Summer Foot Safety

Below, we look at some foot injury pitfalls that are more common during summer, and we share how to avoid them.

1. Lack of Support – Sandals are often a preferred shoe option during the summer, but a lot of sandals are little more than cardboard and strings in terms of how much support they offer your arch. Invest in a quality pair of sandals that offer plenty of support for your arch, and don’t rely on them as your main footwear option. Wear them in moderation, but if you’re going to be on your feet all day, grab a more supportive option.

2. Overuse – When it gets warm out, people tend to take their workouts outdoors and tack on extra miles to their runs and walks. It’s great to stay active and get outdoors, but if you ramp up your mileage too quickly or don’t give your feet time to recover between workouts, injuries like shin splits or overuse problems can occur. Slowly increase your mileage, and be sure to do some upper-body workouts so your legs can get a day off during the week.

3. Protection – Minimalist shoes are often very breathable, but they also don’t offer many protections for your feet. If you are going to be walking on concrete or gravel paths, opt for a footwear choice that protects your feet from pebbles, stones or other hard surfaces.

4. Foot Inspections – Since you’re more likely to see your feet when you’re going barefoot or wearing sandals, you’ll have more opportunities to inspect them. Make sure you are keeping them clean, trimming the nails the the appropriate length (don’t round the edges!) and caring for any cuts or abrasions. If you don’t, a small cut can turn into a huge problem if an infection sets in, so inspect your feet every day.

The post How To Protect Your Feet During The Summer appeared first on Lance Silverman, MD - Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon.

Hot Weather Health Hazards

Here are some things to be mindful of when you’re heading to the lake or going for a bike ride this summer.

1. Sandals – As an orthopedic specialist, I’d be remiss if I didn’t begin with a health hazard that affects your feet. Sandals are great for regulating heat, but they usually don’t offer your feet much protection, so don’t wear them if you’re going to be running or walking on dirt paths. Also, sandals rarely provide your feet with much arch support, so wear them in moderation if you have high arches or develop arch pain.

2. Sun Dangers – Whether it’s from heat stroke or sunburn, the sun can cause numerous health issues if you’re not careful. Be mindful about your body’s exposure to the sun and heat, and be prepared if you’re going to be in direct sunlight for hours on end. Pack plenty of liquids, lube up with sunscreen, re-apply every few hours, and consider wearing clothes or accessories like hats to help shade your body.

3. Foot Puncture Wounds – Some people don’t even bother with flip flops during the summer – they prefer the feel of grass beneath their feet. Going barefoot can be fun, but you need to watch where you’re stepping. Rocks, gardening tools or sharp objects left over from a home renovation can all lead to puncture wounds if you step in the wrong spot. Only go barefoot in familiar areas.

4. Slippery Surfaces – If you’re going to be spending some of your summer time around a pool, you’re going to want to be careful about slippery surfaces. Always walk when you’re traversing wet surfaces, and opt for shoes or flip flops with a good grip!

The post 4 Summer Health Hazards appeared first on Lance Silverman, MD - Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Surgeon.