How Can Walking Impact Your Feet?
Walking has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, among other benefits. However, it can also take a toll on our feet — so why not take precautions? The right footwear can keep your feet healthy while boosting comfort, flexibility and durability, similarly badly fitting shoes can have a whole host of problems.
While our feet are capable of suffering quite a lot of pressure, it is important not to place undue stress or strain on them. Regardless of whether you're on your feet for long periods of time or if your job requires a lot of standing and walking, ensure you rest your feet regularly. Taking a brief walk outside when you need to refresh can make all the difference.
Walking is one of the best ways to improve your cardiovascular health and lose weight, as it's low impact and less likely to lead to injuries. Walking also improves mental health and overall well-being, with studies finding that just 10 minutes of walking can reduce stress and psychological symptoms.
How to stay comfortable on your walk
No matter what you need your feet to be doing — walking, running, dancing, or cross-training — your footwear should fit properly. Footwear that isn’t right for your feet can lead to a variety of problems, including blisters, bunions, and fallen arches. For proper fit, wear shoes that are snug at the toes but leave enough space through the arch to wiggle a finger.
Many people don't realize that the size of their feet changes depending on time of the day. The best time to buy shoes is in the evening when your feet are the largest. By doing this, you ensure a good fit and avoid costly returns. It is also important to remember to wear the same type of socks you intend to wear with your new shoes. The sock you are wearing should fit snugly but not be uncomfortable. When you look at the shoe, it should fit tightly against your foot and not slide back and forth. When the shoe is too big, you will notice that your heel does not fit comfortably inside the shoe.
When you’re walking long distances and want to avoid blisters or chafing, try wearing your new shoes on an easier walk first. That'll help your feet adjust to the new shoes and prevent any injuries. Also, bringing some first aid supplies and bandages are very useful.
To prevent chafing:
Wipe your feet with a soft cloth before putting on socks and wearing the right shoes and socks.
Start out at a steady pace and gradually increase your speed when walking. This will help your body get used to walking.
If it's hot outside, consider carrying a water bottle with you.
A few tips to bear in mind:
Shoes won't help your feet if they don't fit right. If a shoe pinches or rubs, try another size.
Have both feet measured when shopping. Feet are not all the same size, and you may need two different sizes.
After choosing a pair of shoes, walk around in them for a short period to make sure they feel good.
Always lace up both shoes before going for a walk.
When you walk, your feet are under quite a bit of pressure. If your feet are hurting, visit a podiatrist during or after a long day at work!
*This blog contains general information about medical conditions and is not advice. You must not rely upon the information in this blog as medical advice. Medical advice should always be sought from an appropriately qualified podiatrist such as ourselves.