5 Tips for Protecting Your Foot and Ankle Health During the Summer
Protecting your feet during the summer may help you reduce discomfort, infections, or injuries. A foot and ankle institute can address possible issues that do not resolve on their own. Here are tips to protect your feet and ankles.
1. Choose Appropriate Footwear for Activities
Walking barefoot may expose your feet to injuries such as sunburns, scrapes, or infections. Limit walking barefoot for extended periods of time, as it could increase your chances of interacting with germs in public spaces. Wear flip-flops, clogs, or other slip-on shoes as you move around the poolside or the beach to protect your feet from hot sand or concrete surfaces.
If you are heading out for a cookout, to the shop, or an evening out, wear sandals with some arch support. The contour of the shoe should align with the shape of your feet to help distribute your weight evenly across the bottom of your foot. Other loose shoes like loafers and flats are also ideal for these or similar activities. If you are going to a water park, flip-flops or water shoes are appropriate footwear.
For activities that involve you standing for long periods, wear sports shoes, also known as tennis shoes, sneakers, or trainers, because of their shock-absorbing properties. If you expect to encounter uneven terrain, hiking shoes that offer support around the ankles are preferable.
2. Use Sunscreen and Moisturize
Apply sunscreen to your feet and ankles when enjoying the outdoors this summer. Because they are the most exposed part of the foot, the tops of ankles and feet are susceptible to sunburn. Water washes away sunscreen so reapply about every two hours or as often as necessary. In case of a sunburn, apply a cold compress or soak your feet in cold water. Limit exposure to the sun as your feet heal.
Implementing a daily moisturizer to your daily foot care routine can help you keep the skin on your feet looking healthy. Moisturizers have the potential to promote healing from sun exposure or small skin abrasions.
3. Practice Good Hygiene
After finishing the day’s activities, wash your feet with warm water and soap. Use a towel to dry them thoroughly, making sure that you dry in between the toes. You might also disinfect your feet with an antifungal spray. Trim your toenails regularly to help potentially prevent ingrown nails.
When you leave the pool or beach, dry your feet completely before wearing socks and shoes. Practicing this may keep your feet free of odor and prevent fungal or bacterial growth.
If you are diabetic, check your feet daily for signs of sores, blisters, or ingrown toenails, paying close attention to areas such as your heels. If these issues don’t clear up on their own, you might need to consult a foot and ankle institute.
4. Stay Hydrated
High summer temperatures could increase the likelihood of experiencing dehydration. Swelling caused by dehydration can lead to discomfort by making your shoes feel tighter around the foot and ankle. Frequently drink water or another hydrating fluid with a moderate to high amount of electrolytes to reduce the chances of your feet swelling.
5. Change Wet Socks
In hot weather, your socks are likely to get wet from sweating, especially by wearing closed shoes. Be sure to change your socks as soon as they start to feel damp. Moisture on the skin can cause friction, resulting in blisters or sores. Avoid woolen socks and opt for breathable socks made from fabrics like cotton, polyester, and bamboo for warm weather. Airing out your shoes regularly to help dry them out is another way to prevent moisture buildup in your socks.
Work With a Foot and Ankle Institute
If possible, break in new shoes gradually to avoid blisters or other discomfort. Overly stiff shoes can injure your feet and make it harder to enjoy your summer activities. Consult foot and ankle professionals to help you care for your feet this summer.
