A universal truth: If your feet hurt, your whole body hurts.
And no one knows better than the hobbling, limping, hurting masses whose intricate matrix of ligaments, tendons and muscles threatens—with each agonizing step—to topple them.
Since a healthy foot equals a happy individual, allowing for mobility, balance and comfort, we've cobbled together some things you can do so you can keep putting one foot in front of the other.
For when you need to walk a mile in your own shoes …
Step lively and seek the comfort of Vionic shoes. They do supportive and comfy mixed with stylish sandals, boots, slippers, flats and loafers that your feet are bound to love. And if you've given up on the idea of ever wearing heels again, theirs may give you the perfect opportunity to elevate your game. Imagine that: Heels that are actually wearable, so you can look good without sacrificing your all-over comfort.
For when you need to soothe your sole …
Heels cracking? A pretty common dilemma. And not serious, until the cracks become very deep and cause a lot of pain (especially if you like to walk barefoot). Hormonal or environmental changes, lack of moisture genes and collagen production are all likely culprits. Get to the bottom of things and use a heel balm like this , which can replace the moisture that nature steals, or this one, which, with its lactic acid, can do double-duty as a cuticle soother.
For when your sole needs a bit more lovin' …
You don't need a lot of elbow grease to use a product like the Pedi Perfect Foot File from Amope, which can easily and gently file away your dry skin and make the soles of your feet almost as smooth as a baby's bottom.
For when you want to add some fat …
As we age, we lose that essential fat pad under our heels and balls of our feet—the one that acts as a shock absorber. (Yes, collagen degeneration is why each step can feel like you are walking on rocks or marbles.) Though some medical practices offer fixes like fat grafting surgery, a cheaper, quicker and more accessible solution is to buy some pads to cushion the ball of your foot or support your entire foot.
For when you crave happy feet …
You know how exercise boosts your mood? These portable and handy foot roller exercise domes from Canyon Ranch can do it for your feet and give them the workout they need to stay happy, flexible and strong. Your circulation and range of motion will increase along with your balance and energy.
For when it's time to visit a spa (only you can't) …
Do the next best thing with this foot spa that pampers you in the comfort and privacy of your home. It heats, it vibrates, it bubbles. Before too long, your pampered feet will be walking on air.
For when you need to know the facts about pedicure safety …
Read this. You'll learn things like when to shave your lower legs—before or after a pedicure?— and how to check out the cleanliness of a salon. Your feet will thank you.
For when you wonder what a reflex point on your foot has to do with your bladder or other organ …
Fact: There are 7,200 nerve endings in your feet. That's a lot of opportunity for manipulation. Read all about reflexology and how it works. Illustrated here.