How Stretches Can Benefit the Feet

When most people think of stretching, they reach their arms out or turn their neck or torso. Some may even lift their legs and kick, but how many of us think to stretch the feet? Our feet are burdened with all of our bodyweight, and we use them in practically every activity. In this brief article brought to you by Mountain Spring Podiatry, we look at some of the benefits of stretching the feet. We’ll also share some effective stretches you can perform.

If you have pre-existing foot conditions, chronic or severe foot pain, or concerns about your feet, then consult with a podiatrist, or foot doctor, by calling Mountain Spring Podiatry and scheduling a convenient appointment.

Advantages of Incorporating Foot Stretches into Your Routine

Stretching your feet before getting out of bed and starting the day or before rigorous work, sport, or exercise can offer numerous benefits. Let’s look at some key advantages:

• Relaxation & Stress Relief: Stretching the feet can release tension and reduce stress, promoting a sense of relaxation throughout your body.
• Better Blood Circulation: One of the reasons you may feel relaxation is because stretching increases blood flow to muscles and tissues of the feet, delivering oxygen and nutrients to and removing metabolic waste from the feet.
• Relieving Foot Pain: Stretching the feet can alleviate pain from common foot problems such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and tight calf muscles.
• Improved Flexibility: Regularly stretching can expand your feet and ankles’ flexibility and range of motion, improving your overall mobility.
• Injury Prevention: Enhanced flexibility and improved blood circulation combine to reduce the likelihood of foot sprains, strains, and overuse injuries.

Some Effective Foot Stretches You Can Perform

We are going to share some basic foot stretches here, but do not perform these if you experience excruciating pain or discomfort. If you do feel pain when performing these, then it is advised to visit a podiatrist in Manassas, or foot doctor, and investigate any underlying foot problems.

• Limber Up: Let’s get started in a sitting position. While sitting on a chair, lift one leg up and make circles with that foot by rotating it clockwise then counterclockwise 15 times each. Repeat with your other foot.
• Massage: Stay seated and bring one foot over your other leg. Massage the bottom of your feet starting from the heel up to the toes. Do this for 20-30 seconds and repeat for the other foot.
• Towel Stretch: Grab a towel and move to the floor. Sit and extend your legs in front of you. Place a towel around the ball of your foot and gently pull the towel towards you while keeping your knee straight. Hold this stretch for 20-30 seconds and repeat for the other foot.
• Toe Curls: Remain seated and put the towel on the ground. Step on the towel and curl your toes to grab the towel, then release. Repeat this several times with each foot.

When to Call a Podiatrist

Foot pain can be debilitating, keeping you from performing most activities and even immobilizing you. If you experience severe or chronic pain, have a pre-existing foot condition, or have concerns regarding your feet, then contact Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule an appointment with a licensed podiatrist today.