Our feet are one of the most important parts of our body, and yet, unlike other parts, such as our head, neck and shoulders, we don't always think to give them the stretches and exercise they need. Stretching our feet helps to relieve pain, improve flexibility and increase strength. If taking care of your feet hasn't been a part of your daily routine, try these three stretches for happier feet.

Raise, point, and curl

This is a great stretch for both your feet and ankles.

1. Begin by sitting in a chair with your feet flat on the ground, slightly apart.
2. Slowly raise your heels off the floor, stopping when all that remains on the floor is the ball of your foot.
3. Keep your heels raised for a count of five (5), then slowly lower them back to the floor.
4. Rock back on your heel and point your toes until you have rocked back as far as possible on your heels.
5. Curl your toes back, hold for a count of five (5), then lower your toes back to the ground.
6. Slowly raise your heels so that only your big toe, and second toe, are on the ground.
7. Curl your toes under your foot and hold for a count of five (5), then lower your heels back down.
8. Repeat the sequence 7 - 10 times.

Toe curls

Our toes do a lot of work, so you can build their strength and flexibility by practising these toe curls.

1. Begin by sitting in a chair with your feet flat on the ground, slightly apart.
2. Place a small towel under one of your feet.
3. Use your toes to grip the towel and pull it toward your body.
4. Hold, release and repeat.
5. After 7 - 10 repeats, change feet.

Point and flex

Improve circulation and give all the muscles in your feet a good stretch with this simple point and flex.

1. Begin by sitting in a chair with your feet flat on the ground, slightly apart.
2. Raise one foot slightly off the ground and hold it in position.
3. Flex your toes as far back as possible and hold for a count of five (5).
4. Now, point your toes as far as possible and hold for a count of five (5).
5. After 7 - 10 repeats, change feet.

If you would like to learn more about making your feet "happy" with a Perth podiatrist, contact the team at Melville Wellness to discuss a treatment plan that is tailored to you and your feet.