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Foot Notes

Posts for tag: compression socks

By Clark Podiatry Center
November 27, 2018
Category: Exercise
Tags: swelling   stretch   compression socks  

Got a long flight coming up? Got kids going with you? You might prepare for it by testing out neck pillows, noise-canceling headphones, and maybe some eye masks. But what will you do to make the flight more comfortable for the feet?

Here are some foot-related items you could test out:

  • Compression socks - to promote circulation and reduce swelling.
  • Disposable slippers or flip-flops – Unless you’re used to it, you might not want to be seated with your shoes on the whole flight, which could be 10+ hours. (Hint: ask your airline if they will give you disposable slippers!).
  • Footrest or hammock – there are a few products out there for people who want to rest their feet higher than the floor. Many folks with short legs (like your children) might be more comfortable if they can prop their feet up.

More importantly, however, you and your children should try to keep your feet active as much as possible throughout the flight. Why? That’s because the long period of inactivity (in an upright position) can cause your feet to be uncomfortable due to low circulation. When you do get up, your feet might not fit as comfortably into your shoes, and you might even feel some numbness or tingling. In rare cases, it can also lead to blood clots, especially if you are prone to them.

Here are some of the foot-related activities you can do on a long haul flight.

  • Drink a lot of water and go to the bathroom. Hydration is helpful for circulation. It also makes you want to go to the bathroom more, which gets you up and out of your seat more. Make sure you have your children drink water every time you do.
  • Gone to the bathroom? Great! Use it as an excuse to spread and stretch. Walk up and down the aisle and get moving!
  • Draw circles with your toes. Rotate at the ankle and make them larger or smaller as you go. It will also help you with some stretching, pointing and flexing your feet.
  • Scrunch your toes, hold, and then spread them wide, hold. This exercise will wake up many tendons and ligaments in your feet and engage the whole foot!
  • Try some toeholds if you have space. While sitting, trying bringing your knees up (engaging your abs) so that you can reach your feet. Gently pull your toes back and stretch the plantar fascia and your Achilles tendon.
  • Finally, conduct an orchestra with your feet. It’s a great movement for your feet and ankles.

Which of these exercises were you and your children able to do? If you noticed any pain or problems with your feet while doing these movements on board, come to see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy. He can assess your feet, and find a solution to treat your pain. Come to see him at Clark Podiatry Center. Make an appointment at our Clark, NJ office so we can keep you walking. 

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By Clark Podiatry Center
September 07, 2017

Your body goes through a lot during pregnancy. From morning sickness to the extra weight you begin to carry, your body may start to feel foreign to you. The changes in hormones can alter some physical attributes of your body in addition to your emotional well-being. Not all expecting mothers go through all symptoms, but some of these can happen as your body prepares for supporting the growing baby. 

The lower half of the body can very much be affected by the pregnancy, especially in the feet and ankles. As your body gains weight and the baby grows, the feet must bear more weight. This can temporarily flatten the arches in your feet, and widen them as well. Additionally, fluids become trapped as circulation decreases. As fluids travel around the body, the return up to the upper half of the body is restricted as the baby grows. Not only do your feet and ankles swell, they can also experience numbing or tingling, and the swelling can make you less stable. The more the arches and the heel have to work, the more they are at risk for pain from plantar fasciitis and/or Achilles tendonitis.

Pregnancy can be difficult, as it is. Here are some tips to help you care for your feet during pregnancy. 

  • Rest: While this is hard to avoid if you have a job that requires a lot of standing, adequate periods of rest, including elevating your feet. This will reduce symptoms of pain and prevent swelling in the feet. If you have pain at the end of the day, a warm foot soak and a foot rub can help relieve tension and strain. Have a partner help you or get a small ball to roll your foot on. 
  • Compression: Some may find relief and be able to prevent swelling by wearing compression socks or hosiery. If you have to stand for long periods of time, this is helpful, in addition to supportive shoes. 
  • Shoes: Your shoes should have a good fit. Your feet may swell and flatten out, so it’s best to get your feet measured before you buy them. They should be supportive in the arch and heels, so that your feet do not that to strain for stability. 
  • Activity: It’s helpful to maintain healthy weight gain and promote circulation by engaging in activity. It’s best to speak to your doctor about exercise while pregnant. 

Be sure to keep track of any changes you may experience while you are pregnant. While swelling is normal during pregnancy, uneven swelling or excessive swelling can indicate complications. See your doctor immediately if you feel something is off.

Have questions or concerns, particularly about your changing feet? Come see our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy for an assessment. Make an appointment today to have your feet treated with care. We are located in Clark, NJ and serve patients in all of Union County! We keep you walking!

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Podiatrist - Clark, Dr. Brandon Macy, 1114 Raritan Road, Clark NJ, 07066 732-382-3470