Countries around the world have enforced their own degrees of lock down during the current pandemic. Mostly, people are restricted to go outside and oftentimes work from home. Only businesses that are deemed essential are allowed to remain open and even most types of recreational activities and public places have been closed.

For foot health, the lock down may have some unexpected benefits. People who work on their feet all day, those who have to endure a long commute to work, and those that have to constantly wear high-heels may see this as a welcome break. You may now find yourself barefoot, wearing slippers, or trainers most of the day. On the other hand, staying indoors can also have adverse effects on foot and ankle health.

If you sit all day working from the computer or watching TV while on the couch, your feet can get swollen. Edema can develop when there is a buildup of fluid located in the feet and ankles. To help with circulation, walk around even in your confined area to keep the muscles, tendons, and ligaments moving.

Being on lockdown means plenty of time to catch up on neglected house repairs. However, this can also mean more chances of injuries on your feet such as ankle sprains. Most resolve without intervention but you must also be aware that there are different grades of ankle sprain. If you experience heavy swelling, excruciating pain, and find that you cannot walk on your injured foot, call your podiatrist for evaluation.

Plantar fasciitis can be another potential problem. In some ways, having an inactive lifestyle can increase the risk of injury. When sitting all day, plantar fasciitis can come after the first few steps of inactivity, leading to pain.

Chronic aches, stiffness, and weakness are also common during these times. Because of this, you may even be more discouraged to work out. With lower extremity weakness, there is an even greater risk of injuries. Thus, having a regular exercise program is important especially when you are confined indoors.

Neuropathy, which is numbness or tingling in the foot is also a common problem. When sitting for long periods of time, circulation can be affected. There can also be increased pressure on the nerve that can lead to symptoms manifesting.

A more serious condition that can happen is DVT or deep vein thrombosis. When you have poor circulation, blood clots can develop in the lower legs, feet, and ankles.

So even during these times, staying active and doing simple exercises can help prevent these foot and ankle problems. If you are having foot and ankle issues, you may contact FFLC at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit NaplesPodiatrist.com for more information.

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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!