Lessons in Good Foot Health

Fall has always been a time of starting new classes in school, and at Goldsmith Podiatry, we’d like to offer our contribution: some lessons on basic foot care. Whether your child is learning at home or in school, it’s never too early to start teaching them to be proactive about their health. Below are some tips our Manhattan families can use to keep feet and ankles healthy and prevent common podiatric disorders.

Practice Makes Perfect—A good daily hygiene routine is your best defense against fungal infections and other foot disorders. Wash feet every day with soap and water. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes as this is where athlete’s foot usually starts.

Study Up on Foot Problems—You don’t need to become a podiatrist to recognize some basic symptoms of podiatric conditions. If you notice swelling, changes in the shape of your feet or toes that look out of place, rashes, bruising or lumps or bumps on your feet, it’s time for a call to our Upper West Side NYC office  at (212) 877-1002. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia, will evaluate the condition of your feet and determine if a foot disorder has developed and how best to treat it.

Do Your Homework Before Shoe Shopping—Plan to shop for shoes at the end of the day—that’s when feet are at their largest. Bring the type of socks you’ll wear with the shoes you’re planning to purchase. If you have a chronic foot condition like flat feet or plantar fasciitis, ask the podiatrist for recommendations of shoe styles that will best accommodate your feet. Always get your feet professionally measured to ensure the correct size and spend time walking around the store to make sure shoes are comfortable.

Sharing Isn’t Always Caring—These days, sharing isn’t encouraged as much as it used to be, and that holds true when it comes to footwear, socks, towels, and other items that someone else has used on their feet. Most foot infections like fungal toenails and warts are spread by coming in direct contact with the virus that has come off another person’s feet.

Pass the Test with Flying Colors—Taking care of your feet is not difficult! In addition to the tips above, be sure to contact us if you experience any pain or discomfort in your feet or ankles or have questions about foot health.