Women’s Health Month: 6 Ways to Care for Your Feet

With so much pressure on our feet, every step you take impacts your overall productivity, quality of life, and comfort. Because May is Women’s Health Month, in today’s post, Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Brandon Holloway of Amarillo Foot Specialists in Amarillo, TX, panhandle share 6 tips for women’s foot health.

1. Buy shoes that feel great right away. When shoe shopping, look for arch support, shock absorption, and cushioning. If your feet don’t feel comfortable in the shoes at the store, don’t purchase them. Be realistic about how and when you’ll wear the shoes. A four-inch heel will not give you the support you need.

2. Match your shoes to your activity. One of the most important things you can do for your feet is to wear supportive shoes that are made for the activity you’re doing. In other words, don’t run in tennis sneakers or commute in heels if you have to stand or walk for long periods.

3. Don’t walk barefoot. Walking barefoot, particularly on hard surfaces, causes pain and inflammation because there is no support. Instead, look for slippers and sandals with cushioning, shock absorption, and support.

4. Make time for a massage. Massaging your feet increases blood flow, provides a mild release for your plantar fascia, and loosens tightness.

5. Do some “sole searching.” How often you swap your shoes can impact the health of your feet because everyone's walking patterns are different. If your shoes’ tread patterns are smooth and worn, or if you can see the shape of your toes popping out, it’s time to replace them. Some people with a heavy gait wear their shoes down faster than those with a softer, smaller gait.

6. Stretch properly. Yoga poses can help your feet by keeping ankles and toes flexible and limber and increasing blood flow. Your podiatrist can recommend some stretches that can help.

Because our feet are our body's foundation, proper foot care can make everything you do more productive and elevate your quality of life—all you have to do is take that first step toward proper foot care.

If you’re experiencing any issues with your feet, don’t hesitate! Contact the office of Dr. Mark Thompson and Dr. Brandon Holloway of Amarillo Foot Specialists located in Amarillo, TX, at (806) 322-3338 today to schedule a consultation.