Treat Your Feet

In our lifetime we will walk the equivalent of four times around the equator of the earth.

Footwear can have a significant effect on foot health and general wellbeing, so choosing good shoes and being made aware of a good fit is essential.

Our aim in association with the Healthy Footwear Guide is to:

• Help customers recognise the key features of footwear that will most likely offer a healthy and comfortable fit.
• Stock styles and use brands that identify these key features such as adequate width and depth for your feet.

A Healthy Foot is a Happy Foot – 10 Top Tips for a Healthy Foot

1. Wash your feet every day in warm soapy water (don’t soak them, as this might destroy the natural oils) and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
2. If your skin is dry, apply moisturising cream all over the foot, other than between the toes.
3. Remove hard skin gently with a pumice stone, but avoid boney areas or joints. If the hard skin is painful, consult a registered chiropodist/podiatrist.
4. Trim your toe nails regularly, using nail clippers. Cut straight across, not too short, and not down at the corners as this can lead to in-growing toe nails.
5. Keep your feet warm, and exercise to improve your circulation.
6. Always wear the right shoe for the job.
7. Seek prompt treatment for burns, cuts and breaks in the skin, and for any unusual changes in colour and temperature. This is particularly important if you have diabetes.
8. If your feet hurt, something is wrong! You can help to keep your feet healthy by visiting a registered chiropodist/podiatrist for advice on how to keep your feet healthy.
9. Shoes should be properly measured, comfortable, and easy to put on at the time of purchase. Don’t expect them to ‘break in’.
10. A foot has up to 250,000 sweat glands. Your shoes can absorb 60% of the moisture released each day. Wear alternative shoes each day to allow them to dry out properly.

Disclaimer - This information is of a general nature and should not be taken as a diagnosis. All questions and concerns should be directed to your Doctor or other health advisor.

We work with supporting organisations, to make sure we are giving the best advice and service to our customers.

The Society of Shoe Fitters

The Society of Shoe Fitters was founded in 1959 to assist members of the public who have problems with shoe fitting and foot care, while training people within the shoe industry how to fit shoes correctly.

IFRA

The Independent Footwear Retailers Association provides an individual forum for those whose main professional activity is the retailing of footwear. Members of the public can obtain information on hard to find footwear on their website www.shoeshop.org.uk.