Walking, a fundamental human activity, brings significant improvements to both physical and mental health. However, like any form of physical exertion, our feet can feel the effects of walking. Doctors advocate regular physical activity as the key to good health. Yet, many prematurely abandon the activity, convinced that it only benefits if it causes exhaustion. Walking, a less intense physical activity, also enhances health.
The walking process begins with the heel touching the ground before the rest of the foot. The foot remains stationary as the rest of the body moves forward. Joints in the feet, followed by those in the ankle and knee, and finally those in the hip, pelvis, and spine, respond first to the action. The final action is a counterbalancing motion of the hands.
Walking offers numerous health benefits:
- Cardiovascular Fitness: Regular walking can improve heart health, circulation, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
- Weight Management: As a person ages, maintaining body weight with dietary interventions alone becomes more challenging. Therefore, some form of exercise eventually becomes the key motivator for these individuals.
- Bone and Joint Vitality: Weight-bearing exercises like walking can reduce the likelihood of osteoporosis and arthritis. Walking has many health benefits, including increased mobility and a decreased likelihood of injury or fracture.
- Mental Health: Physical activity has quick and noticeable healing effects. After ten minutes, some patients experience a dramatic uplift in their mood, which typically lasts for the next twenty minutes.
While walking is generally beneficial, it can have the following impacts on your feet:
- Soreness: Each step, especially when walking on a hard surface, impacts your feet and creates pressure. Constant pressure on the feet can cause soreness and even damage over time.
- Plantar Fasciitis and Heel Spurs: These conditions can result from overuse or insufficient support of the foot’s arches and heels.
- Blisters and Friction: Blisters are caused by friction between the foot and the shoe and can be caused by lengthy periods of walking or by poorly fitting shoes.
Common foot problems caused by walking include blisters, corns, calluses, and pain and stiffness in the heels. To ensure walking remains a pleasure and a boon, consider the following foot care tips: dress appropriately, gradually increase intensity, stretch and warm-up, be aware of your walking surfaces, keep your feet clean and healthy, rest, and seek professional help if needed.
Our Orthopedic slippers are perfect choice for walking around your house and your garden. Not only are they great for your feet, but they also help those who have problems with joints and spine, circulation and varicose veins, arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, and obesity. Choose DrLuigi medical footwear for walking in your home, and your legs and feet will thank you!
