Skip to main content

It’s National Foot Health Awareness Month: 7 Tips to Protect Your Feet

This month is National Foot Health Awareness Month, and that’s a big deal for podiatrists because studies show that 20% of all Americans experience foot problems at least once a year. In today’s post by Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, he shares 7 tips to protect your feet.

Some foot problems are genetic; for instance, if bunions are common in your family, you’re more likely to get them as well. But some foot and ankle issues can be prevented or stopped from becoming serious if you seek treatment from your podiatrist as soon as you notice a problem.

Ready to take the right steps to keep your feet happy and healthy? Check out our 7 tips!

7 Ways to Encourage Good Foot Health

  1. Examine your feet closely every day. Examine your feet daily, especially if you suffer from diabetes. If you can’t inspect them yourself, use a mirror or ask a friend to examine hard-to-reach spots. While checking your feet, take note of any cracks, red and rough spots, or bumps to discuss with your podiatrist.
  2. Keep your feet covered. Always wear the proper footwear in public. They should protect you from fungal infections, injuries, and some cases of heel pain. But be sure to give your toenails frequent breaks from polish.
  3. Dry your feet thoroughly. Following a bath or shower, be sure to dry your feet completely, especially between your toes to prevent fungus.
  4. Feet need sunscreen too. Always apply sunscreen to your feet, including all around your ankles and between your toes. These areas are susceptible to skin cancer and burns.
  5. Low-impact sports like riding a bicycle or walking can help you sustain a healthy weight without putting too much strain on your feet. But be sure to always stretch first. Warming up before exercise can help prevent foot and ankle injuries, especially prior to running.
  6. Wear the right shoes. Choose shoes with a low heel and a lot of arch support. Leave some space - about a thumb’s worth - between the end of your shoe and your big toe. This helps prevent runner’s toenail injuries or bruising.
  7. Consider a walking aid. If exercising or walking is painful, even in supportive shoes, custom orthotics can offer extra protection and pain relief for your feet.

If you’re ever in doubt about your foot health, we’re here to help. We find that people often try to ‘walk off’ or ignore foot pain. But that turns minor issues into major foot problems.

So, what’s the best way to protect your feet? Contact Dr. Hubert Lee and his team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA to schedule your next visit. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936

Author
Dr. Hubert Lee

You Might Also Enjoy...

Women's Foot Trying on a custom orthotic

7 Foot Conditions That Custom Orthotics Can Help

If you've been dealing with persistent foot or ankle pain, you might have heard your podiatrist mention custom orthotics. Let’s find out which foot and ankle problems benefit from these devices the most.

7 Toe Problems You Should Know About

Toe problems are so much more than just ingrown toenails. There are bone deformities, nerve inflammation, arthritis, and even injuries that we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists see all the time. In this article, we’ll unpack 7 of the most common toe iss
man hiking in forest

How Men Can Step Up Their Foot Health This Summer

Summer offers men the perfect opportunity to embrace a more active lifestyle, build muscle, enhance heart health, and overall live healthier. In this article, we at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists will talk about why activity fuels men’s foot health.

How to Know if You Have Flat Feet

Flat feet can be painless or the root of chronic discomfort. Learn how to spot the signs and when to seek expert care from CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists.