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Winter 2009 - Keep Holiday Travel Foot-Friendly

Bethesda, Md. – The average person walks between 8,000-10,000 steps a day—but that number dramatically increases during the holiday season. As expert and rookie travelers alike continue making their holiday travel plans, it’s easy to forget that the feet often bear the brunt of aches and pains while on the road. From inappropriate footwear choices to inadequate foot and leg circulation from prolonged sitting, the journey from point A to point B can often leave travelers with sore soles. However, The American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) reminds travelers that there are steps that can easily be taken to soothe tired foot muscles and joints. “Visiting with family and friends during the busy holiday season should not involve having to struggle with foot pain,” said Ronald D. Jensen, DPM, president of the APMA. “Being mindful of basic foot care, even when on the road, can go a long way toward maintaining high spirits and staying healthy during the holidays.”Whether traveling by plane, train or automobile, keep the following foot care tips and techniques in mind to minimize aches and pains in the legs and feet:

Never go barefoot through airport security. While current airport security requirements call for travelers to remove their shoes when proceeding through security checkpoints, always remember to wear socks. Going barefoot, especially in areas with high foot traffic, can leave feet vulnerable to dirt and bacteria.

Be mindful of footwear choices. While you may be tempted to don the hottest footwear styles of the season while on the go, ditch the 3-inch high heels and snug dress shoes in favor of a comfortable, supportive athletic shoe. This allows for your feet to breathe and receive ample cushioning, helping to prevent ingrown and bruised toenails. Additionally, avoid wearing socks that constrict above the ankle area.

Walk around. For every 45 minutes you spend sitting down while traveling, make time to stand and walk around for five minutes. Sitting for long periods of times restricts blood flow to the legs and feet, which can lead to swelling and, in extreme cases, blood clots of the legs.

Exercise your feet. While sitting, roll your ankles and point toes up and down to encourage blood flow. If your feet begin to swell, unlace your shoes.

Pack a foot care emergency kit. Be prepared: in case of a minor foot problem, pack adhesive bandages, foot powder, antibiotic cream, tweezers, and nail clippers in your toiletry bag.

Friendly Footwear

October 7, 2009

Bethesda, MD The average Americans foot pain often gets in the way of daily activities. Perhaps no group suffers from chronic foot pain more than those who are constantly on their feet. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association's (APMA) 2009 foot ailments survey, 44 percent of respondents said they spend at least four hours standing every day. Additionally, nearly 78 percent of Americans have experienced foot problems as a result of wearing uncomfortable or ill-fitting shoes.

"The excess strain put on the legs and feet of those standing for long periods of time can take a massive toll on the body "especially for those working in the health care community," said APMA President Ronald Jensen, DPM. "Without the proper footwear that provides necessary support to the ligaments and joints of the feet, these individuals are subject to a host of ailments that can lead to chronic problems such as metatarsalgia pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot.

Excessive standing and walking on hard surfaces like concrete can also increase the incidence of foot problems. However, many footwear companies create products that are specifically made for those who work standing up. An examination with a podiatrist and correct shoe recommendation can save you from foot pain and possible injury.

Fall 2009 - Shoe Shopping Tips

Having a well fitted shoe is important to avoid painful foot problems. If you are a diabetic or have problems with neuropathy (lack of feeling) in your feet it is very important that your shoes fit well. This can help to avoid possible friction that can lead to a sore or a wound.

For our female patients that enjoy wearing high heels, please remember that wearing a very high heel shoe and that has a narrow toe will constrict the foot. This can cause pain or deformities. Wearing a lower heel and a rounded toe shoe can help to reduce this problem. If you do wear high heels during the day try to switch shoes through out the day. Putting on a tennis shoe or lower heel shoe to commute between offices or at lunchtime can help to reduce pressure on the foot structure.

To help avoid foot problems please consider these tips when you are purchasing new shoes;

Try on shoes at the end of the day when your feet are most swollen.
Stand up when you are fitting the shoe. Your foot will be longer and wider when you stand with your weight on your foot instead of sitting.
Fit the shoe to the larger foot.
Pick a pair of shoes for how they fit not by the standard size. Sizes vary between brands and styles. Don't rely on a set number to determine your size.
A correct fit should allow for one fingers width-about 1½ inch, between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The ball of the foot should fit snugly into the widest part of the shoe without feeling tight.
Walk around in the store with both shoes on and make sure that they feel good.
Don't buy a shoe and hope for them to stretch to fit your foot.

For more shoe guides or if you have questions on correct shoe gear please feel free to discuss this topic with one of our Physicians at a scheduled appointment time.

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Spring 2009 - Foot Health Awareness Month

The American Podiatric Medical Association wants everyone to think feet - especially during the spring! During the month of April, officially deemed "Foot Health Awareness Month," it's vital to remember the importance of good foot and ankle care. This is a time for all Americans to stop and take a good look at their feet.

This year's campaign focuses on heel pain, and a podiatrist's important role in diagnosing and treating this widespread condition. Did you know that nearly 40 percent of Americans revealed foot pain has inhibited them from performing life’s daily activities? Foot pain is never normal. If you experience foot pain, see an APMA podiatric physician.

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