Are you hurting your feet?

Our poor feet often get the short end of the stick, constantly subjected to toe-stubbing, smelly socks and super high (and super painful) heels. But that’s not the only reason they can start to protest with cramps, rough skin and unsightly sores and bunions. There are actually a few ways you could be causing your feet harm without even realising. So to treat your feet a bit better, avoid these four mistakes:
RELATED: 5 things that are wrong with your feet
RELATED: The best tips for wearing heels without pain
#1 Forgetting to dry your feet properly
Each time you get out of the shower, it’s important to towel off everywhere. Many of us skip in between the toes, which when left damp, can cause cracking, splitting and peeling in the toe web - also known as tinea. It’s also a good idea to expose your feet to air as much as possible to prevent overheating and perspiration, which can also contribute to the skin infection.
#2 Wearing tight shoes
Finding the right fit when it comes to shoes is really important. If they’re too loose, they can rub and cause blisters, and if they’re too tight, you’re setting yourself up for bunions and corns. So even though they may feel nice and secure, your close-fitting shoes could be causing damage. The solution? Try on and road-test every pair of shoes you buy, as it’s pretty common to be a different size depending on the style. And if you’re prone to bunions and corns, avoid pointed shoes.
#3 Not strengthening your arches
Constantly stretching out foot cramps? These painful pangs are often caused by weak arches. To strengthen your arches, place small rubber balls (roughly the size of golf balls - or you can even use golf balls!) on the ground and pick them up using your toes. Repeat this on each foot for at least five minutes per day and the cramps should lessen.
#4 Being overweight
Do you ever feel pain in the bottom of your heel? This is known as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a thin ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot, supporting your arch and helping you to walk. The pain in the heel is usually caused by too much pressure on the feet, which then damages or tears ligaments, resulting in the plantar fascia becoming inflamed. You’re at greater risk of developing plantar fasciitis if you’re overweight - yet another reason to feast on nutritious foods, stay active and maintain a healthy weight!
Treat your feet with these goodies:
- Avon Footworks Metal Smoothing File
- Footcare Luxurious Comfort Insoles
- HoMedics Deluxe Shiatsu Foot Massager
- Lush Volcano Foot Mask
- Elemis Treat Your Feet Foot Cream
Have you ever had any foot problems? Do you check your feet regularly?
107 Member Comments
I’m hurting my feet all the time but thank heavens for orthotics!
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I really do enjoy wearing heels, but I sadly do get foot arch pain after prolonged periods of wearing
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Owww. I get pain pretty badly in my right arch.
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Thanks for the tips on strengthening arches to prevent cramping
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That's for sure
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Hahaha ... I had a giggle because hubby is always leaving golf balls around so I might just try picking them all up with me feet!
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High heels look so good but hurt so much even when they are the right size. Some excellent feet care tips.
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Hello everyone,
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I don't wear high heels. I have dropped arches and many other problems that actually stop me from wearing them plus i am tall enough without them
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I don't wear heels so much but flat shoes are not good if they have no support. I go with wedges as much as possible and that works for me :)
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Thank you for the article
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I love getting int o bed after I have done, it just feels so nice
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Common sense basics but I'm still guilty of an awful lot of these bad habits. Good reality check though.
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I always have to remember to go half a size up because my feet are so prone to blisters. Doesn't help that I play sport either.
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my heels always get this strange sharp pain too
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I gave up on heels long ago. I have one pair of shoes with a low heel for a dressy occasion but my feet suffer the next day after I've worn those.
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I avoid heals these days!! I wear flats to work and if I have to, will wear a slight wedge or heel.
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SO want to try the Lush Volcano foot mask. It sounds like just what my poor tired feet need!
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I wouldn't mind having a go of that Shiatsu foot massager.
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No idea why this article came up in Latest Blogs - I commented today then saw I had commented back in 2015 as has everyone else!
My feet have changed in 2 years!
Recycled blog?
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this me at the moment
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My feet are my problem for last few years and without vigorous and regular pampering they are my Achilles Heel (haha). Cracked and dry skin sometimes becomes painful. Well, you all reminded me today to be kind to my feet tonight. Thank You all
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