Foot Health Tips for a Safe & Active Autumn
As the leaves change and temperatures drop, fall brings a fresh opportunity to reset routines. Whether you're lacing up for school sports, tackling weekend hikes, or just getting back into a post-summer fitness routine, your feet are the foundation of it all. Our Dyker Footcare Podiatrists will tell you, taking care of your feet now can prevent injuries that sideline you later.
Here are timely, expert-backed foot care tips to help you and your family put your best foot forward this season.
Cooler Weather Sports Are Back - Is Your Body Ready?
If you or your child spent the summer being less active (and hey, no shame in that!), jumping into fall sports full speed can be risky. The most common sports-related podiatric injuries in youth and adults include:
Prevention starts now! Ease back into activity with 2–3 weeks of low-impact exercise: walking, swimming, light jogging, or even family bike rides. Gradually increasing activity allows your feet, ankles, and tendons to adjust and strengthen—reducing the chance of injury during sudden pivots, sprints, or jumps common in fall and winter sports.
Shoe Shopping This Season? Read This First.
Fall is a popular time for shoe and sneaker shopping. Kids are back in school and adults gear up for colder weather. But not all shoes are created equal.
Five Tips when buying shoes this fall:
Shop in the afternoon or evening. Your feet swell throughout the day, so trying on shoes when they’re at their largest ensures a better fit.
Always fit the larger foot. If one foot is slightly bigger (as is common), size up and use a supportive insole for the smaller foot.
Avoid hand-me-downs. Shoes mold to the original wearer’s gait and foot shape, which can cause misalignment and even pain for a new wearer.
Invest in quality brands. Budget-friendly versions of popular sneakers often lack arch support, heel cushioning, and durable soles.
Sneakers should be the go-to for walking, gym class, or weekend activities. Skip flip-flops, ballet flats, and unsupportive slip-ons because they offer little protection and can lead to heel pain or arch strain.
Foot Health Is Family Health
Make your fall fitness routine a family event! Go for evening walks, play frisbee in the yard, or explore a local trail. If anyone complains of heel pain, sore arches, or ankle stiffness, don’t ignore it. Small issues can escalate fast, especially in growing kids or aging adults.
Need help finding the right support, treating pain, or fitting orthotics? Our podiatry team is here to keep your whole family moving comfortably.
Your feet do a lot for you. Give them the care they deserve.
Ready for a checkup or have questions about fall footwear?
Our Foot Doctors can help you manage all of your foot and ankle conditions with premium treatments and technologies. Schedule your visit today, call (718) 745-6220 or request an appointment online. Dyker Footcare is located in Brooklyn, NY.
