Help Your Feet Make It Through the Holidays

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The holiday season has begun, and at NY Foot Health, we know even if your celebrations look a little different this year, you’ll still have plenty of running around to do to pull it all together. It means there will be more demands on your feet! Help keep them in tip-top shape with the suggestions below:

  • Choose shoes carefully. When you’re on your feet for long periods, your footwear has a significant impact on how your feet feel. Now is the time to choose function over fashion. Wear shoes you know to be comfortable and provide good arch support to avoid sore feet and heels at the end of the day. If the weather is inclement, be sure you’ve got a good tread to prevent slips and falls.

  • Don’t stay in sweaty socks. If your feet sweat and allow them to sit in damp socks, you can be putting yourself at risk for athlete’s foot, fungal toenails, or other infections. Use a foot powder or antiperspirant on your feet before putting your socks on in the morning. Keep a spare pair of socks handy and change if necessary.

  • Take a break (or two)! Pace yourself and try to split up tasks that require long hours on your feet. For example, baking cookies in the morning and standing in a long line at the post office in the afternoon may be too taxing on your feet. Put your feet up when possible, even for 15 to 20 minutes, to decrease swelling and discomfort.

  • Maintain a healthy lifestyle. It’s easy for our normal good habits to get thrown during the holidays. Exercising regularly, eating a nutritious diet and being careful not to overindulge in too many holiday sweets, getting enough sleep, and taking steps to decrease stress will all help your feet—as well as the rest of your body.

  • Don’t ignore foot pain. If you develop a podiatric problem or a chronic problem that seems to worsen, contact your podiatrist promptly and get it checked out. If you need to find a podiatrist in your area, use our online directory. Your podiatrist’s office will have protocols in place to help ensure your safety during the pandemic. A telemedicine appointment may also be available.

To learn more about keeping your feet healthy every season, contact us, and subscribe to our free e-newsletter.