4 Health Issues You Can Avoid by Taking Care of Your Feet

Your feet are the foundation of most of your daily activities, whether you realize it or not. Maybe they help you do your job, run marathons, go to school—or all the above! No matter how you use them, your feet get you through a lot.

The American Podiatric Medical Association found that 8 out of 10 Americans have experienced a foot problem, from chronic foot pain to an ingrown toenail. So, foot health is critical, and now is a great time to check in on your most important mode of transportation! In fact, taking care of your feet can help you avoid more than just foot pain. Check out these four health issues you can avoid by taking care of your feet.

1. Heart and Weight Concerns

If you struggle with even minor foot pain, you are more likely to decrease movement and exercise. We’ve discussed before the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle to avoid heart and weight issues.

Staying active and participating in regular cardiovascular exercise contributes to better overall health, and your feet play a big role in that. Therefore, taking care of your feet will take care of the rest of your body

2. Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that affects your feet. It occurs when the ligament that supports the arch in your foot becomes irritated and inflamed. It can be caused by running, high-impact activity, or improper shoes.

Plantar fasciitis can be easy to treat but might require surgery if not properly cared for. To prevent plantar fasciitis from developing, listen to your body and reduce arch stress by following these tips:

• Find the right shoe that prevents arch stress
• Ask your doctor about taking over the counter medication to reduce swelling
• Give your feet plenty of rest when you feel strain in your arch
• Stretch your arch frequently by grabbing your toes and pulling them towards you for 30 seconds

3. Decreased Mobility

Movement is good for your body and mind, whether it’s exercise, work, or being able to get to the kitchen. If you’ve ever suffered illness or injury that kept you off your feet, then you know that choosing to sit all day is different than having to.

As we age, mobility becomes critical as it plays a role in rates of disease, disability, hospitalization, and death. It not only affects your physical health but your social and emotional health as a lack of mobility can cause feelings of isolation.

By taking care of your feet, you’re allowing yourself the mobility and freedom to move about your day. (Added bonus: That can make your day less stressful!

4. Common Foot Pain

Of course, taking care of your feet helps avoid common foot pain, too. These issues include:

• Athlete’s foot
• Blisters
• Bunions
• Calluses
• Corns
• Ingrown toenails

And more—most of which can be pretty easily avoided. Make sure you’re keeping your feet dry and wearing shoes with the right size and support for whatever you’re doing. Shoes that are too tight, have too high of a heel, or don’t have enough support can harm your feet and lead to bigger issues.