Don't let sore, achy feet ruin your holiday season.

Schussler Footcare Centers offers tips to healthy holiday feet.

If the shoe fits, wear it--When hitting the dance floor or the shopping malls during the holiday season, don't compromise comfort and safty when choosing the right shoes to wear. Narrow shoes, overly-high-heeled shoes, or ones that aren't worn often, such as dress shoes, can irratate feet and lead to blisters, callouses, swelling and even ankle injuries. "Choose a shoe that has a low heel, and fits your foot in length, width, and depth while you are standing." says Schussler Footcare Center's, Michael B. Schussler DPM, FACFAS. "Be proactive, protective and preventive with your selection of appropriate shoes for your holiday occasion.

Don't overinduldge in holiday cheer--Did you know that your feet can feel the effects of too much holiday cheer? Certain foods and beverages that are high in purines, such as shellfish, red meat, red wine and beer can trigger extremely painful gout attacks, a condition when uric acid builds up and crystallizes in and around your joints."Oftentimes it is the big toe that is affected first since the toe is the coolest part of the body and uric acid is sensitive to temperature changes," Dr. Schussler says.

Be pedicure-safety conscious--Before you head for your holiday pedicure, remember that nail salons can be a breeding ground for bacteria, including MRSA. To reduce your risk of infection, choose a salon that follows proper sanitation practices and is licensed by the state. Consider also purchasing your own pedicure instruments to bring along to your appointment.

Use caution in icy and snowy weather--Holiday winter wonderlands may be beautiful, but also dangerous. Use caution, watch for ice and snow when walking outdoors. The ankle joint can be more vulnerable to serious injury when falling on ice. "Ice accelerates the fall and often causes more severe trauma, because the foot can move in any direction after it slips," Dr. Schussler explains. If you do experience a fall, take a break form activities untill you can visit your Podiatrist. Use R.I.C.E. therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) to help reduce the pain and control swelling around the injury.

"Listen" to your Feet--Don't let foot pain ruin your Holiday fun; inspect your feet regularly for any evidence of ingrown toenails, bruising, swelling, blisters, dry skin or calluses." If you notice any pain, swelling or signs of problems, make a prompt appointment with your local podiatrist." Dr Schussler says. "Often, especially with diabetics, what may seem like a simple issue can turn into a larger problem if left untreated."

Happy Holidays To All!