Most people don’t think much about their feet until something goes wrong.
Discomfort, cracked heels, chronic pain — foot problems can creep up over time and become surprisingly hard to ignore. The truth is, many common foot issues are completely avoidable if you just take the right precautions. Podiatrists know exactly what to avoid to keep their feet in top shape, and if they wouldn’t make these mistakes, neither should you. Here are some simple foot habits that professionals steer clear of, and why you should too.
1. Wearing shoes that don’t fit properly
One of the biggest mistakes people make is choosing fashion over function. Too-tight shoes, narrow toe boxes, or unsupportive flats can lead to painful conditions like bunions, corns, and hammertoes. Yet, so many people squeeze their feet into shoes that just don’t fit properly. Podiatrists know that the right fit matters. They always go for shoes that allow their toes to move freely, provide enough support, and don’t cause pressure points. If your shoes feel tight by the end of the day, you’re likely setting yourself up for long-term issues.
2. Ignoring foot pain
It’s easy to brush off a little foot pain, assuming it’ll go away on its own. But podiatrists know that persistent pain is a red flag. Ignoring discomfort can allow conditions like plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or tendonitis to get worse over time. Rather than pushing through, professionals listen to their feet. Pain is your body’s way of telling you something isn’t right, so if you notice ongoing discomfort, it’s worth investigating before it turns into a bigger problem.
3. Walking barefoot on hard surfaces
While it might feel freeing to walk around barefoot at home, podiatrists know that hard flooring can take a toll on your feet. Without any cushioning or support, walking barefoot on tile, wood, or concrete can put stress on the arches and heels. That’s why they often wear supportive slippers or indoor shoes, even at home. A little extra cushioning goes a long way in preventing foot fatigue and long-term arch problems.
4. Wearing cheap sandals all day
Flip-flops, as the Americans call them, might be easy to slip on, but most provide zero arch support, leaving your feet vulnerable to strain and injury. They force your toes to grip unnaturally to keep them on, which can lead to pain over time. Podiatrists avoid wearing them for extended periods and opt for supportive sandals with proper cushioning instead. If you wouldn’t walk around all day in cardboard-thin shoes, your feet shouldn’t have to either.
5. Cutting toenails the wrong way
It might seem simple, but how you cut your toenails matters. Trimming them too short or rounding the edges can lead to painful ingrown toenails — something podiatrists are careful to avoid. The right way? Cutting toenails straight across and filing any sharp edges. This helps prevent the nail from growing into the skin, which can be incredibly painful and sometimes require medical attention.
6. Wearing the same shoes every day
Most people have a go-to pair of shoes they wear daily, but podiatrists know that constantly wearing the same pair isn’t a good idea. Shoes need time to air out, especially if they absorb moisture from sweat. Rotating between different pairs allows shoes to dry properly and prevents bacterial buildup, which can lead to foot odour or infections. Giving your footwear a break can also help maintain their cushioning and support for longer.
7. Not replacing worn-out shoes
It’s easy to hold onto a favourite pair of shoes for too long, but when the soles start wearing down, they stop providing the support your feet need. Podiatrists are quick to retire shoes once they’ve lost their cushioning. Signs it’s time for a new pair include uneven tread wear, a flattened insole, or increased foot pain after wearing them. Investing in fresh footwear can prevent strain and keep your feet properly supported.
8. Ignoring dry, cracked heels
Cracked heels might not seem like a big deal, but podiatrists know that dry skin on the feet can lead to deep fissures, making walking painful and even leading to infections if left untreated. Moisturising regularly, especially after showering, helps keep skin soft and prevents cracks from forming. If heels are already rough, using a foot file or pumice stone can help smooth out dead skin.
9. Wearing high heels too often
High heels may be stylish, but podiatrists know they put an unnatural strain on the feet, leading to problems like bunions, Achilles tendon tightness, and long-term balance issues. Instead of wearing them daily, they recommend reserving heels for special occasions and opting for lower, block heels or wedges when extra height is needed. If you wear heels often, stretching your calves and feet regularly can help prevent stiffness.
10. Skipping foot stretches and exercises
Most people don’t think about strengthening their feet, but podiatrists understand that keeping foot muscles strong can prevent common problems like plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Simple stretches, like rolling a ball under your foot or flexing and pointing your toes, can improve flexibility and reduce foot fatigue. Strong feet mean better balance, reduced injury risk, and healthier movement overall.
11. Wearing socks made from the wrong material
Not all socks are created equal. Wearing non-breathable, synthetic socks can trap moisture, creating the perfect environment for fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Podiatrists prefer moisture-wicking materials like cotton blends or bamboo, which keep feet dry and reduce the risk of bacteria buildup. Changing socks regularly, especially after workouts, is also key to keeping feet fresh.
12. Ignoring foot hygiene
Feet are often overlooked in daily hygiene routines, but podiatrists never neglect them. Failing to properly wash and dry between toes can lead to fungal infections, bacteria buildup, and unpleasant odours. They make sure to wash their feet thoroughly, dry them completely before putting on socks, and avoid walking barefoot in public places like gyms or swimming pools where infections can spread easily.
13. Not considering foot health when buying shoes
Most people choose shoes based on style, but podiatrists always consider fit and support first. Wearing shoes that don’t match your foot type — whether they’re too narrow, too flat, or lacking support — can cause long-term pain and misalignment. Getting properly fitted for shoes, checking arch support, and avoiding overly rigid or flimsy designs can prevent a lot of unnecessary foot issues in the future.
14. Ignoring signs of serious foot problems
Feet can be a window into overall health, and podiatrists never ignore warning signs. Swelling, persistent numbness, or changes in toenail colour can sometimes indicate underlying health conditions like diabetes or circulation issues. Checking in with a professional when something feels off can catch problems early and prevent long-term complications. Your feet do a lot for you — keeping them healthy should always be a priority.
