Foot pain is very common. In fact, about 75% of Americans admit to having foot pain at some point in their lives. Most of which is caused by shoes that do not fit properly or that force feet into unnatural shapes. The foot is a complex structure of 26 bones and 33 joints, layered with an intertwining web of more than 120 muscles, ligaments and nerves. The foots main purpose is to support weight, act as a shock absorber, serve as a lever to propel the leg forward and help maintain balance by adjusting the body to uneven surfaces. Because the feet are so small in comparison to the rest of the body, the impact of each step exerts a tremendous about of force upon them. This force is about 50% greater than the person’s body weight. In a typical day, the average person’s feet support the equivalent force of several hundred tons every day! This is why it is so important to take care of your feet.
Foot problems can often be a sign of a more serious medical condition such as Arthritis, Diabetes, and Nerve or Circulation disorders. A few other common foot problems include fungal and bacteria conditions, corns and calluses, warts, bunions, ingrown toenails, hammertoe and spurs.
One of the main causes of foot pain can be traced back to ill-fitting shoes, so make sure to have your feet measured before buying shoes to ensure a good fit. The best time to be fitted for shoes is at the end of the day when your feet are at their largest. Do not simply select shoes by size, but rather by how they feel and make sure that there is about 3/8 to ½” of space between the end of your longest toe and the tip of the shoe when standing up. It is important to buy shoes that fit the first time you wear them. Do not buy shoes that feel too tight and expect them to stretch out. Selecting a shoe with thick soles will provide cushion for your feet on hard surfaces.
Here are a few ways you can prevent damage to your feet:
- Regularly checking them
- Keeping your blood flowing in your feet by putting your feet up when sitting our lying down
- Stretching after sitting for long periods of time
- Gently massaging your feet
- Soaking your feet in a warm foot bath
- Keeping your feet dry and clean, especially between your toes
- Changing your socks and shoes often
- Dusting your feet daily with foot powder
- Using mild soap in small amounts along with moisturizing cream on your legs and feet daily
There are also a number of things you want to avoid to prevent foot damage:
- Pressure from shoes that don’t fit right
- Exposing your feet to extreme hot or cold temperatures
- Sitting for long periods of time, especially with your legs crossed
- Adding oils to bath water as it can cause your feet and bathtub to become very slippery
- Decreasing the blood circulation to your feet by smoking
- Wearing tight, elastic garters or socks
Join Senior Community Services’ vision to mobilize the community to Reimagine Aging by keeping your feet happy and healthy for years to come!
