foot moisturiser every day after bathing to re-hydrate the feet. You will only need a pea sized amount and you’ll soon start to notice the difference. We recommend a good quality foot moisturiser.
• To remove hard skin, purchase a foot file and gently file the problem areas. When you have finished again use a good moisturiser.
• Trim your toenails following the profile of the toe rather than rounding the corners as this will help to prevent ingrown toenails.
• If you do have an ingrown toenail, visit a Podiatrist as they can offer a permanent cure and manage any infections.
• If you have corns, try to get them treated by your Podiatrist before you leave. However, if this is not convenient you will need to make a felt pad for your corns to alleviate the pressure from your shoes.

Before you go on holiday think about what you need to pack to ensure your feet are kept in optimum health.  Here’s some points to consider:

• Comfortable Footwear. On holiday comfort should always come before style. Choose your footwear carefully depending on your activity. If you wear orthotic devices at home make sure you take them along to put in your shoes.
• Plasters. Always pack a box of waterproof plasters as blisters can cause pain and discomfort. If you get a blister, consider applying a breathable waterproof plaster. Look at how you got the blister and see if you can alleviate the pressure by switching shoes or using some foam or felt to protect the blistered area from further friction.
• Suncream. Our feet are often forgotten when applying suncream but sunburn to the foot can be extremely painful and can affect your walking ability. If you are on a sunshine holiday your feet are not likely to be covered up. When you are sat in the shade or under an umbrella try to ensure that your feet are covered too.

About The Author

Tony Gavin is a podiatrist and founder of Osgo Healthcare, The Podiatry Membership Organisation (www.osgo.co.uk). Tony is also Clinical Director at Davenport House Clinic in Cheshire. Tony’s podiatry career has been varied he has been a visiting lecturer at Huddersfield University and has presented at several G.P. education events talking about the diabetic foot.