Your feet make up only 2% of your body, yet they support the remaining 98%, serving as the “roots” of your body. They are also referred to as the “second heart” because they help pump blood back up from the lower body. However, since feet are often covered by socks and shoes, they are easy to neglect. Given that they bear your body weight every day, keeping them healthy is essential for overall well-being.

Healthy feet should have:

• Balanced strength in the muscles that flex and extend the toes and ankles.
• Joints that move without strain.
• Even weight distribution across the big toe, little toe, and heel when standing.
• Toes that remain straight without deformities.
• Smooth skin without calluses, corns, or fungal infections.
• A warm pinkish hue, indicating good circulation.

If your feet don’t meet these criteria, it’s never too late to start taking care of them. Proper foot care can prevent conditions like ankle sprains and bunions. Here are four essential ways to keep your feet healthy.

1. Foot Soaks

Soaking your feet in warm water (42–44°C or 108–111°F) for 10–15 minutes can help improve circulation and relax muscles. The water should be deep enough to cover your ankles. Simply keeping your feet in warm water while washing them can be beneficial. Gently moving your ankles while soaking enhances the effect.

2. Foot Massage

Since the feet contain many small muscles, they easily become fatigued. The muscles are concentrated in the arch of the foot and between the toes, so focusing on these areas when massaging can help relieve tension. Always massage in the direction of the heart. You can use your hands or roll a golf ball or a sturdy plastic bottle under your foot for a simple yet effective massage.

3. Strengthening Foot Muscles

Strengthening foot muscles can reduce fatigue and improve foot health. Try these simple exercises:

• Pick up a towel from the floor using your toes.
• Curl and stretch your toes repeatedly.
• Stand with the balls of your feet on the edge of a step and move up and down.
• Use your toes to pick up small objects, like marbles.

4. Managing Calluses and Corns

Hardened calluses and corns can press on surrounding soft tissue, causing pain. They should be carefully removed in a hygienic manner, but only when the skin is completely dry to reduce infection risk. Wearing properly fitting shoes can help prevent them from forming. The best shoes provide a little extra space in both length and width for a comfortable fit.

By incorporating these simple habits into your routine, you can keep your feet healthy and pain-free, ensuring a strong foundation for your entire body.

Source: Health Chosun (헬스조선)

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