As we close Women’s Health Month in May, we urge everyone to pay attention to their feet. Our feet carry us around and bear our weight day in and day out. Yet, they are the most overlooked. We tend to pay attention only when something is wrong with them, like when our feet experience numbness or pain.
Untreated foot issues can aggravate and lead to long-term problems with mobility and gait. Even basic functions we take for granted, like walking or stretching, can become extremely painful and troublesome.
Here are some common causes of numbness in feet:
- Excessive and constant weight on your feet can result in inflammation and numbness. For people on their feet for most of their day, it is strongly advised to take breaks and allow your feet to rest.
- Sudden and excessive physical activity like sports or extreme workouts can damage the muscles, tissue, or nerves in your feet and lead to loss of sensation in your lower limbs. Therefore, start slow and gradually increase your pace.
- Nerve damage due to diabetes is one of the leading causes of numbness and amputations of the lower limbs. It is crucial to manage your diabetes and visit your podiatrist regularly to ensure appropriate foot health.
- Uncomfortable and ill-fitted footwear can damage your feet in numerous ways, like blisters, bunions, hammertoes, heel and arch pain, and more. It is important to wear comfortable shoes that support the shape of your feet and are the correct size.
Practice the following measures in your daily routine so that your feet are safe and healthy:
- Always wear comfortable and supportive footwear. Use orthotics or braces if you require additional support.
- Follow an exercise routine. Light exercise with pre and post-warmup routines are excellent ways to stay healthy.
- Watch what you eat. Extra fatty and sugary foods can play havoc with your feet. A healthy and nutritious diet will also have an impact on your feet.
- Maintain good hygiene. Wash your feet regularly and dry them properly. Moisturizing them will prevent cracked and flaky skin.
- Don’t take your injuries lightly, and do not indulge in self-treatment. Ensure you seek professional medical help if you injure your feet or ankles. Your doctor will review your case and administer the best course of treatment so that you have a speedy and lasting recovery.
Visit your podiatrist regularly, especially if you notice anything unusual on your feet, like redness, swelling, itching, or lack of sensation. After all, healthy feet are happy feet, and healthy feet take you everywhere you want to go!
At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we are here to address all your foot concerns. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first, find a podiatrist in your area.