It’s the season of Thanksgiving and here at Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we think your feet deserve to be on the list of things that you’re thankful for! The 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles in each of your feet work together in complex and amazing ways to enable you to do all the activities you enjoy. Why not show your feet some gratitude with one or more of these proactive podiatric health ideas:
Pay attention: Many times your feet are the starting place of diseases that affect your entire body such as diabetes, arthritis, circulatory and nerve problems. Get in the habit of inspecting your feet regularly and report any unusual changes to the foot doctor. Even more minor problems—ingrown toenails, warts, athlete’s foot—are more easily treated when caught in their earliest stages.
Do a shoe review: Are your shoes hurting your feet? Check to see that the shoes you wear have adequate arch and ankle support as well as cushioning for the sole. This will go a long way to preventing foot injuries and chronic conditions. Look for signs of wear and don’t continue to use shoes that are stretched out or have tears or loose stitching.
Have a spa day: pamper your feet with a relaxing foot soak. Then carefully trim toenails (straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown nails). Finish with a rich moisturizer massaged into your feet. If you prefer a salon pedicure just be sure to choose a place that follows proper sanitizing procedures for foot baths and tools to prevent fungal infections.
Watch your weight: being overweight puts excess strain and pressure on your feet and is a contributing factor in many foot problems. Maintaining a healthy weight will help reduce foot pain.
Get a checkup: When’s the last time you were in to our Long Beach office? Make an appointment by calling 562-420-9800 and let our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria Foley and Dr. Constance Omelas examine your feet. The foot doctor can alert you to any potential problems and make recommendations for ways that you can help keep your feet healthy.
