We do not realize but on an average; we take 10,000 steps per day. When we are climbing stairs or when we are walking on a steep surface, we give 4-6 times the weight of our body across our ankle joint. Everyone knows that an active life is recommended. The active life is dependent on our feet and hence taking care of our feet is of great significance. This is why podiatry is so important.

To stay fit, take care of your feet – sole purpose of podiatry

Our feet are the foundation of our body. Such a small portion of our body boasts of 33 joints, 26 bones, 19 muscles and 107 ligaments. Any ailment related to the feet can affect our posture, our hips, our knees and lower back. Podiatrists suggest the following measures to keep the feet healthy which would ultimately lead to an active life:

• The bottom of your foot needs attention. Keep regular checks on cracks, injuries, dry skin and accordingly take measures. It could be due to diabetes too. All wounds in the feet should be properly heeled. If it's not healing, then meet a podiatrist.  
• Women mostly use nail polish on their nails 365 days a year. Podiatrists recommend three weeks of nail polish and one week without nail polish every month.  
• Area between the toes are the most unnoticed areas. People do not care about it at all. Podiatrists suggest keeping it dry after shower, and to be vigilant about any fungus formation and keep the area between toes moisturized.  
• If we are overweight, we are putting lots of pressure on our feet and heels. So, weight control is important to avoid any pain in this area.
• Those who are diabetic should get an annual foot check-up done by a podiatrist.   
• Always go for good, comfortable shoes. High heels should be avoided. While purchasing footwear follow the thumbnail rule and keep that much space at the end of the shoe and also at the beginning of the toes.  
• There is pain in the heels if the shoes are wearing out. Invest in good shoes. Regular walking shoes should generally be replaced every 6 months.

We hardly give any significance to our feet and rarely give a thought to going and meeting a podiatrist thinking that we would solve our foot problems on our own. Many of us don’t even know who a podiatrist is? However, ignored injuries or pains of the foot can result in bone problems and recurring pain, hindrance in active life and development of arthritis too in the affected joints. You can visit the website of Indian Podiatry Association and gain valuable knowledge about things being done in the field of podiatry and what podiatry is all about.