April marks National Foot Health Awareness Month, and podiatrists everywhere are grateful for that. However, beyond celebratory pedicures and a little TLC, this occasion also serves as a great reminder to strive for a proactive approach.
Your Next Step is here for every juncture in your foot and ankle journey, and for this post, we’re focusing on step one: Preventative care! Read on to learn a little more about what you can do to avoid unnecessary pain and discomfort, courtesy of our expert DPMs.
Preventative Care at Home
You can take a few solid steps toward fitter feet on your own:
- Daily Inspection: Take a moment each day to examine your feet. Look for any signs of concern like cracks, blisters, discoloration, or ingrown toenails.
- Foot Hygiene: Washing your feet daily with warm water and soap, especially between the toes, is crucial to prevent athlete’s foot and other fungal infections. Be sure to dry them thoroughly afterward, as moisture can contribute to these issues.
- Comfortable Footwear: Invest in shoes that offer proper support and fit well. Avoid tight-fitting shoes or high heels for extended periods, as they can lead to bunions, calluses, and other foot deformities.
Early Intervention with a Podiatrist
Regular checkups with your podiatrist allow them to identify potential problems, such as:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This prevalent condition causes heel pain due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, the tissue that connects your heel to your toes. Early intervention with orthotics, physical therapy, and stretching exercises can significantly reduce pain and prevent complications.
- Bunions: These bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe can cause pain and difficulty walking. A podiatrist can recommend appropriate footwear, padding, or even minimally invasive surgery to address bunions before they become debilitating.
- Melanoma: Melanoma, a serious form of skin cancer, can occur on the soles of your feet or under your toenails. A podiatrist is trained to detect suspicious lesions and can perform a biopsy if necessary for early diagnosis and treatment.
Wondering what else you can do to improve your podiatric health? 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. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!