There are several serious foot and ankle problems that can be avoided with a few simple changes in behavior. The first change is to spend more time in sensible shoes. Pointed toes, high heels, and platform shoes may be trendy, but they are adding stress and pressure on the feet, toes, and ankles. A shoe with plenty of room and support should be worn far more often than trendy ones.
Wearing old shoes can be just as bad. That favorite pair of sneakers may be cool but, if they no longer have an inner sole left, toss them. Those sandals may slip on quickly but can result in a twisted ankle if the bottoms are worn through.
Posture
Slumping forward when standing or walking can cause pain and result in bunions and corns. Proper posture ensures weight is distributed evenly when the body is upright. Adding more weight on the heel, toes, or balls of the feet can make feet tired and cause them to break down quickly.
Healthy Habits
A sedentary lifestyle, excess weight, and too much processed or fast food will result in serious issues for the feet. Regular exercise will keep the blood flowing and maintain healthy circulation. People who spend long periods of time sitting at work should wiggle the toes and rotate the ankles often throughout the day to promote circulation.
Diabetics, for example, have to see Foot Doctors in Racine WI on a regular basis. Those with uncontrolled sugar levels cannot even cut their own toenails because it is dangerous. The loss of feeling in the feet is a common side effect of diabetes. Healing is difficult as well, so treatment can take a long time.
Nutrients keep skin hydrated and cells regenerating. That helps curtail cracking and splitting of the bottoms of feet. Junk food and processed dishes as a staple of the diet rob the body of essential vitamins and minerals.
When to Visit the Podiatrist
Foot Doctors in Racine WI are not to be avoided when issues and problems arise. They can ease pain, treat infections, and provide orthopedic inserts for better comfort. Diagnosing conditions, such as gout or hammer toes, is also within their capabilities.
Some podiatrists are also foot and ankle surgeons who can resolve situations like stress fractures, major injuries, and chronic conditions. Visit us to learn more about the benefits of seeing a podiatrist, and continue to wear sensible shoes.
