Syracuse Podiatry wishes you a happy holiday season! Our feet do so much for us, yet they’re often overlooked when it comes to what we’re thankful for. A lot of physical stress is put on our feet daily, which is why it’s so important to take care of them. But this year we want to encourage our patients to give their feet some extra TLC! How can you say thank you to your feet these holiday months? Follow our simple guide for easy foot care habits!
DO: Give Yourself Daily Foot Massages
A nice, relaxing foot massage is the best gift for the end of a long day. Not only can it aid in making you feel at ease before bedtime, but it can significantly help relieve any foot pain you may have. Grab your scented lotion and begin massaging your feet, focusing on any sore spots. Look into some reflexology tips and tricks to get even more benefits. If you have any cuts or conditions like Athlete’s foot, talk to your podiatrist before massaging your feet.
DON’T: Try DIY Treatments For Your Condition
Podiatrists are feet and ankle experts. So when we find any strange cuts, bruises, or blisters on our feet or suspect an injury, it’s crucial to allow them to help with the treatment and healing process. Attempting to treat fungal infections or pick at blisters at home is more trouble than it’s worth. Not only can certain over-the-counter medications be harmful to you, but you could end up worsening your condition or creating another problem alongside it, like an infection. Instead, save yourself the worry and call your foot doctor.
DO: Elevate Your Feet To Prevent Swelling
This trick you can use even if you aren’t dealing with a foot condition that causes swelling! As we move throughout the day, our feet and toes naturally swell. The best way to improve blood flow and reduce pressure in our feet is to elevate our legs. At the end of the day, lay down somewhere comfy, place pillows underneath your legs and feet, and relax for 10 to 15 minutes.
DON’T: Share Your Nail Tools With Others
One of the easiest ways to get a fungal infection? Sharing our nail tools with others! Keep your nail clippers and files to yourself and never share. At your nail salon, ensure that they follow proper procedures for sanitizing their nail tools.
Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, Dr. Donal M. Erickson, Dr. Keith Sherman, Dr. Anne-Louise Smith, Dr. Justin Muser, and the rest of the staff at Syracuse Podiatry in East Syracuse, New York, can help treat and care for your feet. Call us at 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online to get help today.