February is American Heart Month. Are you still skipping those daily foot inspections? Well, you could be missing out on a heart check, too. We can look to our feet for early signs of heart disease. These signs are often found in our feet, from circulation to high blood pressure. This post will revisit what it takes to do a thorough foot inspection. We’ll highlight areas of concern that could point to a heart problem.
Who
Let’s just jump into the conversation. Who should check their feet daily? Everyone. That’s right. While everyone benefits from a frequent foot check, people with certain conditions are at risk of complications if they’re skipping days. As parents, we’re also encouraged to inspect our little one’s feet and model the behavior for our older children.
What
When doing a foot inspection, this is just a close examination of your feet and ankles. During this time, you are checking your skin, toenails, etc. Every part matter and we encourage you to take note of unusual smells, sights, and even feelings. An inspection should be part of your daily foot hygiene.
When
Check out your feet and ankles every day. For convenience, we recommend creating a schedule to allow for a check at the same time each day. Set the alarm or include a foot check as part of your post-shower routine. Perhaps consider it as an end-of-day step after you have removed your shoes.
Where
Choose a well-lit area for your inspection. Allow for comfort and plenty of space to stretch. We recommend somewhere easily accessible and clear of clutter.
Why
Early prevention is key. With poor circulation, our feet and ankles can show the following symptoms:
- Hair loss
- Cold to the touch
- Non-healing wounds
For high blood pressure or hypertension, look for swelling.
Unfortunately, many people are walking around with an undiagnosed condition. Catching symptoms, and changes to your feet and ankles early could prompt the necessary visit to a medical professional. Knowing the status of your health is powerful. The doctors at New England Podiatry Associates want to support you in finding this knowledge.