The hustle and bustle of the holiday season is upon us. Countless shopping trips, holiday parties, caroling in the snow, and other festivities keep us on the go this time of year. With so many distractions and fun to be had, it is easy to forget to take care of your feet properly. Keep reading for 5 tips to keep your feet merry and bright this holiday season.
Wear the Right Shoes
Keep the high heels to a minimum. Even though stilettos look great with a party dress, consider swapping to a comfort flat or lower heel option for mingling and dancing. Weight is unevenly distributed when wearing high heels, and can strain arch muscles and risk injury. With new shoe technology and numerous options, it’s easy to stay stylish while still giving your feet the support they deserve.
If you are purchasing new shoes for the season, opt for a style that gives appropriate arch support. Allow plenty of time to break a shoe in before wearing it out on the town or for an all day shopping spree. Wear your shoes around the house or pair with padded socks to keep your feet comfortable and pain free.
Keep Toes Toasty and Warm
With temperatures dipping into frigid levels, be sure to dress your feet accordingly before venturing outdoors. An extra layer of socks may be needed while out in extreme temperatures. Make sure your shoes can accommodate the extra bulk and still fit without being too tight or too loose. If your feet feel cold while outside, you may be at risk for frostbite. Tuck those toes in to warm wool socks to avoid injury or health issues.
Dry Feet = Happy Feet
A must have for holiday foot care are moisture-wicking socks. A wool/synthetic fiber blend will pull moisture away from the skin, reducing the risk of blisters and fungal infections. Padded socks and water resistant footwear are critical to keeping feet safe and dry in wintry weather.
Make Sure to Moisturize
You may find your feet become dry and cracked as the temperatures start to drop. This can pose a threat to those especially with conditions such as diabetes. Keep your feet happy and supple by applying a moisturizer twice a day to the top and bottom of your feet. Avoid lotion between the toes as it can increase friction, causing lesions and infection.
Give Your Feet a Break
The holiday to-do list can make for a long day of your feet pounding the pavement. Be sure to take frequent breaks to ease the impact and pressure on your feet. Sit down to relax and rejuvenate your mind and body with a cup of coffee. Your feet will thank you for the extra care and be ready for the next task at hand.
The holidays bring many festivities and for many, extra time on your feet. Applying these holiday foot care tips can help keep your spirits merry and bright while avoiding fatigue or possible injury.
The Foot Specialist of Birmingham are here with more expert tips on caring for your feet this winter. Contact us today for an appointment.