January 1 means making resolutions for many of us.  Exercising more is the 2nd most popular resolution people make on the first of the new year (see the other 9 common ones below).

However, foot and ankles surgeons warn that foot pain then follows for some of us.  If you aren’t used to exercising, you might jump in too fast or too hard.  And – bingo – pain.  So visits to foot doctors jump up this month.

Some basic cautions are:

• Work up to exercise gradually
• Wear appropriate foot wear
• Take days off between exercising or vary the type of exercise you do
• STOP if you feel pain and get the problem evaluated, so you can continue exercising

Remember, movement and exercise are good for those of us with chronic pain…  it’s simply important to do it safely.

The most popular resolutions:

1. Spend more time with family and friends
2. Fit in fitness
3. Lose Weight
4. Quit smoking
5. Enjoy life more
6. Quit drinking
7. Get out of debt
8. Learn something new
9. Help others
10. Get Organized

Here’s a previous article on a stretch to avoid heel pain.  Information on foot pain courtesy of this US News & World Report article.  10 popular resolutions courtesy of About: Pittsburgh.