April is Foot Health Awareness Month, and now is the perfect time to make sure your feet are in excellent shape for the warm weather.
Here are a few tips to get the most out of your spring activities:
WEAR COMFORTABLE SHOES THAT FIT
A bad fit can mean bad news for your feet and can cause pain in other parts of your body, too. To get the right fit, it’s best to go to a specialty shoe store and start by having your feet professionally measured. Wear the same type of socks to shop that you plan to wear with the shoes you are shopping for. Take your time assessing fit and comfort. Always try on both shoes. Make sure your shoes feel comfortable before you walk out of the store.
BE SURE TO MOISTURIZE
Dry and cracked feet can lead to painful blistering. Lotion and sunscreen can help.
KEEP FEET DRY TO AVOID FOOT FUNGUS
Outdoor activity means more sweating. Such heavy perspiration of the feet can make the perfect environment for fungal infections. Keeping your feet free of moisture can help prevent both foot fungus and foot odor.
KEEP TOENAILS CLIPPED AND CLEAN
Ingrown toenails can cause pain and discomfort. If the skin around your nails has become sore, red, or swollen, this can be a sign of an infection or ingrown toenail. It is especially dangerous for individuals with diabetes or circulatory problems. A podiatrist can prescribe medication that can help.
WATCH OUT FOR HEEL PAIN
Healthy activity can cause significant stress on the heel, and pain is an indicator something is not correct. It’s important not to ignore the message your feet are giving you. Plantar fasciitis most often causes heel pain. A podiatrist can check for various other causes, including stress fractures, tendonitis, arthritis, nerve irritation, or other causes.
SEE A PODIATRY SPECIALIST BEFORE PROBLEMS OCCUR
A custom evaluation by Syracuse Podiatry in Central New York, East Syracuse, can help you with this first step to improved foot function and a life free of foot pain. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico and Dr. Donal M. Erickson are highly experienced, board-certified podiatrists. They have helped many patients who have suffered from all types of foot and ankle injuries. Please contact our office with any questions you may have or to schedule an appointment by calling 972-414-9800.