Running and walking
When walking, the amount of pressure on your feet is more than that of your actual body weight, and when you run, the pressure on your feet can equal as much as three to four times your weight. Weight control is a key element of foot health, and walking is one of the best exercises for your feet as it improves circulation, aids in weight control, and has an overall positive effect on your health. If you walk an average of 8,000 to 10,000 steps per day, by the age of 70 you will have walked enough steps to have circled the earth four times!
Diabetes and foot problems
Diabetes is one of the leading causes of foot problems around the world, and 60 to 70 percent of people with diabetes have some form of diabetic nerve damage to their feet. Regular foot health screenings by Dr. Laha, Dr. Phillips, and Dr. Hall are key to preventing diabetes-related damage to your feet. Including podiatric care in your diabetes routine can reduce risk of lower limb amputation by as much as 85 percent, and lowers risk of hospitalization by 24 percent.
Causes of foot problems
Although diabetic complications account for many foot-related complaints, other health-related causes of foot problems include arthritis as well as nerve and circulatory disorders. However, there are a number of other common causes of foot problems. Among these are poorly fitting shoes, wearing shoes such as high heels on a regular basis, and sports-related foot and ankle injuries. Women are far more prone to foot problems in large part due to wearing high heels. Neglect and poor foot care are also leading causes of foot problems, especially among those with pre-existing foot ailments.
Shoes
During the Stone Age, animal skins were tied around the feet and ankles to protect against cold weather in northern Europe and Asia. Thankfully, shoe design has come a long way since the Stone Age. Before shopping for shoes, consider your overall foot health, and consider having your feet inspected and measured by the podiatrists at Kansas City Foot Specialists. Our doctors will help you to determine the best type of shoes for your feet and your activities. They will also help fit you for custom orthotics or custom shoes, if necessary.
For help with any foot injuries or ailments, contact Kansas City Foot Specialists at 913-338-4440.
