At Superior Foot & Ankle Care Center we believe in being proactive when it comes to the health of your feet. In honor of Foot Health Awareness Month, we’d like to offer the following tips for taking care of your feet:
- Wear shoes that fit. This is one of, if not the single biggest steps you can take to prevent foot and ankle injuries and disorders. Some studies have shown that up to 90% of people are wearing shoes that are the wrong size! Shoes that are too narrow or tight in the toe box can encourage deformities such as bunions and hammertoes as well as increase the risk of ingrown toenails and fungal infections. Get your foot professionally measured at the shoe store. Shoe size can change as you age and during pregnancy.
- Get in the habit of doing self-exams on your feet. Changes in the skin or nails of your feet, as well as shape, size or color, can all be indicators of potential foot problems. Any differences in sensation (burning, numbness, tingling), swelling or abnormal growths should be reported to our podiatrists, Dr. Victoria Foley and Dr. Constance Omelas promptly. Early detection of a foot problem can mean a better outcome and less invasive treatment.
- Limit time going barefoot. Bare feet in public places are at a higher risk for coming in direct contact with fungi and bacteria that cause infections such as athlete’s foot and fungal toenails. Even at home, however, going barefoot increases your risk of puncture wounds and injuries.
- Don’t neglect foot hygiene. Basic daily care of your feet should include washing with soap and water (and drying completely) as well as applying foot powder or moisturizing lotion, depending on your individual needs. Don’t wear socks more than one day and alternate our shoe choice as well.
- Live a Healthy Lifestyle. You may not think about it but maintaining a healthy weight, exercising and getting regular checkups all contribute to the health and well being of your feet. Be sure that you monitor chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis and follow your physicians’ instructions for keeping this conditions under control.
If you have questions about how to best care for your feet, contact our Long Beach office by calling: (562) 420-9800.
