Exercise: Your Feet and Ankles Will Thank You!
Have you ever heard the old saying, “Let food be thy medicine”? It simply means that many illnesses and injuries can be prevented with a healthy diet. If that saying were to be uttered for the first time in the 21st century, it would have two added words: “and exercise.” Regular exercise is essential for overall wellness, and it can improve foot health as well.
Your everyday diet should be rich in lean protein, colorful fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Low-fat dairy items will provide the calcium that is needed to protect bone health. The benefits these choices offer will be amplified when you drink generous amounts of water daily and limit your intake of alcohol and sugary beverages.
Combined with regular exercise, such a diet can reduce your risk of a wide range of illnesses including:
cardiovascular disease
high blood pressure
osteoporosis
Smart diet and exercise choices will also limit your weight and improve balance, reducing the risk of falls that can result in foot and ankle injuries.
You don’t have to work out like Arnold Schwartzenegger to benefit from an exercise program. Are you looking for ways to add exercise into your life? Schedule a walk with a friend. You’ll both enjoy the time to catch up. Try joining a gentle yoga or tai chi class. Want to combine social time with exercise? How about a bowling league? All exercise is beneficial.
It’s a good idea to see a podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS before kicking off or expanding your exercise regimen. Your podiatrist will examine your feet, ankles, and lower legs, diagnose any existing or potential issues, and work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for treatment and ongoing care. Schedule a convenient appointment in Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A.’s modern, comfortable office on Solomons Island Road. Call our friendly staff at 410-224-4448 or click here to get started today.