Missy Franklin, the seventeen year old swimming phenomenon who won four gold medals at the Olympics, attributes part of her success to her physiology, particularly her large size thirteen feet. Franklin said her feet “are like my built-in flippers… I definitely don’t think I would be where I am in swimming without (them).” Franklin’s large feet and hands and tall frame make her particularly adept at swimming.

However, even if you do not have Franklin’s frame, swimming remains an excellent exercise for the feet and ankles. If you are considering a swimming exercise program to strengthen and stretch your feet and ankles, you should consult a podiatrist like Dr. Howard Hyman of The Podiatry Center. Dr. Hyman can recommend the best swimming programs for your lifestyle and your feet.

Benefits of Swimming and Foot care

Our feet receive the most stress on a daily basis. Walking, running, and long standing contribute to pain and stress on the feet. Swimming helps promote circulation and keep the body feeling great and healthy.

Benefits of swimming:

Improve blood circulation

• Swimming is a good, safe way to get in extra physical activity and improve circulation, without causing further trauma to the feet

Relieve aches or pains

• It takes all the pressure off of them, allowing the feet to relax and recover, and improves blood flow to them.

Circulation overall for diabetics

• Swimming contributes to blood flow, and increase oxygen levels within the body.

Reduce foot inflammation

• Swimming in warm water can increase blood flow and make it easier to move, while helping the afflicted foot. The feet can also benefit from stretching, during a swimming activity.

Swimming the helpful alternative:

Many people like the elderly and diabetics suffer from weakened muscles and joints. A water sport like swimming will support the body, thus allowing him or her to move freely. Blood flow circulation is a main trigger to tired inflamed feet. Swimming is an alternative to other vigorous sports. Flowing freely in a pool or at the beach eases the mind, body and spirit. Altogether you are feeding a healthy lifestyle, while having some fun.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office in Milburn NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.