Page 25 - MAYO CLINIC Head to Toe e-magazine 293700

• Walk

Walking is a great way to get the blood circulating in your legs
Ask your doctor about an appropriate activity level for you
• Elevate your legs
When sitting or lying down, elevate your legs above the level of
your heart Do this 10 to 15 minutes three or four times daily
• Don’t sit or stand for long periods

Change your position frequently During long car trips, stop to take
a brief walk every couple of hours On flights, walk through the 27
cabin about once every hour Don’t sit with your legs crossed
Remember to wear your compression stockings when traveling
• Watch what you wear
Tight clothes can restrict circulation Avoid high heels
• Control your weight
Being overweight puts extra pressure on your veins
26 Shopping for shoes

For healthier and more comfortable feet, try these tips:
•
Don’t buy shoes with pointed toes or high heels
Pointed shoes cramp your toes and can lead to foot problems such
as ingrown nails, calluses, corns or bunions High heels can cause
back problems by forcing you to lean back to compensate for the
forward tilt of your heel
• Leave ample room for your toes
Laced shoes generally offer more room and adjustable support
Athletic shoes are ideal Other good selections are strapped sandals,
and for women, soft, roomy pumps with cushioned insoles
• Select shoes that don’t trap sweat
Shoes that don’t allow feet to breathe promote perspiration, which
can irritate your skin
• Shop for shoes in the afternoon
Feet swell as the day goes on If you buy shoes in the morning, they
may feel too tight later on Getting fitted at the end of the day may
give you a fit that’s too roomy in the morning

24 Mayo Clinic