In June, we celebrate Father’s Day and also Men’s Health Month.  It’s time we pay tribute to our Dads, who have made us who we are today.  So all those years Dad has been a sounding board for us, changed our nappies in the early years, and rocked us to sleep. This has put a lot of strain on Dad’s feet!  So this Father’s Day why not help him look after his feet and keep him on the go, along with improving his foot health. Take a look at the following advice and tips.

Research shows that when it comes to their health, men delay seeking treatment and may put off making an appointment until their condition has progressed.  So this year let your Dad know that you want him to be able to enjoy a long and active life and encourage him to take the necessary steps to protect his feet.

Encourage your Dad to check his feet

Remind Dad to check his feet regularly especially if he has diabetes.  Diabetes can reduce the blood and nerve supplies to the feet and problems can go unnoticed. If Dad’s feet hurt or there is something wrong, he should visit a foot health specialist.

Ensure your Dad cuts his toenails

To keep Dad’s feet in tip-top condition, he should trim his toenails once a month with clippers.  Get him to follow these tips:

1. Nails should be cut straight across, and not down the sides or around the top.
2. Cutting down the sides encourages ingrown toenails.
3. Don’t cut them too short – they should be long enough to protect the toes from work shoes and boots.
4. Again cutting too short will encourage ingrowing toenails.

If Dad finds it difficult to cut his toenails because they are too thick, get him to see a foot health professional.

What can we do with Dad’s Cracked Heels?

Cracked heels can be painful and look unsightly.  Instead of Dad getting the Black and Decker to them, any dry rough skin can be removed by a foot health professional so his feet can start to repair back to normal.  This will help relieve any pain and discomfort.

Why does Dad have thickened toenails?

Although there are many potential causes of thick nails, in the toenails a fungal infection is the most common cause. Other diseases, such as psoriasis or diabetes, may also cause thick nails to develop. The exact cause of thick nails will help decide the treatment a person has to correct the condition.

Is it time to change Dad’s footwear?

Has Dad been wearing the same shoes for the last several years?  If so, it’s time to upgrade those shoes.  They all wear out at some point.  Wearing the same shoes constantly can cause injuries and painful conditions like plantar fasciitis, and arch pain.

Tips for buying new shoes for Dad. 

1. Make sure there is about ½ inch space between his longest toe and the end of the shoe.
2. Ask him to wriggle his toes in his shoes.
3. If he can’t do that they aren’t big enough.
4. He should always try on both shoes, and make sure they don’t pinch or rub.
5. Finally, they shouldn’t slip at the back.

How can Dad take care of his feet at home?

5 healthy feet tips for men

1. Change your socks daily. Feet get sweaty during the day, so it’s important to change your socks once or twice a day to prevent excessive perspiration.
2. Wash your feet with soap and water.
3. Thoroughly dry your feet.
4. Cut toenails straight across.
5. Don’t hack into your foot to solve a problem.

If your Dad is concerned about his feet then encourage him to contact our award-winning footcare clinics in Beeston, Nottinghamshire and Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online.