Fitness And Your Feet

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Boy with thorn in his foot 18th century gout cartoon Diabetic toe amputations cutanea larva migrans venous stasis ulcerations plantar ulcer secondary to Charcot joint gangrene secondary to PAD tophaceous gout affecting the hand tophaceous gout of the toe infected ingrown toenail Onychomycosis or fungal nail infection Malignant Melanoma of the arch

Your feet are one of the most overlooked body parts when it comes to exercise. As you exercise, pay attention to what your feet are telling you.

Consult your physician before beginning any fitness program. This includes a complete physical and foot exam. This is especially important for those who are overweight, smoke, or haven't had a physical exam in a long time.

Proper fitness requires wearing the right clothes and shoes. Wear loose-fitting, light-colored and loosely woven clothing in hot weather and several layers of warm clothing in cold weather.

The American Podiatric Medical Association stresses the importance of foot care in exercising. People don't realize the tremendous pressure that is put on their feet while exercising. For example, a 150-pound jogger puts more than 150 tons of impact on his feet when running three miles.

Improper foot care during exercise is a contributing factor to some of the more than 300 foot ailments, according to the APMA.

The following are common ailments caused by improper foot care during exercise:

Athlete's foot;
Blisters;
Corns and calluses; and
Heel pain (including heel spurs).