Are you gearing up for this year’s gardening season? Proper footwear and socks should be worn when gardening to protect your feet. Stretching can also help to prevent foot injuries from occurring. If you obtain a foot condition or feel pain from gardening, see our podiatrist in Ronkonkoma. Dr. Jeffrey S. Muroff can diagnose all types of foot injuries and conditions, as well as devise an effective treatment plan. Learn how to protect your feet when gardening below.
Wear Garden Shoes
Wearing gardening shoes can be helpful for protecting your feet. Garden shoes are lightweight, supportive, and resistant to abrasion, which can hold up outdoors. These shoes can protect pre-existing foot conditions by surrounding your feet and not exposing them to debris, as well as preventing injuries from occurring. An injury can arise from falling if you do not wear the proper footwear. Good ankle support and firm soles can keep you stable. Cuts and wounds are other injuries that can result if your feet become punctured. Some examples of objects garden shoes can protect you from include:
- Hoes
- Shovels
- Rakes
- Pruners
- Sharp sticks
- Thorns
- Insects
Wear the Proper Socks
In addition to wearing the proper footwear, you should wear the appropriate socks. Gardening in the hot sun can make your feet sweat, leading to an infection. Sweat-wicking socks can keep your feet dry and reduce the risk of fungal infections. The socks should not be too high or tight-fitting because they can reduce blood flow or cause ankle swelling.
Stretch Your Feet
Another tip you can follow to prevent foot injuries from occurring in the first place is to stretch your feet, legs, and ankles before and after gardening. Stretching before gardening can loosen your muscles and prevent straining. Stretching after gardening can lessen aches and pains.
Contact Our Podiatrist in Ronkonkoma
Our podiatrist in Ronkonkoma recommends keeping your feet safe when gardening to avoid pre-existing and future foot conditions. By wearing the proper shoes, socks, and stretching, you can keep your feet safe. Dr. Jeffrey S. Muroff and his team can address any foot problems that do result. Contact us today to learn more tips on preventing foot conditions resulting from gardening.