Step Up Your Foot Power
By Sandy Schroeder
As our world changes with more time at home, and more time on foot as we exercise in our homes and take walks outside, it may be time to take better care of our feet.
If your feet are letting you down with cramps, tendinitis, arthritis or bunions, and you are moving less, here are some ways to fix your feet and fight back from Harvard Health.
Get shoes with good support - Take the time and make the effort to get comfortable shoes fitted. Make sure they provide good support and are geared for walking, running and aerobics. You may intersperse these shoes with high heels or sandals, but these are the shoes that you will probably live in. So pick the best.
Protect the skin - Moisturize your feet after baths and showers to prevent irritations or cracking. Skip the space between toes which often traps moisture and leads to irritation. Keeping the skin soft and supple will also keep it healthy and strong.
Treat your feet with care - Avoid ingrown nails by cutting toenails straight across and letting nails breathe in between applications of nail polish. Check your feet regularly for blisters, rashes or cuts.
Maintain a good weight - Feet have a lot to do without having to carry extra weight. Just losing 10 pounds could make a difference. Extra weight opens the door to poor circulation, risk for diabetes or foot pain. So make the effort to eat healthy and lose any extra weight.
Do a soothing soak - Calm yourself at the end of the day with a tub full of warm water and a soothing vinegar or Epsom salts foot soak. As you relax, your skin will benefit and any swelling may go away. You might add a foot soak to your evening rituals before going to bed to help yourself wind down and sleep better.
Change your socks - Make sure your socks fit properly and wear fresh clean socks every day to keep your feet dry and healthy. Pick the right socks for your sneakers and your other shoes and make sure they are comfortable.
Remember to exercise - Stretch your toes and flex your feet whenever you exercise. Keep your feet strong with regular walking and stretching exercises wherever you are. When you work in the kitchen, alternate with toe lifts and heel drops. When you are sitting, fan your toes out and wiggle them. When you are exercising on a mat, grip the mat with your bare feet.
We depend on our feet to show up and work well every day. Give them regular attention and the best of care.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Maple Grove, Minn.