Cultivate Good Habits To Promote Bone Health
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Each of your feet is a small natural wonder, made of 26 bones that work together to support you as you stand and walk upright. Together, those bones are more than 25% of all those in your body. When you protect your bone health, you protect your foot health! Here are some tips to help you:
Nourish your bones and joints through diet. Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein. Avoid highly processed foods and a lot of sugar. Be sure to eat plenty of calcium, which promotes strong bones, and vitamin D which aids in its absorption. Good sources of calcium include low-fat dairy foods, leafy green vegetables, and fish that you eat with the bones intact such as sardines and anchovies. Talk to your doctor about whether supplements are a good idea for you.
Exercise daily. Weight-bearing exercise is great for your bones. That doesn’t mean that you have to start lifting barbells! Anything that makes you support your own body weight is great. Go for a walk or try adding a gentle yoga class to your routine.
Quit smoking. Tobacco use is linked to numerous health risks including osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones lose calcium and become more likely to break. Cut down or stop smoking today. Modern medicines can help you. Talk to your doctor about options.
Wear comfortable shoes. High-heeled shoes with cramped, narrow toe boxes stress bones. For everyday use, choose a sensible pair with a wide, roomy toe box and a low, chunky heel for support. Custom orthotics are a simple way to relieve painful foot conditions.
Of course, the best thing that you can do to promote foot health is to see your podiatrist regularly. Your foot doctor is a medical specialist with years of training and experience, and is the best-qualified professional to care for your feet, ankles, and lower legs.
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.