How Awareness, Prevention, and Certified Pedorthic Care Strengthen Our Community

February carries a dual significance that deserves our full attention. It is both Black History Month a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and cultural impact of Black Americans and American Heart Month, a national call to action to fight heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States.

For the Black community, these two observances are deeply connected. Celebrating our history means protecting our future, and that includes addressing the health disparities that disproportionately affect Black Americans especially when it comes to heart health.

The Heart Health Gap in the Black Community

Black Americans face higher rates of:

• Hypertension

• Diabetes

• Peripheral artery disease

• Stroke

• Heart failure

These conditions don’t exist in isolation. They often develop silently over time, influenced by genetics, stress, access to care, and social determinants of health. And here’s the part many people overlook: foot health and heart health are more connected than most realize.

When circulation, mobility, and joint health decline, physical activity becomes harder. When activity decreases, heart risk increases. It’s a cycle that can be interrupted with the right support.

Where a Certified Pedorthist Makes a Difference

As a Board-Certified Pedorthist, I specialize in the intersection of foot function, mobility, and whole-body wellness. For individuals managing heart-related conditions, or the risk factors that lead to them Pedorthic care can be a powerful tool for prevention and long-term health.

1. Improving Circulation & Reducing Pressure

Heart disease and diabetes often impair circulation, especially in the lower limbs. Proper footwear and custom orthotics help:

• Reduce pressure points

• Improve blood flow

• Support safer, more comfortable movement

2. Supporting Safe, Sustainable Physical Activity

Walking is one of the most effective, accessible forms of heart-healthy exercise. But foot pain, knee pain, or instability can stop that progress before it starts. Pedorthic solutions help people:

• Walk longer

• Move with confidence

• Stay consistent with exercise routines

3. Preventing Complications in At-Risk Individuals

For those with diabetes or neuropathy conditions more prevalent in the Black community foot protection is essential. A pedorthist helps prevent:

• Ulcers

• Skin breakdown

• Joint stress

• Long-term mobility loss

4. Reducing the Impact of Occupational Stress

Many Black Americans work in roles that require long hours on their feet healthcare, hospitality, education, service industries, and more. Proper footwear guidance and orthotic support can dramatically reduce:

• Fatigue

• Swelling

• Lower-limb strain

• Chronic pain

Honoring Black History Means Protecting Black Futures

Black History Month is a celebration of strength, brilliance, and perseverance. American Heart Month is a reminder that our health is part of that legacy.

By taking steps to protect our hearts and our mobility we honor the generations before us and empower the generations to come.

If you or someone you love is managing diabetes, hypertension, circulation issues, or chronic foot pain, partnering with a Certified Pedorthist can be a meaningful step toward better health, better movement, and a better quality of life.