Like them or loathe them, your feet are fundamental to your fitness goals. It’s time to stop ignoring them and hone in on your hoof health
Endurance runners aside, why do men pay so little attention to their feet? ‘It’s often perceived as not being masculine to talk about ailments,’ says GP Dr Amir Khan. ‘Foot-related illness in particular may not be deemed important enough to “trouble” the doctor with, and may also be a cause for embarrassment.’ So rather than bothering their GP, many men bury their heads in the sand, use dodgy DIY techniques or wear their sport-related toe troubles as a point of pride.
And that’s a major mistake. ‘Ignoring things like ingrowing toenails can lead to painful infections, which can limit the amount of exercise you can do,’ says Khan. ‘Cuts in the skin can also be a portal of entry for bacteria, especially if you have diabetes or circulatory problems, so it’s vital you look after your feet.’
A foot infection alone sounds grisly enough, but these can also get worse. ‘Untreated, infections carry the risk of complications, including life-threatening sepsis,’ says Martin Harvey, consultant podiatrist and chair of The Institute of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (iocp.org.uk). ‘Ulceration in the foot can result in life-altering pain and even amputation of the toes, if gangrene develops.’
Active people are more prone to problems, too. For each mile you run, your feet will hit the ground around 1500 times, and over the same distance, a 70kg man will process 112 tonnes of weight through each limb.
We all know that marathon enthusiast who is as pleased to tell you about his latest PB as flash you his nail-less big toe, but it’s not a badge of honour we should endorse. ‘Feet are not there to be abused. They’re there to support you,’ says Khan. If you feel tempted to liberate a loose-looking toenail, back away. ‘It will increase the risk of infection,’ warns Khan. ‘It will come off when it is ready – put a plaster over it in the meantime.’ Harvey agrees, adding, ‘Nails should be trimmed short regularly, and professional inspection of the feet is worthwhile.’ In other words, prioritise footcare like you would rest days or hydration.
However, prevention is best, and Khan has some simple tips. ‘Keep feet clean and dry – especially between your toes. Check at least once a week for cuts, bruises and infections. Moisturise daily to help skin remain supple, cut your nails in a straight line, and file any dry or hard skin with a pumice stone.’
