We tend to take our feet for granted until they start hurting. Our daily life can be severely limited by foot pain, from taking a shower to walking the dog to driving.
From the moment you get up in the morning until you go to bed at night, foot pain can make even the smallest things difficult. If you want to keep your feet healthy and pain-free, here are five key ways to help you achieve that – including where you can go for outstanding foot care.
#1: Wear the Right Footwear
The shoes you wear for work are likely not the best shoes for exercising or playing sports. There is the right kind of footwear for every type of activity, and it’s best to always wear shoes that are supportive and do not squeeze your toes.
It is also important to consider your unique foot anatomy when choosing the right shoes. You may have flat feet (low or no arches), high arches, or a wide foot, so you should look for shoes that accommodate your foot structure.
Better yet, get custom orthotics that are made just for you. Orthotics are shoes or shoe inserts that provide an incredible amount of support and cushioning for your feet, and custom orthotics are built especially for your own feet.
#2: Stretch Regularly
Keeping your feet muscles and joints flexible can help prevent foot pain, stiffness, and injuries. You can stretch your feet whenever you think of it, whether you’re sitting at your desk at work or relaxing at home. Wiggle your toes and rotate your feet – this is a simple way to facilitate healthy circulation in the legs.
#3: Maintain a Healthy Weight
Your feet are subjected to force that is three times your body weight every time you take a step. Being overweight or obese can put immense pressure on the feet and can accelerate arthritis in the ankles and feet.
Because foot pain is a common complaint of people who are overweight, you can alleviate this problem by following a healthy diet and incorporating simple exercise into your lifestyle. Even walking will greatly help toward this goal.
#4: Mind Your Gait
We tend to maintain a “natural” and unforced posture when we walk, but our posture can get slouchy as we get older or if we get sick. It is therefore important to focus on keeping your back and shoulders straight when you walk. Maintaining proper posture and an even gait are necessary to avoid foot pain.
#5: See Your Foot Pain Doctor for Treatment in Naples, Florida
Is foot pain making your life difficult? Let a podiatry expert evaluate and treat your condition before it gets worse.
Dr. Jamie Weaver is our podiatrist on staff at the Joint Replacement Institute, and she is highly skilled and experienced in the diagnosis of foot conditions that cause foot pain. Dr. Weaver will determine what is causing your foot pain and recommend a treatment that is ideal for you.
To schedule a consultation with Dr. Weaver or with any of our physicians or physical therapists, call our Naples clinic today at (239) 261-2663 or fill out our convenient appointment request form online now. We look forward to resolving your foot issue so you can get back in step!
