From chasing after the kids or pets to enjoying the weekend activities, and everything in between, you rely on your feet every single day. But when discomfort sets in, it can quickly limit how much you can do. The good news? Small, consistent habits can help you stay comfortable and keep you doing more of what you love. Here are ten practical tips to keep your feet healthy in 2026.
1) Wear Supportive Footwear Daily
Your shoes should provide the support your feet need to keep you moving from morning until night. Look for:
- Cushioning- for heel and arch support. This helps to absorb the shock from each step.
- Firm, supportive heel counter to provide ankle stability.
- A wide toe box with enough room to let the toes spread. You should be able to freely wiggle your toes in your shoe; if you can’t move them, the shoe is too tight. Tight shoes can lead to blisters or long-term effects such as toe deformities like bunions.
You will notice a big difference just by switching into a more supportive everyday shoe. If you are unsure what is right for your foot type, visit a BioPed clinic. Our clinicians can help guide you in finding what will work best for you.
2) Replace Worn-Out Shoes Regularly
Even the best shoes don’t last forever. Most footwear will last anywhere from 6 months to 1 year depending on how much you wear them. It is time to replace your shoes if they are:
- Tilting or leaning when placed on a flat surface, or you can visibly see wear on the sole.
- Losing the support and cushion. Especially if they have some sort of foam insert.
- Causing new discomfort, wear and tear such as red marks, rubbing or blisters.
When you are ready to replace your shoes, consider donating them to your local BioPed. All BioPed locations collect used shoes year-round, in partnership with Soles4Souls.
3) Give Your Feet a Quick Daily Check
A 30-second inspection can help catch small changes before they become bigger issues. If you have trouble bending, use a handheld mirror to help you see your feet. Look for:
- Redness or irritation
- Cracks in the skin
- Blisters, corns or callouses
- Changes to the nails
The daily foot check is especially important for those with diabetes. If you notice any changes, consider seeing a footcare nurse or chiropodist for help.
4) Keep Skin Soft and Hydrated
Dry, cracked skin, especially around the heels, can become painful. This can also become dangerous if you have diabetes as it can become infected. Try:
- Applying moisturizer daily (avoid between the toes to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to fungal infections). The Footlogix brand is a great option for daily use. It has a high urea content, which locks in moisture, but is non-greasy, so it won’t leave your feet slippery. It is best to moisturize right after bathing to lock in the most moisture.
- Gently exfoliate with a Footlogix file once or twice a week to help remove the dead skin buildup.
5) Trim Toenails Straight Across
Cutting nails too short or rounded can lead to ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails can become infected, and for those with diabetes, especially those with neuropathy (loss of sensation), if they have neuropathy, it can become a very serious issue if left untreated. A simple approach to nail care:
- Trim straight across
- Smooth edges with a file
- Seek professional help from a footcare nurse or chiropodist
6) Don’t Ignore Persistent Foot Fatigue
Tired or achy feet are common, but it is not something you have to just live with, even if you are wearing the best shoes out there, sometimes, foot fatigue can be related to:
- Standing or walking for long periods of time.
- Flat feet put strain on the arches and ankles and can also lead to knee and hip pain.
- High arches can put strain on the heels and forefoot, as well as fatigue the arches.
Orthotics, whether they are custom or off-the-shelf insoles, can help improve the alignment of the foot, support the arch and evenly distribute the weight of the body. They can greatly improve the comfort of even the best shoes.
7) Stretch and Strengthen Your Feet and Ankles
Healthy feet are not just about what you wear, but also how they move. Try adding:
- Calf stretches. When the calf muscles are tight, they can pull on the connective tissue (plantar fascia) of the foot, making the heels ache. Massaging and stretching to keep them loose can help improve heel pain.
- Toe curls (bending and straightening the toes).
- Ankle circles (draw circles with your foot to exercise your ankles).
Even a few minutes a day can help you stay active and reduce stiffness.
8) Avoid Going Barefoot
Wearing slippers in the house can help provide the support your arches crave. This helps to reduce heel and arch pain. Wearing sandals in public places, such as around the pool, gyms, or communal showers, can help prevent you from exposing yourself to harmful bacteria and fungi. Indoor footwear is especially important for people with diabetes. Even a small cut from a sharp or rough object can lead to infection and possible ulcer or foot amputation.
9) Say No to the Foot Spa
Who doesn’t love getting pampered? Having a pedicure is amazing until it is not. Avoid using a foot spa because bacteria and fungi can grow in the jets, exposing your feet and legs while soaking. You might just end up with more than painted toes!
10) Consult a Professional
If you experience foot pain, notice swelling, or have changes in walking, discolouration of nails, thickening of nails or notice any calluses, corns or fungus, consult a professional. At BioPed clinics, we have just the right professional, whether it is a pedorthist to assess your foot mechanics and pain, or a footcare nurse or chiropodist to address your foot health. We are here to help you with all of your lower extremity needs so you can keep doing more of what you love.
Feet are often the most overlooked part of the body, but they are the foundation for staying active. Taking care of your feet is more than just about comfort; it is about your overall well-being. By building these small habits into your daily routine, you can continue to do what you love with greater comfort and confidence. If you have questions or need guidance, reach out to a BioPed. We are here to support you one step at a time.
