We are on them all the time, it seems. And with all that time and pressure - your feet can hurt.
As inconvenient and irritating as it can be, know that you are not alone. The American Pediatric Medical Association has found that 77% of adults experience foot pain at some point in their lives. To manage this, it’s a good idea to apply basic foot care practices for mobility and long-term health.
The best thing? Move your feet! Stretching and elevating your feet when you are seated are great ways to boost circulation. Some other suggestions include:
- Give yourself a gentle foot massage
- Soak your feet in warm water for 10 minutes, a few times a week
- Apply lotion to your feet and legs daily
- Dry your feet completely before putting on socks and shoes
Making sure you have the right footwear is essential! (Ask Cinderella how important the right shoe size is!)
Properly shaped and fitted footwear helps you maintain balance, avoid falls and dodge added stress placed among your joints and muscles. Low-heeled shoes with good support are smart choices for foot health and balance. If you have mobility challenges, you may need prescription orthotics or custom-made inserts.
And you change! As we age, our feet tend to get wider and larger - so if you’ve had the same pair of dress shoes for 20+ years, they may no longer fit you! Take the time to make sure you are wearing the right size.
If you are having foot problems, talk to your doctor or make an appointment with a podiatrist here at UAB Medical West.