Get Square With Your Feet

by Dorothy Foltz-Gray
Reprinted from Arthritis Today

Stretch and Go
Although your feet will never look buff like well-exercised abs do, exercise will help keep them strong, flexible and pain-free. Below are several sets of exercises to keep your feet fit. Check with your doctor before embarking on any exercise regimen.

• Achilles stretch. Lean against a wall, palms flat on the wall, one foot forward, one foot back. Leave the heel on the floor and lean forward, feeling the pull in your Achilles tendon and calf. Do three times, holding for 10 seconds each time.
• Big-toe stretch. Loop one thick rubber band around your big toes and pull the big toes away from each other and toward your other toes. Hold for five seconds. Repeat 10 times.
• Toe pull. Put a rubber band around the toes of each foot and spread your toes. Hold for five seconds. Repeat 10 times.