Prevent Foot Pain This Thanksgiving with These 4 Tips

Thanksgiving is just days away, and many of us will prepare for a long weekend filled with food, travel, and family. Whether traveling by train, car, or plane, this time of year can be particularly tiring on your feet. It’s important to take care of your feet so you can enjoy the seasonal celebrations. In today’s post, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, shares a few tips to help you stay on your feet this Thanksgiving.

1. Prepare: When traveling, consider your feet when packing. Bring the appropriate footwear if you are participating in certain activities, such as shopping sprees or hikes. The right shoes can make all the difference. Flying can leave your legs with pain from poor circulation while in flight. Wear compression socks to stockings to aid circulation, especially if you have diabetes.

2. Long Hours: Preparing Thanksgiving dinner can take a good amount of time. Some people begin prepping and cooking 2 to 3 days ahead of time. Standing on your feet for long periods can lead to foot pain. Take breaks, even if just for five minutes every hour. Sit down to complete tasks whenever possible or ask loved ones to help. Wearing supportive and comfortable slippers can make standing for long hours less stressful on your feet.
3. Monitor Intake: It’s not easy to push yourself away from the Thanksgiving table, but try not to overeat during the big meal. Excessive sugars and carbs can cause your feet to become inflamed and painful. If you suffer from gout, Thanksgiving can be a challenging time when it comes to what you eat and drink. Red meat and even turkey can cause an outbreak, so limit portion size. The best thing you can do is to be aware of the drinks and foods that can trigger your body.

4. Pay Attention: Feet and ankles can swell from standing or sitting too much in a day, so take time out to relax. When possible, elevate your legs above your heart and give them a good rest. Foot massages are a great way to boost blood circulation, refresh skin, and release tension after a long day. Use a moisturizer or lotion to massage your feet to avoid cracked and dry skin from the cold winter air.

Dr. Hubert Lee and his team at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, will help keep your feet feeling great so you can have an enjoyable holiday season. If you encounter an issue with your feet, contact us to book a visit. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936.