Foot Health Awareness Month
April is Foot Health Awareness Month, so our podiatrists at Precision Foot and Ankle Centers want to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of foot health, which is an often overlooked aspect of overall wellness. Our feet are incredibly important, as they bear the weight of our entire body and allow us to move and stay active throughout our daily lives. Neglecting foot health can lead to a variety of issues, such as pain, discomfort, and even injury. Here are podiatrist recommended ways to keep your feet happy and healthy!
Properly-fitting shoes - One of the most important things you can do for your feet is to wear properly fitting shoes. Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or not supportive enough can put undue stress on your feet and lead to problems like blisters, calluses, bunions, and even plantar fasciitis. When shopping for shoes, make sure to try them on and walk around in them to ensure a good fit. Look for shoes that provide good arch support, cushioning, and a wide toe box. If you plan to use custom orthotics, be sure to bring them with you to try on at the store.
Good foot hygiene - Maintaining good hygiene means keeping your feet clean by washing your feet daily with soap and water, followed by drying them thoroughly. It also means keeping your toenails trimmed straight across the nail, rather than in a curved fashion, and avoiding walking barefoot in public places, such as locker rooms or public pools. These methods are especially important for those who have underlying health issues like diabetes, which can increase risks for developing podiatric issues.
Exercise - Regular exercise is also important for foot health. Not only does exercise help keep your feet strong and flexible, but it also improves circulation and can help prevent conditions like peripheral artery disease. Some good exercises for foot health include walking, jogging, yoga, and swimming.
See a podiatrist - If you do experience foot pain or discomfort, it is important to address it promptly. Ignoring foot problems, however minor, can lead to more serious problems down the line. Common foot issues include plantar fasciitis, bunions, and diabetes-related issues. If you experience any of these conditions, it is important to see a podiatrist for proper diagnosis and effective treatment.
Get serious about your foot health
Your feet are the foundation of your body, so it’s important to take good care of them, starting with these tips! With 20% of people in the US experiencing at least one foot problem each year, it is crucial to stay on top of your foot health and address any issues that come up with a podiatrist as early as possible. If you need a podiatrist you can trust, get in touch with our highly-skilled foot doctors at Precision Foot and Ankle Centers. Dr. Eric Feit, Dr. Alona Kashanian, and Dr. Roohbakhsh Maher provide expert, compassionate care for all types of foot and ankle problems, including heel pain, bunions, toenail issues, nerve-related conditions, sports injuries, and diabetes-related problems. Get in touch with our offices in Los Angeles, Torrance, and San Pedro to schedule an appointment today!