While women (and men for that matter) have long lauded the power of the pedicure, its fans consistently underestimate its ability to prevent and warn of more serious health conditions. Toenails often serve as barometers of our health; they are diagnostic tools providing the initial signal of the presence or onset of systemic diseases. For example, the pitting of nails and increased nail thickness can be manifestations of psoriasis. Concavity—nails that are rounded inward instead of outward—can foretell iron deficiency anemia. Some nail problems can be conservatively treated with topical or oral medications while others require partial or total removal of the nail.

After all the holiday parties and galas, your tired feet are probably aching from all of the stylish and fancy footwear you’ve worn. Here are some basic steps to help alleviate any foot pain:

It’s time to put your boots away and step into the hottest sandal styles of the season, but are your feet ready to be unveiled?  Probably not since, according to Dr. Leslie Campbell, a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), “during the winter our feet are cooped up in heavy socks and heavy shoes and may be extra dry due to the lack of moisture in the air.”  In addition, the average person takes 8,000-10,000 steps a day.  So, it’s no wonder we sometimes want to take a break and treat our feet to a little pampering, especially as spring and summer approach.