Want to Do Something Good for Your Feet? Take a Walk!

The message has been clear for many years. Along with a healthy diet rich in colorful produce, lean protein, whole grains, and low-fat sources of calcium, exercise is a key component in health and longevity. Regular exercise reduces your risk of life-threatening conditions including cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and diabetes. What you may not know is this: regular exercise is also great for foot and ankle health. If you’re not someone who enjoys heading to the gym, you can still get all of the benefits of exercise. Head outside and take a walk today!

Why walk? Walking stretches the muscles and soft tissues of the feet and ankles, keeping them supple and flexible. When you walk, your feet and ankles bear your entire body weight with every step. Weight-bearing exercise is the best way to stave off osteoporosis, an illness in which bones lose density and become more likely to break.

Walking is easy but it can be challenging to begin and stick to a routine. Dr. James M. McKee recommends three steps to help you develop and maintain your commitment level:

1.      Invest in a new pair of walking shoes. Shoe size can change with age. If it’s been more than a year since you were last fit for shoes, get a professional fitting at a brick-and-mortar store rather than shopping online. If it’s hard to wear shoes comfortably, talk to your podiatrist. A pair of custom orthotics might help.

2.      Set aside time on your calendar for your walk. Treat it like an appointment.

3.      Schedule a walk with a friend. You’ll be less likely to cancel on someone else than you will on yourself and, as a bonus, you’ll get to catch up with your pal.

If it’s been a while since you’ve exercised, it’s a good idea to visit your foot doctor before beginning your walking routine. With years of specialized training and experience, a board-certified podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS is the best-qualified medical professional to care for your feet, ankles, and lower legs. S/he will conduct a thorough examination, accurately and specifically diagnose any existing or potential illnesses or injuries, and work with you to create an effective plan for treatment and ongoing care. Schedule an 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.