In anticipation of sandal-wearing season a trip to the salon to pamper your feet and to beautify your toenails is definitely on your to-do list. Soaking your feet in a warm bubbling foot spa followed by a massage is definitely an indulgence. However, you might be getting more out of a pedicure treatment than you might expect!
It may not be a surprise that the root of all evil is bacteria. However, what might be shocking is that these organisms just love the temperate water of the swirling foot spas. These bacteria are just teeming in the water that you place in your feet in! The danger lies in the fact that these bacteria will find places in the pipes and plumbing of foot spas to adhere to. No matter how clean the basin is – the bacteria never actually disappears because they will be flushed out of the tubing with the circulating water and they will still find their way to your feet.
What exactly happens?
For bacteria to grow, they need to be in an environment that provides them with nutrition and optimal temperature. The filters of a foot spa are perfect havens for bacterial growth because they provide a food supply as well as a warm environment for the organisms. Filters trap particles and debris while allowing for the passage of water and the bacteria make their home where this organic and inorganic material has collected and feed off the filtered matter. Once the bacteria have found a place to nest they will multiply and rejoin the water stream with every cycle of water circulation. Now this is the water you are soaking your feet in.
How will the bacteria enter the body?
If you have any cuts or open wounds you should not enter a salon until the skin has been allowed to heal itself. If you have a pedicure appointment, make sure that it is at least 24 hours after you have shaved or waxed your skin because those procedures will have left tiny openings in your skin. These holes are portals of entry for bacteria – so do not give them the chance to get into your body! If you are a diabetic, HIV patient, and/or elderly – you are prone to bacterial infections that may lead to serious complications including death.
Not such a relaxing experience now, is it?
Central Florida Foot and Ankle Center, LLC.
101 6TH St. NW.
Winter Haven, Fl. 33881
863-299-4551
http://www.flfootandankle.com
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