Although Black Friday gets the headlines, the Saturday before Christmas is the biggest shopping day of the year for many retailers. With so many people planning to make a trip to the mall or department stores this weekend, odds are customers are going to have to wait in lines and navigate crowded parking lots. This adds up to a lot of extra time on your feet, so take steps to prevent and alleviate foot pain while shopping. Below, we provide a few tips to make sure your experience is as comfortable as can be.
1. Comfort Comfort Comfort – We can’t stress how important it is to wear comfortable shoes if you’re going to be walking around for hours on end. If you were lucky enough to score a fashionable pair of heels before the holidays, save them for a special occasion where you won’t be doing as much walking. It may be tempting to flaunt your stylish new kicks, but nobody will be impressed if you take them off because your feet are in too much pain.
2. Get A Grip – This tip is similar to the above point, but it’s important enough to stand alone. Make sure your shoes have a good tread so you don’t slip. As we mentioned in the introduction, the parking lots will be crowded, so you might have to park further away than anticipated. If you’re not wearing the right shoes, you could injure yourself before you even get into the store. Once you’re inside, use caution. Although many entrances have mats for shoppers to dry their feet, there are usually a few slick spots on the nearby tile floor. Take the extra minute to dry off the bottom of your shoes, and watch for any hidden puddles as you start your shopping spree.
3. Listen To Your Body – Even if you’re wearing a comfortable pair of shoes, walking and standing for hours on end can take a toll on your feet. Listen to your dogs when they are barking. If you notice your feet are starting to get sore, head to the food court or nearest bench to give them a break. This will help them recover from the rigors of shopping, and it will make your experience more pleasant because you won’t be walking around in pain.
4. Get A Massage – If you come in under budget after your escapades, consider stopping for a quick foot massage. Studies have shown that foot massages can:
- Provide pain relief
- Contribute to an overall sense of calmness and relaxation
- Promote healthy circulation
- Improve a person’s psychological and mental health