How to treat your feet with tender loving care

Atlas may have carried the weight of the world on his shoulders, but his feet bore the true burden. They may be small compared to the rest of our anatomy, but our feet are a pair of powerhouses, designed to work under enormous pressure. Each day we take an average of 8,000 to 10,000 steps, health experts say, which adds up to several miles and several hundred tons of pressure on our feet!

With all that walking, you would think we'd take better care of our feet. But our lower-most extremities are often the most neglected. We skimp on proper hygiene, cram them into ill-fitting shoes and ignore them when they hurt. And we pay for it. Studies show that 75 percent of Americans experience foot problems of varying severity at some time in their lives, brought on mainly by a lifetime of mistreatment.

Isn't it time you give your feet some much-deserved respect? Treat your feet to some tender loving care and they'll keep you stepping tall for miles to come.

* Keep your feet looking and smelling sweet. Feet need extra care during the winter season, especially with the added stress of trudging through snow in heavy socks and boots and the extra wear and tear from all those hours of holiday shopping. And with more than 250,000 sweat glands in each foot, it's no wonder our feet "kick" sometimes.

Invest in a good pedicure and gentle foot massage (this especially goes for the Brothers) or create your own foot-spa experience. Soothe your soles by soaking in Epsom salts, which reduces swelling, then soften rough spots with a pumice stone. Trim toenails straight across and level with tops of toes, and massage feet with a rich lotion, oil or petroleum jelly to moisturize.

To fight foot odor, scrub feet daily, cleaning between toes and under toenails where dirt and dead skin hide. Change shoes daily to give each pair a chance to air out, and change socks at least daily, but more often if your feet perspire. To control perspiration, try foot powders or sprays. Soaking feet in vinegar and water, even tea, can help reduce odors.

* Ditch the high heels. Sisters have about four times as many foot problems as men, foot experts say. The major culprit: high heel shoes. Low-heeled, comfortable shoes that fit well can prevent many foot problems, and the good news is you don't have to wear ungainly "granny" shoes since "fashionistas" are making shoes that are short on heels, but long on sex appeal and comfort. If you can't bear to sacrifice your stilettos, experts say wear them in moderation, and only for short periods of time.

* See a doctor if your feet hurt. Discomfort and pain are not normal. Foot ailments can be a sign of more serious health problems. If you're experiencing pain or problems, consult a physician or podiatrist.