Foot care: Simple daily routine for healthy, pain-free feet

Your feet take a beating every day. A few easy habits can cut pain, stop infections, and keep you moving. Below are clear, practical steps you can use right away—no fancy tools, just plain good care.

Daily foot care checklist

Do these simple things every day and your feet will thank you.

• Wash and dry: Wash feet with mild soap and warm water for 30–60 seconds. Dry well—especially between the toes—to prevent fungal growth.
• Inspect: Look for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or nail changes. Use a mirror or ask someone to help if you can’t see the bottoms.
• Moisturize: Apply a lotion or cream to the tops and soles (avoid between toes). For rough skin, a cream with 10% urea at night softens calluses.
• Trim nails right: Cut straight across and file corners smooth. Don’t dig into the edges—this can cause ingrown nails and infections.
• Socks and shoes: Wear clean, dry socks made of cotton or moisture-wicking material. Shoes should have about a thumb’s width of space in front and good arch support.

Small tweaks make a big difference. Replace worn-out shoes when the sole is flattened or the shoe no longer supports your foot. Consider supportive insoles if you spend a lot of time standing or have flat feet.

Common problems and smart fixes

Deal with issues early so they don’t get worse.

Calluses and corns: After a warm shower, gently rub a pumice stone over thick skin. Don’t shave or cut them yourself. If they’re painful or you have diabetes, get a professional to treat them.

Blisters: Keep them clean and covered. If the skin is intact, leave it—don’t drain. If it bursts, clean with soap and water and cover with a sterile dressing.

Fungal infections: Itchy skin, cracked areas, or thick yellow nails suggest fungus. Try an over-the-counter antifungal cream for mild athlete’s foot. Thick or damaged nails often need a podiatrist’s care.

Special notes for people with diabetes: Check feet every day for cuts, color change, or numbness. Never use heating pads or hot water bottles on numb feet. Get a foot exam from a doctor at least once a year.

When should you see a podiatrist? If you have a sore that won’t heal after two weeks, severe pain, spreading redness, increased swelling, signs of infection, or numbness, make an appointment. Quick treatment prevents bigger problems.

Simple habits—wash, dry, inspect, moisturize, and wear the right shoes—cover most needs. Start with these steps today and your feet will stay healthier, longer.