Mary Maryland, PhD, RN, presents a talk titled, “Happy Feet and Foot Spa,” at 11:30 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, at the Oak Park Arms retirement community, 408 S. Oak Park Ave. Dr. Mary, as she’s affectionately called, will present tips on maintaining healthy feet.
The human foot is a marvel of biomechanical engineering, and the average person will walk the equivalent of twice around the world in a lifetime. Feet deserve careful attention.
Ten tips to maintain healthy feet, according to http://www.medicalnewstoday :
- Inspect feet regularly and pay attention to changes in color, texture or appearance.Maintain good foot hygiene including washing and drying between the toes.
- Maintain good foot hygiene including washing and drying between the toes.
- Hydrate the skin. It is helpful to replace the moisture content by using lotions or creams on a regular basis.
- Buy proper-size shoes. Purchase new shoes late in the day, when feet tend to be at their largest. Always buy the shoes that feel the best.
- Don't ignore foot pain. Symptoms that increase or do not resolve within a reasonable period of time need to be evaluated by your podiatric physician.
- Cut toenails straight across. Never cut into the corner this could cause an ingrown toenail. Gently file away sharp corners or rough edges with an emery board.
- Walking is a great way to keep weight under control and is an excellent conditioner for the feet. Be sure to wear appropriate athletic shoes when exercising.
- Alternate shoes each day. Since the feet have sweat glands, shoes will absorb moisture, so it is important to allow shoes to dry out completely.
- Avoid walking barefoot to help protect feet from injury and infection.
- Put sunblock on feet while wearing sandals during the day to avoid sunburn.
The Oak Park Arms is a rental retirement community which provides independent and assisted living apartments and a full schedule of activities and services. Furnished apartments are also available for a short-term stay - a weekend, a week, a month or longer.
The program is free and open to the public. For more information call Jill Wagner at 708-386-4040 or visit http://www.oakparkarms.com.
