Foot issues can be incredibly debilitating and can hinder our daily activities. It is therefore important to take steps to maintain foot health and avoid certain behaviors and footwear choices. According to Dr. Ebonie Vincent, a podiatric foot and ankle specialist, there are certain behaviors that should be avoided to protect foot health.
One behavior to avoid is wearing Crocs everywhere. While they may be comfortable for short periods of time or for activities around the house, wearing them for long hours of standing or walking can lead to foot issues in the future. It is recommended to opt for a good walking shoe from brands like Brooks, Asics, or New Balance for extended periods of standing or walking.
Living in high heels can also lead to foot pain and various foot conditions such as bunions, corns, heel spurs, and Achilles tendon pain. While wearing high heels for special occasions is acceptable, it is important to find a healthy balance and not wear them for the entire day or every day. Wearing high heels causes foot pronation, which can lead to bunions, hammer toes, and plantar fasciitis. It is advised to wear supportive shoes at least 80% of the time and opt for platform heels to alleviate stress on the foot and leg muscles.
Walking around barefoot, especially at home, can contribute to foot and ankle issues. It is recommended to wear supportive sneakers when walking around at home, especially on hard surfaces like tile and marble. If concerned about bringing in germs from outside, a specific pair of sneakers for indoor use only can be purchased.
Running in non-running shoes should also be avoided. It is important to wear proper running shoes that provide the necessary support and cushioning. Running shoes should be replaced every 300-500 miles or every six to eight months. Wearing the appropriate shoe for the specific activity is also crucial.
Walking barefoot in public spaces such as hotel bathrooms should be avoided to reduce the risk of exposure to infections and viruses. Wearing flip-flops or shower shoes in these areas is recommended. Cotton socks should be avoided as they retain moisture and can cause blisters and foot and nail fungus. It is better to opt for synthetic materials that wick away sweat and moisture.
When going to nail salons, it is important to choose trusted salons that sterilize their instruments after each use to prevent fungal or bacterial infections. It is advised to avoid self-treating infections such as ingrown toenails, as using certain products can lead to greater infections. Foot pain should never be ignored, as it can be a sign of a more serious condition.
For diabetic individuals, going barefoot should be avoided due to the risk of foot injuries. Diabetes can damage the nerves in the feet, causing loss of sensation. Daily foot inspections and wearing properly fitting supportive shoes are recommended. extra caution should be taken by those with diabetes or poor circulation, such as not using heating pads or placing feet on radiators to avoid burns.
Overall, it is important to be mindful of the choices we make regarding footwear and behavior to maintain healthy and functional feet.