Although rest and relaxation are the goals for most vacations, they usually involve a lot of walking and a lot of walking usually involves sore feet.
“Walking is great exercise and one of the most reliable forms of transportation,” says Leslie G. Levy, DPM, FACFAS and Dana Lavian, D.P.M., FACFAS, foot and ankle surgeons with offices in Valencia and Northridge. “But if your feet aren’t in the best shape or you don’t have the right shoes, too much walking can cause foot problems.”
According to Dr. Levy and Dr. Lavian, good foot care is essential if you plan to subject your feet to long periods of walking. Some simple foot care tips include:
• Wear thick, absorbent socks (acrylic instead of cotton).
• Dry feet thoroughly after bathing and make sure to dry between toes. Use powder before putting on shoes.
• Nails should be cut regularly, straight across the toe.
• Bunions, hammertoes or any other serious foot problems should be evaluated by a foot and ankle surgeon.
“The right shoe is also important to healthy walking,” say Dr. Levy and Dr. Lavian. “The ideal walking shoe should be stable from side to side, and well-cushioned, and it should enable you to walk smoothly. Many running shoes will fit the bill.”
They add there are also shoes made specially for walking. Walking shoes tend to be slightly less cushioned, yet not as bulky and lighter than running shoes. Whether a walking or running shoe, the shoes need to feel stable and comfortable.
Warming up exercises to help alleviate any muscle stiffness or pulled muscles are also advised before walking. Loosening up the heel cords (Achilles and calf) and thigh muscles before a walk is especially effective.
“If you’re not accustomed to long walks, start slowly and rest if your feet start hurting,” says Dr. Levy and Dr. Lavian.
“And above all, have fun.”
Contact Dr. Levy and Dr. Lavian’s office at 661-254-0795 for more information. The Doctors are members of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). Their consumer Web site, FootPhysicians.com, provides reliable information on foot and ankle conditions.