Give Your Feet a Break!
By Donna Stark
Enjoying your summer so far? How could you not be, especially with all the days spent by the pool and all the evenings spent with your friends sitting around a fire pit? Fun has been in the air since day one, right? Though I wonder what the answer would be if your feet were asked the same question. Do you think the summer has been fun for them, too? Well, if you aren't sure, why don't you take a look? Or at the very least, take a look at the shoes you have been choosing every day. Because unless they are supportive and closed-toe, your feet may have a thing or two to say about how they really feel.
Summer Feet
If your feet look the worse for wear right now, it could be a result of your daily summer habits, and you may need to change course for the remainder of the season. Here are some simple suggestions that can help undo some of the damage inflicted on your feet.
- Flip-flops - Sure, they are cheap, convenient, and easy to pack, but flip-flops offer little to no arch support or cushioning. And over time, that can throw the body's alignment out of whack and lead to painful foot conditions. Try to wear your flip flops sparingly and don't even think about packing them on your summer trip if you expect to do a lot of walking.
- Yard work - Shoes that offer full protection from sticks, stones, bees, and moving machine parts are the best option for footwear while working in your yard. Again, try to avoid flip-flops, and if you have a pair of those plastic clogs, wear socks with them (it's OK, no one is looking).
- Bare feet - Summer isn't summer unless you give plenty of breathing time for your feet, but beware! Going barefoot could lead to issues that most people would go out of their way to avoid dealing with, such as infections, stings, and injury, so take the proper precautions. Keep an eye out for bees when walking through the grass, protect your feet with water shoes in public showers, lakes, and beaches, always put your shoes on when riding a bike or scooter, keep your shoes nearby when swimming because pool decks can become hot (this is the time for flip-flops), and take care of any minor problems with your feet before they become worse.
Give Your Feet a Break
Just because you paint your toes a pretty color or rest your feet on the coffee table doesn't mean you are giving your feet the attention and care they deserve. Hopefully, though, the tips above will encourage you to do more so they can finish off the summer season feeling great!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Bellevue, Wash.