Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Stretching Your Way to Healthy Feet

Your feet have daily wear and tear whenever you walk, stand or participate in physical activities. Unfortunately, they have the difficult job of bearing the weight of your entire body. With that in mind, you want to make sure they remain strong and healthy.

How do you do that?  Stretch your feet!  Stretching on a daily basis can help improve the overall health of your feet, ankles and toes. To keep your feet fit you will want to stretch throughout the day. It is best to stretch in the morning because it can get your blood flowing and eliminate any tightening that happened during your slumber. You should also conduct a midday stretch.  Find time during your lunch break, or even stretch right at your desk, to get that stretch. Whether you sit, or stand at work, your muscles can become tight in a fixed position and will cherish a stretch. You should end the night with a final stretch directly before your bedtime. This sends your body off to sleep with increased blood flow and loose muscles.

Make sure that you are conducting a series of stretches that are specific to your lower limbs. It can be easy to remember to stretch your arms and legs, but your feet, ankles and toes need the workout just as much. Perform stretches targeting each of your feet, ankles and toes. Stretching helps to prevent tightening in your muscles, which can easily result in painful injuries. Stretching strengthens your limbs, can increase blood circulation and lower your risk for developing an injury.

Some Easy Stretches:
  • Going up on toes slowly and down slowly, the key is slow
  • Using a Kick Space under a cabinet try with your toes to lift the cabinet
  •  Using a towel pull the feet towards your body, this is great for heel pain
  • Achilles Stretch. Stand facing a wall with hands on wall and feet 2 feet back, move one foot in towards the wall and keeping heel on ground lean into the wall. Repeat for other foot.
If you require additional information on maintaining the health of your feet, or are interested in a routine check-up and foot examination, contact our office at (713) 467-8886 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jeffrey Bowman.

References:

http://www.active.com/fitness/Articles/5-Foot-Stretches-to-Prevent-Injuries.htm
http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/hygiene-tips/how-to-care-for-your-feet2.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O28QOoXihOU
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