9 Habits That May Be Harmful For The Health Of Feet

[LoShiNi]

The feet are important for the human beings, especially for those who play a lot of sport. The general health of our feet is crucial since it affects our entire skeletal system. It turns out that there are a lot of little things we do every day that put the health of our feet at risk. Below, there are the most damaging habits for the feet, which most of us have.

1. Cutting an ingrown toe nail by ourselves.

Many try to resolve the problem by doing it themselves at home, using inappropriate and non-sterile tools. A common result of this is an infection or fleshy growth called a pyogenic granuloma.

2. Running a long distance in a new pair of shoes.

Many runners make the mistake of buying a new pair of shoes ahead of a big race. This habit could lead to blisters.

3. Being attached to one shoe size.

Our ligaments and tendons change, just as the height of our arch. Therefore, it’s not unusual for our shoe size to increase in any given year. The ideal solution is to try each pair and make sure it fits well, without judging based on the size.


4. Using the same shoe size for daily use and physical exercises.

Sport shoes shouldn’t be as snug as everyday shoes. This is because sport shoes need to give the foot more space to move while participating any physical activity. The use of shoes which are too tight may cause pain and damage the toe nails.

5. Using flats regularly.

Many women resort to flats as an alternative for work or walks. But these practical shoes offer very little shock absorption and cause more pressure on the soles of the feet and the heel. This lack of support can result in heel pain from repetitive stress, tendinitis from a lack of stability, metatarsalgia, and stress fractures.


6. Wearing worn shoes.

The use of overly-worn shoes, which don’t offer enough support, can damage not only the feet but the entire skeletal system. When a pair of shoes is old and worn out, it affects the angle at which we walk and can force the foot to step in an unnatural and harmful manner.


7. Walking barefoot in locker rooms.

Walking in a communal shower area barefoot contributes to fungal infections and transmission of other viruses. Always use flip flops in shower areas.

8. Running without socks.

Socks absorb humidity, reduce friction and blistering, and also give the feet an extra layer of protection.


9. Using running shoes when not running.

Running shoes are specifically designed for moving forward, so using them while doing any other activity could damage the feet, forcing them to move in an unnatural direction. For example, both tennis and basketball involve a lot of lateral movement, so each sport requires its own footwear.

The health of our feet is very important for our entire body. Let’s start paying attention to them in order to take care of ourselves and keep our feet healthy.