Going Barefoot This Season? Better Read This First

Outside of trimming our toenails every now and then, many of us probably give little thought to those ten little digits on the ends of our feet. But as our podiatrist at Family Foot Health Center explains, each one of our toes is individually responsible for critical tasks that contribute to our comfort and mobility.

Today let’s look at the role each of our toes play in helping us move about, every step of the way:

• The big toe (also known as the hallux) bears much of the burden when we’re walking and running. The big toe’s strong plantar flexor muscle helps us push off the ground.
• The second toe, which is often the longest of the five toes, acts alongside the big toe in giving us stability and balance, which is especially critical when we're on uneven ground.
• The third and fourth, or middle toes, are used primarily for balance and stability. The middle toes spread and absorb our weight during weight-bearing activities.
• Our pinky toes (also called hallux quintus), may be the smallest, but it plays a key role in our overall balance and helps prevent our feet from rolling inward while walking and running.

Strong, healthy toes are critical for moving efficiently, so our podiatrist recommends practicing good hygiene by keeping them clean, with regularly groomed toenails. Check the toenails for cuts, swelling or signs of infection. Wash the feet each day, dry them completely, and always change your socks at least once a day. Gentle toes stretches — raising and spreading them apart and holding the position for a few seconds at a time — promotes mobility and flexibility. 

If you are having pain, stiffness or have noticed an abnormal shape in any of your toes, please contact our podiatrist at Family Foot Health Center today. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent a serious condition from affecting your ability to walk comfortably.

By Family Foot Health Center

May 30, 2024

For some of us, the feeling of grass between our toes is one of the enduring pleasures of summer. And the idea of connecting with the Earth by going barefoot has been trending lately, although studies on this practice haven’t been conclusive. Nevertheless, our patients at Family Foot Health Center often ask our podiatrist about the pros and cons of going shoeless in the warm weather.

Some studies have found that going barefoot can build muscle strength in the feet and ankles, plus improve body awareness and balance. Of course, along with these benefits and that feeling of freedom, goes the risk of injury from walking on uneven ground and stepping on sharp objects and hot surfaces. 

So, how can one enjoy the benefits and minimize the risks of barefooting? Here are a few suggestions:

• As is the case with any new activity, it’s always a good idea to start slowly. If your feet are not accustomed to hitting the ground without protection, increase the length of your strolls carefully and gradually.
• Trim those toenails before heading out, to keep them from snagging on uneven surfaces or objects to prevent them from tearing, becoming ingrown or detached. Long toenails can trap dirt and debris, potentially causing infections.
• Choose your location carefully and scout it out beforehand for potential hazards like broken glass, uneven surfaces, thorns, tree roots, or debris. Smooth surfaces like grass and sand are good. Avoid pavement, especially on hot days.
• Give your feet time to recover between barefoot walks. Inspect the bottoms of your feet for cuts or blisters. A ten- or fifteen-minute soak in warm, soapy water can help loosen dirt or debris, then use a pumice stone or foot scrub to remove dead skin cells.

Plan a visit to our podiatrist at Family Foot Health Center before embarking on your shoeless adventure! We’ll examine the health of your feet and ankles, and check your gait to ensure you’re ready for the next step. Please contact us today for an appointment!

By Family Foot Health Center

April 29, 2024