Sweaty Feet Published On: 4/12/2016
Sweaty feet can make for an unpleasant situation: uncomfortable shoes, stinky shoes, and unhappy kids. The good news is that, for most kids, having sweaty feet is perfectly normal. In some cases, excessive sweating can be a symptom of a larger problem, but only if it interferes with your child’s daily activities. For the rest of us, it’s just something we have to learn to live with. Here’s what you need to know about sweaty feet, and what to do about it.
Causes of Sweaty Feet
For most people, sweaty feet are the result of a body working well. Perspiring is the body’s way of cooling the skin when it gets too warm, and feet that are inside of socks and shoes all day can get pretty hot. People can also start to sweat when they are upset or nervous—and the hands and feet are usually the first places that nerves hit. Sweaty feet can occur in the winter and summer, and some people just perspire more than others (how much you sweat can be an inherited condition).
Are Sweaty Feet a Problem?
The good news is that, in most cases, sweaty feet are just an inconvenience. They can lead to smelly shoes, which can be a bit embarrassing depending on who you’re with. Not taking care of sweaty feet can lead to athlete’s foot, a fungus that thrives in warm, humid places. Sweaty feet may also cause shoes to slip causing blisters.
Solving the Problem
The first step toward ensuring dry, comfortable feet is good hygiene. Make sure to wash feet every day, especially in the summer or after intense activity. Anti-bacterial soap can also help if regular soap isn’t getting the job done. It’s also essential to wear clean socks every day and change them once during the day for feet that are excessively sweaty. An absorbent powder or anti-perspirant made for feet can also help keep feet dry—especially for longer days when changing socks is not practical.
Having the right footwear is also important. Choose shoes made from natural materials like leather as they allow feet to breathe better and sweat to evaporate faster. Shoes should fit properly, too, as a too-tight shoe can restrict circulation and air flow, and a too-large shoe can lead to chafing and blisters. Make sure to have your child’s feet professionally sized at least once every year or every time you replace their shoes. Little feet grow fast and even a couple months can make a big difference.
For the healthiest, driest feet, make sure you have a few pairs of shoes that fit your child well, and that she doesn’t wear the same shoes two days in a row. Choose easy-to-wash shoes that you can drop in the washing machine every other week, or shoes with a removable insole that can be washed and thoroughly dried.
Stop in for a Fitting
We’re happy to size your child’s feet to make sure you get shoes that are a perfect fit. We also have a complete line of shoes that are designed with busy kids in mind, and we’ll help you choose a style that will keep your kids moving all day long.
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