When you celebrate Thanksgiving this week with your family or friends, will you enjoy the tradition of going around the table to share your gratitude lists? Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, and the My Chicago Foot Expert office staff always include “healthy feet and ankles” when it’s their turn! It’s easy to take good foot health for granted, but we enjoy a moment to stop and consider:
- Pain-Free Feet – Conditions such as arthritis and plantar fasciitis can make it challenging to move through daily activities. We know an experienced podiatrist can examine feet, determine the cause of the discomfort, and provide effective treatment.
- Modern Podiatry – While foot and ankle surgery is sometimes the best way to resolve an issue, today’s foot doctors have a wide range of options available to them. Many are non-invasive, including over-the-counter and prescription medication, physical therapy, immobilization with a cast or boot, and custom orthotics for cushioning and support.
- The Anatomy of the Feet – Each of our feet has 26 bones arranged in 33 joints a series of arches. This structure is unique and makes it possible for humans to stand, walk, run, and play upright. We can keep our bones healthy by eating low-fat dairy foods every day and ensuring that we are getting recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D.
- Preventative care – Some whole-body illnesses such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease pose particular risks to foot health. We are glad we can manage our risk by eliminating or cutting back on our use of tobacco products and by enjoying a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains, and plenty of water.
Show your feet, ankles, and lower legs your gratitude. Keep them in great shape. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment with Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our comfortable Ravenswood office today.