After an exhilarating pickleball match, your tired feet deserve some extra care and attention. To ensure foot health and prevent injuries, it’s crucial to follow a few simple foot care tips. In this blog post, we’ll explore the top 5 Essential Foot Care Tips After a Long Day on the Pickleball Court that will give your feet the much-needed boost they deserve. Please note that while these tips are beneficial, it’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
5 Essential Foot Care Tips After a Long Day on the Pickleball Court
- Opt for Proper Footwear
- Change Socks Frequently
- Practice Good Foot Hygiene
- Nourish Your Feet with Moisturizers
- Stretch and Massage Your Feet
Let’s talk more about each one of these foot care tips after a long day on the pickleball court.
Opt for Proper Footwear
Choose well-fitting sneakers/tennis shoes with stability, cushioning, and support. (Should we rename tennis shoes pickleball shoes? I think so.) Replace worn out sneakers/shoes as they can lead to foot discomfort and injuries.
Recently, I went to my favorite sneaker shop, Feet First Sports (not an affiliate), where professionals can help you find the perfect pair. I had a two month bout of plantar fasciitis, and it was driving me crazy. I like to be always on the go, so he recommended an insert specifically for plantar fasciitis and that I only put 300-500 miles on a pair of sneakers.
In pickleball terms, that would average about one mile per hour while playing doubles pickleball. So, after 300 – 500 pickleball games, you will need new sneakers! If you play once a day for a year, you’ll want to get a new pair of sneakers every 1- 1.5 years.
Change Socks Frequently
Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking synthetic socks. Swap them out as soon as they become damp or after intense physical activity. Consider investing in specialized pickleball socks, like Pickleball Socks by Linda, for added comfort and support during your games.
Practice Good Foot Hygiene
Maintain foot hygiene by washing your feet with warm water and soap. Pay special attention to cleaning between your toes, ensuring that no moisture remains. Drying your feet thoroughly afterward is crucial to prevent fungal growth, which can lead to various foot ailments.
Nourish Your Feet with Moisturizers
Apply a foot cream or moisturizer, preferably one with tea tree oil, to enhance hydration and prevent dryness, cracking, and calluses. Be cautious not to apply the moisturizer between your toes, as excessive moisture in this area can lead to fungal infections. By keeping your feet well-moisturized, you’ll promote overall foot health and comfort.
Stretch and Massage Your Feet
Engage in gentle stretching exercises that target your calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia. These exercises improve flexibility and reduce the risk of foot injuries. Additionally, massaging your feet with your hands or a tennis ball can stimulate blood flow, relieve tension, and induce relaxation.
Regardless of whether you play pickleball indoors or outdoors, and whether you engage in doubles or singles matches, prioritizing foot care is crucial. By following these five essential foot care tips after a long day on the pickleball court, you’ll ensure the well-being of your feet and enjoy the game to the fullest. Remember, your feet deserve the best care possible, so give them the attention they need and deserve.
