You’ve more than likely heard of COVID-19, or more commonly known as coronavirus. The virus is thought to spread mainly from person-to-person through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The standard advice for prevention being to wash hands with soap and water often for at least 20 seconds when you get home or into work. People have also been advised to avoid shaking hands or hugging and to instead opt for a ‘footshake’.

However, while there is an immediate focus on handwashing habits, we should also consider extending good hygiene to our feet. Although you are unlikely to spread or contract the virus through your feet, you could encounter other problems. Not only can our feet be affected by viruses such as verrucae, they are all susceptible to fungus such as athlete’s foot and nail fungus, ingrown toenails and bacterial infections in cuts in the skin.

Each day out feet support the weight of our bodies, and over the course of an average person’s lifetime will travel over 100,000 miles. The condition of your feet is important to your physical and emotional well-being. Feet need to be kept strong, healthy and comfortable.

Here are a few tips to keep your feet healthy and prevent problems:

• Keep your feet clean and dry, wash them and change your socks regularly.
• Air out your shoes to prevent fungus infections.
• Rest and relax your feet daily. Simply lie back and elevate your feet for a few minutes each day.
• Give your feet a soothing massage with your fingers or roll your feet over a golf ball, tennis ball or a rolling pin.
• Exercise often to maintain blood circulation in your feet. It is best practice to take a brisk 30-minute walk five to seven times a week.
• Check your feet regularly. Look for any changes such as sores, cracked skin or redness – don’t forget to inspect the areas between your toes!
• Clip your toenails straight across, leaving nails a little longer than the tips of your toes to avoid ingrown toenails.

If you notice any problems or changes with your feet, get it treated right away so it does not get worse. To book an appointment with one of our expert podiatrists, follow this link http://thelondonnaillaserclinic.co.uk/shop/book-now

Additionally, products to help your feet and nails stay healthy and hygienic can be purchased through our webshop at http://thelondonnaillaserclinic.co.uk/shop/ or over the phone 0800 0862075