People take care of most of their bodies, from the vital care of their hearts, muscles, and joints to the more superficial care of their hair and nails. However, many individuals overlook their feet or the care related to them. This condition can become serious when foot troubles greatly impair your quality of life and lead to further health difficulties.
The probability of acquiring a foot problem rises with age. “One in every three persons over the age of 65 years suffers foot discomfort, stiffness, or hurting feet,” according to Health in Aging. This rate worsens for long-term care facility residents. However, regardless of age or present health situation, following correct foot care procedures will alleviate discomfort and provide great benefits; you should consult podiatrists in Houston TX. Continue reading to discover more about foot care, foot issues, and why taking a few minutes every week to care for your feet will make a huge impact in the long term.
Why Should You Take Care Of Your Feet?
Because your feet are the basis of your body, keeping them healthy will be critical to your overall health. Years of wear and tear on your feet may be taxing. Overuse, improperly fitting shoes, and even heredity can result in foot injuries and diseases that limit your mobility. Aside from being extremely painful, several foot problems might also leave you more vulnerable to accidents. If your foot problems persist, you run the danger of falling. Walking awkwardly to avoid the discomfort throws you off balance and increases your chances of injuring yourself worse.
It is also critical to look after the skin on your feet. Your heels are not supposed to be rough and dry. The longer this problem goes on, the more probable it is that your feet may crack. Even if some fissures are not uncomfortable, they allow hazardous microorganisms to enter. If left untreated for an extended period of time, the healing process will likewise be lengthy.
The Significance Of Appropriate Footwear
The improper shoe might potentially cause major foot harm. People who wear high heels are certainly well acquainted with the sensation of pinched toes, discomfort emanating from the balls of their feet, and hurting arches after wearing such shoes for an extended amount of time. Other shoes, however, can still induce similar feelings if they are not properly suited to the person’s foot.
Those who will be on their feet all day should wear shoes that provide adequate comfort and traction. Gel inserts are highly suggested, and you should constantly strive to take pauses during the day to relax your feet. Most athletic shoe companies, such as Fleet Feet, provide foot measurements to help you discover the best size and shoe for your feet. Custom orthotics are made to fit your foot and can be used to treat a range of orthopedic disorders.
Foot Problems
Athletes’ feet aren’t the only hazard to foot health but are the most common. It is, however, simple to avoid. Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot or infected toenails, are easily developed when sweaty feet are kept in shoes or socks for extended periods of time. If you are in a position where you know your feet may sweat, make sure to change your socks as soon as you finish your activity. Consider wearing socks made of moisture-wicking material as well.
Achilles tendinitis is another frequent foot issue that affects the Achilles tendon, which joins the muscles at the rear of your calf to your heel bone.
Other foot problems include:
- Balgus hallux (bunions)
- Metatarsalgia
- Sprains of the foot or ankle
- Instability of the ankle
- Dysfunction of the posterior tibial tendon
- Syndrome of Achilles tendinitis
- Plantar fasciitis
- Fractures caused by stress
- Arthritis
How To Look After Your Feet
With all of these potential hazards to your feet’s health, how should you care for them? First and foremost, wash your feet often, carefully cleaning between your toes and trimming your toenails. You should also apply lotion to avoid cracked skin on your heels. If your heels are already dry, use a pumice stone gently. It is also critical that your shoes fit appropriately without being too tight or too loose. Stretching and strengthening your feet are also important for avoiding discomfort and injury. If you feel foot pain, always adjust your activities or rest.
Finally
Our feet were designed for walking, and the importance of foot health should not be overlooked. Regardless of how far away your heart is, the condition of your feet may influence your entire health. It is critical not to disregard foot discomfort. If your feet are in pain, consult your doctor or make an appointment with a podiatrist. In reality, your feet should be checked regularly, even if there is no problem. Feet are remarkable engineering marvels, with over 50 bones, 200 muscles, 60 joints, tendons, and ligaments.
