Your feet support you through thousands of steps every day, yet they're often one of the most overlooked parts of your health. From active kids and athletes to adults managing chronic conditions, healthy feet play an important role in mobility, balance, and overall well-being.
At Altru, our Podiatry team is here to help patients stay active and comfortable with expert care and tips for preventing common foot and ankle problems.
1. Wear the Right Shoes
The right footwear can make a significant difference in preventing foot pain and injuries. Choose shoes that:
- Fit properly without pinching or slipping
- Provide adequate arch support and cushioning
- Match the activity you're doing, whether it's walking, running, or working on your feet
- Replace them when the soles become worn or the shoes no longer provide adequate support
2. Don't Ignore Foot Pain
Foot pain isn't something you should live with. Persistent discomfort can be a sign of an underlying condition such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis, tendon injuries, or stress fractures. Early evaluation can often lead to faster treatment and better outcomes.
"Pain is your body's way of telling you something isn't right,” says Dr. Li, a podiatrist at Altru. “Addressing foot pain early can often prevent a minor issue from becoming a more serious problem."
3. Take Care of Your Feet Every Day
Healthy feet start with healthy habits. Make foot care part of your daily routine by:
- Washing and drying your feet thoroughly
- Moisturizing dry skin while avoiding lotion between the toes
- Trimming toenails straight across
- Checking your feet regularly for cuts, blisters, swelling, or changes in skin or nails
People living with diabetes or poor circulation should inspect their feet daily, as early detection of small problems can help prevent serious complications.
4. Stay Active While Protecting Your Feet
Regular physical activity supports overall health, but it's important to listen to your body. Gradually increase activity levels, stretch before and after exercise, and wear supportive footwear to reduce the risk of overuse injuries.
If you're experiencing recurring pain, instability, or discomfort during activity, a podiatrist can help identify the cause and recommend treatment options.
"Our goal isn't to keep people from being active; it's to help them stay active safely and comfortably,” explains Dr. Li. “Many common foot injuries can be treated before they begin limiting your lifestyle."
5. Know When to See a Podiatrist
Some foot problems won't improve on their own. Schedule an appointment if you experience:
- Foot or heel pain that lasts more than a few days
- Swelling that doesn't improve with rest
- Ingrown toenails or persistent nail problems
- Numbness or tingling in your feet
- Wounds or sores that are slow to heal
- Changes in the shape of your foot or difficulty walking
Healthy feet help keep you moving. Whether you are dealing with persistent pain, recovering from an injury, or simply want to prevent further problems, the Altru Podiatry team is here to help.
Schedule an appointment today. Please call 701.732.7700 to keep your feet healthy and your lifestyle active.