Show Your Feet Some Love
In August, we celebrate National “I Love My Feet” Day. At Goldsmith Podiatry, it’s an excellent opportunity for us to highlight some ways our Manhattan patients can take better care of their feet. The average person will walk 115,000 miles in their lifetime—that’s the equivalent of four times around the earth! In addition to carrying your entire body weight, your feet mirror your general health. Many conditions that affect the entire body first manifest in the feet. Below are four ways you can observe this important day!
Get rid of shoes that hurt your feet. Yes, we know it’s hard, but those pointy pumps, high spiky heels, and fashion boots, while fashion-forward, may be a setback to your podiatric health. Many common foot disorders, including bunions, plantar fasciitis, hammertoes, and weak ankles, can be traced to poor footwear choices. The most important step you can take to protect the health of your feet is to wear well-made, supportive, and properly fitted footwear.
Get chronic foot pain checked out. Don’t put off getting a foot or ankle pain evaluated. Pain and discomfort are your feet’s way of telling you something is wrong. In nearly all cases, waiting only makes the condition worse. Foot problems are easily treated in their early stages. Make an appointment at our Upper West Side office by calling 212-877-1002. Our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina Ruff, will examine your feet and conduct any necessary diagnostic tests to get to the source of your discomfort and prescribe the correct treatment.
Commit to inspecting your feet regularly. Look your feet over daily (preferably while washing them) to see if you notice any changes or unusual symptoms. Rashes, bruising, or cuts that don’t seem to be healing, lumps, or changes in skin or toenails may indicate a developing problem. Report any concerns to the podiatrist promptly.
Make a healthy lifestyle choice for your feet. Regular exercise, not smoking, and maintaining an appropriate weight all have benefits for your feet (as well as the rest of your body). If one or more of these is an issue for you, choose one and make a plan for healthy changes.
Take good care of your feet—they’re the only pair you’ll get! We’re here to help. If you have questions or concerns about your feet or ankles, contact us today.