5 Powerful Ways to Keep Your Feet Healthy

It’s no surprise that healthy feet are important for feeling good and staying active. With 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments, the foot is one of the most complex parts of the skeletal system.

To keep your feet feeling their best, here are five top foot health tips from Thanh Dinh, DPM, a podiatric surgeon at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC).

Dry off from Head to Toe

You likely towel off after each shower, but do you thoroughly dry your feet? “Excess moisture that can get trapped in socks and between toes makes it easy for a fungal infection to begin,” says Dr. Dinh.

Trim Nails Regularly

Pedicures are nice, but all you really need is a straight cut across each nail, without trimming too close to the skin. “A straight cut helps deter painful ingrown toenails,” Dr. Dinh says.

Wear Shoes That Fit

Shoes that are too big or too small can cause skin irritation, like blisters, toenail injuries, and more. “I tell my patients to leave a half-inch between your longest toe and the front of a closed-toe shoe for a good fit,” says Dr. Dinh.

Find Supportive Shoes

After a good fit comes good support. While high heels, flats, and flip-flops are okay on occasion, it’s important to make sure the shoes you wear regularly offer support. “Your feet endure constant pounding,” says Dr. Dinh. “Supportive shoes or properly fitted inserts can help ease pain and prevent injury.”

Know When To See a Doctor

Pain, redness, and persistent swelling should be checked out by a podiatrist. “Allowing a doctor to take a look can often prevent a minor problem from becoming a major one,” Dr. Dinh says.

The Division of Podiatric Surgery at BIDMC provides expert foot and ankle care in a comfortable office setting. Learn about our services and meet our team.