Stepping Toward Healthy Feet: The Podiatric Pros of Walking

Do you like long walks on the beach? Walking is a fundamental human activity, yet its positive impact on foot health is often underestimated. Our podiatrists at Advanced Feet and Ankle Care highly recommend incorporating regular walking into your routine. Here's a closer look at the movement’s podiatric benefits.

Enhanced Musculoskeletal Strength and Stability

Our feet hold our entire body weight. Walking acts as a low-impact exercise that strengthens the foot and ankle musculature, leading to improved balance and a reduced risk of falls.

Walking can also increase plantar flexor strength, a group of muscles crucial for pushing off during gait. Stronger plantar flexors improve gait efficiency and decrease the workload on other joints in the lower extremities, such as the knees and hips.

Additionally, walking can enhance the tensile strength of tendons and ligaments, providing better support for the foot arch.

Improved Circulation and Reduced Swelling

Walking is a form of aerobic exercise, that promotes blood flow throughout the body. This improved circulation is particularly beneficial for the feet, which are furthest from the heart and can experience circulatory issues.

Furthermore, walking can be a valuable tool for managing foot swelling, a common symptom associated with various podiatric conditions. The rhythmic contraction of the calf muscles during walking acts as a natural pump, facilitating lymphatic drainage and reducing fluid buildup in the feet.

Reduced Risk of Injury

Due to the increase in strength, walking helps reduce fracture risk and maintain bone density. Studies have shown that regular walking is a strategy to prevent osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases fracture risk.

Walking can also play a role in managing certain podiatric conditions like plantar fasciitis. The gentle stretching and strengthening of the plantar fascia during walking can promote healing and reduce inflammation.

Consult with a trusted podiatrist to make this low-risk, high-reward activity work for you.

Dr. Jason Grossman, Dr. Yaakov Tropper, and Dr. Paul A. Osemene are ready to help at our comfortable, convenient Advanced Feet and Ankle Care offices in Old Bridge, Sayreville, and Freehold. Call (732) 679-4330 to schedule your appointment, or contact us online today!