Don’t let sore, achy feet ruin your holiday parties this year. Follow these five tips to keep your feet healthy and happy:
1. Wear the right fitting shoes! Whether it’s being on your feet all day to finish holiday shopping or hitting the dance floor at a party, do not compromise comfort and safety when picking out your shoes. Narrow shoes, super high-heeled or shoes that aren’t worn often like dress shoes can irritate your feet causing blisters, calluses, swelling and even severe ankle injuries. Choose a shoe with a low heel and fits your foot’s length, width and depth properly while you are standing.
2. Avoid overindulging in holiday foods. Certain foods high in purines, including shellfish, red meat, red wine and beer can cause painful gout attacks. Gout is a condition in which uric acid builds up and crystalizes in and around your joints, particularly in your big toe. It’s extremely painful and will wreak havoc on holiday fun.
3. Proceed with caution during pedicures. Before you book your holiday pedicure this year, remember nail salons can be a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi. Reduce your risk by finding a salon that follows proper safety and sanitation practices and is licensed by the state. You can also consider bringing your own pedicure tools to bring with to your appointment.
4. Watch your step! Winter wonderlands are beautiful, but can be dangerous if you don’t tread carefully. Watch out for snowy and icy patches when traveling outdoors. If you happen to slip and fall, take a break from activities until you can see a foot and ankle surgeon. Use RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) to help reduce pain and swelling.
5. Listen to your feet. You can’t enjoy holiday festivities with painful feet so keep an eye out for any issues. Inspect your feet regularly for any sign of ingrown toenails, bruising, swelling, blisters, dry skin, calluses, or pain.
If you notice any pain, swelling or other signs of problems, make an appointment with our office to have your foot checked out.

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