As in other areas related to health, podiatry is a specialty that not everyone knows about and the subject of many doubts. After all, foot care is still not a common practice – many do not pay the necessary attention to this part of the body. Therefore, podiatrist Yumi Ikeda answers some of the most frequently asked questions. Look!
1. How often should I visit the podiatrist?
In terms of prevention and basic care, the visit to the podiatrist should happen, on average, every 30 days. In case there is any specific problem, you must follow the recommendations of your podiatrist.
2. Even though I don’t have any apparent problems, do I need to go to the podiatrist?
Yes. If a visit every 30 days is not possible, go to a podiatrist for prophylaxis and follow-up at least once every six months. Prevention and guidance are also part of the podiatrist’s job.
3. What should I do to prevent my nails from ingrown?
Some nails predisposed to jamming. In these and all other cases, the ideal is that you avoid cutting your nails on the sides (the famous little corners) and also avoid very tight shoes.
4. Why does my heel thicken or crack?
Heels with thick skin or with cracks are common in many people and are due to the pressure exerted by the person’s excess weight when walking, excessive sanding and lack of hydration in the feet. Ideally, in all cases, you should look for a specialist.
5. How should I cut my baby’s nails?
Before starting the procedure, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Stay calm and hold the little foot firmly, focusing on one toe at a time. With your thumb, spread the skin underneath the nail and make the cut close to the finger. Always opt for straight cut and never remove the nail from the sides, just round the corners. “Poking” the corners of the fingers can bring serious and painful complications for the little ones.
6. Can foot problems vary according to climate and weather?
Yes. In warmer seasons, feet are exposed and, therefore, more susceptible to dryness, causing cracks, which represent a gateway for microorganisms. Already in winter, those who think that there is no need to visit the podiatrist are mistaken because the feet being most of the time inside a shoe. Even in the cold, feet sweat and, in some situations, even more than in summer, because they are almost always inside closed shoes and, most of the time, are not comfortable.
Source: Maxima
I am an experienced author and journalist with a passion for lifestyle journalism. I currently work for Buna Times, one of the leading news websites in the world. I specialize in writing stories about health, wellness, fashion, beauty, interior design, and more. My articles have been featured on major publications such as The Guardian and The Huffington Post.