Making Travel Easier on Your Feet

Although rest and relaxation are the goals for most summer vacations, vacations usually involve a lot of walking and a lot of walking usually involves sore feet.

"Walking is great exercise and one of the most reliable forms of transportation," says Philip Radovic, DPM, an Orange County podiatric surgeon and member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. "But if your feet aren't in the best shape or you don't have the right shoes, too much walking can cause foot problems."

According to Dr. Radovic, good foot care is essential if you plan to subject your feet to long periods of walking. Some simple foot care tips include:

"The right shoe is also important to healthy walking," he says. "The ideal walking shoe should be stable from side to side, and well-cushioned, and it should enable you to walk smoothly. Many running shoes will fit the bill."

Dr. Radovic adds that there are also shoes made specially for walking. Walking shoes tend to be slightly less cushioned, yet not as bulky, and lighter than running shoes. Whether a walking or running shoe, the shoes need to feel stable and comfortable.

Warming up exercises to help alleviate any muscle stiffness or pulled muscles are also advised before walking. Loosening up the heel cords (Achilles and calf) and thigh muscles before a walk is especially effective.

"If you're not accustomed to long walks, start slowly and rest if your feet

For more information about the feet, contact Dr. Radovic's office at (949)493-8020.