Feet: The foundation of health

Feet: The foundation of health

Joy Stepinski, MSN, RN-BC

June 2, 2023

Feet are so incredibly important to whole health and quality of life. Approximately one-third of seniors report foot problems [1], which is a big reason for seeking healthcare among the elderly. Such reported issues are related to falls, balance, mobility, skin and nail hygiene, foot deformities, wounds, pain, and ramifications from poorly fitting shoes.

In jobs, such as nursing, workers spend prolonged hours walking and/or constantly standing. Many common health outcomes are swelling, pain, fatigue, varicose veins, and foot sores [2].

The foot comprises 33 joints, 26 bones, and over one hundred muscles, tendons, and ligaments [3]. Our feet have the major responsibility of providing a foundation for our body. Consider how many miles you may walk in your lifetime. The complex movement the feet provide when walking, running, jumping, and dancing is due to the intricate nature of these joints, bones, and ligaments. Not only does the foot have incredible flexibility, but also provides the body stability as it bears the entire body weight.

Foot discomfort can bring immediate attention to the person experiencing it. Problems can greatly contribute to overall health. Therefore, engaging in foot health self-care practice is imperative throughout life. For example, healthy diets prevent diabetes and vascular problems, which can cause poor blood flow to the feet. Consuming a low-fat diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains offers protection to blood vessels. Regular movement helps to maintain mobility, balance, and stability. Performing regular foot hygiene, including nail trimming and foot baths, as well as seeking out proper-fitting shoes, can prevent or lessen pain.

Intentional self-care practices are supportive of whole health (physical, emotional, and spiritual). The feet are literally the foundation of our bodies, and happy feet leads to improved well-being!

References:

1.       Stolt, M., Suhonen, R., Puukka, P., Viitanen, M., Voutilainen, P., & Leino‐Kilpi, H. (2012). Foot health and self‐care activities of older people in home care. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 21(21-22), 3082-3095.

2.       Manganaro D, Dollinger B, Nezwek TA, & Sadiq, N. M. (2022). Anatomy, bony pelvis and lower limb, foot joints. StatPearls [Internet]. StatPearls Publishing.

3.       Stolt, M., Miikkola, M., Suhonen, R., & Leino-Kilpi, H. (2018). Nurses’ perceptions of their foot health: implications for occupational health care. Workplace Health & Safety, 66(3), 136-143.