By Monique P. Jones, DPM

As we enter the final days of shopping, cooking, and preparing for the holidays, let's not forget to care for our bodies--especially our feet. This week we have Dr. Monique P. Jones, a doctor of podiatric medicine (a foot doctor), giving tips on how to care for our feet and ways to keep 'em sexy throughout the season. Read on!

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What does it mean to have healthy feet? A few descriptions immediately come to mind; well moisturized skin, evenly trimmed toenails, absence of hardened tissue (skin) on the heels or pressure points. How we care for our feet is essential to our overall health. This is especially true if dealing with a medical condition such as Diabetes.

One could argue, our feet are the most used and abused parts of our body. With all of the seemingly endless walking, running, jumping and standing we endure, our feet take a literal beating. Not to mention the beautiful but often painful heels we wear. Let’s face it, we love how we look and feel in high heels but no one wants the discomfort. So how do we turn used and abused into care and pampering? Below are some tips to consider:

1. Whether you have a clean bill of health or being treated for a medical condition, you should inspect your feet regularly and pay attention to changes in color, texture or appearance.

2. After washing or soaking your feet, dry them thoroughly, especially between your toes. This will help to prevent fungal infections.

3. Moisturize your feet with a non water based lotion or cream. These emollients will gradually absorb into the skin and maintain moisture longer than those that are water based (first ingredient). Body butters are considered great moisturizers. Typically, our skin requires additional moisture during the winter season. This is true for our feet as well.

4. Regularly trim your toenails straight across with a clipper. This will help to prevent ingrown toenails. Any jagged edges should be smoothed with an emery board.

5. Massaging your feet before going to bed will help to relax them and cause you to sleep better.

6. When going for a pedicure, it’s safest to decline use of a razor to remove hardened tissue (skin). Request a pumice stone instead. Some patrons will bring their personal instruments with them to the salon. If so, afterwards the instruments can be cleaned by cold sterilization (i.e., alcohol).

Caring for our feet isn’t difficult and it’s never too late to start a regimen. Remember, sexy doesn’t end at our ankles, nor should it hibernate during the winter months. The attention we give our feet will help to maintain a healthy status and help us to stay StillSoSexy!