4 Habits to Avoid for Healthier Male Feet

Before we say goodbye to June, we at Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle want to recognize Men’s Health Month. Studies find that, in general, men approach health care differently from women. They may be less proactive and more likely to skip medical appointments. Below are habits that can be harmful to the health of male feet and how to avoid them.

1.    Failing to Protect Feet on the Job

Men who work in the construction field or whose jobs involve toxic chemicals need to protect their feet with appropriate footwear. Even brief exposure to harmful substances can result in long-term damage. If your job puts undue strain on your feet by requiring you to be on them for long periods or repetitive actions like ladder climbing or squatting, be sure to wear appropriate shoes and vary your position when possible.  

2.    Being a Weekend Warrior Athlete

You only have two days off a week, so you pour it on for the softball game/mountain hike/squash game—fill in the blank with your favorite sport or fitness activity. However, being inactive the rest of the week and then ramping up your activity level on the weekend can be a recipe for sports injuries like Achilles tendonitis. It’s best to try to get in some exercise a few times a week and take the time to stretch and warm-up before play.

3.    Allowing Feet to Stay Damp

Fungal infections thrive in dark, damp places like the insides of sweaty shoes. If your feet tend to sweat excessively, it’s essential to take action to keep your feet dry. Use talcum or antifungal powder each morning. Always start the day with clean socks and consider keeping a spare pair on your desk to swap into if you notice your feet feel sweaty. Alternate your shoes to give each pair a chance to air out.

4.    Procrastinating Getting Foot Pain Evaluated           

When feet hurt, it means there’s a problem. Putting off getting foot pain checked out usually leads to a worsening of a foot condition which will ultimately require a longer healing period and possibly more invasive treatment measures. Contact our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) promptly so our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, can track down the source of your discomfort and prescribe the correct treatment.