Keep Your Feet Happy This Summer With These 5 Tips

Summer is when New Yorkers trade boots for sandals and spend as much time outdoors as possible. Whether you're logging thousands of steps exploring the city, relaxing at Rockaway Beach, or heading out on vacation, your feet put in some serious work this time of year. 

This month, our podiatry team at NYC Foot & Ankle Center in the Manhattan Valley neighborhood of the Upper West Side is sharing five simple habits that can go a long way toward keeping your feet healthy and happy for all of your summer adventures. 

1. Don't live in flat flip-flops

Flip-flops may be a summer staple, but most offer little to no arch support or cushioning. Wearing them for hours on end can contribute to heel pain, arch pain, and tendonitis. Flip-flops can also increase your risk of shin splints and ankle sprains.

If you'll be on your feet for more than a quick trip to the pool, choose supportive sandals with proper arch support instead. A good pair of sandals has traction so you don’t slip, the right arch support for you, and cushioned, adjustable straps.

2. Protect your feet from the sun

Most people remember to apply sunscreen to their face, shoulders, and arms, but forget their feet. The tops of your feet are especially vulnerable to sunburn because they're frequently exposed in sandals and open-toed shoes. 

Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen to the tops of your feet and reapply regularly if you're spending time outdoors.

 3. Keep your feet dry

Warm weather creates the perfect environment for fungal infections like athlete's foot. If your feet get sweaty, change your socks, wear breathable shoes, and dry carefully between your toes after swimming, showering, or exercising. 

These simple steps can help reduce moisture buildup and lower your risk of infection.

Pro tip: Keep an extra pair of socks in your bag and change into them if your socks get damp throughout the day. Allow your shoes to fully air dry before wearing them again.

4. Don't try to "walk it off"

When the weather is nice, the last thing most New Yorkers want to do is slow down. It's easy to blame sore feet on a day spent sightseeing, strolling through Central Park, or racking up 20,000 steps around the city.

That said, if foot pain, swelling, or tenderness sticks around, don't ignore it. Persistent symptoms can be signs of conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, stress fractures, or arthritis. 

Addressing pain right away can help prevent a small problem from sidelining your summer plans.

5. Keep a foot first aid kit in your bag 

You never know when a day spent exploring the city will leave you with a painful blister. That's why it's smart to keep a small first aid kit in your purse or backpack.

Stock it with essentials such as adhesive bandages for blisters, moleskin to cushion hot spots and prevent rubbing, antibiotic ointment for minor cuts and scrapes, and an extra pair of socks. 

Bonus tip: Give your feet some TLC every day

Summer is a great time to pay extra attention to foot care: 

• Moisturize dry heels
• Trim your toenails straight across (don’t round your nails!)
• Inspect your feet regularly for blisters, cuts, discoloration, or changes in your skin
• Give yourself a foot massage 

If you have diabetes, daily foot checks are especially important. Because diabetes can increase your risk of slow-healing wounds as well as infections, call us at the first sign of trouble. Early intervention for diabetic issues can help reduce your risk of diabetes-related amputations.

Get ahead of foot problems before summer is in full swing

If you have a summer vacation, wedding, beach trip, or walking-heavy adventure on the calendar, now is the perfect time to schedule a visit. Addressing foot issues before they become painful can help you enjoy your plans without discomfort getting in the way.

At NYC Foot & Ankle Center, we can help with a wide range of concerns, including ingrown toenails, plantar warts, heel pain, diabetic foot care, fungal infections, sports injuries, and more. Think of it as a tune-up for your feet before your busiest season begins.

We also offer advanced treatments such as Liposana® foot pads, which may help relieve pain and pressure associated with certain foot conditions. To schedule your check-up, call our office today.