Heel stability is an important aspect of overall balance and comfort, and it is often overlooked until you experience pain or discomfort in that area. Fortunately, there are several stretches that can help enhance heel stability and promote overall foot health. One beneficial stretch is the calf stretch. This simple exercise involves extending one leg behind you and leaning forward with the other, feeling the stretch in your calf and Achilles tendon. By keeping these areas flexible, you reduce the strain on your heel. Another effective stretch is the plantar fascia stretch. To perform this, sit down and cross one ankle over the opposite knee. Gently pull your toes back toward your shin, feeling the stretch along the arch of your foot. This stretch helps to maintain the flexibility of the plantar fascia, thus reducing the risk of heel pain. The final stretch to consider is the toe stretch. This can be done by sitting or standing and extending your toes as far as possible, then curling them under. This exercise strengthens the muscles in your feet and enhances overall heel stability. If you would like additional information about effective heel stability stretches, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can provide you with the knowledge you are seeking.

Stretching the feet is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns with your feet consult with our podiatrists from Superior Foot & Ankle Center. Our doctors will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Stretching the Feet

Stretching the muscles in the foot is an important part in any physical activity. Feet that are tight can lead to less flexibility and make you more prone to injury. One of the most common forms of foot pain, plantar fasciitis, can be stretched out to help ease the pain. Stretching can not only ease pain from plantar fasciitis but also prevent it as well. However, it is important to see a podiatrist first if stretching is right for you. Podiatrists can also recommend other ways to stretch your feet. Once you know whether stretching is right for you, here are some excellent stretches you can do.

• Using a foam roller or any cylindrical object (a water bottle or soda can will do), roll the object under your foot back and forth. You should also exert pressure on the object. Be sure to do this to both feet for a minute. Do this exercise three times each.
• Similar to the previous one, take a ball, such as a tennis ball, and roll it under your foot while seated and exert pressure on it.
• Grab a resistance band or towel and take a seat. If you are using a towel, fold it length wise. Next put either one between the ball of your foot and heel and pull with both hands on each side towards you. Hold this for 15 seconds and then switch feet. Do this three times for each foot.
• Finally hold your big toe while crossing one leg over the other. Pull the toe towards you and hold for 15 seconds. Once again do this three times per foot.

It is best to go easy when first stretching your foot and work your way up. If your foot starts hurting, stop exercising and ice and rest the foot. It is advised to then see a podiatrist for help.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Long Beach, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.