Foot Odor can be greatly reduced with proper skin care...

Article by: Jessica Martin

Smelly feet is a common foot problem that affects millions of people. Bromhidrosis, or excessive foot odor is mainly caused by sweaty feet which are trapped inside of closed toe shoes.

Moisture from sweat is a fertile breeding ground for bacteria. This combination of the sweaty feet and the bacteria is the cause of foot smell.Routine skin care of the foot region is the most effective preventative remedy for smelly feet. Although foot smell itself is not hazardous to one's health, the presence of smelly feet indicates an environment that is ripe breeding ground for bacteria which can cause, among other things, toe nail fungus. Toe nail fungus is a bacteria which grows in dark, warm, moist environments like close toed shoes. When the nail becomes ruptured or cracked, the bacteria takes hold in this rupture and spreads throughout the region until treated. Toe nail fungus can be contracted through sweaty feet and through person to person contact in shared bathrooms, locker rooms, or swimming pools.

Using foot insoles and fighting Foot Smell

For those who wear foot insoles, frequently changing your insoles is a very effective method to prevent foot smell. Insoles, a form of foot orthotics, are inserts that are placed in the shoes to correct irregular walking patterns that develop over time. People with flat feet; with heel, shin, leg or knee pain; or those who suffer from sweaty- and smelly feet can greatly benefit from using insoles.

To prevent Foot Smell, it is important to :

• Shower regularly
• Keep the feet dry; change your socks often
• Wear cotton (non-synthetic socks)
• Wear less closed shoes or sandals
• Air out shoes regularly (preferably in natural sunlight)
• Wear properly fitting shoes
• Use insoles.