Of the body's 206 bones, 26 are located in each foot. There are 33 joints connecting these bones. Each foot has 20 muscles that move these bones. Holding these bones together are more than 100 ligaments. There are approximately 250,000 sweat glands in each pair of feet that release nearly a cup of sweat every day.

During a typical day, the feet endure a cumulative force of several hundred tons.

The average adult walks 5 miles a day and takes 2,400 steps per mile, 80,000 steps a week, and 4 million steps a year...that's equal to 3 times around the world.

More than 70 percent of all people in the United States will have painful foot problems at some time during their lifetimes. Foot pain is not normal!

The human foot has been called the mirror of health. The feet are often the first sign of such systemic conditions as diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory disease.

Properly fitted shoes are essential; an astonishing number of people wear shoes that don't fit right and cause serious foot problems. A shoe with a firm sole and soft upper is best for daily activities.

Problems with the feet can lead to knee, hip, and lower back problems.

Sneakers provide shock absorption and are recommended for the geriatric population and people with arthritis.

Low-heeled shoes provide greater stability, more protection for the feet, and greater comfort.

If you must wear high heels, there are ways to relieve some of the abusive effects; limit the time you wear them, for example, alternate with good-quality oxford-type shoe or flats for part of the day.

It's a fact that women, young and old, have four times as many foot problems as men, and high heels are often the culprits, according to the American Association of Podiatrists.

Purchase shoes in the afternoon, because your feet are larger later in the day.

As you get older, have your feet measured for shoe sizes more frequently, rather than presuming that their shoe sizes remain constant.

Walking is the best exercise for your feet.

Pantyhose or stockings should be of the correct size and preferably free of seams.

Except at the beach, avoid going barefoot, even in your own home.

Bathe your feet daily in warm water, using a mild soap, preferably one containing moisturizers, or use a moisturizer separately.

Plantar warts are caused by a virus which may invade the sole of the foot through cuts and breaks in the skin. Walking barefoot on dirty pavements or littered ground can expose feet to this sometimes painful skin infection.

Trim or file your toenails straight across.