Walking is a basic human activity and has been for centuries. As we make our way to and from destinations, it is estimated that an average person takes 7,500 steps in a day, and if you live to the age of 80, you will likely take close to 216,000,000 steps. Considering this, keeping an eye on your foot health is very important.

Some of the benefits of walking include:

• Burning calories – every mile walked you burn off 100 calories
• Heart rate – walking increases the heart rate strengthening the heart muscle pumping blood to necessary parts of the body
• Blood sugar – helps keep your blood sugar level stable
• Cholesterol levels – works to reduce cholesterol levels
• Improve circulation – pumping of blood increases the size of blood vessels
• Mood – walking is also said to improve mood and may relieve some aspects of depression

Overall, walking is a very good activity, but if you haven’t done a lot, you need to see your doctor or podiatrist before you take up a regimen. Sudden physical exertion can also be a stressor if done too intensely depending on your overall physical condition.

Another thing a podiatrist can do is help you find the right shoe. Depending on your feet, you may need to have an orthotic to help you walk properly as some people have different ways of walking. Two different ways of walking include:

• Pronator – have flat feet and roll their ankles inward. Pronators need a sturdier shoe
• Supinator – have high arches and need shoes that provide cushioning for shock absorption

Not all shoes or footwear provide the same support, so choosing the right shoe or sneaker is very important for your foot health. Most running shoes provide good support but must be fit carefully to your feet. Measuring your feet at the end of the day is best because your foot is slightly swollen from walking all day and will allow you room for a comfortable fit.

Your podiatrist will also check for any issues that you have that need to be compensated for such as corns and calluses, bunions, hammertoe, heel spurs, or other.

If you have any questions about walking or have any other concerns about your feet, please make an appointment with us. Dr. Brandon A. Macy, who is associated with New Jersey Children’s Foot Health Institute, will assess your feet and find the appropriate treatments to get you back to being active. Call Clark Podiatry at (732) 382-3470.