Think about your feet. We all need to take better care of them. All the places they take us and allow us to do, they really get little attention, well… until they hurt! The biggest factor for good foot health is having good blood circulation. Movement improves circulation which brings needed blood with its nutrients and oxygen to the tissues and bones of the feet. When this circulation is lessened or cut off, like anything that lacks nutrients, it starts to deteriorate. This deterioration leads to sores, ulcers, infection and sometimes amputation. Smoking constricts the blood vessels making it harder for blood to get to the smaller vessels and tissues. This can lead to numbness and cold feet. When this happens, you can develop a sore or get an injury and not realize it.
Here are some tips that will keep blood flowing to your feet:
Put your feet up when you are sitting.
Wiggle your toes for 5 minutes, two or three times a day, move your ankles up and down and in and out to improve blood flow to your feet.
Do not cross your legs for long periods of time
Do not wear tight socks, elastic or rubber bands, or garters around your legs.
Do not smoke.
Work with your health care provider to control your blood pressure, cholesterol and if you are diabetic also your blood glucose, (all of which has an effect on blood flow).
Stay active! Walking, dancing, swimming and bicycling are good forms of exercise that are easy on your feet. Wear athletic shoes that fit well and have good support.
How to know what kind of shoe is best for good foot health?
Proper footwear is very important for preventing serious foot problems and can prevent potential falls that are caused by ill-fitting shoes with poor support. Athletic or walking shoes are good for daily wear. They support your feet and allow them to “breathe”, while vinyl or plastic shoes don’t stretch or allow your feet to “breathe”. Often the vinyl or plastic shoes cost less, but in the long run, you will pay more in foot problems.
When buying shoes, make sure they are comfortable from the start and have enough room for your toes to wiggle. Don’t buy shoes with pointed toes or high heels as it puts too much pressure on your toes.
If you see a podiatrist (foot doctor) for foot problems, you may possibly qualify for Medicare to help pay for special shoes your podiatrist prescribes.
So, when you’re walking, dancing or “tiptoeing through the tulips” make sure it’s in comfortable shoes!
~Tammy and Stepping Stone Staff