Your feet and ankles do a lot of grunt work throughout the day, carrying your body around, up and down steps, through parking lots, and more. Unfortunately, you might not always think about the proper care for those parts, which puts you at risk for a number of foot and ankle problems. Luckily, even after you develop a problem, Dr. Larry Goldstein of Warner Robins Foot and Ankle, serving Warner Robins, GA, can assist. But, prevention remains the best option!

Prevention

Here are some prevention methods:

Get the Right Shoes

Whether you use them to run or jog, go to work, or wear out, your feet need support during the entire activity. Therefore, make sure you choose a shoe that supports your arch. They should also fit properly in all areas.

Once your shoes wear out, make sure to purchase new ones. In general, you can expect a pair to last one to three years, but that depends on how much you wear them and the quality and type.

Anytime you're playing a sport, choose the right shoes for the physical activity. They'll provide support and reinforcement where you need it. You'll also prevent an injury because you'll be less likely to fall or experience difficulty playing the sport.

Dry Your Feet Thoroughly 

After you get out of the shower, bath, or pool, dry your feet thoroughly, including between your toes. The wetness promotes fungal growth, which specifically causes athlete's feet — an infection that may cause between your toes to itch, burn, or sting. Some people develop blisters. 

Management 

Here are some tips to manage foot and ankle problems:

Don't Hesitate to Contact a Podiatrist

We strongly urge you to contact our Warner Robins, GA, office for a visit when you notice any of the following:

• Pain that isn't subsiding or is worsening
• An open sore, especially if you're diabetic
• Signs of an infection, such as tenderness, warmth, pus, or a fever
• Are struggling to walk

Early detection and intervention can lead to the best prognosis. 

We also recommend you reach out to us if you're having difficulty finding a pair of supportive shoes.

Rest if Necessary 

In today's world, it can seem frustrating to need to rest when there's so much to be done. However, you should never push yourself when you have ankle or foot pain. It could worsen the problem. 

Anytime you have foot and ankle problems, you should visit Dr. Goldstein at Warner Robins Foot and Ankle, serving Warner Robins, GA. It's important, though, to take steps at home to reduce your likelihood of a future issue.

Contact us today by calling 478-328-2008 for an appointment.