Expert podiatrists debunk popular myths about foot health and offer tips on how to best care for your feet.
Amidst the buzz of trendy green smoothies, fitness crazes and mindfulness apps, there’s one crucial aspect of our health that often gets overlooked: our feet. Taking care of them goes beyond the occasional pedicure. Foot and lower limb health is the foundation of our mobility, which affects our health and well-being, so check ups with podiatrists and specialised care for any issues are important. But first, we spoke to UFIT’s podiatry experts about foot health myths to gain a better understanding of what most of us might be doing wrong…
Myth #1: I can estimate my shoe size
Contrary to popular belief, eyeballing your shoe size won’t cut it. Research shows that a whopping 8 out of 10 people experience foot problems due to ill-fitting shoes. Choosing the right footwear for your feet is key to avoiding future foot woes. And unfortunately, sizes do vary between brands and styles. So before your next shoe shopping spree, be sure to get your feet measured to find your exact size for the best-fitting shoes.
Myth #2: Expensive carbon plated running shoes will improve my speed
Think splurging on those fancy carbon-plated running shoes will turn you into the next Usain Bolt? Think again. While high-tech kicks may look sleek, they won’t magically boost your speed. In fact, studies show that 80% of runners are wearing the wrong shoes. Before you drop serious cash on fancy footwear, do yourself a favour and get a dynamic pressure analysis with UFIT’s podiatrists.
This won’t just make you better at running; it also helps prevent injuries and aids in recovery. Using advanced methods like high-speed video capture and pressure plate analysis, UFIT’s podiatrists will help you understand the specific challenges posed by running and moving in different directions. Information from your analysis allows them to provide personalised advice on how you can become a more efficient and injury-resistant runner, including choosing the best footwear for you.
Myth #3: Ingrown toenails can be treated at home
Got a pesky ingrown toenail that’s cramping your style? Help is available: look for qualified podiatrists to sort out painful ingrown toenails. DIY treatments won’t cut it. Instead, they may make things worse. If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, it’s crucial to seek prompt management to prevent complications and the spread of infection. Seeking expert intervention as soon as possible is necessary to address the issue and minimise the risk of further problems.
Psst: podiatrists possess expertise in a wide range of foot and ankle conditions beyond toenail-related issues. These include heel pain, running injuries and other lower limb issues. For any concerns about your feet or lower limbs, be sure to make an appointment to get them checked out.
Myth #4: Podiatry services are just for old people
Foot woes aren’t just for the golden oldies – they can strike at any age. Whether it’s a little one who is tip-toe walking, or an athlete with sports injuries, foot problems can occur in anyone. Podiatry services aren’t just for the elderly!
In fact, the most common enquiry that UFIT’s podiatrists receive is complaints about heel pain in working adults. This could be related to WFH arrangements leading to more time spent barefoot on hard floors. Want to sidestep this issue? Slip on home slippers or recovery slides to alleviate or prevent the pain.
Sort out your foot health now
If you’re ready to give your feet their well-deserved TLC, make an appointment for UFIT’s podiatry services to get a check up and find solutions to any ongoing foot and ankle pain. From helping to relieve aches and pains, to providing specialised lower limb care for your children, step to UFIT for a comprehensive range of services to care for your feet.
The team uses advanced biomechanical and movement assessments to create personalised plans for your needs, with tailored services for injury prevention, rehabilitation, and performance optimisation in sports and everyday life.
Want in? Score a free 30-minute foot posture analysis and walking assessment from now till 26 March 2024, and enjoy $100 off custom insoles if you purchase them within the offer period.
Book an appointment for podiatry care today to keep your feet happy and healthy!
This post is in partnership with UFIT.
