Summer Tips for Your Feet

We are almost reunited with the glorious days of summer, a time for fun in the sun and outdoor adventures. But stay vigilant. Even as the warm sun kisses your skin and the gentle breeze caresses your hair, there are lurking threats that can pose risks to your precious feet. In this brief article brought to you by Mountain Spring Podiatry, we uncover some summertime risks and offer some tips to keep your feet happy and healthy during the sun-soaked season of summer. If you are looking for a reliable podiatrist, or foot doctor, you can always call Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule a convenient appointment.

Summertime Perils to Beware

The summertime introduces longer days and hot temperatures, but it also brings unique threats to your feet. Understanding these threats is the first step towards fending them off. Let’s look at some risks to be aware of.

The sun, while a source of warmth and delight, can lead to sunburn and damage to your skin. Shield your feet from the intense rays of the sun by slathering exposed areas with sunscreen. Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with high SPF – and don’t forget to reapply regularly!

Thanks to the combination of heat and humidity, summer often involves sweaty feet. This creates an ideal breeding ground for fungal infections like athlete’s foot. To combat these fungal foes, keep your feet clean and dry and wear moisture-wicking socks and breathable footwear. Also avoid walking barefoot in public areas such as pools, locker rooms, and public showers to minimize the risk of picking up these fungal infections.

As the sun sets and twilight emerges, pesky insects awaken, ready to feast on your exposed skin. Mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects can leave itchy and irritating bites. To fend off these fiends, consider applying insect repellent to your feet and wearing protective clothing, such as long pants and closed-toe shoes.

General Tips to Keep Your Feet Happy and Healthy

With the mentioned summertime threats and tips in mind, here are some further tips to keep your feet in tip-top shape:

• Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration is essential for your overall health, and your feet appreciate it as well. Drink plenty of water to prevent foot swelling and reduce the risk of muscle cramps.
• Foot Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with soap and warm water. Pay attention to the spaces between your toes and thoroughly dry your feet afterward to prevent fungal and bacterial infections.
• Nail Care: Trim your toenails straight across and not too short to avoid ingrown toenails. Bacteria and microbes can hide under long, unkempt toenails!
• Foot Exercises: Incorporate foot exercises into your routine to maintain strength and flexibility. Jumping straight into action can cause cramps and foot injuries.

When to See a Podiatrist

By following these summertime foot health tips, you can keep your feet happy and healthy, allowing you to fully enjoy the activities and adventures that summer brings. Still, foot issues and injuries are not uncommon. If you have concerns regarding your foot health, then call Mountain Spring Podiatry to schedule an appointment with a licensed podiatrist as soon as possible.