DO A BATH TOWEL STRETCH: Put a rolled up towel under the ball of one foot, holding both ends of the towel along with your left and proper hand. Next, slowly pull the towel towards you while keeping your knee straight (the other knee might be bent). Hold this position for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat four times and change to the other foot, if required
STRETCH YOUR CALVES: Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at about eye level. Put one leg about a step behind your other leg, maintaining your back heel flat on the ground. Make certain this leg stays straight at all times. Now bend the knee of the front leg little by little, lowering your body until you feel a stretch in the calf of the back leg. Hold the stretch for 15 to 20 seconds. Repeat 4 times. Do the identical exercise for the other leg.
USE ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS: Although it’s a short-term fix, try Ibuprofen. Some people find this medication causes stomach difficulties. In any case, use in moderation.
CHECK YOUR FOOTWEAR.Weak shoes or boots can cause ankle instability during walking and can lead to heel pain as well as other foot issues. The right supportive shoe should only bend at the sole within the forefoot location and be firm elsewhere.
Robin Westen is ThirdAge's health reporter. Her latest book, co-written with Dr. Alyssa Dweck, is "V is for Vagina."
