T he
working foot has a lot of demands made on it and, in a normal
working day, can easily travel fifteen miles. Just standing still
can also put a lot of strain on our feet, so we need to take proper
care of them, to help prevent injury and keep them working.
There are a number of potential hazards at work, which could lead
to injury, such as oily or slippery floors or machines, which can
crush or burn. Cold working areas like frozen food stores, or wet
conditions, can cause chilblains or athlete's foot. So, here are some
tips on taking care of your feet:
Never wear shoes for more than one day in a row. It takes longer
than 24 hours to allow them to dry out thoroughly. Damp shoes are
perfect for smelly feet and fungal infections to thrive in!
Try to leave your working shoes in a well-ventilated space rather
than in a small locker.
Wearing the right shoe for the job can help prevent accidents
and protect your feet and toes from injury.
You may have serious foot problems, but feel no pain. Check your
feet for cuts, sores, red spots, swelling, and infected toenails.
Find a time (evening is best) to check your feet each day. Make
checking your feet part of your every day routine.
After bathing or showering, use a pumice stone to smooth corns
and calluses. A pumice stone is a type of rock used to smooth the
skin. Rub gently, only in one direction, to avoid tearing the skin.
Do not cut corns and calluses. Don't use razor blades, corn plasters,
or liquid corn and callus removers -- they can damage your skin.
If you have corns and calluses, check with your doctor or foot
care specialist.
Trim your toenails with clippers after you wash and dry your feet.
Trim toenails straight across and smooth them with a nail filer.
Don't cut into the corners of the toenail
.
If you can't see well, or if your toenails are thick or yellowed,
have a foot care doctor trim them.
|
|
|
|
|