7 Easy Ways To Combat Holiday Foot Fatigue

This time of year can be the most endearing as you celebrate the holidays and reunite with family and friends, but it all comes with more walking, standing dancing, and sitting in one position during the season. No one wants soreness or injuries to slow them down – and dampen your spirit – so it’s important to give more attention to caring for your feet so they can carry you through all those seasonal celebrations and chores!

Fast fact

Americans report experiencing foot pain at some point in their lives, according to a survey conducted by American Podiatric Medical Association.

Follow this advice to keep feet healthy (and happy) this holiday season:

Moisturize well – Dry winter air and cold temperatures can take a toll on skin. Moisturize feet daily to help avoid dry, cracked and irritated skin.
Exercise your feet – Stretching is a good way to avoid muscle cramps. Stave off toe cramps by raising, pointing and curling your toes for five seconds. Repeat 10 times. Rotating your ankles can also help relax foot pain heel. Cup your heel and turn each ankle slowly five times to loosen ankle joints.
Foot massage – Foot rubs not only feel good, they’re a great way to release tension, boost circulation and refresh skin after a long day on your feet. Take a few minutes to massage your feet at the end of a day of shopping and celebrating. Use lotion and take care of moisturizing at the same time!
Properly pedicure for health and beauty – Picture-perfect toes are part of a great holiday wardrobe for many women. Whether you do it yourself or go to a salon, be sure your pedicure is done properly. Never use a razor to remove dead skin – opt for a good pumice stone instead. Don’t cut cuticles; push them back gently with a rubber tool made for this purpose. Use toenail clippers with a straight edge to cut nails straight across.
Put your feet up – Feet and ankles can swell from sitting too long in one position (taking a long flight to visit loved ones) or if you’ve been on your feet all day (shopping, or out socializing.) Elevate your legs to reduce swelling. Lay or sit and lift your legs above your heart.
Wear “healthy” shoes – OK, so you’ll never give up your sparkly high heels when it’s time for that special soiree. But for other holiday activities such as shopping, traveling or cooking, ditch the high heels. When you know you’ll be on your feet all day, wear comfortable shoes with good arch support and a padded sole. Go HERE for great styles with support to keep you going.
Don’t ignore pain, get help! – Feet shouldn’t hurt all the time. Persistent foot pain can be an indication of injury, irritation or illness. See a podiatrist if you experience pain; don’t wait until the holidays end.