In podiatric medicine, it’s always better to act early and prevent a problem from occurring in the first place. However, the busy pace of modern life sometimes precludes that kind of foresight. For the average patient at Your Next Step, it can be challenging to find the time and energy to practice preventative care. Luckily for them, our expert team is always happy to help!

By incorporating preventative foot care into your routine, you can avoid common ailments and keep your feet happy and healthy. For this blog post, we decided to fill you in on how you can do that. Take a look at the hints below to stay one step ahead of podiatric problems. Your feet will thank you for it.

1. Daily Inspection: Perform a daily foot check, looking for cuts, blisters, swelling, or discoloration. Don’t forget the soles, especially if you have diabetes!
2. Hygiene: Washing your feet daily with lukewarm water and mild soap is a must. Pay special attention to the spaces between your toes and dry thoroughly to prevent fungal infections. Moisturize regularly to keep skin supple and crack-free.
3. Functional Footwear: Select well-fitting footwear with good arch support and a wide toe box to protect against bunions, hammertoes, and corns. Invest in appropriate shoes for different activities, like supportive sneakers for exercise and comfortable sandals for leisure.
4. Trimming Tips: Improper nail trimming can lead to ingrown toenails, infections, and painful complications. Consider seeking a podiatrist for regular nail care, especially if you have diabetes or difficulty reaching your feet.
5. Stretch it Out: Keep your feet flexible and strong with regular foot and ankle stretches. This can improve circulation, prevent stiffness, and even alleviate existing pain from conditions like plantar fasciitis.
6. Let us Help! Don’t wait for emergencies to strike. Regular podiatric check-ups are vital for maintaining optimal foot health. Your podiatrist can identify potential problems early, provide personalized advice, and manage any existing conditions before they worsen.

Wondering what you can do to get proactive about foot care? Step one is simple: Get in touch! Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, and Dr. Cassandra Stache are ready to help you step forward on sturdier, pain-free feet. Schedule your appointment and contact us today.