HEALTH + WELLNESS
Best Foot Forward cont ...
Combat swollen feet
Recent research from Deep Freeze , the UK ’ s top selling topical freeze brand , has uncovered the painful truth that 40 % of Brits suffer with swollen feet , especially during the transition from warmer to cooler weather with the varying temperatures affecting their lower legs and feet , leaving them with aches and pains that can even make it difficult to walk .
Additionally , two-thirds of people say that muscle pain affects their day-to-day life . Elyn Marwick , personal trainer , coach and functional fitness specialist who swears by the cooling , muscle and joint therapies from Deep Freeze , says : “ We aren ’ t paying enough attention to our lower legs and feet . They essentially carry us throughout the day and we need to care for them so we can move comfortably .”
If you ’ re suffering from feet and lower leg pain , here ’ s some top tips for relief .
• Focus on footwear It might be time to take a look at the shoes you ’ re wearing , particularly as 36 % of Brits say that correct footwear helps most with lower leg pain . When exercising , be sure that your footwear is suitable for your workout . For example , running trainers for runs , walks and high intensity exercise offer the support needed to cushion joints . Supportive shoes are important , with around 1cm of space at the end of the shoe , as well as some space around the sides as our feet naturally expand in the heat . With heels , block heels are best , and when you can - at home for example - try to walk around barefoot and give feet a breather . An insole could also help as research has found that customised insoles can help reduce foot pain .
• Take a seat Been standing all day ? It ’ s a potential recipe for sore legs and feet . Our lower body also need rest , so if you can , raise your legs while sitting , which will help reduce swelling . For added cooling relief , try Deep Freeze Cold Patches applied to legs and feet , which are scientifically proven to provide rapid cooling and soothing relief for up to three hours ; they ’ re also suitable for uncomfortable mums-to-be !
• Try a foot bath Give your feet and lower legs a real pamper with a foot bath by filling a bucket or washing up bowl with warm water and if possible , add some epsom salts into the mix . Allow these to dissolve before immersing your feet in the water and stay here for 15 minutes , relaxing ; the salt water has been shown to alleviate pain and tension .
TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY FEET FROM LUCY WILLCOX ( BSc MRCPod ) AT EASY FEET PODIATRY , ASHFORD
Healthy feet are the foundation of an active life . By caring for your feet , you ’ re not just taking steps , but strides towards overall wellbeing . Keep them strong , keep them flexible , and keep them cared for - because happy feet lead to a happier you .
LUCY ’ S FIVE TOP TIPS FOR HEALTHY FEET
1 . Wear proper footwear Choose shoes that fit well , provide support and suit your activities .
2 . Keep feet clean and dry Wash daily and dry thoroughly , especially between toes , to prevent fungal infections .
3 . Moisturise regularly Apply lotion to keep skin soft but avoid the spaces between your toes ; keeping the skin dry will help prevent infections like Athlete ’ s Foot .
4 . Trim toenails correctly Cut nails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails . Then use an emery board or nail file to smooth the corners , which will prevent the nail from growing into your skin .
5 . Check your feet daily Look for cuts , blisters , sores or swelling that may need treating , especially if you have diabetes .
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