“You better watch out…” or you may end up spending the holidays sidelined with foot pain! At Patrick Fettinger, DPM, we want our Fairfield County patients to enjoy this special time of the year. Even if it’s looking a bit different than in years past, there’s sure to be plenty to do, and that means extra time on your feet. 

These tips will keep your feet feeling great and enable you to get everything on your list done with ease:

• Make Smart Footwear Choices—shopping, cooking, baking, and mailing all require long walking and standing hours. Fashion boots are notorious for having little or no arch support and can leave your heels hurting at the end of the day. Go for function, not fashion, and choose comfortable shoes that fit correctly and give your feet and ankles the support they need for the holiday marathon.
• Avoid Fungal Infections—the heat is on in the car, stores, home, and office. Bundled up in thick socks and shoes, your feet may sweat more than usual. A dark, damp place is the perfect setting for fungal infections and athlete’s foot to thrive. Keep an extra pair of socks to change into if feet feel damp and use a foot powder or roll-on antiperspirant to help keep feet dry.
• Be Glamorous and Safe—if you’re planning on sparkly heels for a holiday event, pack them up and wear shoes with a good tread to avoid slipping on ice or snow. Change when you arrive at your destination. It will reduce the risk of an ankle sprain and limit the amount of time you spend in this type of style, causing toe problems like bunions or ingrown nails if overworn.
• Don’t Put Off Seeking Treatment for Foot Pain—yes, you have lots to do, but waiting until after the holidays are over to get foot pain evaluated can mean a worse problem that will take longer to heal. Make an appointment at our New Fairfield (203-746-9660) or Middlebury (203-598-0357) office to get your foot discomfort evaluated by our podiatrist, Dr. Patrick J. Fettinger. The foot doctor will provide you with a prompt diagnosis and treatment that will allow you to experience this holiday season with “comfort and joy!”