The Summer Holidays are here & the weather is finally brightening up (for how long, who knows?). But the summer can be really tough on our feet. The mix of heat, sweat & less than appropriate footwear can cause aches, pains & blisters. Here are our top tips on keeping your feet beach fresh at all times!
Avoid walking barefoot outside
There’s a lot to be said for taking off your shoes and feeling grounded in nature, but walking barefoot outside can increase your risk of unnecessary injury. Insect bites & stings are super uncomfortable on the soles of your feet, and you’re more likely to cut yourself on loose debris.
If you have diabetes or neuropathy you’re even more at risk if you have a lack of sensation. These cuts, bites & stings could go entirely unnoticed & then get infected (this is why regular Diabetes Foot Checks are advised).
And that paddling pool you’ve set up outside where the ground around it is now damp? You’ve got a breeding ground for fungal infections & verrucas so put those flip flops on!
The right footwear
On the subject of flip flops – they’re pretty awful when it comes to arch support, or any support at all. But we absolutely understand the need for sandals and flip flop type footwear when it’s hot outside. In fact, we encourage breathable footwear during hotter weather as it prevents sweaty feet!
Over on our social media, we have spoken previously about how Archies, Crocs & Birkenstocks are actually a decent alternative to flip flops and sandals during the summer due to their breathable nature, whilst still keeping our foot supported. Would we recommend walking for ages in them? No. But for pottering about the beer garden, the beach or your friends summer barbecue? Ideal!
Sweaty Feet
When we wear the wrong footwear for the weather, our feet will sweat more! This can increase the risk of that summers day ruiner – blisters! If you do get a blister, use padding like Moleskin or a Compeed blister plaster. Don’t pop the blister! If you have a blister in an area that is preventing you from walking (sole of your foot) – book a Podiatry appointment where we can drain & dress it safely!
If you have to wear enclosed footwear, and they get sweaty, make sure they’re completely dry before wearing them again. Bamboo or cotton socks will also work best to wick away sweat from building up. These are your best protectors against fungal build up and conditions like Athlete’s Foot.
Don’t miss out!
Doncaster Foot Clinic can get quite busy during the summer months. We have people wanting their toenails and feet looking fresh before a holiday or wedding and pre-season injuries for athletes to contend with – as well as all our usual day to day ailments. If you need an appointment for something, it’s best to book as soon as possible as appointment slots can get booked up fast!