Toe, Foot, and Ankle Problems, Noninjury

Prevention

The following tips may prevent toe, foot, or ankle problems.

General tips

• Bathe your feet daily in lukewarm (not hot) water. Use a mild soap, preferably one containing moisturizers, or use a moisturizer separately.
• Wear comfortable and supportive shoes. See tips on good footwear. Support weak or unstable ankles by using a brace or taping before exercise or activities that increase your risk of problems.
• Wear the correct size panty hose and stockings. Avoid wearing constricting garters, knee-high, or thigh-high stockings.
• Use a rubber mat to stand on if your work requires you to stand on hard surfaces. This may reduce stress on your feet.
• Maintain a reasonable weight for your height.

Exercise tips

• Do stretching exercises for the tendons at the back of the heels. This is especially important for athletes before sports activities but is also helpful for people who are not involved with sports.
• Walk regularly to improve circulation, increase flexibility, reduce fatigue, and encourage bone and muscle development.
• Establish good exercise habits and sports training techniques.
• Consider consulting a sports-training specialist if you are a competitive or serious recreational athlete. He or she can recommend training and conditioning programs to prevent foot problems.

Foot care tips

• Never cut calluses and corns with a razor or a pocketknife. Use nonprescription toe sleeves or toe spacers to prevent irritation.
• Prevent foot problems if you have diabetes.
  • Checklist for daily foot exams
  • Steps for proper foot-washing
  • Checklist for shoes that fit well
  • List of precautions to protect your feet
• Prevent foot cramps with proper stretching exercises.
• Prevent plantar warts with proper footwear.
• Prevent athlete's foot by taking care of your feet.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: October 27, 2008
Medical Review:	H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Gavin W.G. Chalmers, DPM - Podiatry and Podiatric Surgery
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