National Foot Health Awareness Month: 5 Care-Taking Tips
Feet carry all a great deal of weight and are usually neglected. While easy to forget, it pays to take care of them.
Chronic foot pain and common foot problems (such as tendinitis, bunions, and arthritis) can increasingly limit mobility as we age. However, if precautions are taken daily and proper footwear is worn, we can help preserve — or even improve — foot health and mobility. Here are five care-taking foot health tips to help prevent pain or help reduce the risk of foot health issues.1
Manage Your Weight
According to Harvard Health, being overweight can impact the feet because of the extra load on them with each step. It can increase health risks such as arthritis in the feet and cause foot pain or other foot health conditions. People can also run the risk of poor blood circulation, diabetes and other health issues that may lead to loss of sensation in the feet.2
Wear Good Shoes
Shoe trends may come and go, but with that can come uncomfortable shoes that may cause skin irritation or other foot health risks. Wearing comfortable shoes can be one of the best preventative measures to aid in foot health. Choose a shoe that’s comfortable, supportive, and fits properly.
Shop for Shoes in the Afternoon
The foot swells up as the day goes on, according to the American Podiatric Medical Association. So, it’s recommended the patient tries on any shoe when their feet are at their largest. This will help ensure that they are comfortable when wearing. Also, make sure to measure both feet as most people have two different sizes. Always order the larger size.3
Wear Proper-Fitting Socks
Make sure to wear socks that fit. Pay attention to the foot and ankle width and find socks that do not cut off circulation. Also, wearing seamless socks can help prevent skin irritation. 3
Do Foot Stretches
Throughout the day take a few moments to do foot stretches and exercises. A periodic ankle flex, toe wiggle, and calf stretch can help keep the blood flowing. 4
A little preventative foot care goes a long way to maintain good foot health.
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The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.
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