While staying home to help stop the spread of COVID-19, we must remember to maintain good habits and pay attention to our body – even parts of it we may not think twice about like our feet! Podiatric surgeon and long-time physician of Summit Health, Dr. Marco Ucciferri, has heard from several patients since the stay at home directive was put into effect – all of them voicing foot concerns ranging from heel and arch pain to injuries from walking barefoot around the house. He says, “When we’re home, we tend to just wear socks, slippers, or even go barefoot. Now that people are in their homes for an extended period, without realizing it, they could be walking multiple miles a day inside the house. But without proper foot support, they are going to start experiencing pain or discomfort—not only in the feet—but in their back, hips, knees, shoulders and even as high up as the neck.”

Whether out and about or sheltering at home, good foot health is vital to overall body health – so be sure to give your feet some support!  Follow Dr. Ucciferri’s five foot health tips to keep your feet and entire body healthy and happy! 

Five Tips for Foot Health at Home

Tip #1: Get walking!

Even if just inside the house or out in the yard, walking (in proper footwear) is an important way to keep fit and help prevent injuries.

Recommendation:  For health benefits, you should try to walk at least 30 minutes each day. However, what you can do is based on individual ability and time available to you. Even a little bit can be beneficial!

Tip #2: Drink more water!

Most of us don’t drink enough water. Hydration aids in foot health – helping to prevent things like gout and arthritis pain.

Recommendation: Drink at least two liters or a half gallon of water each day.

Tip #3: Maintain proper hygiene!

Daily foot care is important to prevent ingrown nails and other dermatological issues. Make sure you wash your feet with mild soap and dry them well daily. You should trim your toenails every two weeks.

Tip #4: Limit sugary foods and junk food!

This tip is especially important for diabetics. Foods high in fat and sugar, can worsen nerve conditions in the feet and create complications such as diabetic infections.

Recommendation: Have healthy but satisfying snacks on hand such as vegetables and/or nuts, which contain protein.

Tip #5: Exercise and stretch your feet!

Keeping the feet strong can alleviate soreness and improve flexibility.

Recommendation: It is good to stretch the feet 2-3 times a day using range of motion exercises such as:

• Pointing and flexing – Sitting in a chair with feet flat on floor, raise and lower ankles. Can add toe point and arch curl as a second step
• Toe curling – Use toes to pick up small objects
• Foot roll – While seated, roll foot over a frozen water bottle or golf ball

Telemedicine Options Now Available!
Our podiatrists are currently offering video visits for assessing patients with foot and ankle concerns such as heel or arch pain, or other injuries possibly associated with recent change in habits.

Click here to learn about the foot and ankle services available at Summit Health.