The holiday season is one of the most joyous times of the year, however it also be time when our feet become painful due to the holiday diet or the activities we participate. Here are 5 tips from Dr. Syamak Yamini that will help keep your feet happy and healthy so that you can enjoy the holiday season to the fullest.
1. Maintain a moderate diet: One source of seasonal foot pain is gout, which is a type of arthritis that is exacerbated when foods and beverages high in purines are overly consumed. Such foods and drinks inculude red meat, shellfish, red wine, and beer, which can initiate very painful and unpleasant gout attacks when uric acid accumulates and crystallizes in and around the joints, most typically around the big toe. Therefore if you know you have a history of gout, it is imperative that you limit your intake of high purine foods and beverage to reduce the risk of a gout attack this holiday season. Additionally, if you do notice pain in your big toe or other parts of your foot and ankle, drink appropriate fluids, elevate your foot, and use anti-inflammatoies to reduce the pain. If your pain presists, Dr. Syamak Yamini located in Porter Ranch, Encino, and Los Angeles, can provide comprehensive foot examination and treatment.
2. Wearing appropriate shoes: When celebrating the holidays, don't compromise comfort and your foot health when choosing your footwear. Wearing tight or overly high-heeled shoes, especially if you don't regular do, can irritate your feet and lead to painful calluses, blisters, swelling, and ankle injuries. Strive to select shoes that properly fit your foot in length, width, and depth when standing and walking.
3. Pedicure Safety: Nail salons can be a breeding ground for various bacteria that can cause infections in the toenails and the skin of the feet. Reduce your chance of unpleasant infections by choosing a nail salon that follows safe and proper sanitation protocols and is licensed by the safety. It can also be a good idea to proivde your nail artist your own pedicure instruments for your own safety.
4. Be aware of ice and snow: Although snowy conditions can create beautiful secnes, they can also create dangerous conditions that incease the chances of falls and injuries. Use extra cautions when outdoors when there is ice and snow, watching for ice and snow patches. The foot and ankle joints can be more vulnerable to serious injuries from falling on ice. If you experience a fall, take a break from activities until you can get a evaluation from an appropriate provider. Dr. Syamak Yamini located in Porter Ranch, Encino, and Los Angeles can provide an complete examination and recommend a treatment plan that will treat your foot and ankle injuries in an effective and timely manner.
5. Listen to your feet: Don't ignore the pain and discomfort you might experience during the holiday season. Inspect your feet when you experience pain in the feet or ankles for possible injuries, ingrown toenails, swelling, blisters and dry skin. This is especially important for people living with diabetes and those with decreased sensation in the feet, who are at an increased risk of developing serious medical issues from simple problems such as a small blister or cut.
