Foot Care
Although walking is one of the least stressful exercises, nearly everyone suffers now and then from foot irritations. Some ailments can easily be treated with off-the-shelf products. We spend milllions on over-the-counter remedies. Problems and products to treat them include:
Blisters: The most common problem, usually caused by shoes that don't fit. To lessen friction and inhibit blistering rub a light coat of petroleum jelly over the ball of the foot, put on a sock, and apply another, light coat of the lubricant to the outside of the sock. Once you have a blister, cover it with a removable pad (not adhesive backed).
Calluses: An accumulation of thick, dead skin--the body's attempt to protect tender skin from irritation--also commonly caused by illfitting shoes. Don't treat them unless they cause you pain. Try medicated pads containing salicylic acid (not for diabetics or those with circulatory problems), pumice stones, lotions containing 10 percent urea, or soaking feet and rubbing them with anhydrous lanolin.
Ingrown toenails: Generally caused by incorrect nail cutting; often right themselves without treatment. If remedy is needed, gently lift the edge of the nail with a cuticle stick and put a small piece of cotton under the corner. Avoid liquid remedies that shrink the skin.
