Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – When it comes to overall health and well-being, your feet play a bigger role than you likely realize. Not only are they essential for walking, running, and daily activities, but they are also responsible for supporting weight and balance and are the body’s foundation. Yet for many people, foot health is often neglected until discomfort or pain starts to disrupt quality of life.
As orthopedic foot and ankle physicians, we have seen firsthand how foot conditions left untreated can lead to more serious problems affecting the knees, hips, spine, and mobility. This is why we take an active role in providing guidance and information on the signs of common foot conditions, preventive measures to limit injuries, and even lifestyle advice to maintain foot health. From enhancing circulation and nerve function to managing chronic conditions, here are eight reasons foot health is more important than you think.
Strong Feet, Strong Body
Did you know each foot contains over 100 bones, joints, muscles, and tendons? Our feet are one of the most complex structures in the human body but they also undergo some of the most wear and tear. Every time we take a step or jump, our feet absorb shock to provide stability and mobility. This is why it is essential to prioritize foot health and see a doctor if you experience persistent or worsening pain, an injury, difficulty performing daily activities, swelling, or numbness and tingling. When foot health is left untreated, it can lead to issues that impact the entire musculoskeletal system.
Supports Joint and Spinal Health
Posture is an important aspect of back, knee, and hip pain – and problems often start with our feet. Even minor misalignment from conditions such as flat feet, high arches, or improper gait can cause imbalances affecting joint and spinal health. Foot and ankle physicians specialize in assessing structural issues of the foot and providing solutions such as custom orthotics and footwear recommendations to correct misalignment and relieve strain on the spine and joints.
Helps Prevent Injuries
Foot pain and issues with imbalance greatly increase the risk for injuries such as falls, sprains, and stress fractures. Foot and ankle physicians are trained to identify underlying issues that can impact foot structure, muscle strength, and gait. They are also able to recommend proactive treatments such as custom orthotics and activity modifications that will correct these issues and help patients stay active and injury-free.
Empowers You to Stay Mobile
Mobility is one of the top issues impacting people over the age of 65. Approximately one in four older Americans are affected by foot pain, which impacts everything from balance to independence. Foot and ankle physicians play a key role in empowering their patients in staying active and maintaining quality of life. Regular visits allow for early detection of issues like balance problems, foot deformities, and neuropathy, which can lead to falls and injuries if not addressed. Foot and ankle specialists can also help patients manage chronic conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and peripheral artery disease, which directly affect foot health. Custom footwear and orthotics prescribed by foot and ankle specialists can also provide comfort and stability, allowing people with foot pain or mobility issues to walk with confidence.
Improves Athletic Performance
Whether you’re casually active or are a professional athlete, a foot and ankle specialist can help ensure your feet are functioning at their best. Through personalized assessments, your physician can identify issues like instability or overuse injuries and make a diagnosis that addresses the root cause of the problem. They’re also able to make recommendations to help you optimize your performance and reduce the risk of injury.
Assists in Managing Chronic Health Conditions
Regular foot care is essential for managing conditions like diabetes, which can greatly impact foot health. By maintaining regular care, you can minimize the risk of developing serious conditions such as infections or joint pain. Being proactive not only ensures comfort and mobility, but it also supports your overall well-being despite underlying health challenges.
Encourages Blood Flow and Nerve Health
Maintaining good foot health is also crucial for supporting proper blood flow and nerve function, which both can lead to complications like peripheral neuropathy and swelling. Those with cardiovascular conditions are particularly vulnerable to circulation-related issues in the feet. With regular foot care, you can enhance blood flow and nerve health, prevent discomfort, and avoid serious complications from developing.
Protects Against Common Foot Conditions
Perhaps the most important role foot and ankle physicians play is prevention of common foot conditions, such as plantar fasciitis or bunions, which can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Although these conditions are common, many can be prevented or addressed early on with routine foot care and use of supportive footwear.
Your feet play a vital role in your overall well-being. It’s easy to overlook foot health, but when left untreated, foot issues can lead to discomfort, chronic pain, and even serious joint and spine problems. If you’re experiencing foot pain or concerns, now is the time to act. Contact Insight Orthopedics & Sports Medicine to learn more about our services and schedule an appointment with a foot and ankle specialist today.
FAQ
Q: What should I look for when selecting shoes that support foot health?
A: Wearing properly fitted shoes is essential for maintaining foot health and comfort. As a general rule, choose shoes with good arch support and proper cushioning. It’a also a good idea to try on shoes in person before making a purchase. Remember that a shoe should feel comfortable from the start and should not require a “breaking in” period.
Q: Are there any stretches or exercises I can do that support foot health?
A: Yes. Simple exercises like toe curls, calf stretching, heel raises, and rolling massages are all great ways to improve foot health, strength, and flexibility.
Q: How do I know when it is time to see a foot and ankle specialist?
A: If you are experiencing persistent pain that lasts more than a few days, swelling that does not go away, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling, and visible changes, it may be time to see a foot and ankle specialist.