19 Jun The Feats Your Feet Accomplish Every Day
The majority of people tend to take their feet and ankles for granted – that is, until they start to hurt. And if you’re a nurse, construction worker, waitress, bartender or retail professional, chances are, your feet take a pounding every single day. That’s why it’s imperative you take care of those tootsies before a problem arises.
Before we get into what you can do to prevent aches, pains and fatigue, let’s talk about the great feats of feet. Each foot is made up of 26 bones, 33 joints, 19 muscles and approximately 7,000 nerve endings. It’s no wonder why people who are on their feet all day often suffer from sore and damaged feet.
Here are a few tips and tricks to keep your 26 bones, 33 joints and 19 muscles in tip-top shape.
Orthotics
If you’re on your feet all day, it’s probably worth the investment to purchase some well-fitted orthotics. Orthotics are a great way to reduce the wear and tear on your feet and ankles, therefore, saving your feet from long-term, chronic issues. At Strash Foot & Ankle Care, we are trained and happy to get you in a pair of orthotics that work for especially for you.
Make Sure Your Shoes Are Comfortable
While this should be a no-brainer, I see many patients who think they have great shoes, but the shoes end up being the problem! Bottom line, buy shoes that fit your lifestyle and don’t go by appearance – go by comfort. Get fitted properly and have at least two pair of work shoes at all times. Remember, bad shoes could equal a lifetime of foot pain.
Give Your Tootsies A Spa Day Every Day
You don’t have to spend time or money to treat your feet. Purchase a cheap bag of Epsom salts, fill up the tub and soak those tired tootsies. Yes, it’s an old remedy, but one that still works. The warm water and magnesium abundant in the salt can offer instant relief.
Stretching Your Feet
You stretch your back, your legs, your arms, your neck, but very rarely do you hear someone recommending you to stretch your feet. I recommend this to my patients often, especially to patients who walk, stand or run for long periods of time. You can do these exercises in a chair or lying on your back, but simply lift one leg to a 90- degree angle and point and flex your foot, back and forth. Like any exercise or stretch, you should do this at least several times a week to gain maximum results.
So, if you’re on your feet all day, make sure you take care of them. After all, we only get two – keep them as healthy and your feet will definitely continue to serve you very well.
If you’re experiencing foot pain, contact Strash Foot & Ankle Care today where our number one priority is to help you put your best foot forward.