Summer Foot Care Tips

Memorial Day is around the corner, marking a type of unofficial start to summer. It’s a time of barbeques, gatherings of friends and families, and the beginning of the outdoor season. We at Alamitos-Seal Beach Podiatry Group want you to be able to enjoy it to the fullest. That’s why we have come up with some tips on ways to take care of your feet during this summer:

• Don’t forget the feet! A summer staple is sunscreen. Purchase a broad-spectrum formulated sunscreen to protect from UVA and UVB and make sure to apply to all exposed skin, including the ankles and feet.
• On hot days, wear sandals or breathable sneakers if you have a lot of walking to do. Flip flops, while convenient and helpful for keeping feet cool, are not very supportive and can lead to foot strain and even, pain. Buy shoes that are comfortable when trying them on. Breaking them in will not always work and uncomfortable spots can cause blisters.
• Do, however, wear flip flops for short distances, like around the pool and in locker rooms so that you prevent injury and risk of contagious viral or fungal infection.
• Limit the time you are barefoot, especially outside. Not only is it dangerous since you never know what might be hiding on the ground, it can also be unhygienic. Small shards of glass, dog or goose poop, as well as viruses and fungi (like plantar warts, athlete’s foot, and ringworm) can be waiting to get on your feet. You also increase chances of sunburn.
• Got toenail fungus or ingrown toenails? Come see us – we can treat them so that you don’t have to cover them up.
• If you like getting pedicures, try to schedule your appointment as their first client. That way, you know that their tools are sterilized. Additionally, let your toenails “breathe” in between painting them. Nail polish can prevent them from getting enough oxygen, making them turn yellowish in color.
• Stay hydrated to help with circulation, decrease swelling, and prevent dry cracked skin on the heels. Reduce the amount of salty foods to prevent swelling.
• If you tend to sweat a lot (hyperhidrosis), carry around an extra pair of socks and rotate the shoes you wear to prevent foot odor.
• For diabetics, following the above tips are very important. However, it is important that diabetics who have neuropathy do not go barefoot as they are at risk for injury without knowing it. Check your feet daily and keep them clean and well-maintained. Keep up with regular exercise and a healthy diet.

If you have concerns about your feet in the summer, make an appointment today at Alamitos-Seal Beach Podiatry Group. One of our board-certified podiatrists, Dr. Douglas H. Richie, Dr. Jeremy L. Cook, Dr. Faye E. Izadi can assess your feet at either of our Seal Beach, CA and Los Alamitos, CA offices in Orange County.