Walking|Foot and Ankle Pain|Exercise|Shoes|Diabetes
Walking has become more popular than ever during the Covid-19 Pandemic. As podiatrists, we are often asked if walking is good exercise. Answers to this important question are discussed.
First, as with any walking adventure, you will be putting some mileage on your feet. Wearing comfortable shoes is going to be one of the best pieces of advice you can follow. With each step onto the soles of your feet, you generate friction against your shoe that could create some painful blisters. Wearing high heels makes this an even greater possibility as you are shifting your body weight forward and placing abnormal stress on your feet. An athletic shoe is an excellent choice.
You probably are trying to get the biggest bang for your buck. What you’re shopping for may not be all at the same stores. You might be tempted to “power through it” and get all your shopping done in an hour. However, this might lead to some unneeded stress on your foot tendons. Get some food, take a break, and rest your feet a couple of times throughout your shopping day. You will be glad you did it and your feet will love that needed break.
You may still have sore feet after shopping all day, so take care of them after you’ve walked all those miles. A warm salt bath is ideal to soothe those aching feet and let them recover from all the pounding on those hard mall floors.
As with any exercise, stretching will help prevent injuries. Walking is an exercise and stretching is essential to prevent injuries. Calf stretches are very helpful prior to starting your shopping.
The last thing you want is to get injured while shopping! If your feet hurt when you shop, call Dr. Cruz for relief. He has appointments in Brandon and Zephyrhills. Contact the office today!
