Our Fairfax, VA, Podiatrist Shares At-Home Foot Strength Exercises
When it comes to exercise, most people focus on training their upper and lower body but often overlook strength training for their feet, says our Fairfax, VA, podiatrist. However, the strength and stability of your foot is necessary for proper foot function. Having strong feet provides the foundation for your entire core – and a strong, stable core can help reduce or prevent pain in other parts of your body.
Our Fairfax podiatrist suggests you follow your own at-home foot-strengthening regimen, with some of the exercises described below.
Strengthen Your Arches
In your bare feet, try raising up on your toes and walking around while on the balls of your feet, suggests our podiatrist in Fairfax, VA. This type of activity also promotes greater balance and stability. You may find it helpful to initially use a wall or chair for balance, or build up your strength more slowly with repetitive heel lifts. You can also alternate this exercise by walking on your heels for additional stretching.
Try This Simple Toe Exercise
Drop a pencil on the floor and use your toes to pick it up, suggests our Fairfax, VA, podiatrist. This exercise can be performed standing or seated in a chair. As your toes curl around the pencil, hold for several seconds, and then repeat 10-12 times. Can't find a pen or pencil? Try using a small towel or washcloth instead.
Build Your Ankle Strength, Too
According to our Fairfax podiatrist, your ability to achieve and maintain good balance goes a long way in preventing injury to your foot or other parts of your body. An exercise like leg swings can help strengthen your ankles and promote overall balance. To perform leg swings, stand on one leg and swing the other leg forward and backward 10-12 times. Before switching to the other leg, swing the same leg to the left and right, out in front of your positioned leg. Repeat this set on your opposite leg, and continuing alternating between left and right legs. You're on your way!
Our Fairfax, VA, Podiatrist Says Proper Foot Function Promotes Overall Fitness
It is important to begin your foot strengthening exercises slowly. Diving too quickly into any new exercise routine can cause the strain or injury you are working hard to avoid, cautions our podiatrist in Fairfax.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about foot-friendly gifts or other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Fairfax, VA, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
