04/08/2024
April is National Foot Health Awareness Month
According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, approximately 20 percent of the U.S. population has at least one foot problem annually. It may be the result of poor fitting shoes, or the result of an underlying health problem such as peripheral neuropathy, diabetes or obesity. The average person takes approximately 10,000 steps per day, which adds up to three million steps per year. With 26 bones plus 33 joints, our feet serve as the foundation for the rest of our body. If the feet are not mechanically sound, it can affect the knees, hips and even the lower back.
Important tips for healthy feet
1. Inspect your feet daily and use a mirror to check the bottom of your feet for injuries, cracks, peeling, or dry skin.
2. Dry your feet and between your toes after showering to avoid fungal infections. Then, moisturize feet and heels with a good lotion.
3. Remember your feet need sunscreen too! Apply between toes and on ankles to avoid sunburn and prevent skin cancer, which often goes unnoticed in this area of the body.
4. Stretch your feet, ankles and lower legs daily and before exercising to keep the muscles strong and to avoid injury.
5. Maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise. Excess weight puts pressure on the feet leading to general foot pain, heel pain, stress fractures, circulatory problems and arthritis.
6. Wear shoes with good support and a low heel. Keep high heels below two inches in height. Make sure shoes have enough space without rubbing or squeezing toes.
7. Replace your walking or exercise shoes every six months or 500 miles in order to avoid foot and heel pain.
If you suffer a foot or ankle injury, call and schedule an appointment with Daniel Perez DPM https://www.bayareaorthofl.com/daniel-perez-dpm-aacfas/ The sooner you are treated the better outcome you will have. Call Bay Area Orthopaedic Specialists to schedule your appointment now 727-209-6677
