Most people try to stay active, eat a nutritious diet, and visit their doctor in their effort to stay healthy. However, many do not consider their feet in this equation.
April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, so it's a good time to give our main mode of transportation a closer look, but it's important to keep these tips in mind all year long.
At Advanced Care Foot and Ankle in Corona and Ontario, California, our top-notch staff of podiatric surgeons provides state-of-the-art care for a wide variety of foot and ankle care needs. Whether the problem is an injury, a chronic condition, or simply seeking to ward off future issues, we work with our patients to create personalized treatment plans and ensure a firm foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle.
With each foot containing 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles, and 107 ligaments, there are a lot of things that can go wrong. This means it's all the more important to practice preventive care. Some ways to do that include:
Wash feet daily and thoroughly dry them including between the toes. Keep toenails trimmed by cutting straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Use moisturizer to prevent dryness, cracking, itching, and calluses.
Change socks once a day and alternate shoes. This allows footwear to thoroughly dry out before the next wearing.
Don't walk barefoot as it risks injuries and infections. Select shoes that fit snugly but not tightly and have good arch support. Avoid pairs with pointy toes or high heels as much as possible. Closed toes and non-slip soles are good choices as they offer extra protection. Shop at the end of the day when feet are the most swollen.
Exercising and stretching the feet can help keep muscles flexible and strengthen the bones. Toe raises, picking up a towel with the toes, and walking in supportive shoes all encourage healthy feet.
Inspect the feet regularly for any changes. This could include differences in color, texture, or appearance, or issues like cuts, swelling, or infections.
People with diabetes should examine their feet daily as they are at higher risk for serious infections and other problems.
As we age, the odds of foot trouble increase. A podiatrist can diagnose and treat any changes in the feet. They can also perform an evaluation and catch any smaller issues like bone spurs, bunions, and more before they become bigger problems.
Whether you've detected an issue or simply want a preventive check-up, it's always the right time to prioritize the health of your feet. We can help.
Click to book an appointment or call the Corona office at 951-735-8806 or the Ontario office at 909-983-5710 today.