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Five Tips to Fix Your Aching Feet
By Michael Nirenberg, DPM
Most of us don't think about our feet until they hurt. Even then, most people limp around hoping the pain will go away. But with two to three times our body weight rocketing down on each foot with every step, it usually doesn't. Fortunately, there are things you can do for relief.
1. Take the Plunge
Nothing soothes sore, aching feet more than a relaxing footbath. You can use a bathtub or plastic basin, or for some serious relief, I recommend buying a massaging footbath. Make sure the water is warm, not hot (I've seen patients soak in water so hot they received second-degree burns). Add a good quality bubble bath to the water and for those who are not diabetic or have poor circulation, adding Epsom salts is great, too.
2. Feet Need Exercise, Too
I can hear the couch potatoes now: "My feet get enough exercise." Perhaps, but walking to the fridge or standing in line at McDonald's isn't exactly exercise.
Most people agree our entire body needs exercise, but few people think about keeping their feet in shape. Yet, with the average person walking over a hundred thousand miles in their lifetime, feet need all the help they can get. Foot exercises tone, stretch and strengthen feet, while alleviating fatigue, soothing soreness and increasing blood flow.