What to Consider While Walking
Daylight Saving Time recently began, and we can get excited about more hours of sunlight. If you're looking for a fun outdoor activity, we’ve got a low-impact option with health benefits: walking. Did you know that regular brisk walking can help you maintain a healthy weight, strengthen your bones and muscles, and improve balance and coordination? If you were looking for another reason to add more steps to your day, you now have three.
Before you lace up your shoes, we have a few reminders. Although walking is considered a low-impact exercise, there is still much preparation. From foot health to overall health, do your part to make sure that you are doing it the right way.
At the PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center, we want to share three things to consider:
1. Location matters
Where are you walking? If you are taking steps on uneven pavement or rough terrain, we encourage you to consider another surface. Be gentle on your feet. Stepping on pebbles, stones, or rocks can lead to a big “ouch.” Passing through areas where you can’t see the ground can be dangerous, too. Choose a path with a clear area. The goal is to have a guide ahead as you walk.
2. Foot health matters
Just because you’re walking, doesn’t mean that you should ignore your foot problems. If you have an untreated ankle sprain, we’re the ones to call. Plantar fasciitis is another reason to contact your podiatrist. Ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and more are all foot conditions that can stop you from taking more steps. Contact us first.
3. Shoe health matters
Grabbing any pair of sneakers just won’t do for your new adventures. Trust us. Do you assume that walking doesn’t require preparation or special gear? From ankle sprains to arch pain, walking the wrong way has consequences. Take a look at your shoes and contact the experts. Visit a shoe store and talk to them about where you plan to walk and how often. Ask your podiatrist if your shoe could use additional support.
When you’re ready to walk, we’ll be here waiting for you. We’re proud of your commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Our board-certified team of foot and ankle doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has experience with addressing foot needs, including bunions and hammertoes, pediatric foot care, custom orthotics, heel pain, diabetic foot care, and more. The team includes Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, and Dr. Laura Vander Poel. We have two locations in Hartford County: 1379 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT, and 1350 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.