Have you ever taken off your shoes and socks at night and looked down at the horror show? Your feet, potentially a little funky with nails needing a trim, clearly showing signs that they have been through it. The truth is many of us neglect caring for our feet. However, there are simple adjustments that you can make to give your arches and toes a well-deserved break and even a pampering.
1. Avoid tight shoes.
You may have that special pair of shoes that you love. They may look good, but they are causing you a lot of pain. It’s time to ditch those shoes that are too small or not wide enough to accommodate your feet. Go on the hunt for some affordable shoes online for any occasion. You want to have comfortable shoes regardless of where you’re going. If you’re working out or just going for a walk, make sure that your sneakers fit comfortably in the widest part of the shoe. Also, make sure you have enough depth so your toes don’t rub the top of the sneaker.
If you’re looking for a pair of high heels to go with those dresses you’ve had your eye on, you have to be even more careful. Experts recommend standing up with the shoes on and making sure there’s half an inch between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. You should then walk around to make sure there’s no rubbing or slipping. If you don’t have time to go to the shoe store, explore the best online shoe sites for low prices to suit your needs. Be sure to also verify they have free returns in case the shoes aren’t right for you.
2. Be sure to get regular foot care.
While you might not be eager to add another doctor to your care team, it’s worth exploring the podiatric and orthopedic options in your area. Type in orthopaedics and sports medicine in Decatur, AL into a search engine to find the best care for your needs. Working with a foot care specialist is a great place to start when determining if there are any issues with your feet that you may not have even expected. If you are flat-footed or have high arches, that can impact the alignment of your spine and your overall comfort level.
Foot pain can be the result of a variety of reasons. Bunions can develop from being on your feet excessively. Wear and tear of the feet is common in sports medicine, as athletes put their ankles and feet to the test in high-pressure scenarios where a sudden angle can lead to a life-changing injury. Many foot and ankle problems can be overcome with non-surgical treatment such as orthotics, bracing, or physical therapy.
3. If you can stay off your feet, it’s a treat.
The best thing to do for your feet is to lay off them. Yes, that may be impossible with your job or your schedule during the day. However, there’s no harm in taking a little time now and then to do something good for your feet. A relaxing foot soak for 15 to 20 minutes is a welcome reward for your joints and ligaments, allowing them to stretch out and embrace the warm water. A good soak also softens the skin, making it easier to scrub down calluses and corns.
Of course, trimming your toenails is an easy accommodation, but you can also moisturize and powder to help avoid conditions like athlete’s foot. Over-the-counter sprays can also help you with that condition, while also curbing the odor you may have from being on your feet all day. Remember, you only have two feet and ten toes, and just like any other part of your body, you’ve got to treat it right.
