SmartStep Foot & Ankle: A New Year, A New Routine
Hello, friends!
Happy New Year! I hope your 2026 is off to a fantastic start.
In my household, January always feels like a fresh chance to reset our goals and get back to the foundations of health.
This month, I’m talking about our local fitness partnerships, the chaos (and comfort) of getting back into a family routine, and how we are making it easier than ever for you to access specialized foot care in Charlotte.
Top of My Mind: Powering Your New Year Fitness Goals
Starting the Year Strong and Safe
Like many of you, I’ve been seeing the local gyms in Charlotte buzzing with energy lately. It’s the time of year when we all commit to being a little more active. Whether you’re a long-distance runner or just starting a walking program, I want to make sure your feet are as ready for the challenge as your mind is.
To help our community reach their goals, SmartStep has partnered with some incredible local fitness centers. We’ve been working closely with Crunch Fitness and ISI Elite Training to ensure their members understand the importance of foot health in their training regimens.
We had a great time at ISI Elite Training in Tega Cay, SC
The Foundation of Every Workout
I often tell my patients: you wouldn't build a house on a shaky foundation, so don't build your fitness routine on shaky foot health. If you’re starting a new high-intensity program at ISI or hitting the weights at Crunch, your footwear and arch support are your best friends. Starting too fast without the right support is a quick way to end up with plantar fasciitis or stress fractures.
My New Year Tip: If you’re feeling a "new" pain that lasts more than a few days after a workout, don't just "push through it." Let's take a look early so we can keep you in the gym and out of the recovery room. Book a virtual or onsite visit with SmartStep Foot and Ankle today!
The Lanier Family Corner: Embracing the Routine
From Holiday Chaos to Daily Rhythm
Toni and I had a wonderful holiday season with the kids, but I’ll be honest: there’s a certain relief that comes with getting back into our "normal" routine. Between school starting back up, the kids' extracurricular schedules, and our own work commitments, the Lanier house is back to full speed.
The kids are back on the mats for their taekwondo training, and seeing them refocus on their goals for their next belt levels is a great reminder for me of the power of consistency.
Why Routine Matters for Health
Getting back into a routine means managing the calendar, but it also means making health a habit again. When our schedules are consistent, it’s easier to remember the small things like daily foot inspections for diabetic patients or performing those morning stretches for tight calves and Achilles tendons.
If the holiday rush threw your health habits off track, use this final week of January to lock your routine back in. You can also book a virtual or onsite visit with SmartStep Foot and Ankle for a check-in if you have any questions or concerns.
Clinical Corner: Bringing Expert Care Directly to You
Modern Access for Busy Lives
One of my biggest goals for 2026 is to eliminate barriers to care. I know how hard it is to navigate Charlotte traffic or take time off work for an appointment. That is why we have expanded our access points to fit your life perfectly.
Telehealth: Virtual Expertise
For those quick questions, triage of a new injury, or follow-ups that don't require hands-on treatment, our telehealth service remains a primary option. You can consult with me from your phone or laptop in both North and South Carolina. It’s the fastest way to get a professional opinion without leaving your desk.
The New Onsite Option: We Come to You
I am particularly excited to emphasize our onsite care model. If you have a podiatric need in the Charlotte Metro, I bring the clinic to you. This is a true "house call" service where I visit you at your home, office, or assisted living facility in the Charlotte Metro area.
This option is perfect for:
Busy Professionals: Get treated in your office during a break.
Seniors and Those with Limited Mobility: Receive Board-Certified care in the comfort and safety of your own living room or assisted living facility.
Post-Op Patients: Avoid the stress of travel while you are in the early stages of recovery.
By evaluating you in your own environment, I can see the shoes you wear every day and the surfaces you navigate, allowing for a much more personalized treatment plan. Plus, I can evaluate concerns like diabetic foot conditions, fungal infections, post-op surgical recovery, and more.
You can connect with me on social media by searching for “SmartStep Foot and Ankle” or using the handle "@smartstepfootandankle”
Connecting With Us: Let’s Stay in Step
We’re here to help you make 2026 your healthiest year yet. Whether you’re hitting the gym at Crunch or ISI, or you need me to come to your front door for an onsite visit, the SmartStep team is ready to support you.
Follow us on social media for more tips from my visits to local fitness centers.
Leave a Google Review: If we’ve helped you get back on your feet, your review helps your neighbors find the care they need.
Sincerely,
Dr. Thurmond Lanier, DPM, MPH, FACFAS SmartStep Foot & Ankle Charlotte, NC
