The feet are often described as a miniature version of the human body and are sometimes called the “second heart.” Despite making up only about 2% of the body’s mass, they support the remaining 98%, maintain balance, and facilitate movement. They also play a vital role in circulating blood throughout the body.
Jeong Bi O from Kyung Hee University Hospital’s Orthopedic Department provided valuable insights into foot health.
Jeong emphasized that shoes function like clothing for our feet, and the type of shoes we wear can significantly impact our foot health. With summer often leading people to prioritize convenience, he stressed the need for extra attention to foot health during this season.
He advised against wearing shoes with thin or stiff soles that do not effectively absorb shock, narrow toe boxes that can cause foot deformities and poorly fitting shoes that do not provide proper support.
“Since people tend to wear these types of shoes more in the summer, it’s important to check the condition of your feet and pay attention to their health,” Jeong said.
Wearing narrow and uncomfortable shoes for prolonged periods can deform the muscles and ligaments around the toes, potentially leading to conditions like hallux valgus, where the big toe’s joint bends outward. Continuous friction from shoes against the protruding lower part of the big toe can cause inflammation and pain, which might require surgical intervention if not treated in time.
Jeong recommended wearing shoes with low heels and wide-toe boxes to prevent hallux valgus. If hallux valgus has already developed, switching to more comfortable shoes may not stop the deformation, so caution is needed.
Summer activities like water play can increase the risk of slips and ankle sprains. If pain occurs, it’s crucial to take immediate action. People often underestimate ankle sprains, mistakenly believing that the bones are unaffected. However, neglecting treatment can lead to long-term issues such as ankle instability, cartilage damage, and arthritis. About 70% of patients with ankle arthritis have a history of ankle fractures or frequent sprains.
Jeong explained that ankle instability occurs when the ligaments stabilizing the ankle joint are damaged. This causes the ankle to give way frequently, leading to habitual sprains and potential cartilage damage.
If diagnosed with ankle instability, conservative treatments like stretching and wearing braces for over three months are generally recommended, depending on the extent of the ligament tear, the patient’s age, and occupation. Surgical options such as ligament repair or reconstruction may be considered if conservative measures are ineffective or the ligaments are completely torn.
He also advised stretching before exercise and avoiding workouts on cold or rainy days, as these conditions can increase the risk of injury. Regular foot massages, soaks, and moisturizers during dry winter are crucial for maintaining foot health and relieving fatigue.
