25 Ways to Prevent Foot Problems this Halloween
At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we love a good spook, but what we don’t love is when foot and ankle nightmares become reality. Because of this, we’ve created an ultimate list of ways to keep your feet safe this Halloween. Trick or Treat!
Footwear and Foot Care
Wear athletic shoes: sneakers are the right choice for miles of walking in the dark.
Avoid costume shoes: Keep the Daffy Duck flippers at home, please.
Hem Capes above the ankle: Superman wasn’t tripping on his cape, either.
Secure shoelaces: Double-knot all laces to prevent tripping over loose strings.
Use supportive insoles: Plantar Fasciitis people, we’re talking to you (and your custom orthotics).
Wear thick, dry socks: They cushion your feet and prevent rubbing and blisters.
Wear sturdy boots: If trick-or-treating in grassy or uneven areas.
Spotting Hazards and Staying Stable
8. Carry a flashlight: Use it to illuminate the path directly in front of your feet.
9. Be mindful of car driveways: Watch for unseen slopes or dips.
10. Watch for shadows: They can hide curbs and steps and make depth perception… tricky.
11. Don’t run up (or down) the stairs: Parents, hold their hands.
12. Carry small bags: Massive bags of candy loot can throw off your little one’s balance.
13. Walk with an adult: Children should always have supervision.
14. Be aware of surroundings: Can you see through your mask? Walk with a group to point out when and where to walk.
15. Pivot your whole body: Avoid twisting your ankle when turning sharply.
16. Check for Potholes: Streets are rife with ‘em. Feet are your tires, here, so protect them.
17. Check for wet leaves: These become surprisingly slippery trip hazards!
Post-Treating and Foot Health
18. Check feet for blisters: Inspect feet immediately after returning home.
19. Clean any cuts or scrapes: Wash promptly and apply antiseptic to wounds.
20. Soak tired feet: Soothe your muscles in Epsom salts as you enjoy your Kit Kats.
21. Gently stretch calves: Stretch after walking to prevent foot fatigue.
22. Elevate feet: Prop feet up for 15-20 minutes to reduce swelling. Also ask: are your kids’ feet swelling?
23. Wear dry, clean socks: Put on fresh socks after the evening is over.
24. Stay hydrated: A nice bottle of O2 will help reduce foot cramps or edema.
25. Address any pain: Couldn’t keep up with the kids without pain this year? Consult us at Podiatry Care PC.
At PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we treat a wide variety of foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are ready to serve our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.