10 Tips for Healthy Feet This Spring

Spring and summer can be hard on our feet. The combination of the heat and the sun can take a toll on them, but it does not have to be that way. Here are simple but great steps to help keep your feet healthy during the warmer months:

#01. Wear the right socks.

Synthetic and acrylic socks work best in wicking away perspiration that can lead to most fungal infections. Keep in mind that moisture of any kind is the perfect environment for fungus to thrive.

#02. Give your feet some air.

If it is possible, you should avoid wearing closed shoes during the warmer months. You can always go with sandals or open-toed shoes that have arch support if you can. Your shoes can be taken off periodically throughout the day so your feet can air out.

#03. Head off blisters.

Wearing of sandals, however, can often cause blisters to develop on your feet, especially when they rub against the bare skin. So, if you feel a blister coming on, you can use padding such as moleskin or even a liquid bandage product in order to reduce friction.

#04. Stay hydrated.

Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water during the warmer weather can help minimize foot swelling due to the heat - so make sure you hydrate enough!

#05. Use sunscreen.

During the warmer months, it is best to slather sunscreen on the exposed parts of your feet. If you will go swimming or even if you exercise and you sweat heavily, you should re-apply sunscreen - even if the product you are using is ‘waterproof’. You should choose a sunscreen with 15 SPF (sun protection factor) or higher in order to guard you against skin cancer as well as premature aging of the skin on your feet.

#06. Moisturize.

Our Out feet tend to dry out more during spring and summer because you are not wearing socks all the time. So, if you want to keep the skin on your feet feeling baby-soft, moisturize in the morning after your shower and even at night before you go to bed. Just make sure to clean your feet first before applying moisturizer!

#07. Wear the right shoes for every activity.

There are certain activities such as rock climbing, boating, and other sports that require specific footwear for optimal foot safety and health. Be sure to plan ahead and always have the appropriate footwear ready.

#08. Keep your shoes and socks dry.

If your shoes and socks get wet, be sure to take them off right away and dry them completely before wearing them again. Doing this helps you to be guarded against fungal infections.

#09. Inspect old footwear.

Worn-out and tattered shoes can cause blisters. Before wearing your old sandals and flip-flops from the previous summer, be sure to check them out first and throw out those pairs that seem worn. If you are in doubt, just throw them out.

#10. Clean your feet after water activities.

After wading or swimming in a pool, lake or river, it is best to always clean your feet with clean water. The same goes when you step in puddles of water. Stagnant water in rivers, lakes, and puddles often contain bacteria that can lead to foot infections.