Care and Clothing of the Feet.
By A. M. H.
Much of the sickness in winter and spring can be traced to poor care of the feet, for at this season of the year, if we wish to retain our health, we must keep our feet dry and warm. Changing the shoes frequently is soothing to the feet, and good economy where the shoes are concerned, as it keeps them in better condition. The rubber heels are a hygienic appliance, in that they save the jar of the spine and brain of heavy walking, especially if the person has a habit of bringing his weight down chiefly upon the heel. If new shoes pinch in some particular spot, a cloth wet with hot water and laid across the place will often cause immediate relief. They who are troubled with tired, aching feet will find great relief by rubbing them with alcohol, and nothing is so good for them as a vigorous alcohol rub after they have been wet or chilled. Shoes and stockings should fit comfortably, and be of light weight, but not thin. Cotton hose are said to be the most sanitary and most sensible for every-day wear, and less trouble to wash and keep clean. The oftener hosiery is washed, in reasonable limits, of course, the longer it will last. The best way to keep the small articles soft without shrinking is to wash them through15two warm waters. White or colored hose should be allowed to soak in the suds, but colored hose should be washed and rinsed as quickly as possible and a few drops of ammonia should be added to the rinsing water. The children should be carefully fitted in shoes, as shoes too small or too large for a growing child are apt to cause trouble with the feet that will stay with them through life. If the child's shoes have been wet, do not let him wear them stiff after the soaking. The leather should be oiled and softened until the shoes can be worn with comfort. A chiropodist was heard to say that if women would have their feet massaged instead of their faces, there would be fewer wrinkles, as the feet are one of the greatest nerve centers of the body, and when they become irritated, it shows plainly in the face.