Tips On Avoiding Foot Pain This Thanksgiving and When Black Friday Shopping

This week, I would like to give just a little Thanksgiving Day advice for those of you who will find their way into the kitchen to prepare the big meal all morning and afternoon.

Standing in place on an often hard floor for several hours, especially if you are not necessarily used to doing this, can lead to foot strain and eventually pain at the end of the day.  This can potentially worsen if you are among the throng of people venturing out to shop the next day.  Be sure to be good to yourself by wearing supportive shoes while you are cooking, and place a padded mat down on the surface you are standing over to help decrease strain.  A supportive shoe insert or orthotic for those of you with flat feet or high arches is a necessity.  After about a half hour, be sure to take a moment to either briefly sit and rest, or gently stretch.  This will keep your feet and ankles limber, and reduce discomfort.  If you are hitting the stores on Black Friday, be certain to wear stiff soled and cushioned athletic shoes, as these will provide far better support than many casual 'fashion' shoes, and can reduce strain on your feet during the long day of shopping.  Likewise, wear any insert you have been previously advised to wear, and take frequent breaks.  If your feet do begin to hurt, stop shopping, go home and relax, stretch your legs, and take it easy the next day.

I do see some post-Thanksgiving weekend injuries in my office, as some people's foot pain continues without relief.  If this is the case for you, see your podiatrist for relief, and don't let the pain linger for weeks before seeking help.

I wish everyone a healthy, safe, and happy Thanksgiving!

Until next time,
Scott R. Kilberg DPM

www.inpodiatrygroup.com - foot surgeon, podiatrist in Indianapolis
thediabeticfoot.blogspot.com - diabetic foot problems
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A foot doctor in Indianapolis Noblesville Fishers Carmel Westfield and Fortville Indiana.