I once laughed at a M*A*S*H episode in which a British fellow was commenting on his military's focus on foot hygiene. It was amusing at the time, but over the years I've largely ignored my feet. To my dismay.
I was just over 30 when I had both feet operated on for bunions. That was a vast improvement, but it more or less ended my competitive volleyball days.
I was just over 45 when I suffered severe back trauma which I learned was related to tight hamstrings, and recently learned that was related to my feet.
At any rate, I had one bunion operated on again, it was a big operation, when I was 55. Today, as I inch closer to 62, I have a host of foot problems. Not good for someone planning on hiking the Camino de Santiago in the next few years.
My new podiatrist had nothing good to say about the previous operations. He explained to me they were improper diagnoses of the situation and now there's not much chance any additional surgery will provide relief. He also pointed out something I'd known about but never took seriously. I don't use orthotics.
He did a scan, got me some, and I've got to say my feet feel much better. Not 100%, but at this point I'll take any improvement.
I also now spend a lot of cash for properly-fitted sneakers. I always figured if they fit, they're fine. Over the last year I've learned to take that a little more seriously. Hokas are the new brand - I'll let you know when I get them if they're "all that". At least you can get them sized for width, which is critical for me.
Take care of your feet. Don't ignore them or put off any care the way I have. Big mistake, and fixing what's messed up isn't easily reversible at my advanced age.
