I have a problem where my second toe is very long. When I buy sports shoes, they are often very loose. What should I do?

This is a condition called Morton’s foot, where the second digit is longer than the first. The problem is that the shoe size will need to be measured to the second toe. You could try wearing two pairs of socks or thick socks. Unfortunately, there are no special shoes for this. Be conscious that a number of people develop pain in places other than the foot because of this condition (it could be anywhere from the feet to the neck), as the second toe becomes the fulcrum. This change in mechanics affects the rest of the system. Ideally, when you put your finger into the shoe when wearing it, the finger shouldn’t be able to go around the heel. You could meet a podiatrist for orthotics.

My children have left home, and I now have time to spend for exercise. I have upto two hours. What are the possibilities?

Find a good local gym for your support system. They will do an assessment to check your fitness parameters before you begin. It’s also best to check with a doctor to make sure what you’re doing is safe. Try getting basic strength, especially in your core. Also important is aerobic activity. If you don’t have access to a gym, go for a brisk walk and make sure that your heart rate goes to 100. For a rough guide, feel your pulse for 15 seconds and multiply by 4 to know your heart rate. After you stop, it should drop 10-20 beats a minute or so later.

Dr Kannan Pugazhendi is a sports physician and fitness consultant with over two decades of experience.

Nothing in this column is intended to be, and is not, a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please seek independent advice from a licensed practitioner if you have any questions regarding a medical condition. Email us with your questions at mp_health@thehindu.co.in