Dry skin or callouses
Callouses are areas of thickened skin that often look slightly yellow. It is usually the result of abnormal pressures caused by ill-fitting footwear. If dry skin or callous is present use a foot file to gently rub off these areas. A pumice stone may be used to remove callous whilst bathing. Then apply a moisturiser, making sure none gets between the toes. Recommended moisturiser are: E45, diprobase and aqueous cream.Athletes foot (fungal infection of the skin)
Symptoms include: itchy, burning sensations, dry peeling skin, or white and soggy appearance of the skin, splits in the skin that can lead to bleeding and infection, and an unpleasant odour. Most commonly found between the fourth and fifth toes, but may spread to the instep and to the heel. Long periods of wearing trainers can develop a dark, warm, correct pH and moist environment that found in feet are an ideal environment for fungus.Treatments include antifungal creams such as Daktarin, Lamasil, Mycil, Clotrimazole and many more. Athletes’ foot can spread very easily to others therefore towels, sock and shoes should not be shared and walking barefoot is not advised.
Footwear
Inappropriate footwear can exert abnormal pressures that can cause corns and callouses, thickened or ingrown toenails and structural toe deformities. It is therefore extremely important to wear the correct shoes.Characteristics of an ideal shoe
- adjustable fastening such as lace, Velcro, buckles, and strap. This is required to be well up the instep to prevent the foot from slipping forward into the toe box, causing trauma to the toes and friction on the sole.
- low wide heel for good stability
- good width and length of shoe to prevent cramping the toes. Shoes in half sizes should be preferred, as a better fitting is likely to be achieved.
- deep toe box to prevent excessive/abnormal pressure on toes
- firm stiffening around the heel as it prevents the foot from sliding back and provides support.
- strong leather upper. Leather permits perspiration to escape from the foot, producing a drier environment that is less favourable to fungal growth. Leather also conforms to the shape of foot better than other materials.
- hard wearing synthetic sole.
(published with permission in writing from:http://www.hillingdon.nhs.uk)
