5 Free Tips from an Arizona Foot and Ankle Specialist!

It is important to take care of your ankles and feet. Your feet are the ones you walk, run, and play on each day. When your feet are hurting, it is hard to have a good time doing what you want to do. Dr. Kris A. DiNucci, an Arizona foot doctor, has some easy tips to properly take care of your ankles and feet. They are simple and will make you feel better so that you can continue without pain.

Wear Well-Fitting Shoes

The ideal for healthy feet is to wear well-fitting shoes. Tight or loose shoes can be uncomfortable. This will result in issues such as blisters, bunions, or even ankle sprain. Dr. DiNucci always advises his patients to wear comfortable shoes and well-fitting shoes.

When buying new shoes, make sure that there is enough room for your toes. They should not be tight but should fit comfortably around your feet. Additionally, the right shoes for the right activity should also be worn. For example, run in running shoes and flip-flops when you are lounging.

Tip: Purchase shoes in the late afternoon when your feet are a little swollen. This will allow you the most comfortable fit.

Stretch Your Feet and Ankles

Stretching will keep your feet and ankles flexible. If your feet or ankles are tight, they will hurt whenever you walk or run. Stretching, according to Dr. DiNucci, will keep your feet healthy and strong.

You don’t need to stretch for a very long duration. A minute or two daily would work. Stretching the foot and ankle will also keep you away from injuries like a sprained ankle or heel pain. You can stretch either in a sitting or standing position with ease. It is not hard to make stretching part of your daily routine.

Tip: Do the following stretch: Sit on the floor and extend your legs. Gently roll your toes toward your shin. Hold for 10 seconds and let go. Repeat a few times to loosen ankles and feet.

Treat Your Skin and Nails

You have to keep your skin on your feet and your toenails under control too. Dry skin, cracked heels, and overgrown nails are problems. Clean, moisturized feet, says Dr. DiNucci, keep painful diseases at bay. He adds that individuals’ toenails have to be cut every once in a while so that they don’t grow into the skin, which is very painful.

Tip: Moisturize your feet daily, particularly after bathing. Apply a thick lotion to soften your feet. Cut your toenails straight across to avoid ingrown nails.

Guard Your Feet from Harm

Your feet may be in danger when you go walking somewhere. Walking barefoot is dangerous in areas like pools, public showers, or the gym. These are all places where germs are likely to be and will infect your feet. Dr. DiNucci says you can wear sandals or flip-flops to protect your feet from deadly germs outside.

Also, while walking outside, take care not to strike your feet against hard rocks or burn your feet on hot pavements. Arizona soil gets extremely hot, so never walk outside barefoot. That way, your feet will not be injured.

Tip: Wear shoes when swimming in a pool or when taking a public shower. Wear walk-around shoes outside too, especially in hot weather.

Never Ignore Foot or Ankle Pain

If your ankles or feet hurt, don’t hesitate to see the doctor. You should get rid of foot pain early on, Dr. DiNucci said. Don’t deal with foot pain without proper attention if you want to have more issues managing care for the pain in the future. When you hurt during walking, running, or prolonged standing, seek a physician.

There can be unlimited reasons for pain in the foot, i.e., flat feet, heel pain, or ankle twists. Going to the doctor sooner for your foot will enable you to receive proper care and become healthy again.

Tip: If you experience ankle pain or foot pain for more than a few days, go to a foot doctor. They will get your feet back to normal.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my shoes fit?

Your shoes should be comfortable and not too tight. They should have sufficient space for your toes’ wiggle room. If they are painful, they may not be the right size.

Will stretching relieve my feet?

Yes! Stretching loosens up your feet and ankles, too. Stretching makes walking and running more comfortable and easier.

What if I hurt my foot?

If you injure your ankle or foot, ice and rest it. If it still hurts after a couple of days, go get it checked out by a doctor. They can get you better quicker.

Conclusion

Proper maintenance of your feet and ankles is of the most vital importance. As a respected Arizona foot and ankle physician will tell you, you can keep your feet pain-free. From dressing to accommodate shoes to foot stretching to having yourself checked up by a doctor when you hurt your feet, these simple suggestions can help you stay pain-free and on your feet.

If you ever need to be informed about your ankles or feet, or are in pain, don’t hesitate. Call the Foot and Ankle Center of Arizona and Dr. Kris A. DiNucci. They will guide and counsel you with expert guidance and care.

Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!