Resolutions for the new year come in all shapes and sizes, but perhaps
the most common pledge people make to themselves is to exercise more,
get in shape and lose a few pounds. Any healthcare provider would tell
you those are great goals. But don’t forget your feet.
Whether you’re starting a new exercise routine, enduring long days
standing or walking at work, or simply dealing with aging feet and ankles,
you can follow some simple guidelines to improve your comfort and prevent
potential problems.
For men, the skin of the feet is most often neglected. Hydration is the
key, and Vitamin A and D ointments that can be purchased over the counter
can make a world of difference. For women, the most common problems are
caused by the choice of footwear – shoes that pinch and crowd your
toes for extended periods of time can results in bunions, hammertoes and more.
General tips that apply to everyone include:
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Wash your feet! And after washing them, be sure to dry off thoroughly, including those
hard-to-reach places between toes.
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Choose shoes with support. Flat shoes are bad for your feet and can contribute to conditions like
plantar fasciitis and stress fractures. Pay close attention to how your
heels and arches are supported when trying on footwear.
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Move and stretch more. Stretching your feet, ankles and calves before starting your day or your
exercises will help prevent heel pain, and it’s a great way to improve
strength and flexibility as well.
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Reduce barefoot time. Although it’s the cold weather season, warmer temperatures are
on the way. Going barefoot could expose you to a damaging puncture or
injury, and you’re at risk for fungal infections as well.
If you have other questions, suffer from pain, or simply need help with
a plan to keep your feet and ankles healthy, let us help. Give
Catawba Valley Foot & Ankle Center
call at 828.855.2131 or visit www.catawbavalleyhealth.org/foot-ankle to
learn more.