Have you noticed how the holiday shopping seasons have gotten longer and more competitive? Once upon a time, Black Friday meant a one day shopping extravaganza. But now, Black Friday week starts well before Thanksgiving and only ends when it's time to start shopping those early Christmas sales. Now, the extra savings periods could add up to more savings for your wallet (or better gifts for everyone on your list.) But, if you're old-school enough to still shop in stores instead of online, all that extra time spent cruising for deals could add up to a major case of Holiday Feet. (Read: Foot pain that manifests after spending hours on your feet scouting for deals!)
Want to score the best in-store deals without paying the price in foot pain? Read on for our top tips for fighting the foot aches and pains that are often the price you pay for scoring a great deal!
Houston Podiatrist’s Tips to Avoid Holiday Feet and Foot Pain
This condition was once a limited problem. Shoppers spent all day at the mall on Black Friday. Their feet hurt at the end of the day. But after resting on Saturday, everything went back to normal. Well, the world has changed a lot in the last few years. And, now that the holiday deal season lasts well beyond one crazy day, we have to take extra precautions to avoid foot pain, swelling and general fatigue. By the way, while these tips are important to follow when shopping, they should also come in handy when you're standing at home cooking; standing in line at the grocery store; or trekking through an airport on your way to see family for the holidays!
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Choose function over fashion
Of course you want to look great during the holiday season. But when you're going to be on your feet for hours, you need to wear supportive shoes. Slip into sneakers or athletic shoes and bring along a pair of heels if you need something dressier to try on outfits or to make a good impression at your final destination. -
Keep Your Head Up
With all the crowds pushing past one another to grab great deals, or to make a flight on time, it’s crucial to stay focused and avoid tripping hazards that could leave you with sprained or even broken ankles. -
Get a Little Extra Help
If you have a pair of custom orthotics, this is the season to wear them religiously. Your feet will really appreciate the extra love by the time New Year's rolls around. -
Unwind at the End
Once you get home after a long day on your feet, give them a real break. Sit down with your feet up for a while or, better yet, give those tired tootsies a nice long soak in the tub. Bonus points if you throw in a therapeutic soak using one of the clinically proven Tolcylen products we carry in the office.
While all of these pointers will undoubtedly help you avoid a bad case of Holiday Feet, there is one other, fool-proof way to avoid the all-day shopping blues…Skip the mall and…
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Just Go Online
You can still score some great deals and you can even do it in your jammies!
If you still end up with foot pain or swelling while you're out shopping for the best holiday deals, contact Dr. Andrew Schneider for an immediate appointment. Happy holidays, everyone!