Love Your Feet
What do teachers, nurses, factory workers, servers, and retail workers all have in common? They are on their feet all day, with little chance of a break to put their feet up. Feet are amazing parts of the body, with 26 bones, 33 joints, and a major network of tendons, ligaments and nerve endings. But this complicated part of the body is also holding up the rest of it, and foot pain and ailments are all too common among those on their feet all day, every day.
Common foot ailments for nurses, servers, teachers, and others include plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, blisters, bunions, and lower back pain. In a job where breaks are short and very few between it can be hard to manage and a resentment can arise between you and your feet.
Here are 4 tips to loving and caring for your feet.
1. Get a pedicure
This isn’t just a luxury to make your toes look pretty. Pedicures often involve a soak, a massage, and nail treatment. Taking proper care of your toenails can help prevent bacteria growth, ingrown nails, and ensure your shoes continue to fit properly.
2. Support your feet with the right insoles
Insoles have been shown to help relieve plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and even lower back pain. Read our article “4 Tips For Relieving Lower Back Pain.” The problem with most over-the-counter insoles is that they only last a month, as you are on your feet all day and wear them out faster. DoctorInsole is the first over-the-counter customer grade orthotic insole, bridging the gap between expensive orthotics and generic insoles. They will last longer and support you better.
If you are in hospitality or retail you might be wearing high heels, creating pressure on the balls and arches of your feet. DoctorInsole’s HighStep™ is designed to prevent your ankle from rolling and an arch that elevates the bones behind the toes, relieving pressure from the ball of the foot.
3. Avoid walking barefoot
After a long day at work the greatest joy is sitting down and taking off your worn shoes and letting your toes wriggle around a bit. Try not to walk around barefoot or in just your slippers later. Keeping your feet well supported, even on your time off, will help take care of them 24/7.
4. Soak your feet in Epsom Salts
Epsom Salts are the magical relief of aching joints. The salts, when dissolved in warm water, soak through the skin and work to release stress and serotonin, the chemical that makes you happy. It also works to relieve muscle cramps, tension, and inflammation. Giving your tired feet a good soak once a week could greatly affect their overall health.
It’s no secret that your feet are your foundation. Love your feet! Healthy feet could mean more energy, actually enjoying your days off, and a more positive outlook on the world.