When you’re visiting Canada, you’d have to walk – a lot. Whether you’re in the city or exploring top attractions, like the Stanley Park, roaming around Parliament Hill or exploring Jasper and Banff – you’d have to walk. With the endless walking, which I wouldn’t shy away from saying as being some of the most beautiful walks you’d ever take – comes foot pain.

So, how do you ensure that you have proper foot care when traveling? Even if you are doing it for yourself, taking care of your feet has several health benefits, including:

• Early detection of diabetic neuropathy

• Prevention of inflammatory diseases

Key Foot Hygiene Tips to Follow

Healthy feet are the result of good foot hygiene. Taking care of your toes and soles helps evade odor and infections. Moreover, regular maintenance enables you to avoid common foot problems like

• Athlete’s foot

• Nail fungus

• Blisters

Keeping Your Feet Dry

One of the best ways to avoid such issues is to keep your feet dry. Wearing shoes or socks over wet feet is a big no as it leads to the accumulation of bacteria. Moreover, moist feet also lead to foul odor and even fungal infections.

Instead, it would help if you dried your feet with a towel or a foot rag before putting on your footwear. Use cold water unless absolutely necessary. This tip enables you to avoid stinky feet, as warm water is known to facilitate bad odors. When exposed to above-average temperatures, your feet will perspire more.

Warm water opens up your pores, causing you to sweat. As a result, your feet are likely to be slick and thus more prone to infections.

Using Moisture-Wicking Socks

The type of socks you use also affects the chances of developing foot odor. For this reason, cotton socks are preferred over synthetic goods. This type of material facilitates evaporation and breathability. Simply put, cotton socks allow your feet to breathe. It will enable air to circulate better, helping eliminate foul odors.

In contrast, socks made of synthetic materials trap the moisture inside. As a result, your feet will get sweatier much more quickly. These goods also do not enable as much air circulation as cotton items. Without proper evaporation, you are thus more likely to develop a stink.

To summarise, the following steps are necessary for preventing prevent infections and odor

1. Wash your regular feet in cold water

2. Dry your feet thoroughly using a towel – don’t neglect the areas between the toes

3. Use socks made of moisture-wicking material, such as cotton

Importance of Regular Medical CheckUps

Paying attention to your feet can help you detect feet problems in their early stages. Regular foot exams and screening can help you find symptoms of nerve disorders and even diabetes.

For example, if your feet are tingling, burning, stinging, or generally weak, you should get a medical checkup immediately. According to studies, these are symptoms of diabetes. Also called neuropathy, this nerve disorder is a manifestation of the disease.

If left unaddressed, it can cause the feet to go completely numb. With such a development, you can completely lose feeling in your legs, even to the point of being unable to feel injuries.

Tips for Better Feet Health – Especially When You Travel

Moreover, conditions like diabetes-based neuropathy can cause feet disfiguration, causing the region to swell. This symptom is caused by poor blood flow in the feet.

This is why, when you’re traveling in Canada, follow these simple tips:

• Daily moisturization – never forget to lotion your feet before going out.

• Regular nail trimming and filing isn’t just aesthetically pleasing, it helps your nails stay in better health.

• Check for any sores/blisters/corns/cuts/inflammation

• Check for objects lodged inside when putting your shoes on

• Wear well-fitted shoes that fit well

• Avoiding walking barefoot

• Getting regular feet exercises

The Canada Hustle team talked to Lucian Sterling, the CEO and Founder of Dasklokal, about the essential foot care tips for exploring Canada’s landscapes. Here is what he said:

“Canada beckons with its breathtaking natural wonders and dynamic urban hubs, offering travelers a diverse tapestry of experiences.

Whether wandering through lush forests, scaling majestic mountains, or exploring bustling city streets, maintaining optimal foot care is essential for enjoying every moment of the journey.

In the great outdoors, where rugged landscapes command attention, proper footwear is paramount. Invest in sturdy hiking boots with ample ankle support to navigate uneven terrain and protect against potential injuries.

Additionally, moisture-wicking socks help keep feet dry and blister-free, ensuring comfort during long treks through Canada’s pristine wilderness.

As travelers transition to urban centers pulsating with energy and culture, the emphasis shifts to footwear versatility. Opt for stylish yet comfortable shoes that can withstand hours of exploration without sacrificing fashion.

Consider supportive sneakers or casual walking shoes that offer cushioning and stability while traversing city streets or exploring cultural landmarks.

Amidst the excitement of adventure, it’s easy to overlook the importance of regular foot care routines. Take breaks to rest and elevate your feet, especially after extended periods of walking or hiking.

Treat any hot spots or discomfort promptly to prevent blisters from developing. Carrying essential foot care items such as moleskin, bandages, and blister pads ensures preparedness for unexpected challenges.

Finally, embrace the therapeutic benefits of nature’s remedies. Canada boasts an abundance of natural resources, including soothing hot springs and mineral-rich foot soaks, perfect for rejuvenating tired feet after a day of exploration.

