Nails Your Way

Keeping Problem Feet Healthy

Foot health is so important that the American Podiatric Medical Association calls human feet "the mirrors of health," since signs of infirmity can occur first in the feet. By examining the feet, podiatrists can diagnose blood sugar irregularities, circulation deficits, and bone and joint difficulties. Telltale signs include dry and cracked skin, numbness, burning and tingling sensations, feelings of coldness, swelling, and skin discoloration.

The mature population is especially susceptible to foot problems, since feet tend to spread with age, losing the fatty tissue that cushions the bottoms. Once the padding has deteriorated, the feet become more tender and prone to injury.

Unfortunately, even though it is common for mature adults to experience chronic foot discomfort, most rationalize it as just a normal part of aging and fail to try to find solutions to their discomfort. This is a mistake, since ignoring foot care can lead to serious complications and decrease a person's quality of life.

Western research has shown that specific botanicals offer support for foot and leg health by nurturing the tissues and helping to maintain healthy circulation. Aloe, an extract derived from a tropical cactus has a long history of use in soothing burns, insect bites, abrasions, cuts, and wounds. Now scientists have discovered that Aloe has properties that also help to promote tissue health. In an animal study, paw problems were curbed by an average of 54% when Aloe was applied to the problem area. With its ability to penetrate the skin, it is also a potent moisturizer. Aloe is even used in hospitals these days, to help the skin heal quicker after surgery.

Research is also being done concerning the possibility of Aloe being used to someday replace antibiotics. Dr. Susan Lark renowned author of The Lark Letter for Women has used Aloe to heal middle ear infections in children and urinary tract and yeast infections in women. Dr. Lark believes that Aloe may one day be used to cure diabetes. In recent clinical studies, diabetics taking Aloe gained control of their blood sugar "rapidly and significantly."

In a study published by the International Journal of Dermatology, doctors used Aloe exclusively on stubborn leg ulcers. In each case, Aloe nurtured the tissues and helped maintain blood flow to the affected area. Increased blood circulation is an important factor especially for those who suffer with diabetes or arthritis problems.

A specialized, oxygenated foot lotion containing Aloe and Vitamin E can support lower extremity circulation, allowing nutrients and oxygen to flow into the cells. This nourishes the tissue and helps support the feet against infection. Consistent monthly pedicures using special oxygenated lotions containing Aloe will help improve circulation and provide healthy moisturized skin. The therapeutic whirlpool Aloe care spa manicure and spa pedicure feature the natural plant extract Aloe that provides healing, relaxation, and smoothing benefits to the hands and feet.

With foot health playing such a vital role in the quality of life of older adults, it is imperative to keep foot circulation at an optimal capacity so that cellular activity can be supported, thereby decreasing the chances of skin and nail problems in the feet.

Read Jeanne's Latest Monthly Article In Chapel Hill News & Views.

Nails Your Way
Jeanne Grace Curtis
5900 Orchard Road
Douglasville GA 30135-4726

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