Good Podiatric Health During the Pandemic
At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we want patients to remember that even during the COVID crisis, taking good care of your feet is essential. April is National Foot Health Awareness Month, and we want to offer some tips on ways to maintain and improve the health of your feet under the present circumstances.
During the coronavirus pandemic, as at other times, it’s important to deal with foot pain and injuries promptly. Please contact our Spring Hill (352 683-5799) and Hudson (727-868-2128) offices if you have a foot health situation that needs attention. Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, will advise you as to the best course of action at this time. If an office visit is necessary, we have put several precautionary measures in place to ensure the safety of our patients and staff. You can read about them here.
Maintain a healthy foot care routine. Wash your feet every day with soap and water and dry feet completely. If you have dry skin, apply a rich moisturizer at night before going to bed. Don’t let feet sit in damp socks—it creates the perfect breeding ground for fungal infections.
Take care of toenails. Nobody needs an ingrown toenail to deal with on top of everything else. Keep nails trimmed straight across and not too short. Never file toenails in a rounded shape. Avoid shoes with narrow toe boxes that squeeze toes together.
Wear good shoes. It’s important that your arches be supported—avoid walking around the house all day barefoot. If the podiatrist has prescribed a custom orthotic device, wear it even for walks around the neighborhood.
Stay active! Even if you can’t go to the gym or pool, being physically active is critical for maintaining flexibility and good circulation in your feet. It also helps maintain an appropriate weight and helps counteract some of the “boredom” eating many of us have been doing. Extra pounds mean extra strain on your feet.
Good podiatric health is a commitment everyone needs to make to ensure the active lifestyle we all look forward to resuming soon! Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.