With large parts of the world on lockdown and many more sheltering in place or at least practicing ‘social distancing’, it’s not hard to understand why many folks are opting to cancel unnecessary appointments. 

Still, podiatric health remains important to overall health. That is why Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle clinics are open and gladly providing our same high-quality podiatric care as always for patients here in Fresno, Visalia, and Porterville. 

However, with current world conditions as they are, we want to equip our neighbors with resources for maintaining healthy feet at home, for those with non-urgent feet-related health concerns. 

Here are some ways you can maintain good foot health while respecting new ‘social distancing’ protocols from the comfort of your home. 

Keep the Blood Circulating 

Since many of us are out of our routines, cooped up inside, and trying to shelter in place, it can be hard to get needed exercise. 

This may especially be a challenge for folks who are now working from home. It’s easy to get glued to the computer and forget to get up out of the office chair at regular intervals. 

How to promote blood circulation while sheltering in place: 

• Get up and stretch. Stand up, shake out your limbs, stretch your extremities, or even do a quick exercise video on YouTube. 
• Avoid smoking. Smoking tobacco is associated with poor circulation.
• Eat foods that promote circulation. Cayenne pepper, garlic, dark chocolate, and watermelon are just a few such foods. 
• Walk if you can. If there is a safe place for you to walk where you can maintain a 6-foot distance from others, go for it! Even a few laps up and down your hallway or stairs will help. 

Good circulation is important for everyone, but especially for patients with conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and vascular disease. These conditions can have a major effect on podiatric health. For these conditions, it’s important to see a podiatrist and follow prescribed treatment recommendations. 

Stay Hydrated

As we approach warmer temperatures, drinking enough water is increasingly important. 

“Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking water will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat,” advises the American Podiatric Medical Association. 

The 8×8 rule is easy to remember. Aim to drink eight 8 ounce glasses of water per day. If you have a hard time keeping track of how many times you’ve filled up your glass, try to fill up a half-gallon jug at the beginning of the day, set it on your counter, and try to empty it throughout the day. 

Wash Your Feet Daily

Keeping your feet clean is an important key to warding off infection, minimizing smell, and maintaining overall foot health. 

Wash your feet in warm (not too hot!) water. Use a mild soap or scrub to remove bacteria and dry skin. 

Once you’re done washing and rinsing, be sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between the toes.

If you have dry feet prone to cracking, apply lotion once your feet are dry. Avoid putting lotion between the toes. 

Wear Good Shoes & Socks

If you have to go out, wear good shoes! 

Choosing the right footwear is crucial to maintaining lifelong foot health. Since each person’s feet are unique, it’s important to find shoes that fit and feel best for your particular foot shape and size.  

As for socks, it’s best to choose something with good breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Opt for cotton as opposed to synthetic fabrics. 

Eat Healthy 

Our eating habits affect virtually every part of our body, including our feet. 

Maintaining a healthy diet is especially crucial for demographics at higher risk of foot problems or injury, such as patients with diabetes, osteoporosis, and those with nerve problems. 

Consuming foods that promote bone health, such as salmon, egg yolks, and cheese which are rich in vitamin D can help decrease your risk of breaking a bone. 

“Researchers have…linked low vitamin D levels to broken bones of the foot or ankle. In addition, research suggests that broken bones are less likely to heal without adequate vitamin D,” says the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society. 

A good, balanced diet will help you and your feet stay healthy. 

Trim Your Toenails 

Trimming your toenails may be a bit of a chore, but it is an important part of both cosmetic and health care. 

“Not only do short, well-manicured nails look great, they are also less likely to harbor dirt and bacteria, which can lead to an infection,” explains the American Academy of Dermatology Association. 

When you trim your toenails, be careful not to round them. Cut your toenails straight across. This will help prevent painful ingrown toenails from developing. 

Fresno Podiatric Clinic

As always, the Canyon Oaks Foot & Ankle team is here to help fellow Community Valley citizens have happy feet! 

If you have any questions about an appointment, a foot injury, or a health problem regarding your feet or ankles, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

Thank you for your efforts to practice ‘social distancing’ during this global health crisis. Please take care!