Fourth of July Feet

The Fourth of July is one of my favorite holiday for several reasons.  The day is usually filled with family, fun, fireworks and of course food.  Amongst all the fun, you probably won't be thinking much about the health of your feet.  However, it is still very important to care for your feet during vacation; you may have a vacation from work but you should never take a vacation from caring for your feet! Check out these tips from APMA.org on caring for your feet during the summer months and holiday.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. Keep blood flowing with periodic ankle flexes, toe wiggles, and calf stretches.
6. 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.
7. If you injure your foot or ankle while on vacation, 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 while you’re away from home.
8. In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with the following on-the-go foot gear:
9. • 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
   
   • Try Engo's Blister Prevention patches available through our online product store.
   • Motrin or Advil (anti-inflammatory) – to ease tired, swollen feet
   • Toenail clippers – to keep toenails trimmed
   • Emery board – to smooth rough edges or broken nails
   • Pumice stone – to soften callused skin
   • Sunscreen – to protect against the scorching sun
   • Aloe vera or Silvadene cream – to relieve sunburns

Applying these helpful hints during your summer vacation will ensure a happy and healthy for you and your family.  Prevention is extremely important in health care, and that includes your feet.  If you are having problems with your feet and think you should see a podiatrist before you leave for you vacation, don't hesitate to call our office at 419-423-1888 or visit our website to request an appointment.