FOOT TIP TUESDAY: STINKY FEET
Many people, adults and children alike, suffer from sweaty, smelly feet. With more time at home during this pandemic, the stench may have become increasingly obvious; from your own feet, or someone you live with. :) Daily shoe-wearers are usually hit the worst due to constant, sweaty feet. But why does the odor occur?
We all have bacteria that regularly resides on our skin. This bacteria + any other bacteria already present in shoes + a warm, sweaty environment = foot odor. Non-”regular” bacteria are usually the cause for those of us blessed with a very strong, pungent odor.
HERE ARE A FEW RECOMMENDATIONS:
-Keep feet dry.
-Switch shoes from day to day to allow shoes to completely dry before being worn again.
-Set shoes out in the sun, which can help dry out and kill bacteria.
-Dry between toes and remove excess water or sweat.
-Antiperspirant deodorant can work well for those who deal with severe sweating.
-If you have normal sensation in your feet, walking around barefoot occasionally is also effective.
-Wear appropriate socks and shoes; breathable materials are recommended. Cotton and wool socks for regular wear and synthetics when exercising. Change into a different pair of socks midday if necessary.
-Wash feet daily.
-Spray an antibacterial/antifungal cleaner in the shoes every so often and let dry.
If you continue to struggle, additional information and products are available in our office.
