Now that the fine weather is here you'll no doubt be doing a lot more walking outdoors.

During the summer months, you will want to show off your feet. However, some common foot problems may cause you to hide your feet during the sunny summer months.

Foot Problems:

Ingrown toenails, fungal infection, cracked heels, swollen feet, warts and blisters can be unsightly and unattractive. You will need to pay attention to these if you want your feet to feel and look it's best as you leave behind those enclosed shoes.

Fungal Infections:

Typically fungal infections cause the nails to become discolored, thickened, cracked, crumbly or loose. Nails with fungal infection may also separate from the nail bed.

• To effectively treat the fungus. Use an antifungal spray or powder. Over-the-counter antifungal creams and ointments are often effective in treating nail fungus. Discard old shoes which can harbor fungi and cause a reinfection. Do not use nail polish that may have fungi as this could only make the problem worse, especially if the nail is already infected. Avoid using any artificial nail covering as this can trap unwanted moisture and worsen the infection.

Toenails:

• Ingrown toenails can be caused by many things from improper nail cutting to pressure from tight shoes.The sides or corners of the toenail usually curve down and put pressure on the skin. This causes the toenail to pierce and continue to grow into the skin. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail are redness, swelling, pain or sometimes an infection. Toenails should be trimmed straight across, slightly longer than the tip of the toe. Avoid drastically rounding the corners of the nails.or trimming too close to the skin.

Heels:

• Dry cracked skin on heels are another common foot problem. Cracked heels make your feet appear unattractive. Maintaining a daily routine of cleansing and moisturizing pays dividends in the long run, enabling you to have soft good looking heels.The key to dealing with cracked heels is to soak, wash and remove crusty skin. It's essential to dry thoroughly and regularly moisturize.

Blisters:

• Blisters are caused by skin friction, they can be painful and unsightly. It is prudent to avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes. Decide to wear socks as a cushion between your feet and the shoes. If a blister breaks it is a good thing to apply an antiseptic and a clean bandage.

Swollen Feet.:

• Swelling of the ankles and feet can occur without an underlying clinical cause.Those most at risk are people who spend copious time standing or sitting.The accompanying pressure on extremities triggers swollen ankles and feet. If your feet become swollen as a result of such pressure it may be prevented by simple methods. Get off of your feet, take some time out to elevate your feet.

Foot Odors:

• Unpleasant foot odors can develop from excessive foot perspiration. Sweaty feet happen because there are large quantities of sweat glands within your feet. It is judicious to use a drying agent to encourage a fresher smell.

Warts:

• Do keep in mind that warts can be both painful and unsightly. Make a concerted effort to get rid of warts. Foot warts can occur from viruses. Always inspect your feet, try to not walk barefooted on dirty surfaces.Prevention is always better than a cure. Give careful attention to your feet wash, soak, exfoliate, dry thoroughly and moisturize.There are a variety of topical over-the-counter liquids, gel, or patches.

Preventive Foot Care is Best:

You truly can prevent many foot problems by being knowledgeable and pro-active in applying preventive actions. Pamper your feet because they carry your weight and impact your mobility.

Give your feet a five-minute stretch exercise at the end of a long day to ensure flexibility of your toes and ankles. Stretching helps to keep your ankles limber, slender and strengthens your foot muscles. Do give yourself foot massages and pedicures as part of routine foot care.

Keep your feet in prime shape during the summer months and  enjoy wearing your open styles summer shoes. Select footwear that flatters and flaunt your beautiful feet. Do not be reticent to show off your well cared for good looking feet.

Consult a podiatry physician for any foot problems.