How to Study the Sole of a Bare Foot

The sole of the foot refers to the area of skin that most often makes contact with the ground. It is part of a system that provides balance and mobility. The sole of the foot relays critical information about the temperature and texture of the ground beneath and protects the delicate bone and musculature of the foot. The human foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles and tendons. Because it is under constant pressure as it supports the rest of the human body, the sole of the foot is prone to injury if it is not given proper attention and care.

Things You'll Need

• Soap
• Lukewarm water
• Soft cloth
• Chair

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Instructions

• 1

  Sit down on a sturdy seat that allows the knee to rest comfortably at a 90-degree angle. Test to be certain that the seat is secure and will not tip over as you move around on it. Make sure that there is enough light to clearly see the sole of your foot from about a distance of one to two feet. Place the bare foot onto your thigh, resting just above the knee.

• 2

  Gently wash the sole with soap and lukewarm water and a soft cloth. Pat the skin dry. If there is reason to suspect a burn, take care not to rupture any blisters, as this makes the sole more susceptible to bacterial infection.

• 3

  Check the sole of the foot for color and temperature. Athlete's foot can be identified by dry, scaly skin and inflammation. Bunions, blisters, and callouses appear as irregularly shaped and colored patches of skin on the sole of the foot and bottoms of the toes.

• 4

  Run your hands gently along the sole of the foot, starting at the toes and working back to the heel. Notice any areas of pain or discomfort. Ingrown toenails are painful areas where the nail has grown into the skin of the toe. Thick or discolored nails are a sign of fungal growth. Warts can be identified by growths on the sole of the foot. The American Podiatric Medical Association warns that no growth on the foot should be considered normal and should be examined immediately.

• 5

  Treat any cuts or lesions with a topical disinfectant and cover with gauze. Seek out a qualified podiatrist for any growths, pain, or irregular skin conditions.