We’ve entered a New Year, which means many people have resolved to improve their health through exercise and diet changes. But there’s something you might not have considered: an active and pain-free lifestyle starts with your feet.
As a leader in podiatry care, we’re dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized solutions for foot and ankle issues. Education is a big part of this, and we’re here to help you understand the importance of foot health by sharing five easy-to-keep resolutions.
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Why Focus on Foot Health?
The health of your feet influences every step, workout, and adventure in your life.
The National Library of Medicine reports that people who implement daily physical activity can experience an 80% reduction in cardiovascular disease risk and a 90% reduction in type 2 diabetes risk.
These are amazing health benefits, but problems with your feet can quickly derail your ability to enjoy them. The good news is that there are proven ways to prevent this. Let’s explore five practical New Year’s resolutions to keep your feet happy.
Resolution No. 1: Upgrade Your Footwear
Different styles of shoes are available for everything from hiking and running to everyday wear. Finding footwear that provides proper support and cushioning for these activities is key.
As our own Dr. Gregory Alvarez, DPM, FACFAS, explains, “Healthy feet are the foundation of an active lifestyle. By taking small, proactive steps like wearing the right shoes or addressing pain early, you can stay mobile and meet your wellness goals for the year.”
Resolution No. 2: Spend Time Stretching
Your feet and ankles are made of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that require regular attention. That’s why we encourage you to add these exercises to your daily routine to improve flexibility and prevent injury:
- Rolling your feet over a tennis or lacrosse ball
- Pointing and flexing your toes
- Performing calf raises
Resolution No. 3: Commit to Cleanliness
While it might sound basic, maintaining clean, dry feet prevents problems. Sweaty feet can lead to fungal infections, negatively affecting your fitness goals. Prevent this from happening by wearing moisture-wicking socks during exercise, and always dry your feet after showering and exercising.
Resolution No. 4: Treat Your Skin
Just as you have a skincare routine for your face, your feet deserve the same attention. Include them in your daily moisturizing ritual to prevent dry, cracked skin around the heels. Healthy skin acts as a protective barrier from infection and discomfort.
Resolution No. 5: Schedule Regular Checkups
Regular podiatric care is as important as visits to the dentist and primary care physician. Our Ankle & Foot Centers of America podiatrists can spot potential issues before they become painful problems.
Dr. Joseph Giovinco, our CEO, emphasizes this: “We encourage everyone to include foot care in their New Year’s resolutions. Simple habits like regular check-ups, proper footwear, and addressing minor issues before they escalate can have a lasting impact on overall health.”
Give yourself the gift of healthy, happy feet by scheduling an appointment and starting your new year on the right foot.
