By Bruce Noxon, DPM

St. Vincent Health

719-486-0230

Your feet carry you through life—literally. The average person takes thousands of steps each day, and over a lifetime those steps add up to tens of thousands of miles. Yet despite how much we rely on them, I often see that foot health is overlooked until something starts to hurt.

As a foot and ankle surgeon, I see firsthand how important healthy feet are for mobility, balance, and overall quality of life. When your feet feel good, it’s easier to stay active, exercise, work, and enjoy the outdoor activities that make living in Colorado so special.

Why Foot Health Matters

Foot and ankle problems can affect people of all ages. In my practice, some of the most common concerns I treat include heel pain, bunions, ingrown toenails, arthritis, tendon injuries, and stress fractures. Even minor discomfort can gradually affect how you walk, which may lead to pain in the knees, hips, or back.

There are certain groups of people I encourage to pay especially close attention to their foot health, including:

• Individuals with diabetes
• People who spend long hours standing or walking
• Athletes and outdoor recreation enthusiasts
• Older adults
• Anyone experiencing ongoing foot or ankle pain

 

One of the most important things I tell patients is that early treatment makes a difference. Many foot conditions are much easier to treat when they are addressed before they become more serious.

Simple Habits for Healthy Feet

Taking care of your feet doesn’t have to be complicated. A few everyday habits can go a long way toward preventing problems.

Choose supportive footwear. Shoes that fit well and provide good arch support help reduce strain on the feet and ankles.

Inspect your feet regularly. Look for changes such as redness, swelling, blisters, or skin irritation—especially if you have diabetes.

Practice good hygiene. Keeping your feet clean and dry helps prevent infections and skin issues.

Stretch and strengthen. Gentle stretching of the calves and feet can improve flexibility and help prevent injuries.

Don’t ignore pain. Persistent discomfort is often a signal that something needs attention.

 

Specialized Foot Care Close to Home

Our specialty clinic allows patients in Lake County and surrounding communities to receive expert evaluation and treatment without needing to travel far from home.

Whether I’m diagnosing common foot conditions or helping patients return to the activities they enjoy, my goal is to keep people moving comfortably and safely.

Keeping Our Community Moving

Healthy feet are essential for maintaining independence, mobility, and an active lifestyle. Whether you’re walking around town, working on your feet, or heading out for a hike in the mountains, taking care of your feet is an important part of caring for your overall health.

If you would like to talk about any foot and ankle concerns, call 719-486-0230. I am at St. Vincent Health weekly.