Take it Easy During the Holidays, Your Prescott AZ Foot Specialist Suggests

It’s the best time of year, but your feet may say otherwise if they aren’t tended to properly.

The holiday season is a wondrous occasion, especially when friends and family from abroad come to call. It’s then we shape heartwarming memories, almost always finding precious time away from the daily grind. While we relish in those moments of mental relaxation, our feet ironically pay the price for this season. Between days filled with shopping, parties, decorating, and more, we can, with the help of our Prescott AZ foot specialist, Dr. Cox, avoid future foot or ankle injuries.

How important is it to take care of my feet and ankles?

According to a survey conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), half of all Americans encounter foot pain at some stage in their lives. Over time, the stress put on our feet — from a lack of support specific to their needs — can take a toll on our active lifestyles, slowing us down, particularly during times like the holidays.

You can more easily dodge these issues by regularly consulting your Prescott AZ foot specialist and wearing the shoes right for your foot shape. (Here’s what we had to say about running shoes and arches.)

This clues into how you treat your feet during the holidays, too. 

The holidays will undoubtedly have you on your feet more than you would realize. Tasks, such as shopping, baking, cooking, decorating, attending parties, traveling, and more, add up, challenging your feet and ankles in such a way that, if properly cared for, can help them rise to the task.

How can I cover my tracks?

There are a number of ways you can help your feet stay sane.

• Elevate your legs. There are two common occasions where your feet and ankles can swell — after sitting for too long in one position or walking/standing for an extended period of time. Swelling can feel painful, so reduce it by elevating your feet at a level above your heart.
• Stretch your feet. Being on your feet for long periods of time may cause muscle cramps. You can avoid this, though, by stretching your feet accordingly. For toe cramps, curl your toes upward for five seconds. Repeat this 10 times. You may also rotate your ankles for pain relief. Do this by holding your heel and turning your ankle five times in a circular motion.
• Moisturize. With winter arrives dry, cold air that almost always triggers parched, cracked skin. Deter the onset of this condition by moisturizing your feet daily.
• Grab supportive shoes. There will always be a place for donning those fashionably heeled shoes, such as parties and other special occasions. But for days when you’re only shopping, baking, cooking, or traveling, we recommend opting for kicks with the right arch support and padded sole for you. Contact us today to find out what shoes we recommend for you.
• Pedicure safely. We, of course, understand the importance of picture-perfect feet, especially during the holidays. However, the ways in which you maintain them — if done incorrectly — can give rise to ingrown toenails and more. To avoid any future issue, use toenail clippers with a straight edge. Also, don’t cut cuticles; only gently push them back. Never use a razor to cut dead skin; a pumice stone will do the trick.
• Treat yourself to a foot massage. Although we know a good foot massage can feel great, it can release tension from your feet, increase circulation, and revitalize skin. Side note: You can moisturize your feet at the same time, too!
• Make sure your feet stay dry. Reduce the possibility of fungal infections, blisters, and more by wearing socks and shoes that keep water and snow from causing extra foot damage.
• Consult with your Prescott AZ foot specialist when pain arises. If you’re experiencing consistent foot pain, there may be an underlying condition that could grow much worse without the proper attention. Don’t wait until it’s too late to see your Prescott AZ foot specialist.

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