Summer is here, and so are the foot problems that come with improper footwear! 👟👠👡

Discover tips on choosing supportive shoes, protecting your feet from injuries, and keeping them healthy and pain-free all season long. 🦶💡

Joe Altepeter
Kevin Lam, DPM, FACFAS

#Podiatry #FootHealth #SummerFootwear #HealthyFeet #PodiatristTips #FFLC

Memorial Day unofficially kicks off. Summer – the season of outdoor activities, vacations, and enjoying the warm weather. However, for podiatrists, it is also a time when patients frequently present with foot problems exacerbated by inappropriate footwear choices. From flip-flops to high heels, the summer shoe wardrobe can be a minefield for foot health. This article will explore the importance of proper footwear in the summer, highlighting common issues and offering practical advice for maintaining healthy feet.

Common Summer Footwear Problems

In the summer, the variety of footwear often prioritizes fashion and comfort over foot health. There are some common types of summer shoes and the problems they can cause:

1. Flip-flops: Flip-flops are a popular choice due to their convenience and ventilation. However, their lack of support can lead to several foot problems. Without arch support, the plantar fascial (the ligament connecting your heel bone to your toes) can become strained, leading to plantar fasciitis. Additionally, the thin soles provide little protection, increasing the risk of injuries from stepping on sharp objects.
2. Sandals and Open-toed Shoes: While sandals offer more support than flip-flops, they still lack the necessary structure for prolonged walking or standing. Open-toed shoes expose the feet to environmental hazards, such as cuts, scrapes, and sunburn. Moreover, the straps can cause blisters and irritation, particularly if they rub against the skin.
3. High Heels: High heels are often chosen for their style, but they can cause significant harm to foot health. Wearing high heels shifts the body weight onto the balls of the feet, leading to metatarsalgia (pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot). They also alter the natural gait, increasing the risk of sprains and other injuries.

   

Heath Implications of Improper Footwear

Wearing improper footwear during the summer doesn’t just cause immediate discomfort; it can lead to a range of health issues. Here a re some of the potential implications:

1. Increased Risk of Injury:

Improper footwear can increase the risk of injuries, such as sprains, fractures, and cuts. For instance, wearing unsupportive shoes while participating in summer activities like hiking or beach sports can lead to twisted ankles or more severe injuries.

2. Chronic Foot Conditions:

Conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and bunions can be aggravated by improper footwear. Shoes that do not provide adequate arch support or cushioning can exacerbate these conditions, leading to chronic pain and discomfort.

3. Skin Issues:

Blisters, calluses, and corns are common in the summer due to friction from ill-fitting shoes. Open-toed shoes also expose the feet to the sun’s harmful UV rays, increasing the risk of sunburn and skin cancer.

Tips for Choosing Proper Footwear

To maintain healthy feet during summer, it is essential to choose the right footwear. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices:

1. Opt for Support:

Choose footwear that provides adequate arch support and cushioning. Look for shoes with contoured footbeds, sturdy soles, and good shock absorptions. Brands that specialize in orthopedic shoes often offer stylish options that do not compromise on support.

2. Ensure Proper Fit:

Shoes should fit well, with enough room for the toes to move comfortably. Avoid shoes that are too tight or too loose, as they can cause blisters and other injuries. When trying on shoes, walk around to ensure they feel comfortable and provide the necessary support.

3. Consider the Activity:

Select footwear based on the activity you plan to engage in. For instance, if you’re going hiking, choose sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. For beach outings, consider water shoes that protect the feet from sharp objects and provide a good grip.

4. Protect from the Sun:

Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your feet if they will be exposed to the sun. This simple step can help prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer.

5. Rotate Footwear:

Avoid wearing the same pair of shoes every day. Rotating your footwear allows each pair to air out and helps prevent foot odor and fungal infections.

6. Use Orthotic Inserts:

For additional support, consider using orthotic inserts. These can provide extra cushioning and arch support, reducing the risk of injury and alleviating existing foot problems.

Proper footwear is crucial for maintaining foot health, especially during the summer when feet are more exposed and subjected to different activities. By choosing supportive, well-fitting shoes and taking preventive measures, you can enjoy the summer months without compromising your foot health. As podiatrists, it is our role to educate patients about the importance of proper footwear and guide them in making informed choices to keep their feet healthy and pain-free. Remember, a little attention to your footwear can go a long way in ensuring a comfortable and injury-free summer.

If you are experiencing foot pain, don’t delay. Contact Dr. Altepeter’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an examination.

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