5 Foot Facts for Summer Fun!
Summer brings warm weather, vacations and tons of fun. But before you take the first step outside, there are a few must-know tips to keep your feet healthy this summer season. Dr. William Faddock, DPM, Certified Pedorthist, and Director of Training for Foot Solutions answers your top 5 questions on summer foot care. Follow these 5 simple tips for a healthier, happier summer season!
Are there any special precautions that I need to take concerning my feet in the summer?
Feet must be protected at all times; even in the summer. Warmer weather means we want to liberate our feet from confining shoes and let them breathe. However, there are many dangers to going barefoot or wearing a flimsy “flip flop’s”. The dangers come from many directions. The obvious ones are sharp objects or hot surfaces like asphalt paving. But, there are also insect bites and stings, infections from tiny abrasions, bacterial, fungal and allergic reactions to plants or other substances.
If all those things can happen what should I do to protect my feet?
A well-fitted sandal is your best line of defense from the above-mentioned problems. It can allow the feet to enjoy the warm summer air while still protecting the plantar surface from injury. A well-fitted sandal also offers the necessary support to the foot, especially one that may have some problems from faulty function. Most of the sandals carried by Foot Solutions stores have extra depth so you can easily wear your custom orthotic in them.
You mention “flip flops.” Why are they bad to wear?
The construction of this type footwear is flimsy and as such is very unstable. Wearers can easily stumble or trip in them. The thong between the big toe and the second toe can lead to irritation, blistering and even infection, and ruining summer time fun. They have no support and are unsuited for anyone with health problems such as diabetes or circulation problems.
I play a lot of sports in the summer. What do I need to know about my foot health?
Anyone playing any sport needs the proper shoe for their particular sport and the shoe must be well fitted. Runners, joggers and walkers need the type of shoe designed for their specific activity. You shouldn’t wear a walking shoe to run in or a running shoe to play tennis. The wrong shoe means there is a potential for injury. The feet also need the proper sock, one that cushions the heel and forefoot area and wicks away perspiration, helping to prevent both shock and shearing forces. This combination of a proper fitted shoe and the well-designed sock will help to prevent injury, blisters and burning, tired feet. Of course, if there are any biomechanical problems such as hyperpronation, the use of a custom orthotic is critical. The use of the custom orthotic can be a great asset in the prevention of strains, sprains and serious injury.
Do hikers need to follow the same advice?
Absolutely, their footwear needs are the same as any other athlete. Because of the varying terrain trod upon, shoe requirements call for a boot that goes over the ankle. This type of boot gives the ankle additional support and can prevent an ankle sprain or worse. The use of a custom orthotic in the case of a person with a functional problem is absolutely necessary to aid in normal function and to prevent injury. The type of sock is very important. It should provide the foot needs with a well-cushioned heel and forefoot and have a moisture wicking quality.
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