Foot Health Awareness Month: Put Your Best Foot Forward

Did you know that April is National Foot Health Awareness Month? Well, if you didn’t, now you do! With that, we have a mix of stats, foot-friendly insights, and tips for keeping your feet healthy this month. 

Fun Foot Facts

• 20% of Americans experience at least one foot problem every year.
• The human foot is made up 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
• 25% of Americans have flat feet.
• The average person takes approximately 10,000 steps per day. 
• Walking barefoot can cause plantar warts! The virus enters through a cut or open wound.
• Bunions are more common for women to experience than men.

Three Common Foot Problems You Don’t Want to Ignore

If you haven’t said thank you to your feet today, now is the time to give them a little praise. Our feet take a lot of daily abuse from us—whether it’s walking, standing, running, jumping, or climbing, feet help us do it all. With all of the activity can come problems, so here are some of the most common issues we diagnose and treat.

1. Neuromas. A neuroma is a condition that affects the ball of your foot. It can be painful and may feel like a pebble is stuck inside your shoe. If you think you have a neuroma, contact us to discuss your neuroma treatment options.
2. Bunions. A bunion is a bony growth that forms on the joint at the base of your big toe. It can cause difficulty moving and pain when walking. If you’re suffering from bunions, we do offer bunion treatments.
3. Plantar Fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia on the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed.

How to Keep Your Feet Healthy This Summer

Summer weather will be here before you know it—and that means more time out in the sun and at the pool and beach. Keep those feet and toes protected all summer long with these tips.

1. Avoid walking barefoot. Walking barefoot may seem harmless, but it can expose you to sunburn, plantar warts, and athlete’s foot. You can also increase the chance of injury.
2. Wear SPF (don’t forget your feet!). There’s nothing better than taking a day to soak up the sun. Remember to apply sunscreen generously to your feet and ankles. Also, remember to reapply if you go in the water!
3. Stay hydrated! Water is a beautiful thing. Remember to stay hydrated during the summer to minimize foot swelling caused by heat. Plus, it’s good for you!
4. Wear shoes or flip-flops. When walking around the pool, beach, locker room, or hotel, wear footwear to prevent injuries and bacterial infections. Protective shoes work great, too.

Now that you have all the knowledge you need to put your best foot forward this month and this summer, we hope you will use this insight to keep your feet happy and healthy all summer long.