How best to protect your feet
If you have ever experienced a problem with your feet, you will quickly realize the essential role they play in your life. In every way, your feet equal your mobility. Keeping feet healthy is a crucial part of your overall health, yet feet are often the most neglected parts of the body; perhaps because they're all the way down at the bottom of the legs. Ask people about their foot-care regime and most will discuss buffing their heels, perhaps rubbing in a little cream or even, for women, putting a coat of polish on their toe-nails.
These feet are made for walking
From an early age there is an urge to get up and to start to walk. Once a baby has learnt how to walk, it's easy to forget what a complex process is taking place. There is a complex interplay of joints, muscles and nerves that work together in your calves and ankles to move your feet through each step. As your heel touches the ground, the impact 'shock' is absorbed by the feet and ankles. Jogging or sprinting places an even greater strain on the foot. The rule is generally that the hardest surfaces are the worst for the feet, while a more 'giving' surface will absorb some of the shock to the feet and ankles.
Overcoming the arch enemy – the best way to protect your feet
Most people know about the arches in feet. You have probably heard about the condition of collapsed arches or flat feet. What most people don't know, however, is that there are actually three arches in the foot – one on the inside, one on the outside, and one across the ball of the foot. These arches need to function effectively if weight is to be evenly distributed and mobility normal. To protect the arches, they need to be supported.
Lack of arch support can start off slowly, but problems increase over time. Arches can actually be too high or over-supported, although more commonly they fall and flatten out. If the latter occurs, stress is placed on the ankles, knees, hips and the lower back. Too often shoes are bought based purely on fashion choices and not on proper arch support. Incorrect shoes can also cause painful bunions, corns and callouses.
Can you outrun your DNA?
Sadly, problems with feet run in the family. If you look at your grand-parents' feet it will give you a vision of your future reality. Without a doubt, the neglect of feet today will not go unpunished tomorrow. Your feet are your support system, so isn't it time to invest in supporting them?
For more information about foot care, contact a practice like Quinns Podiatry.
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