Make Good Foot Health Your New Year’s Resolution
As our Upper West Side patients ring in the new decade, we at Goldsmith Podiatry know there will be lots of resolutions being made, many of which will focus on improving health and well being in 2020. Sound podiatric health is the foundation (literally) of an active and able body.
Below are some simple resolutions you can make to help ensure you start the new year off of the right foot!
· Keep ‘em clean. Good foot hygiene is as easy as washing your feet daily with soap and water. Just be sure to dry them completely, and don’t skip the spaces between your toes because that is usually where athlete’s foot begins.
· Commit to self-exams. Nothing replaces a podiatric checkup in our Manhattan office with our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith or Dr. Rosanna Troia, but you can help between visits by paying attention to the condition of your feet. Bruising, swelling, changes in skin color or nail condition, bumps or growths can all be indicators of a potential podiatric problem that needs medical attention. If you see something concerning, contact us promptly by calling: (212) 877-1002.
· Up your shoe sense. Buy shoes that are designed for any sport or fitness activity you do. Discard shoes when they show signs of wear or have surpassed the recommended number of hours/miles of use. When buying new shoes, have your foot professionally measured and purchase good quality footwear that has adequate arch support, a roomy toe box and sturdy heels with a height of two inches or less.
· Take care of toenails. Cut toenails short, but not too short. Nails that are short enough to allow surrounding skin to overlap them are more likely to become ingrown. File toenails straight across and take care of any rough edges right away to prevent tear injuries.
· Don’t ignore foot or ankle pain. If your feet hurt, contact us sooner rather than later to get it checked. Putting off evaluation and treatment of foot discomfort almost always leads to a worsening of the problem.