02 May Healthy Feet to Boost Your Mobility
Our feet carry us through life’s journey, covering an average of 177,000 kilometres in a lifetime. Despite their remarkable endurance, we tend to neglect them – only giving them a second thought when a foot problem such as bunions, plantar fasciitis (heel pain), or an ankle sprain arises. Our podiatrists will point out that maintaining healthy feet and staying mobile are very important for your overall wellbeing. Let’s delve into why mobility matters, the significance of foot health, and how our podiatrists play a pivotal role in enhancing your mobility.
- Being mobile and active is what helps you have an independent and fulfilling life. Regular physical activity improves your cardiovascular health, strengthens muscles and bones, and boosts immunity. It reduces the risk of chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
- Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural mood lifters, reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. Being active also enhances cognitive function and improves sleep quality.
- Engaging in physical activities fosters social interactions, whether through group exercises, sports, or leisurely walks with friends and family. These connections contribute to emotional wellbeing and a sense of belonging.
- Mobility allows us to perform daily tasks independently, from household chores to pursuing hobbies and interests. Maintaining mobility preserves autonomy and enhances overall quality of life, especially as we age.
Feet are the foundation of mobility, bearing the weight of our bodies and facilitating movement. Neglecting foot health can lead to various issues, including:
Pain and Discomfort
Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, corns, and ingrown toenails can cause persistent pain and discomfort, hindering mobility and diminishing quality of life.
Risk of Injury
Structural abnormalities, improper footwear, and neglecting foot hygiene increase the risk of injuries, including sprains, fractures, and infections, which can sideline individuals from their daily activities.
Impact on Posture and Gait
Foot problems can alter posture and gait, leading to imbalances, muscle strains, and joint pain in the feet, ankles, knees, hips, and lower back. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining proper alignment and preventing long-term complications.
Compromised Mobility
Foot ailments can restrict movement, making it challenging to engage in physical activities and impacting overall mobility and independence.
Our podiatrists can diagnose, treat, and prevent foot and ankle injuries so that you can stay active (or get back on your feet after injury). Here’s how they can help regain your mobility.
Comprehensive Assessment
Our podiatrists conduct thorough evaluations to identify underlying issues, such as structural abnormalities, biomechanical imbalances, and skin or nail conditions. We use the latest evidence-based technology in gait analysis, wart treatment and fungal nail infections, to name a few.
Customised Treatment Plans
Based on the assessment findings, they will develop personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs, incorporating a combination of interventions, such as custom orthotics, physical therapy exercises, medications, and surgical procedures, when necessary.
Foot Care Education
Our podiatrists will educate you on proper foot care practices, including hygiene, footwear selection, and injury prevention, so that you feel empowered to take proactive steps in maintaining your foot health.
Management of Chronic Conditions
For individuals with chronic foot conditions like arthritis, diabetes, or neuropathy, our podiatrists offer specialised care to prevent complications, manage symptoms, and optimise mobility in coordination with your other specialist health providers.
Rehabilitation Help
Following injuries or surgeries, podiatrists provide rehabilitation services to promote healing, restore function, and facilitate a safe return to activities of daily living and recreational pursuits.
Healthy feet are indispensable for maintaining mobility, independence, and overall wellbeing. By prioritising your foot health and seeking professional care from our podiatrists, you can prevent problems, alleviate pain, and optimise your ability to stay active and lead a fulfilling life.
If your mobility is compromised at the moment and need the services of our podiatrists, contact any of our 3 clinics to book an appointment.