Get Back to Foot Care Basics
April is Foot Health Awareness Month, and here at NY Foot Health, we think it’s a great time to refocus on basics for better podiatric health. Below is a road map for charting a course to healthier feet and ankles.
Commit to a Daily Care Regimen
It doesn’t take much time to give your feet the TLC they need each day. For healthy feet here’s a simple plan:
Wash feet every day with soap and water (dry completely—don’t miss the spaces between the toes)
Dust feet with anti-fungal powder or use a roll-on antiperspirant if you tend to sweat excessively before putting socks on.
If your feet are exposed to the sun in sandals, at the beach, or pool, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 15.
Massage a thick, emollient moisturizer into feet at the end of the day before bed.
Partner with Your Podiatrist
Schedule a podiatric checkup annually. If you have a foot disorder or a chronic condition that can affect the health of your feet, such as diabetes, work with your foot doctor to determine the appropriate treatment plan and visit schedule. Don’t have a podiatrist currently? Now’s a good time to find one in your community. Our online directory can help. Most importantly, don’t delay seeking medical evaluation and care if feet or ankles hurt, you experience unusual symptoms, or notice changes in the appearance of your feet.
Take a Fresh Look at Your Shoe Sense
Did you know the single biggest factor in proactive podiatric care is your footwear? It’s true. Choosing well-made shoes that fit properly can help reduce your risk of foot pain and many common disorders. Some other tips to keep in mind:
Wear the right shoe for your activity. Sports and fitness shoes are designed with the type of movement the activity requires in mind. They support and protect your feet. A quick hike in flip- flops or a family BBQ softball game in sandals can result in serious foot or ankle injuries.
Alternate your shoes. Don’t wear the same pair for several days in a row.
Replace shoes that are stretched, worn, or have visible signs of damage. Replace running/walking shoes every 300-500 miles regardless of appearance.
Limit time spent in high heels. Avoid shoes with narrow, pointy toe boxes.
These simple steps will go a long way to keeping your feet healthy and enabling you to enjoy an active lifestyle. To learn more ways to better care for your feet, contact us and consider subscribing to our free e-newsletter.