by Jaz James
Hey Love,
If you’ve ever finished a long night in heels and felt like your feet were screaming at you, you are so not alone. Most dancers deal with sore arches, blisters, calluses, or even swelling after hours of being on their feet. It’s part of the job—but it doesn’t have to mean constant pain. Taking care of your feet now not only helps you feel better in the moment, it also protects your long-term health.
Why Foot Care Matters
Your feet literally carry you through every shift. When they’re hurting, your whole body feels it—knees, hips, back, even your mood. Neglecting small issues (like blisters or nail pain) can lead to bigger problems over time, from infections to joint pain. Think of your feet as the foundation of your stage: If the foundation cracks, the whole structure feels shaky.
Everyday Foot Care Tips
Here are a few industry--tested ways to keep your feet strong, happy, and ready for the next shift:
Rotate your shoes. Don’t wear the same pair every night—switch them up so the pressure hits different spots.
Stretch it out. Roll your arches on a frozen water bottle or tennis ball for a couple of minutes before, after, and during work. Your feet will thank you.
Moisturize daily. Dry, cracked skin can lead to painful splits. A thick lotion or foot cream before bed goes a long way.
Take breaks when you can. Even a few minutes with your shoes off between sets helps alot.
Clip and care for toenails. Keep them trimmed straight across to avoid painful ingrown nails.
DIY Healing Foot Soak
After a long night, this easy soak can calm soreness and refresh tired feet.
You’ll need:
1 basin of warm water
½ cup Epsom salt (soothes sore muscles)
2–3 drops lavender or peppermint essential oil (relaxes and cools)
1 tablespoon baking soda (helps soften skin and reduce odor)
How to use it:
Fill a basin or tub with enough warm water to cover your feet.
Add the Epsom salt, essential oil, and baking soda. Stir until dissolved.
Soak your feet for 15–20 minutes.
Pat dry and apply lotion or coconut oil, then slip on cozy socks.
It’s a small act of kindness for yourself—and your feet will feel brand new.
When to See a Doctor
Don’t ignore pain that doesn’t go away. It’s time to check in with a healthcare provider if you notice:
Severe or persistent foot or ankle pain
Swelling that doesn’t improve with rest
Open sores that aren’t healing
Signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
Numbness, tingling, or burning that doesn’t go away
Your health matters too much to push through this kind of pain. Getting help is not weakness—it’s wisdom.
Final Word
Jesus doesn’t just care about your soul for the future—He cares about your whole self right now. That includes your feet, your body, and your heart. He wants you to have peace in the middle of your everyday life, even after the longest nights on stage.
So tonight, when you finally kick off those heels, take a few deep breaths, soak your tired feet, and remember: You are seen, you are loved, and you are worth taking care of.
*****
Jaz James is the director of Strip Church and founder of Lace Warriors, a strip club ministry that serves over 200 entertainers in West Texas and Northern Mexico.