Your feet are the foundation for the way you live your life. Those who don’t take care of their feet may end up paying for it down the track. Blokes are probably the worst offenders, often being reluctant to seek help when they need it, instead choosing a “She’ll be right!” attitude towards their health care.
So as Men’s Health Week (June 10-16, 2019) progresses, we are reminding Aussie men about some critical facts men should know about their feet.
Footwear Will Fail
Tradies are often on their feet all day, but even those bound to an office need to think about their choice of daily footwear. Bunions, ingrown toenails and corns, often caused or aggravated by shoes that are tight around the forefoot and toes, are a strong sign that it may be time to give up those pointy Italian leather boots in favour of a better fitting shoe that can relieve pressure on areas of the feet.
Weight Adds Stress
Your weight places stress on the bones, ligaments, and tendons in the feet. Excess weight can break down tissue under the heel bone and cause inflammation of the long band of tissue under the foot, a common condition known as plantar fasciitis. As your weight changes or fluctuates, ensure your shoes are giving your feet the right support.
Living With Diabetes
Men who drink alcohol excessively, consume unhealthy foods and don’t engage in regular exercise are a higher risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Those who live with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot problems, some being limb and life-threatening if neglected. Taking care of your physical wellbeing can reduce the risks associated with diabetes.
Prevention Is The Best Cure
Ignoring pain or problems in your feet won’t make them go away, and can often develop into lifestyle-limiting conditions if not taken care of early. Don’t neglect your feet before they are beyond the point of no return.
Share this with a mate and help Australia stomp out unhealthy feet.