As we head into spring and the air gets warmer, many of us are getting outside and getting active.
But before you lace up those running shoes and hit the pavement, Dr. Matthew Enzweiler, a podiatrist with St. Elizabeth Physicians, has five tips for you to keep your feet healthy:
Make sure you have the right shoes
Investing in a well-fitting and appropriate shoe for whatever activity you plan to participate in is crucial, Enzweiler said.
Develop a good stretching program
If you don’t stretch out your muscles before exercising, your feet take a beating, Enzweiler said. That’s why it’s so important to stretch before and after an activity.
Also, stretching helps prevent common overuse injuries such as heel pain and tendonitis.
Look at your feet every day
Giving your feet a quick glance each day will let you know if you have any cuts or scrapes you need to treat.
Keep your feet dry
Moist, dark environments are a breeding ground for bacteria and fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
“We see more of this in the spring as more people are taking their activities outside,” Enzweiler said.
Wear shoes
It can be nice to go barefoot sometimes, but hot surfaces like sand and pavement can burn your feet and cause injuries, Enzweiler said.
Now, get out there!
