February is American Heart Month and our experts at Step by Step Family Foot Care want to reinforce the importance of a healthy heart. You can avoid heart issues such as heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure and more, by regularly engaging in a simple activity – walking!
Walking has numerous benefits including:
- Improved blood circulation throughout the body, especially lower limbs
- Feeling fresh and energetic
- Reduced stress levels and mental pre-occupation
- Weight loss or sustained healthy body weight
- Controlled sugar and cholesterol levels
- Improved sleep cycle and quality
- Improved immunity and overall body strength
Walking is easy and is usually problem-free, however, as with any exercise, some precautions are necessary.
- Use proper walking shoes. Walking in flip-flops or ill-fitting shoes will harm your feet.
- If you encounter pain, take a break, and let your feet rest. If the pain persists, visit your foot doctor without delay to avoid any problems in the long run.
- Use orthotics for strong heel and arch support. The extra padding will allow better shock absorption and reduce the risk of injuries.
- Start slow and walk shorter lengths initially. Build your stamina and then target faster and longer distances.
- Stay hydrated. Lack of water can result in muscle cramps and sprains that will disrupt your walking routine.
- Be aware of your surroundings and watch where you are walking. Trips, bumps, and falls can lead to injuries or fractures that could make you immobile for an unknown time.
If you have any concerns regarding your feet or would like more information and guidelines to improve the quality of your health, feel free to make an appointment with our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Debra B. Manheim. Contact our office in Parsippany, New Jersey, by calling (973) 917-3785 so that our team can find, treat, and eliminate your source of foot discomfort.