The pandemic has led to the appearance of some unexpected consequences unrelated to the disease itself. Spending most of the day inside is a change to our usual routine for most of us. This has led to the development of habits that have had consequences for the health of our feet and ankles. It may surprise you to learn that no tall of these concerns were the result of becoming sedentary. Instead, many of these new concerns have changed how we maintained our active lifestyles during this time.
How Foot and Ankle Injuries Increased During The Pandemic
Unable to go to the gym, those dedicated to an active lifestyle started investing in exercise equipment such as treadmills. They also changed their habits from inside exercise to running over terrain that was different from what they were used to. Exercising is an important part of maintaining a long and healthy life. However, it’s important to be aware of your environment and make changes gradually. Foot pain was the most common of all the complaints that increased during the pandemic. Patients reported new pain appearing in the heel, arch of the foot, and great toe. These often were exacerbated by improper footwear or going barefoot.
There’s nothing inherently wrong with going barefoot. However, there are definite risks if running or walking in unfamiliar terrain. Your skin serves as a barrier to infection and injury. While the callouses on your feet can protect you from injury to some extent, it’s not perfect. Stepping on a sharp stone, piece of glass, nail or even a sharp stick can puncture the skin of your foot, creating a venue for infection. Caring for your feet is essential, especially when changing your exercise habits.
To Promote Health Feet:
- Wear comfortable shoes that support your ankle, are well-padded, and fit well.
- Remove socks after periods of working out
- Moisturize your feet regularly
- Wash your feet daily with soap and water
It’s important to receive care for potential foot injuries as early as possible. Contact your specialist if you’ve noticed swelling, pain, new wounds, or difficulty bearing weight. These injuries can point to damage to the ankle or the bones of the foot.
Other Orthopedic Concerns During The Pandemic
Another source of additional orthopedic concerns during the pandemic has resulted from how the need for care is perceived. In order to protect themselves and their families from infection with COVID 19, some patients have put off care they would otherwise have received. While understandable, orthopedic concerns tend to worsen over time if untreated. This means that a previously treatable condition may become more severe and require more extensive treatment to correct. In some cases, the condition may be impossible to fully reverse when it otherwise would have been. Don’t hesitate to contact your orthopedic specialist for any joint concerns you may be experiencing. Complete COVID-19 protocols have been instituted to help protect our patients. Waiting for treatment could have serious consequences for your orthopedic health. Call for a consultation today.
