Walk Your Way to Foot and Ankle Health
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Are you one of the millions of Americans who will commit to an exercise program this year? Good for you! Combined with a healthy diet rich in colorful produce, lean protein, whole grains and low-fat calcium sources, exercise will help you maintain a moderate weight and improve overall health and wellness. Regular exercise has been proven to reduce the risks of high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes in men and women of all ages.
Exercise is also great for foot and ankle health. Let’s talk about how:
People who exercise have steadier blood sugar levels than others. This is especially important for people who have diabetes, a dangerous illness that impairs the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose and often has serious and dangerous side effects for foot health.
Walking outside exposes you to sunshine. This increases the levels of vitamin D in your body and improves your ability to absorb calcium, reducing your risk of osteoporosis and the foot and ankle injuries it can cause. Wear sunscreen to protect yourself against skin cancer, but take a walk outside today.
When you walk regularly, you increase the strength and flexibility of the muscles and soft tissues in your feet and ankles. This improves stability and reduces the risk of a fall.
Before beginning any exercise program, make sure that your athletic shoes are in good condition. They should be replaced every year or after 500 road miles.
Here at The Texas Foot Specialists, Dr. Bruce Miller and Dr. Gregory Mangum provide expert and specialized care to address all of your foot and ankle needs. From conservative to advanced surgical treatments, you can always count on us for quality and compassionate care. Contact us online to make an appointment at one of our conveniently located offices in Sugar Land, Pasadena or Houston.