Planning a tropical getaway? Can Your Feet Take the Heat?
NYC Podiatrist Offers Foot Care Tips for Your Next Getaway!
Heat, sun, sand and surf -- the symbols of the ultimate getaway. However, your feet may not appreciate these elements as much as you do. To keep them healthy and free from injury and pain, follow these tips provided by Manhattan podiatrist Dr. Oliver Zong.
Don't go barefoot in the park -- or anywhere else, for that matter. If enclosed shoes are uncomfortable, try flip-flops.
Apply sunscreen to your feet (especially the tops and in between toes) 20 to 30 minutes before going outdoors.
If you've been out walking or hiking, end the day by massaging your feet, soaking them in lukewarm water and keeping them elevated for 10 minutes to ease the stress on your circulatory system. If you really want to spoil yourself, apply some vitamin E cream that's been stored in the refrigerator.
Even though your feet are on display, don't use nail polish every day and definitely don't use it on discolored nails -- this could indicate the presence of an infection.
FUNGUS FREE FEET
Fungal infections thrive in moist, damp places. To keep your feet fungus-free, follow these tips:
Keep your feet dry and clean. Apply a topical antifungal medication on any cracking or peeling of the skin.
Wear socks that are made of an acrylic fiber, not cotton (acrylic wicks moisture away from the feet), and change your socks at least once a day.
Cover your feet with antiperspirant. The active ingredient, aluminum hydroxide, keeps your feet from sweating.
Don't wear the same shoes every day. Shoes need about 24 hours to completely dry out from the last time they were worn.
Be sure to wear flip-flops or some other kind of shoe in the locker room.
Pass up sharing towels to avoid developing athlete's foot and other diseases that can easily be spread.
SAY BUH-BYE TO BLISTERS
Beware of blisters - treat areas on your feet that are sensitive to blisters before they happen.
Over-the-counter moleskin or blister pads are helpful.
And, don't pop blisters! The blister and the fluid inside act as natural, sterile dressings for the wound. Apply a protective strip (Band-Aid) to protect the wound.
BE SWEET TO YOUR FEET
Baby your feet - soaking and massaging your feet will also help to keep them happy.
Massage sandals such as those made by Kenkoh (available at happyfeet.com) will help rejuvenate your feet and legs, and help you step out in comfort this summer and beyond.
Take special care of toenails, which are especially vulnerable around damp areas. Injury to the nail bed may make it more susceptible to infection so see your podiatrist at first sign of discoloration or infection.
When in the ocean, be cautious of jellyfish that often bite at feet and ankles and sharp coral that can cut the undersides of feet. Keeping sandals or water shoes on at all times is a good idea to prevent stings, cuts and other injuries.
Watch out for prickly sea urchin spines when taking walks on the beach. Avoid walking barefoot; wear an old pair of running shoes or flip-flops to protect your feet from jagged rocks, shells, spines and debris that could float ashore.
DO YOU NEED TO TOSS THOSE TRENDY SANDALS?
In warmer climates, people often wear trendy sandals that can cause irritating and painful blisters on feet," says Dr. Zong. "It's important to treat those blisters with a product that will promote fast, natural healing such as BAND-AID® Brand Advanced Healing Blister. Not only does it help to heal the blister, but it features additional cushioning to provide relief from irritation caused by friction with shoes."
Dr. Zong advocates caring for your feet with these easy suggestions:
Don't ignore foot pain -- minor pain can have serious long-term consequences if not treated.
Make sure to choose shoes that are the right size and fit properly.
Don't try to squeeze your foot into a shoe that is too small or too big.
Select the right shoe for the activity you are engaged in. Using the wrong shoes can cause problems beyond just your feet.
