Caring for your feet while dancing en pointe
Dancing en pointe is such an exciting milestone for dancers, but it also means taking extra care of those feet. With all the strain from ballet technique, especially when you're balancing on your toes, foot care becomes super important.
Caring for your toenails
When you're trimming your toenails, make sure to cut them straight across and not too short. File down the edges so they're flush with the skin. No one wants ingrown toenails, so avoid cutting the corners too much. If you feel any redness or soreness indicating an ingrown nail, apply some antibiotic ointment and cover it up. Soaking your feet in warm water with Epsom salts for about 20 minutes at night can also help. If you need to, gently pry up the edge of the nail and cover it with a Band-Aid. If things get worse, it's always a good idea to consult a doctor.
Dealing with blisters
Friction is the main culprit behind blisters, so let's reduce that as much as possible. The skin on your toes will toughen over time, and those blisters will turn into calluses. To prevent blisters, make sure your pointe shoes fit properly and there are no rough spots inside. Also, avoid wrinkled tights in the toe area. If you tend to sweat a lot, try using some powder or lamb's wool to absorb the sweat. And don't forget to wash your feet with soap and water before bed and let them air dry.
If you do get a blister, here's what you should do:
If the skin is still attached, leave it be.
Keep the blister clean by gently washing it with soap and water and letting it air dry completely.
Leave the blister uncovered at night to let it breathe.
During the day, apply some antibiotic ointment and cover it with a band-aid or tape.
Hydrogen peroxide can also be used, but it might sting a bit. Liquid bandages don't work well for most people with blisters.
If you have a water blister that hasn't burst, you can gently drain it by making a small hole in the puffed-up skin with a sterilized needle. Follow the same steps as with regular blisters. But remember, never mess with blood blisters as it can lead to serious infections.
Avoiding bruised toenails
To avoid bruising and discoloration of your toenails, make sure to trim and file them properly. This will help prevent jamming against the shoe or any impact under the nail.
Preventing fungal infections
Cracked and dry feet can make it easier for fungal infections to sneak in, so keep them moisturized and flexible. Applying some olive oil a couple of times a week can be a great preventive measure. Fungal infections show up as thick, yellowish patches on the skin, often with cracks. Nails can also get infected. You can find over-the-counter antifungal creams, but if they don't work, it's best to consult a doctor for a prescription. Remember to wash your feet every night, keep them dry during the day, and avoid sharing nail clippers or emery boards to prevent the spread of infections.
Taking care of your feet while dancing en pointe is just as important as nailing those dance techniques. From trimming your toenails to preventing and treating blisters, every step counts in keeping your dance experience safe and comfortable. Your feet are the foundation of your dance journey, so give them the love and care they deserve. And remember, everyone's feet are different, so find the routine that works best for you!
