Think about what might keep you holed up at home, unable to get out and get on with your day. An illness like the flu can certainly leave you bedridden. A hurricane can leave all of Alabama at a standstill. And problems with your feet can get so bad that moving around isn’t even an option.

When your feet hurt so badly that you’re stuck in one place, you begin to realize just how valuable they are. So what does it take to keep our feet as healthy as possible and going about our lives? Heidi M. Christie, DPM and Chanda L. Day-Houts, DPM of Montgomery Foot Care Specialists offer up a few dos and don’ts for keeping feet fit and healthy:

• Do inspect them on a regular basis. It’s surprising how fast a small wound can get infected. You also want to look out for any unusual changes in color or shape of your feet – including your toenails – and any moles that look different.
• Do exercise them. Walking is a great exercise for your body overall and it strengthens the bones, muscles, and soft tissues of your feet.
• Do take care when choosing footwear. Shop for shoes at the end of the day and be sure to get your feet measured often since they can change size and shape over time. Limit your time in high heels. And don’t forget to wear socks that wick away sweat.
• Do make an appointment with us at least once a year if you’re diabetic. Diabetes presents specific and potentially devastating risks to your feet, including poor circulation, sores that don’t heal, and nerve damage. An annual foot exam is essential to catch diabetic complications of the foot early.
• Don’t ignore pain. That goes for tingling and numbness as well, which are signs of diabetes. Foot pain can often be dealt with much easier and surgery avoided when the problem is discovered and treated early on.
• Don’t choose a shoe just because it looks nice. Shoes are meant to provide the support and protection that feet require.
• Don’t walk barefoot. Bare feet are more susceptible to injury and infection, and they’re not supported. Walking barefoot, even around the house, and especially on hard surfaces, can lead to heel pain and flat feet.

When you have problems with your feet, don’t let them keep you glued to one spot. Seek treatment from our experienced podiatrists at our office in Montgomery, AL in the tri-county area. Call us at (334) 396-3668 or contact us online.