New Year’s is a time for fresh starts, and at Patrick Fettinger, DPM, we know many of our Fairfield County patients are more than ready to make changes in 2021. We’re hoping some of those changes will help improve your feet and ankles’ health. 

Here are some simple “resolutions” for better foot care:

• Don’t hold onto shoes that are past their prime. Yes, it’s hard to toss those old comfy favorites, but wearing shoes worn down, stretched out, or have holes in them is a fast track to foot pain and injuries. Good arches, sharp treads, and non-compacted insoles all provide essential support to your feet and ankles. Out with the old and in with new shoes that are well made and fit correctly.
• Reduce the amount of time you spend in high heels. While we’re on the subject of shoes, some other styles in your closet may pose a threat to your feet. Those with narrow pointy fronts and heels higher than two inches can encourage toe deformities such as bunions and hammertoes and increase your ankle sprain risk.
• Commit to a daily hygiene routine. Did you know that thoroughly washing your feet daily with soap and water and drying them can go a long way to preventing athlete’s foot and other fungal infections? If you tend to sweat excessively, you may want to add foot powder or antiperspirant on the soles of your feet to your morning routine as well.
• Take care of toenails. Don’t let your nails get so long they can catch on socks or hosiery. On the flip side, don’t cut nails too short or pick at the edges. It can lead to ingrown toenails. If you choose to have a professional pedicure, select a salon licensed by the state health or cosmetology board and is visibly clean and following sanitizing protocols.
• Listen to your feet. If they hurt, don’t put off getting an examination by our podiatrist, Dr. Patrick J. Fettinger. Treat foot discomfort in its earliest stages. Contact our New Fairfield (203-746-9660) or Middlebury (203-598-0357) office today.