Gents, It’s Time to Step Up Your Foot Health Game This Men’s Health Month!
June is Men’s Health Month, a time to focus on preventive healthcare for the entire male population. Foot and ankle care plays a crucial role in maintaining an active lifestyle, mainly because men are more likely to experience some podiatric problems compared to women.
With that in mind, here’s a breakdown of standard foot issues for men and tips to keep you on your feet, courtesy of My Chicago Foot Expert.
Foot and Ankle Frustrations for Men
Lifestyle choices, footwear selection, and more play a part in men’s foot and ankle health.
- Plantar Fasciitis: This inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament running along the sole of the foot, causes heel pain, especially in the mornings. Men could be more likely to experience plantar fasciitis due to their higher average weight and participation in high-impact activities.
- Athlete’s Foot: This fungal infection thrives in moist environments and causes itching, burning, and scaling between the toes. Men’s closed-toe shoes create a warm, damp environment that promotes fungal growth.
- Ingrown Toenails: Improper nail trimming or tight-fitting shoes can cause toenails to grow into the skin, leading to pain, redness, and swelling. Men’s thicker toenails could be more prone to this issue.
- Gout: This painful condition occurs when uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints, often affecting the big toe. Old age and male sex are two typical risk factors for this condition that are recognized globally.
Tailored Solutions for Men’s Feet
Regular foot care makes a difference, so try:
- Investing in Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with good arch support and a wide enough toe box to accommodate your feet. Select breathable materials like mesh or canvas for everyday wear. Replace worn-out shoes regularly.
- Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Excess weight puts extra stress on your feet and ankles, worsening conditions like plantar fasciitis. Implement a healthy diet and exercise routine for overall well-being.
- Practicing Good Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with soap and water. Dry thoroughly, especially between the toes, to prevent fungal growth.
Call the friendly staff at My Chicago Foot Expert (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment with Cook County podiatrist Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our modern, comfortable Ravenswood office today.
