Although snow is still covering much of the state, March is breezing by and spring break is on the horizon. If you’re a teacher who needs a getaway or a family who is planning a trip to somewhere exotic, you’re probably focused on packing your shorts and sandals and not much else. However, you should pay a little attention to your feet while preparing for and enjoying spring break, or you might come back with an injury.
Protecting Your Feet on Spring Break
Here are five ways you can help keep your feet injury free while on spring break.
1. Pack Plenty of Shoes – Be sure that you pack a few comfortable shoe options, especially if you’re going somewhere like Disney where you’ll be doing a lot of walking and standing in line. If you just pack sandals for the beach and high heels for going out at night, your feet are going to be overstressed and under supported throughout the duration of your trip.
2. Sunscreen on your Feet – If you are heading out on the beach or just going to be rocking sandals for the day, make sure you don’t forget to put sunscreen on your feet. Your feet are one of the most commonly overlooked spots when it comes to applying sunscreen, and aside from making it painful to wear socks and shoes for the rest of vacation, not protecting your feet can increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
3. Barefoot Basics – If you’re on the beach, it’s going to be tempting to kick off your sandals and go barefoot. It’s probably pretty safe to go barefoot on the soft sand, but keep an eye out for sharp shells or broken glass if you get closer to the water. If you’re not familiar with the area, watch where you’re stepping if you plan on going barefoot.
4. Check Your Feet Regularly – Regardless of whether your are diabetic or not, make sure that you perform regular checks of your feet. Sand or small particles can get inside open sores and lead to infections or other problems. Clean your feet and check them for scraps or cuts every day when you’re on vacation.
5. Medications and Movement on Flights – Finally, if you are taking a long flight to your destination, and you are at risk for developing blood clots, make sure you pack and take your medication to help prevent against clots. Also, be sure to take advantage of your chance to move about the cabin when the captain turns off the seat belt sign. Your feet and legs can be at risk for DVT on long flights, so do what you can to help mitigate that risk.