As 2025 moves forward, gym memberships soar, diets are (briefly) adopted, and habits old and new are reconsidered. Often overlooked, however, are cornerstones of our overall health: our feet!

Making foot health a priority delivers full-body benefits, from improving posture to reducing pain and improving athletic performance. And to help you achieve those benefits, West Hartford Podiatry Associates has put together the following blog. Read on for three resolutions that are sure to boost your foot and ankle health.

Resolution #1: Build Better Balance

Balance isn’t just for gymnasts; it is essential for everyone.

  • The One Legged Test:
    • Recent studies suggest that a simple single-leg stand can be a good indicator of your balance. Try it! If you struggle to maintain balance for a few seconds on each leg, it’s a sign you need to work on it.
  • Balance Boosters:
    • Incorporate balance exercises into your routine. Try standing on one leg while brushing your teeth, practicing Tai Chi or yoga, or using a balance board.

Resolution #2: Step Up Your Shoe Game

This year, resolve to choose shoes that are both stylish and supportive.

Resolution #3: Show Your Feet Some TLC

  • Foot Flexibility:
    • Stretch your feet and calves daily to improve flexibility and prevent injuries. Simple stretches, like pointing and flexing your toes or rolling your foot over a tennis ball, can make a big difference.
  • Inspect Regularly:
    • Check your feet dailyfor any signs of cuts, blisters, redness, swelling, or changes in nail color or texture. Early detection of problems is key!
  • Moisturize (Selectively):
    • While moisturizing is beneficial for preventing dry, cracked skin, be sure to avoid applying lotion between the toes, as this can create a moist environment conducive to fungal infections.

Resolutions can be tricky, but maintaining mobility, building better balance, and finding the perfect footwear will help you step confidently into 2025. Good luck!

At West Hartford Podiatry AssociatesDr. Marc Lederman and Dr. Kurt Rode treat ankle sprainsfracturesrunning injuriessports injuriesbunionshammertoesheel painneuromas, and more. If you’re in need of emergency services, we can treat you faster than an urgent care clinic. Contact us online for your foot and ankle needs, or call (860)236-2564! Our office is at 2531 Albany Ave, West Hartford, CT 06117.