The coming of the holiday season will undoubtedly involve a lot of festive shopping. But you need to be mindful of what a “Shop ‘til you Drop” attitude can mean for your feet.
Pounding the pavements as you go from shop to shop in search of special gifts and exclusive offers can result in foot blisters, throbbing foot pain, muscle spasms and collapsed foot arches. That’s definitely going to dampen your holiday spirit.
Here are some tips if you are going to be doing a lot of shopping this holiday season:
- Make sure you wear comfortable shoes that provide good arch support. Save the high heeled, fashionable shoes for parties only.
- Do stretching exercises like heel and toe raises while waiting in long queues. This will help improve blood circulation in your calf muscles and lower extremities.
- Wear shoes and socks that are appropriate for the weather. If you’re going to be out and about in the cold weather, where appropriate socks and shoes that keep your feet warm. Lighter apparel may be better if you are going to be shopping in the mall all day.
- Keep an extra pair of very comfortable shoes in your car if you plan to go shopping immediately after work. This way if your feet start to hurt you can go back to your car and change into your more comfortable shoes.
- If you already have some foot problems like that bunions or corns, you can speak to your doctor about wearing insoles or other orthotic devices that can help minimize discomfort.
- If you notice swelling in your feet at the end of a long day of shopping, icing your feet and elevating them to the level of the heart can help decrease swelling.
Dr. Ho is a foot and ankle orthopedic specialist who places a strong emphasis on customizing his care for each patient to ensure successful outcomes. He provides all treatment options including preventative care, conservative management and operative intervention. Call to book your appointment.
