Health Tips for June 5

Health Tip: Get a Safe Pedicure

Lots of people get pedicures in advance of the summer sandal season. But before you hit the salon, consider some safety do's and don'ts.

The American Podiatric Medical Association offers these suggestions to reduce the risk of infection or injury:

• Schedule one of the first appointments in the morning when tubs are cleanest. Or make sure your technician disinfects the tub before your pedicure.
• Bring your own pedicure tools. Use separate tools for pedicures and manicures to prevent contamination between toes and fingers.
• Skip shaving your legs before the appointment to help prevent bacteria from entering the skin.
• Have your feet scrubbed with a pumice stone, but never allow technicians to use a razor to remove dead skin.
• Make sure toenails are cut straight across and smoothed with an emery board. The board should never be shared with anyone else.
• Never allow your nails to be cleaned out with a sharp object that could puncture the skin; a blunt manicure stick is better.
• Make sure toes are completely dry when you leave. Extra moisture can lead to fungal growth.
• Never allow your cuticles to be cut, only pushed back.

Health Tip: Keep Your Feet Safe in Flip-Flops

Flip-flops may feel great to wear during summer, but your feet might not agree. Many flip-flops offer no or little protection for the feet, and can lead to pain or injury.

The American Podiatric Medical Association has these suggestions to help protect your feet while wearing flip-flops:

• Invest in better quality flip-flops, made of a soft leather.
• Try to bend the flip-flop gently. While it should give at the ball of the foot, never purchase any flip-flop that completely bends in half.
• Opt for flip-flops instead of walking barefoot in areas such as public pools, beaches, locker rooms and hotel rooms.
• Make sure the flip-flops fit, and your feet don't extend beyond the edge.
• Protect your feet with a sturdier shoe (never a flip-flop) when playing sports, doing a lot of walking, or working in the yard.
• Throw out old, worn flip-flops.
• Take care of any sores or irritated skin between the toes.