Going barefoot is one of summer’s joys, but it also puts your feet at risk for infection, irritation, and cosmetic damage. Exercise caution whenever you head off for the beach, the pool, or even the backyard this season. These ten tips will help you protect your feet from harm in the following months:


1)    Always apply 40 SPF or higher sunscreen to your feet before going outdoors. Your feet can get sunburned, just like the rest of your body. Severe burns can cause blistering and peeling, which can eventually lead to infection.

2)    After a day spend around the water, be sure to dry your feet thoroughly, especially between your toes. Dark moist areas are breeding grounds for fungus and bacteria.

3)    Trim toenails straight across the toe to help diminish your risk for ingrown toenails. Even if long nails look nice when perfectly polished, short nails are far less of a risk.

4)    Choose socks made from synthetic fibers instead of cotton. Synthetic materials wick moisture away from the foot, while cotton and wool absorb dampness. Dry socks can help prevent blisters and foot infections.

5)    If you wear close-toed shoes during the summer, be sure that they fit well, breathe, and expand easily. Choose shoes with wider toe boxes and leather or synthetic outers that wick away moisture and move with your feet.

6)    Wear hard-soled shoes or sandals when on the beach, pool deck, or while in the backyard. Shards of glass and other sharp objects can be difficult to spot in sand, on cement, or in grass.

7)    Wear water shoes or flip flops while showering in locker rooms and public restrooms. Locker room floors are notorious for harboring fungi that cause ringworm and athletes foot, and viruses that cause warts.

8)    Exercise caution when wading in the ocean. Shells, crabs, jellyfish, stingrays, and other bottom-dwelling marine life can cause damage to unprotected feet. Water shoes can offer extra protection.

9)    Keep an eye on your feet. Contact a podiatrist if your skin’s texture or color abnormally changes, or if you notice any variances in your in nail texture, color, or thickness. These symptoms can be signs of infection.

10)    If you suspect you have injured your foot or contracted an infection, seek attention from a medical specialist. If a treatment plan is prescribed, follow the doctor’s orders and finish the medication or exercise therapy. Uncompleted medication regimens and physical therapy courses can stifle recovery.


Want to dish out your own summer foot safety advice? Visit the Healia Foot Injuries and Disorders Online Health Community and Support Group.