PROTECT YOUR FEET THIS SUMMER

During the warmer weather our feet tend to be frequently exposed to the elements as we wear sandals, flip flops and are often barefoot. 

 “During this time of year, we see many foot injuries or problems due to non-supportive footwear and barefoot walking,” said Dr. Jodie Sengstock, past president of the Michigan Podiatric Medical Association.  “Pool areas and public showers are home to infections such as planter warts and athlete’s foot, while the sun’s powerful rays can cause painful sun burns.” 

Podiatrists of the Michigan Podiatric Medical Association (MPMA) have some advice to share that can help prevent harmful conditions to feet. 

Going Barefoot

• Limit walking barefoot as it exposes feet to sunburn, as well as plantar warts, athlete's foot, ringworm, and other infections and also increases risk of injury to your feet.
• Wear shoes or flip-flops around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room and even on the carpeting or in the bathroom of your hotel room to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting any bacterial infections.
• Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles, and don't forget to reapply after you've been in the water.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat.
• Keep blood flowing with periodic ankle flexes, toe wiggles, and calf stretches.
• Some activities at the beach, lake or river may require different types of footwear to be worn so be sure to ask the contact at each activity if specific shoes are needed. To be safe, always pack an extra pair of sneakers or protective water shoes. If your shoes will be getting wet, they should be dried out completely before your next wearing to prevent bacteria or fungus from growing.
• If you injure your foot or ankle while on vacation or during an outing, seek professional medical attention from a podiatric physician. Many often only contact a doctor when something is broken or sprained, but a podiatrist can begin treating your ailment immediately. 

Flip Flops

                Flip flops just are not good for extensive walking.  They do not offer any arch support, heel         cushioning, or shock absorption.  Wearers may suffer foot pain due to lack of arch support,   tendinitis, and even sprained ankles if they trip.  Wearers are also at greater risk of stubbed          toes, glass cuts, puncture wounds, or having a heavy object injure their foot.

• Do not wear flip flops when playing sports or running.
• Do not wear flip flops while gardening or doing yard work.
• Wear sturdy, supportive shoes while walking for long periods of time.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on all areas of your foot while wearing open shoes.
• Use extra care while driving.  Flips flops can impair a driver’s control if they come off the foot and lodge under the brake or gas pedal. 

Be Prepared

                In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with the following on-the-go foot gear:

• Flip flops – for the pool, spa, hotel room, and airport security check points.
• Sterile bandages – for covering minor cuts and scrapes.
• Antibiotic cream – to treat any skin injury.
• Emollient-enriched cream – to hydrate feet.
• Blister pads or moleskin – to protect against blisters.
• Motrin or Advil (anti-inflammatory) – to ease tired, swollen feet.
• Sunscreen – to protect against the scorching sun.
• Aloe Vera or Silvadene cream – to relieve sunburns.