Lose weight. Learn to cook healthy. Try something new every day.

These are all great resolutions to have as we begin the New Year! Each year, many people embark on the goal of getting into shape, but many people end up stopping because of lack of motivation, or worse, injury.

We at Clark Podiatry Center want you to get this year started safely and successfully! Our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brandon Macy, and his team encourage you and your family to take the right steps to put your best feet forward as your start this new year. The following are some suggestions for New Year’s Resolutions for your feet to feel healthy and strong:

• Check and take care of your feet daily. This includes washing your feet, drying them fully, moisturizing dry skin, and cutting your toenails to prevent ingrown toenails.
• Starting a new workout plan? Consult a doctor if you’ve never done an exercise regimen before, and especially if you have any pains. You don’t want to risk getting even more hurt before you even begin! Start slow and listen to your body. If you try too much, too quickly, you can lose steam after just a week of exercising.
• Take time to stretch and massage your feet. For those that stand for long hours at work or are constantly on their feet due to busy lives, it can cause pain and overuse injury if you don’t sit and take care of those hardworking muscles and tissues.
• Function over fashion! It may be a good time to clean out the shoe closet and donate any shoes that you do not wear anymore because they are just so uncomfortable. Pain should not be a regular part of your day, especially when it comes to feet since they are carrying your entire body weight. Find supportive, comfortable shoes for better long-term health.

Finally, make an appointment with our friendly podiatrist at our Clark, NJ office. What a better way to start off your new year than to get to your annual visit with Dr. Macy to make sure your feet and ankles are in tip top shape? Perhaps you haven’t been in a while and have a resolution to be kind to your body. Our team here will be happy to help you get started with treating those recurring ingrown toenails or fungus issues. Treat your foot woes early so that you don’t have to bother with them throughout the year! Happy New Year!!