Getting Ready to Trade those Uggs in for Sandals?

Getting ready for that warmer weather to come? Getting tired of having your feet feeling toasty and sweaty in those terrrible Uggs?

I think we are all ready to stick our toes in the sand! But before you have your Beach Boys Bash you might want to consider what a tropical vacation can do to your feet.

Just lying on your back soaking up rays can still put your feet at risk for sun burn. Athletes foot certainly will be soaking up the rays next to those public pools.

Here are some tips to avoid collecting doctor's when you should be collecting sea shells!

 1. Limit walking barefoot as it exposes feet to sunburn, as well as plantar warts, athlete’s foot, ring worm and other infections and also increases risk of injury to your feet.

2. Wear shoes or flip-flops around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room and even on the carpeting or in the bathroom of your hotel room to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting any bacterial infections.

3. Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles and don’t forget to reapply after you’ve been in the water.

4. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. This will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat.

5. Keep blood flowing with periodic ankle flexes, toe wiggles and calf stretches.

6. Some activities at the beach, lake or river may require different types of footwear to be worn so be sure to ask the contact at each activity if specific shoes are needed. To be safe,

always pack an extra pair of sneakers or protective water shoes. If your shoes will be getting wet, they should be dried out completely before your next wear to prevent bacteria or fungus from growing.

7. If you injure your foot or ankle while on vacation, seek professional medical attention from a podiatric physician. Many often only contact a doctor when something is broken or sprained, but a podiatrist can begin treating your ailment immediately while you’re away from home. You can find an American Podiat­ric Medical Association podiatrist in your travel area by calling 1-800-FOOTCARE or by logging on to www.apma.org.

8. In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with the following on-the-go foot gear:

Flip Flops – for the pool, spa, hotel room, and air­port security check points

Sterile bandages – for covering minor cuts and scrapes

Antibiotic Cream – to treat any skin injury

Emollient-enriched cream – to hydrate feet

Blister pads or Moleskin – to protect against blisters

Motrin or Advil (anti-inflammatory) – to ease tired, swollen feet

Toenail Clippers – to keep toenails trim

Emery board – to smooth rough edges or broken nails

Pumice Stone – to soften callused skin

Sunscreen – to protect against the scorching sun

Aloe Vera or Silvadene cream – to relieve sunburns

Of course if you have questions on proper foot care while on vacation please contact your podiatrist!

For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact Affiliated Podiatrists, Inc. at
440-946-5858 or visit our website: http://www.drrobertrosenstein.com/

*Don't forget to order a free copy of our book from our website!*

And Remember....." When your feet hurt, you hurt all over!"