Don't Let Foot Pain Ruin Your Holiday Fun: A Survival Guide

As you make your list and check it twice, don’t forget a reminder to take care of your feet. Yep, you don’t want foot pain to ruin your holiday fun. Here’s how to plan ahead to avoid foot pain.

The last thing you want to deal with during the holidays is a physical issue that can derail your enjoyment of the season — especially one involving your feet, the foundation of all you do.

Because we take care of feet for a living, Dr. Pedro Coscullella and our team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute thought it would be helpful to put together a guide on how to keep foot pain from ruining your holiday fun.

Here’s what you need to know.

Wear shoes that fit

You may be planning to attend several events over the holidays, some that may involve dressing up. When it comes to your shoes, prioritize comfort and support over style. By wearing ill-fitting shoes, you put yourself at risk of blisters, calluses, swelling, and even ankle injuries.

Sure, you can wear some fun shoes for a bit at a party, but if they’re too narrow, too tight, or cause pain, bring a more comfortable option to change into.

Watch your diet

Speaking of parties, the holidays usually feature an abundance of rich foods and alcohol high in purines, a compound that forms uric acid when it breaks down. A buildup of uric acid can cause a painful attack of gout in your feet, which can sideline you until the buildup subsides.

Foods high in purines include red meat, shellfish, red wine, and beer. If you indulge, do so in moderation.

Listen to your feet

Your feet let you know if you have a problem. If you notice pain, swelling, blisters, bruising, or aching, you may need to adjust your routines for a few days until the problem resolves.

Check your feet regularly for signs of trouble, such as ingrown toenails, blisters, and dry skin. This visual check can help you head off any minor problems before they become major issues.

Watch for ice and snow

If you’re traveling to a colder climate, keep an eye out for patches of ice and snow. Ice is especially dangerous because your feet can move in sudden and unexpected ways if you slip, resulting in an ankle sprain or even a fracture. Wear hiking boots that provide ankle stability.

If the worst happens and you experience a foot issue during the holidays, our team at Austin Foot & Ankle Institute is just a phone call away. Request an appointment by phone or online today at our office in Austin or Bee Cave, Texas.