Step Towards Heart Health: How Foot Care Can Benefit Your Blood Flow

It’s been a good American Heart Month, but the team at PodiatryCare, P.C. and the Heel Pain Center knows that many patients underestimate the connection between the feet and the circulatory system. We’re here to tell you that beyond providing us with mobility, healthy feet can actually offer surprising benefits for cardiovascular well-being!

Incorporate these simple preventative measures and conservative strategies into your routine, and you can simultaneously boost your foot health and take a proactive step towards a stronger heart!

Preventative Measures

1. Manage Weight: Carrying excess weight puts strain on both your heart and your feet. Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise reduces pressure on your joints and arteries, benefiting both your feet and your cardiovascular system.

2. Keep Moving: Physical activity strengthens your heart and improves circulation throughout your body, including your feet. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, incorporating activities like walking, swimming, or cycling.

3. Choose Supportive Footwear: Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can contribute to foot pain and fatigue, impacting your mobility and potentially discouraging physical activity. Choose shoes with proper arch support and cushioning to promote good foot health and encourage regular movement.

4. Practice Daily Foot Care: Regularly examine your feet for any cuts, wounds, or discoloration. Moisturize dry skin to prevent cracking and infection. If you have concerns like diabetes or neuropathy, consult a podiatrist for personalized foot care advice.

5. Manage Chronic Conditions: Diabetes and other chronic conditions can increase the risk of both heart disease and foot problems. Work with your doctor to effectively manage these conditions, reducing your overall health risks.

Wondering what else you can do to stay foot-fit and heart-healthy? Get in touch! We’d love to fill you in on the steps above and more.

At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we treat a wide variety of foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.