Foot Care for Walking -  Things to Consider

 

    If you’re going to walk, consider getting some thick, absorbent socks, preferably acrylic and keep feet dry, paying special attention to the toes. Keep your nails cut, straight across the toe. Have a podiatrist evaluate your feet if you have bunions or hammertoes and avoid self-treatment of corns and calluses. If you get blisters, open it with a sterilized needle and drain the fluid. Do not remove the “roof” of the blister.

    Good walking shoes should be stable from side to side, well-cushioned and should enable you to walk smoothly. There are specialty walking shoes which may work well for you, but any shoe you buy should feel stable to you. They should feel comfortable and fit well in the store. Buy good shoes and don’t cut corners. Wear socks when trying them on. Make sure the heel is straight up when looking at it from the back and also that it fits your heel snuggly. You should be able to wiggle your toes and there should be a finger’s width between the end of the longest toe and the end of the shoe. If you have foot problems, consult your podiatrist about the best shoe for you.

Western Washington Medical Group's Podiatry Department is located at 3202 Colby Avenue, Suite E, Everett, WA 98201. Dr. Boggs and Dr. Morris are both accepting new patients and you can schedule with them by calling 425-259-0855.