Could you imagine what your feet would feel like after wearing these heels all day?

Here are some common sense approaches that may help give some relief.  Of course, this does not take the place of seeing your doctor when needed. 

Many people complain of foot pain that limits their ability to lead an active life. From sore arches to sore heals, foot pain can be very debilitating.

What to do about it.
Stretch before and after exercise, ice when inflamed, and wear good quality shoes with proper support.  Think Merrels vs. Manolo's.  Well, maybe we can compromise with Clarks or fashionable Aerosoles?  lol . 

R.I.C.E : The standard first aid acronym for bruises, bumps and such.
*Rest:  Put those tootsies up and stay off your feet for a bit.
*Ice:    Frozen peas works great or ice cubes in a plastic baggie.
*Compression:  Wrapping it gives support.
*Elevation:  Helps to keep the swelling down.

Simple foot exercises can help.

• *Squeeze toes together and flare toes apart.  Scrunching all together and relaxing works well, too.  No need to go crazy on this, just a few times will do the trick.
• *Massaging arch of foot on a ball.  A tennis ball works great.  Go easy at first.  
• *Picking up a pencil with your toes.  A great exercise to work on strength and flexibility.  It can be a bit of a challenge.  :)
• *Stretching feet with a towel:  You can place your foot against a towel and use the towel as resistance to give a great stretch.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, meaning porous bones, needs to be addressed as we age.  This is often more of a problem for petite ladies.  There is an advantage and disadvantage for everything isn't there?  

We can help to combat this by exercising regularly and by making sure you take in enough calcium. 

Please be careful with spine twists, jumping, and bending from waist.  These activities can cause harm if not done very carefully.  

Arthritis

Arthritis means inflammation of the joints.  The Arthritis foundation is a great resource. (www.arthritis.org) to find out information to benefit people with this condition.  

Back care
Long, slow, back stretches like cat/cow and stretching under a warm shower or using a shower massager can help when your back feels tight.  Of course, only do what feels right and with a doctor's approval. 

It's common knowledge that developing strong abdominal muscles and working on your back extensors can help with prevention of injuries.  Always execute these exercises with slow, controlled movements to keep safe.