The average active individual actually takes over three thousand steps per day which adds up to an enormous amount of stress and pressure. While your feet and ankles are designed to take a lot of abuse, you can help keep them fit and strong with physical therapy exercises, proper footwear, and cleanliness.

4 great tips to keep your feet healthy throughout the year include the following:

• Protect your feet from damage —Prevent injuries to your feet by wearing supportive shoes that fit properly. Shoes that are too tight or too loose are bad for your feet and by getting a computerized gait analysis at your foot doctor’s office, you can help to ensure a precise fit. Your foot doctor can also recommend custom orthotic inserts to treat and prevent a variety of foot and ankle problems.
• Perform weekly physical therapy exercises—A range of exercises can be added to your weekly routine that will increase the strength and flexibility of your feet and ankles
• Keep your feet clean and dry—Keeping your feet clean and as dry as possible will help avoid bacterial, fungal, and viral infections and diseases.
• Proper toenail trimming—Take proper care when trimming your toenails to help avoid fungal toenail infections and cuts. Your toenails should be cut straight across and a little long which will also help prevent ingrown toenails.

Patients who have diabetes need to be particularly careful to inspect their feet at least once a week for any cuts and skin anomalies that can quickly lead to an infection and ulcerating wound.

For any problems you are having with your feet and ankles, enlisting the services of a skilled podiatrist will ensure you are getting the proper care. Call Syracuse Podiatry located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Kathleen Pyatak-Hugar, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.