No matter your occupation, you’ll inevitably spend some part of each day on your feet. If your feet are aching, itchy, or infected, it may be due to bad foot habits. Before seeing a foot specialist, make sure you understand some of the lifestyle choices that may lead to hurt feet. 

5 Ways You Might Be Damaging Your Feet

1. Donning High Heels

High heels may look stylish, but they can wreak havoc on the muscles in your feet and legs if worn regularly. The unnatural arch creates pressure on the toes and ball of your foot, leading to bunion pain and ingrown nails. Save the heels for special occasions and switch to supportive footwear for everyday use. 

2. Not Using Socks 

Wearing any closed-toed shoe without socks is a bad habit that can lead to fungal infections. Not only can your feet become irritated and painful, but shoes worn without socks can harbor long-lasting bacteria that could potentially re-infect your feet. Always wear socks with your shoes to reduce the risk of fungal and bacterial infections. 

3. Wearing Flip Flops

Ask any foot specialist and you’re bound to hear a resounding “no flip flops!” Otherwise known as “thongs,” these shoes offer little to no support for arches and ankles. Because the toes are left gripping the shoe to keep it in place, your natural gate is negatively affected, leading to pain. 

4. Using Old or Worn Out Footwear

Even shoes with ample support can become problematic if used beyond their effective life span. A worn sole reduces shock absorption, leading to swollen feet or injury. Foot specialists recommend replacing shoes every 300 miles. 

5. Overexerting Your Feet

High-impact exercises, such as running, cause stress to the feet, ankles, and calves. If you’re overexerting your feet, you may be setting yourself up for injury. Talk to your foot specialist about ways to exercise without damaging your lower legs. 

If you suffer from painful feet, bunion pain, or fungal infection, it’s time to see a foot specialist. Young or old, Podiatry Associates of Rochester can help you or a loved one find relief from aching toes and ankles. To set up an appointment with your local Monroe County, NY, podiatric surgeon, go online. For information by phone, call (585) 342-8700 for the Portland Avenue office or (585) 426-7320 for the Buffalo Road location.