Walking sticks, also known as trekking poles, can significantly enhance the walking experience for people of all ages and abilities. These poles provide additional stability, making it easier to navigate uneven terrain and reducing the risk of falls. By redistributing weight, walking sticks decrease strain on the lower body, especially the knees, hips, and ankles, which can benefit those with joint pain or limited mobility. Additionally, they support proper posture and balance, encouraging a more confident stride. Using walking sticks can also boost cardiovascular activity, as they engage the upper body during movement, making walking a more effective form of exercise. A chiropodist can guide you in selecting and adjusting walking sticks to suit your height, walking style, and specific needs, ensuring they provide optimal support. Proper usage techniques, such as the pole length and a relaxed grip, are also important to maximize their benefits. If you experience foot or ankle pain while walking for exercise, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance.

Stretching and strengthening your feet is very important for maintaining your foot health. If you would like to learn more about exercises for your feet, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are a variety of relatively easy-to-do exercises that can boost the strength, flexibility, and mobility of your feet, as well as relieve foot pain.  

Strength exercises: 

• Toe splay - Spread the toes apart and hold for several seconds; improves control over toe muscles

• Toe curls - Scrunch up a towel with your toes; strengthens the flexor muscles

• Marble pickup - Pick up marbles with your toes; strengthens the muscles on the undersides of the feet and toes

• Walking on sand - Stretches and strengthens feet and calves

Flexibility exercises: 

• Heel raises - Raise the heels while keeping toes on the ground

• Toe point - Raise the heels while pointing the toes, keeping just the tips of toes on the ground

• Toe curl - Raise the heels while curling the toes inwards, keeping just the tips of toes on the ground

• Big toe stretch - Use your hands to gently stretch your big toes up, down, and to the side

Exercises for foot pain: 

• Toe extension - Gently pull the toes up towards the ankle and hold for several seconds

• Ball roll - gently roll a golf or tennis ball underneath the arches of the feet 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.