Too many of us put up with painful feet. It can really affect our day-to-day moods and sense of happiness. In the end we walk around on them all day and so they need to be comfortable and in good shape so that they serve us well.

Foot health is also integral to the overall health of our bodies. Feet are the foundations of our bodies, so when they are not functioning well or misaligned we change the way we walk to compensate. This change in gait can then affect other parts of our bodies- muscles, joints, back, ankles and hips, you name it. You recall the song, your “foot bone’s connected to your heel bone”. So don’t ignore sore feet!

While a podiatrist would be the right person to seek out for more serious issues, regular trips to a salon for a pedicure can really help the overall health of your feet. Pedicures should involve a soak, either in a sanitised bowl, or if you attend a salon where foot spas are used, check they have been flushed out and cleaned after every customer and that fungicide has been used to rid of bad bacteria in the spa mechanism.

Once soaked, hardened skin should be gently filed with sterilised or new files. Hardened skin, particularly if it’s cracked on the heel can be extremely painful. This can be solved over time and with regular filing, moisturising and TLC.

Nails should then be filed and shaped, with polish finish if desired. A good massage with moisturiser is the final touch.

The importance of moisturiser to foot health shouldn’t be underestimated either. Regular application will solve hard skin issues, as well as help towards the reduction of callouses, all making for more comfortable feet.

Of course, next time you’re watching your favourite TV show, there’s no reason why you couldn’t give your feet a relaxing soak, quick file and moisturise. Maintaining your feet in this way in between pedicures will really bring you dancing, happy feet. w