Did you know the average person walks approximately 100,000 miles in their lifetime? That’s a lot of steps! Your feet carry you through each day and are the foundation of your whole body. But when (if ever) have you personally thought about the important role your feet play in your daily life?
Although healthy feet are vital for mobility, it seems most people don’t place the same emphasis on looking after their feet as they do on other parts of their bodies. And because feet are such an essential part of keeping us mobile and independent, when something goes wrong it can also be a psychological strain too.
For those with diabetes, foot care is especially important since blood sugar levels are higher than normal and the body has difficulty using insulin properly. This can cause several different foot problems, including artery disease, nerve damage, edema, foot pain, poor circulation, and various skin conditions that can increase the risk of foot ulcers. Poor foot care can also lead to infections which are difficult to treat because of poor circulation and can even lead to amputation.
As we all know, prevention is better than cure. Here are a few guidelines to help you stay on track:
CHECK YOUR FEET ONCE A DAY
Make it a habit to inspect your feet every day. Whether it’s after your morning shower or when you head to bed at night, just be sure to add it to your daily routine. Be on the lookout for sores, dry and cracked skin, blisters, or changes in color.
NEVER GO BAREFOOT
Make sure to protect your feet at all times and keep in mind that the great outdoors isn’t the only place where you should protect your feet. Indoors can also be full of hazards that cause foot injuries. Flecks of glass from the cup you broke, or one of your kids' small toys can embed into the foot, causing an infection later.
WEAR PROPER FOOTWEAR AND SOCKS
Look for shoes that provide wiggle room for the toes as well as coverage on the top and bottom of the feet. Avoid seams, as they can cause blisters or skin abrasions. It’s also best to choose premium socks made of alpaca for the best moisture absorption. Make sure to select a sock that has mesh ventilation, arch support and a reinforced toe and heel for ultimate protection, breathability and comfort.
There's no better time than now to make your foot care a priority. Click here to check out which sock is best for you.
