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Posts for category: Proper Foot Care

By Crofton Podiatry
October 05, 2017
Category: Proper Foot Care
Tags: Untagged

The autumn season marks a special time for travel. In fact, some states and countries, like Vermont, New Hampshire, Germany and Italy are wonderful places to celebrate the fall with foliage and harvest celebrations. If you plan on a trip, bon voyage! Below we have some tips for you. And while we don’t mean to add to the long list of things to remember and pack, some of all of the following can make your trip more enjoyable:

 

Shoes

  • Flip-flops: These will have many useful jobs. On planes you may want to switch into more comfortable flip-flops for moments when you use the bathroom or walk around. Additionally, they will provide you with a more sanitary experience in your hotel room and bathroom.
  • Walking Shoes: While on vacation, you will want to look your best for photos, but fashion should not take importance over function. Travel often includes a lot of walking, so you should have comfortable and supportive shoes to prevent foot fatigue by the end of the day, especially if you have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis. You wouldn’t want your tired feet to prevent you from seeing more sights, would you?
  • Fancy Shoes: If you are traveling for an event or plan to celebrate with a nice dinner or evening out, don’t forget to pack nice shoes. However, be mindful that not only will they take room in your luggage, they will also prevent you from a long night out. Flats may be a better alternative for nice shoes that are more comfortable, but even they are not the best for long-term wear.
  • Activity-specific shoes: If you’ll be participating in specific activities, don’t forget your water shoes, hiking boots, climbing shoes, etc. If you can, however, break them in before wearing any gear for the first time, so that you can ensure fit and comfort.

 

Transportation

  • Plane: If you’ll be traveling by air, you may want to pack compression leggings or socks to prevent any swelling you might experience, especially on long flights. Make sure to stay hydrated and move every hour or so, to prevent cramping and swelling.
  • Train: Explore the train’s amenities and look out at the views from different cars as an excuse to get moving while you travel. Step out for a bit at each station, if the train will make a few stops before your destination.
  • Car: The best road trips include stops in random areas where you can find a little bit of culture along the way. Stop in country stores and different local restaurants to stretch your legs and get a taste of each location.

 

Lodging

  • Rooms: While housekeeping usually does a good job of cleaning and vacuuming, the floors may not always be sanitized. We would recommend wearing flip-flops while in the room and while you shower.
  • Spas/Pools/Gyms/Other Amenities: Again, we recommend wearing flip-flops to protect from potential infections, even if you wish to trust that everything is kept sanitized.

 

Have concerns about traveling with foot problems? Do you need orthotics for comfortable travel and walking? Consult with our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505. Our team is ready to assist you at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie, MD areas.

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By Crofton Podiatry
July 03, 2017
Category: Proper Foot Care
Tags: blisters   hikers   injury  

Hiking is a great activity that you can enjoy all year round. The terrain may stay the same, but the scenery varies with the seasons, making it a new adventure each time you go. Trail hiking can range from short and easy to long and difficult with many changes in elevation.

 

It’s important, however, to make adequate preparations to have a successful hike. Otherwise, you could be left with pain and even an injury. The following are some tips for taking care of your feet before, during, and after your hike:

 

Before a hike:

  • If it is your first hike, it’s best to start with easy trails.
  • Make sure you have shoes that fit you well and are comfortable from the first time you try them on. Since trails can have uneven surfaces, shoes should have adequate cushion and traction.
  • Even if the shoes are comfortable, it’s best to wear in your shoes gradually by wearing them around the house or on walks around your neighborhood.
  • Make sure you cut your toenails so that they do not cause you pain if they push against the front of the shoes.
  • Bring a water bottle and snack in case your hike is longer than you anticipated.
  • Before you begin your hike, make sure to warm up and stretch, which will reduce risk of injury.
  • Use the bathroom and fill up your water bottle so that you can stay hydrated throughout your hike.

 

During your hike:

  • Establish a slow and steady pace so that you don’t wear yourself out. If you need to, use a hiking stick to steady yourself.
  • If you begin to feel chafing on your feet, use adhesive bandages or padding to prevent blisters.
  • Take rests as needed so that you do not overwork your foot and ankle muscles, especially if you roll your ankle or strain your feet.

 

After your hike:

  • Cool down toward the end of your hike and stretch your ankles, feet, and toes with your shoes off.
  • A foot rub and an Epsom salt foot soak can help you find relief from a good workout and promote healing to prevent soreness later.

 

If you have concerns about hiking with a foot or ankle condition, or if you suffer an injury while hiking, come see our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Brad Toll at Crofton Podiatry. Make an appointment by calling (410) 721-4505. Our team is ready to assist you and your family at our Crofton, MD office, which also serves the surrounding Gambrills, Odenton, and Bowie areas.

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