Protecting Your Feet From the Heat
Summer weather presents different challenges for people when it comes to the health of their feet. The hotter weather means people will be wearing shoes without support, closed shoes with bare feet, and more open-toe shoes. It also means there will be more events that can lead to more injuries. Today Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC are sharing tips to protect your feet and help you steer clear of injuries.
Top 4 Tips for Protecting Your Feet From The Heat
One bonus of a vacation at the beach is knowing that you can relax with your toes dangling, shoe-free with the sand at your feet. But the dream does come with its own set of foot problems.
Here are ways you can prevent foot problems and enjoy your sun-kissed days.
Limit walking barefoot because it leaves your feet vulnerable to sunburn, as well as plantar warts, ringworm, athlete's foot, and other infections.
Wear flip-flops or shoes around the pool, in the locker room, at the beach, and even in the bathroom of your hotel room to decrease the likelihood of contracting a bacterial infection.
Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, particularly the fronts and tops of ankles and reapply after you've been in the water.
Keep yourself hydrated by drinking lots of water. This will also reduce any swelling caused by the heat.
Potential Injuries of the Feet
Achilles Tendinitis affects the Achilles tendon and typically includes inflammation, swelling, irritation and pain in the area that is affected.
Shin Splints are caused by inflammation to the muscles that encircle the shinbone. It can be caused by stress fractures, an overuse of muscles, or misalignment of the foot joints.
Ankle Sprains often occur when walking on uneven surfaces, during sporting activities, or when just walking around the house. Prompt treatment is recommended to prevent any further damage and ensure proper healing.
Heel Pain/Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the band of tissue that spreads from the heel to the toes. The symptoms usually feel like a piercing pain in the arch area under the foot or the heel.
Stress Fractures are hairline cracks that are typically caused by repetitive stress, overuse, or misaligned foot mechanics. Symptoms include pain that develops gradually, during or after normal activity, or pain that subsides when resting and then returns during activity.
If you are experiencing these or any other lower limb injuries – or want more tips to keep your feet healthy - contact the office of Dr. Stuart Snyder and Dr. Sara Sharma of Maple Springs Foot Center, LLC to schedule an appointment. Call us today us at (301) 762-3338 or you’re your appointment online.
