Fifty Plus? Find Out the Foot Health Care Secrets You Need To Know
Our bodies change as we get older. That’s no secret. Men and women alike experience physical, hormonal, and emotional changes as we age. This has an impact on our health and general well-being. One area that has a huge impact on our ability to experience and enjoy the world is our foot health care. As we become more mature, it’s important to understand how to keep our feet happy and healthy.
Secret #1: Defeat the Dry!
Dry, chapped, and cracked heels are among the most common foot health care complaints among people 50 years of age and older. This is because we lose moisture more quickly as we age. Keep skin soft and supple with regular application of moisturizer. Keeping hydrated is also key for proper foot health care.
Secret #2: Check Your Feet Daily
Your feet are part of your body’s early warning system about your overall health. People who have diabetes, poor circulation, or certain other health conditions may see symptoms developing in their feet that indicate a need for medical assistance. Checking your feet daily for signs of wounds or infection is a great way to promote not only your foot health care, but your overall health as well. Talk with your AFAC podiatrist for specific information about what you need to be looking for.
Secret #3: Choose Smart Shoes
Your active lifestyle can take a toll on your feet. Choose smart shoes that provide good cushioning and support throughout the day. This includes the shoes you wear in the office or at work, the sneakers for errand running and workouts, and any shoes you wear for socialization. Arch support becomes more and more important with every passing year. Also, make sure there’s plenty of room for your toes to fit without being crushed or squished. Well fitting shoes with support and structure are key for foot health care.
Secret #4: Focus on the Footing
Slips, trips, and falls become a leading cause of injury when you’re in your fifties. Choose footwear that provides good traction. Winter’s still a few months off, but you’ll want to pay special attention when choosing this year’s boots – smoothed soled boots combined with slick sidewalks can be a recipe for disaster!
Secret #5: ACE Your Foot Health
For the ultimate in foot health care, remember to play your ACE! ACE stands for Activity = Circulation Excellence! The more your move your feet, the healthier your feet will be. Walking, running, and other physical activity boosts your circulation, and that’s good news for your feet. Flexibility is also important. Talk with your AFAC podiatrist about what stretches and exercises will help you enjoy a greater range of motion and flexibility. A few minutes a day can make a great difference in how your feet feel!
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