Five Tips for Healthy Holiday Feet

Don’t let sore, achy feet ruin your holiday season. Here are five tips to healthy holiday feet:

1. Chose proper shoes—When hitting the dance floor or the shopping malls during the holiday season, don’t compromise comfort and safety when picking the right shoes to wear. Narrow shoes, high-heeled shoes or shoes that aren’t worn very often, such as dress shoes, can irritate feet leading to blisters, calluses, swelling and even severe ankle injuries. To prevent problems, choose a shoe that has a low heel and fits your foot in length, width and depth while standing.

2. Don’t overindulge in holiday cheer— Did you know your feet can feel the effects of too much holiday cheer? Certain foods and beverages high in purines, such as shellfish, red meat, red wine and beer can trigger extremely painful gouty attacks. A condition where uric acid builds up and crystallizes in and around your joints, most commonly affecting the big toe.

3. Be pedicure-safety conscious—Before you head for your holiday mani/pedi, remember nail salons can be a breeding ground for bacteria, including MRSA. To reduce your risk of infection, choose a salon that follows proper sanitation practices and is licensed by the state. Consider also purchasing your own pedicure instruments to bring along to your appointment.

4. Watch for ice and snow—Holiday winter wonderlands can be beautiful but also dangerous. Use caution when traveling outdoors. Watch for ice or snow patches along your trail. Ice accelerates a fall and causes more severe trauma, because the foot can move in any direction after it slips. If you do experience a fall, take a break from activities until you can be seen by a foot and ankle surgeon. Use R.I.C.E. therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to help reduce the pain and control swelling around the injury.

5. “Listen” to your feet—Don’t let foot pain ruin your holiday fun. Inspect your feet regularly for any evidence of ingrown toenails, bruising, swelling, blisters, dry skin or calluses. If you notice any pain, swelling or signs of problems, make an appointment with your foot and ankle surgeon.

If you are suffering from foot pain or have concerns about your foot health, please call our office at 440-946-5858 for an evaluation, or schedule an appointment.