Make Foot Health A Priority In 2022

Making healthier food choices, exercising more, and getting a better night’s rest are three top health-related aspirations. But what about foot health? While not intentional, most people take their good foot health for granted and don’t even think about the health of their feet until a problem arises. This is why one of your health goals for 2022 should include making your foot health a priority. 

According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, approximately 20% of the US population has at least one foot problem annually. 

Be Proactive 

There are many reasons why someone would experience a foot problem. Poor fitting shoes and living with health problems, like diabetes and obesity, are two of the more common reasons. As good foot health is necessary for you to live an active life, don’t wait until something happens to one or both of your feet before you start paying attention. Instead, take some proactive steps that are known to support good foot health.  

Prevention is key and doesn’t require a lot of your time, making it ideal for you to learn what you can do to prevent foot problems from forming in the first place.  

Making Foot Health A Priority In 2022 

The last thing you want to happen is to experience a foot problem that prevents you from performing your everyday activities. Just imagine how difficult this would be! You have the power to prevent, or at the very least minimize, your chances of experiencing any type of foot health problem.  

What can you specifically do to make your foot health a priority in 2022?  

Create A Simple Daily Foot Care Regime  

Thoroughly inspect your feet daily for cuts, sores, etc. The more you get to know your feet, the easier it’ll be to know when there's a problem. Moisturize your feet every day. After showering, be sure to thoroughly dry your feet and then add a deep moisturizer. When cutting your toenails, cut them straight across and don't cut them too short. 

Exercise  

Walking is a simple exercise, and one of the more beneficial for good foot health. Walking helps keep your foot muscles in shape, as well as keeps the blood circulating through your feet, of which both support healthy feet. Performing some gentle stretching exercises for both your feet and ankles also keep muscles strong and helps prevent injury. Any form of exercise helps keep you at a healthy weight, and that’s important as excess weight places a lot of pressure on your feet and can lead to your experiencing a variety of foot problems. 

Schedule Regular Pedicures  

Getting pedicures regularly is an easy way for you to provide your feet with the basic care they need to stay healthy. Professional pedicures deep clean your feet, removing the bacteria that can cause nail disease and foot odor. 

Get Foot Massages  

A foot massage feels great and offers many foot health benefits! Three of the more benefits include improving circulation, lowering blood pressure, and transporting oxygen throughout the whole body, 

Avoid Wearing ‘Bad’ Shoes  

Avoid wearing high heels and flip-flops often. High heels shift your body weight forward, making it so most of your weight is being absorbed by the front part of your feet. This can potentially lead to your experiencing hammertoes, calluses, and bunions. Flip-flops don't offer the arch support and heel cushioning your feet need. This can potentially lead to your experiencing an overuse in your tendons and muscles not only in your feet but also in your hips and back. 

Get New Shoes 

Once your shoes begin to wear and lose support, you should replace them. A good rule of thumb is to replace your shoes every 500 miles or so to avoid experiencing any foot and/or heel pain. 

Keep Your Feet Safe  

Always wear shoes in public places to avoid getting an infection, athlete's foot, toenail fungus, plantar warts, etc. 

Eat Healthily 

What you choose to eat affects your entire body, including your feet! Foods that specifically support healthy feet include almonds, berries, salmon, and leafy green vegetables. Foods to avoid include sugar, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates.  

Visit A Podiatrist For A Check-Up 

Visiting a podiatrist regularly is important, especially if you're already experiencing any type of foot issue. 

Conclusion 

Be sure to add healthy feet to your list of priorities this year! Paying attention to the health of your feet is the best way for you to avoid experiencing any foot problems. Don't take your feet for granted and instead follow the above foot health recommendations that support the overall health of your feet.