• HealthSmart | Health & Wellbeing
• Mind & Body
• I want happy feet!

I want happy feet!

Discover tips and advice for foot health and comfort, from therapeutic to aesthetic

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1. Gel inserts
They target primary sore spots such as the heel and ball of the foot, so whatever the complaint, you’re likely to find an appropriate insert. "Some gel inserts even fit between or above the toes to provide relief from corns and calluses," says Dr Lloyd Reed, senior lecturer in podiatry at the Queensland University of Technology. Around $9.95.
Advantages: Reusable, affordable, convenient.
DisAdvantages: Can be uncomfortable, can destabilise the foot.

2. Magnetic insoles
Made from flexible leather or rubber and lined with raised magnetic bumps, they claim to stimulate nerves and aid blood circulation. While useful for comfort, do they really work? They might be worth a try but Brenden Brown, vice-president of the Australian Podiatry Association, points out that scientific backing for magnetic therapy is less than conclusive. Prices start at $20.
Advantages: Can be cut to size, easy to clean.
DisAdvantages: Only fit inside certain shoe styles.

3. Reflexology
If you’re partial to a foot rub, a reflexology treatment might suit. Reflexology is based on healing through stimulation of pressure points found in the sole of the foot.­ "Reflexology can relax tension, relieve pain and improve circulation for harmony within our body," explains Libby Stark, president of the Reflexology Association of Australia.
Advantages: Relaxing, stimulates circulation.
DisAdvantages: Costly, from around $60 for up to an hour.

4. Massage sandals
For foot therapy while you walk, slip into a pair of massage sandals. The little nodules along the insole stimulate circulation through nerve endings in the feet, although the prickly sensation can take some adjusting to. Sandals cost around $36.
Advantages: Affordable, arch contour can enhance foot comfort.
Disadvantages: Limited styles, uncomfortable for some.

5. Foot spa
Chances are you’ve got a foot spa stashed away – they’re widely owned but rarely used. So should you dust it off? If you’ve got some "me" time up your sleeve, then treat your feet with a bit of hydro healing. Regular soaks can soften rough skin and most spa models have a range of nodes and rollers for a heightened massage. But use in moderation, advises Reed, as excessive soaking can encourage dry skin. From $40 to around $100.
Advantages: Soothing, can provide symptomatic relief for tired feet.
DisAdvantages: Fiddly, no medical benefits.

6. foot soaks
If you’re after a home remedy for overworked feet, keep a box of Epsom salts or soda crystals handy for a ready-to-go soak. They draw fluid build-up out of the skin to alleviate muscular aches and swelling. Just add 1-2 cups of salts or ½ cup of crystals to a large bowl of warm water and voila! Around $7 for a kilo of salts; $4 for a kilo of crystals.
Advantages: Cost-effective, eases soreness, can also exfoliate.
DisAdvantages: Involves set-up time, over-soaking can dry the skin.