Incorporating these wellness rituals into the travel itinerary enhances relaxation and promotes overall foot health.”

Nutrition and Lifestyle Hacks for Healthy Feet

Aside from healthy routines and regular checkups, nutrition and lifestyle also contribute to your feet’ health. Studies show that diet and hydration can affect foot health and function. For example, inflammation is one of the primary causes of foot pain.

Among these, the most common types are inflammatory arthritis like psoriatic arthritis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. Most don’t know that these symptoms are heightened by diet. Improper nutrition can lead to chronic problems if left unaddressed for long.

In an interview with the Canada Hustle team, Kurtis Forster, Sales Representative at Nu-Vista Premiere Realty, shared tips for ensuring foot comfort during urban and nature travel adventures. Here is what he had to say:

“Travelers can effectively balance exploring Canada’s stunning natural landscapes and vibrant urban centers by prioritizing foot care and comfort throughout their adventures. Investing in high-quality, supportive footwear is essential for long days of walking and hiking. 

Opting for shoes or boots with proper arch support and cushioning can help prevent foot fatigue and discomfort. Wearing moisture-wicking socks can keep feet dry and reduce the risk of blisters, especially during outdoor activities. 

Regularly taking breaks to rest and elevate the feet can alleviate pressure and promote circulation. It’s also vital to pack foot care essentials such as blister pads, bandages, and foot cream to address any issues that may arise. 

Incorporating stretching exercises into the daily routine can further enhance foot flexibility and reduce muscle tension, ensuring travelers remain comfortable and mobile throughout their Canadian adventures.”

The Ideal Diet for Healthy Feet

According to the Arthritis Foundation, your feet would be inflamed if you are consuming the following items disproportionately

• Refined grains

• Sugar

• Trans fats

• Saturated fat

• Omega-6 fats.

To avoid these issues, you must consume a healthy diet incorporating Omega 3 fats. An example of such a diet would therefore include

• Salmon

• Cod oil supplements

• Green vegetables

• Calcium

• Vitamin D from sources like mackerel, salmon, and tuna.

Weight and Your Feet

Your weight is another factor that can cause your feet’ health to degrade. Being obese can put immense pressure on your feet. As a result, you may develop painful and chronic conditions. In fact, according to experts, even being 25 pounds overweight can cause foot and ankle issues.

This risk is heightened if your work requires you to be on your feet for extended periods. For example, salespersons and receptionists are more likely to experience the symptoms of inflammation.

You may also face issues with your feet if you wear heels regularly. To avoid neuro disorders, you should therefore limit your time in heels. However, if unavoidable, you can incorporate aids and tools to relieve pressure off your feet. Some of the best items for these cases are

• Insoles

• Arch supports

Moreover, you can also incorporate the following to improve your overall feet health

• Regular exercise

• Healthy diet

• Plenty of rest.

Kwame McGill, the Founder and Owner of Chimney And Stone Masonry LLC. discussed useful tips for foot care during traveling. Here is an excerpt from the interview:

“First of all, proper footwear is a must. You’re going to need a good pair of hiking boots if you’re going to get out and about in the Great Outdoors, such as hiking in Banff National Park or checking out the Rocky Mountains: a pair that is well-fitted, water-resistant, and that provides support for your ankles. 

If you’re going on an urban exploration tour of such cities as Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, you’ll also want a good pair of walking shoes with nice support and cushioning. Bring both pairs of footwear so you’re ready to go from activity to activity without a hitch.

Alternating activity with rest is also important in terms of foot comfort. When away on vacation, it can be difficult to temper the impulse to pack the day with activity upon activity.

However, it is much better to alternate strenuous activity with something less physically demanding.

If you have spent a day walking or hiking through the woods, plan the next day around a less strenuous day in the city, seeing one museum after another, or end the day with coffee at a cafe. This type of moderation can help forestall fatigue and reduce the chances of foot pain or injury.

Establishing a nightly foot care regimen while traveling can also be incredibly beneficial.

Each night, take a few minutes to lie down with feet elevated to avoid swelling, stretch feet gently to help loosen tension, and moisturize feet and give them a good massage with a moisturizing cream to help keep feet soft and supple.

Using products that help avoid blisters, like moleskin or blister pads, can also prove very helpful, particularly if you are wearing new shoes or doing a lot of hiking.”

Conclusion

Aside from these, regular spa treatments are another fun way to maintain your feet’ health. If you want your feet to look extra good, you can opt for

• Exfoliations

• Soaks

• Pedicures

• Massages

Canadian cities have some great spas and massage centers. For instance, Montreal has the Bota Bota spa, which is a floating spa offering unique spa treatments for rejuvenation. Fairmont Hotels, across Canada, have got some great spa rooms too.

Guest Author: Saket Kumar

Last Updated on June 5, 2024 by Saket