In today’s day and age, we all think that after an hour on your feet, a little bit of aching is normal.  It’s not.  More than 1/3 of all Americans have this problem.  Fashionable shoes, sandals, flip-flops, heels, minimalist running shoes are a mainstream and unavoidable to see.  Here is the problem, as we grow up, three things happen.  

1.  First, our foot ligaments and muscles get weak.  This leads to the foot straining against all those 5,000 steps that we take a day. There are very few things that we can do to improve this unless you can wiggle your toes like you can wiggle your fingers.

2.  Second, our body mass (weight) increases.  This could be from slower metabolism, diet, lifestyle, or just plain genetics.  It is part of growing up.  this again leads to foot straining against all those 5,000 steps that we take a day.

3. Finally, to prevent number 1 and number 2, we exercise.  It could be elliptical, treadmill, walking, running, weights, or whatever but for all our good intentions this is the #3 problem for foot pain.  We strain ourselves trying to stay fit, and to stay fit, our injury doesn't get better! 

Foot specialists are needed when it comes to this.  Images are needed to measure your joint and bones spaces in your feet and to make recommendations.  Listen to your feet when they hurt and get it checked out!  We usually have easy fixes. Contact the Foot Health Team of Dr. Peter F. Gregory D.P.M. for additional information or to schedule an appointment.