When it comes to your feet, how much love and care do you give them? If you haven’t, you are not alone. We often don’t think about our feet until something happens to them. When we even have a blister, it can limit our ability to walk or even wear shoes. What was once a natural, everyday activity that we don’t think about and take for granted now becomes more challenging.

There are many things that can put our feet at risk of injury. The most common culprits are flat sandals, high heels, wearing shoes that are too big or too small, not washing feet properly, not wearing white socks, wearing shoes, not managing underlying health problems that contribute to foot problems such as diabetes and not keeping toenails trimmed properly.

However, what if you have an injured or infected foot? How can you prevent such discomfort from happening again in your feet?

Here are some simple and easy activities you can do to keep your feet in tip-top shape. After all, happy feet mean a happy you:

1. Stretch. The act of walking, sitting, standing, going up and down stairs and the like can be seen as a kind of physical activity. While they may not technically count as exercise, you are trying. Stretching the foot is a great way to strengthen the muscles, tendons, and joints in the feet that can cause possibly painful discomfort. People with plantar fasciitis, for example, can benefit greatly from a short daily foot stretch.

2. Wear inserts or braces. Shoe inserts and orthotics are great for making shoes comfortable by molding them to the individual shape and contour of your feet. They can make the otherwise painful and uncomfortable shoes you have always wanted to wear bearable. Braces and inserts can relieve pressure, reduce rubbing, and provide the unique, specialized support your feet need to be pain-free. There are many types and qualities of braces, so it is important to consult with your podiatrist about which ones will be best for your particular foot pain or condition.

3. Don’t go barefoot. While it seems to be popular both for hip style reasons and for reasons of perceived foot, joint and leg health, going barefoot or wearing flat shoes that mimic being barefoot, it is wise to avoid the temptation to go barefoot. While it may seem natural, going barefoot increases the chances of foot warts and tendonitis. When you go barefoot, you also run the risk of injuring the soles of your feet. Whether you’re walking on fresh grass or in the driveway, sharp objects like rocks and pieces of glass can cut into the soles of your feet. Being barefoot can also increase your risk of burns and frostbite on the soles of your feet, such as when you briefly walk down a road or driveway in summer or go out briefly to get the newspaper in a cold, snowy winter. day.

4. Wear proper footwear. High heels and flat shoes like flip flops and sandals can cause stress on the feet, as well as blisters and warts on the feet. This type of footwear can also cause pain in the joints, tendons, and muscles of the legs, hips, and back.

5. Wear shoes that fit well. Wearing shoes that are too big can cause blisters. Shoes that are too small can lead to ingrown toenails and crunching toes. While it may not seem practical to constantly shop for shoes, it is well worth the investment. After all, your feet are important and so is your care.

While you may not notice the difference your feet make in everyday life, your care and health are important. If you have chronic foot problems or pain, talk to your podiatrist for effective treatment recommendations.

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