Can you believe that we are halfway through summer?  We hope you are enjoying your time, whether you are traveling or staying in Arizona, we wanted to talk this month about avoiding foot injuries.  Summer is a fun time for swimming, playing sports and maybe getting some early morning walks and hikes in.  Here are some tips on how to avoid foot injuries this summer.

Wear appropriate footwear:  Wear shoes that are well-fitted, supportive, and breathable.  When it comes to flip flops you can wear them, however, they should have an arch support and cushioning to support your foot.  Remember flip flops leave your feet exposed so you might incur injuries including stubbed toes, cuts, or bruises.  Also, because you are using your toes to grip the flip flop while you walk, you can have strain on the muscles and tendons in your feet, potentially causing foot, ankle, or toe pain.  Limit the time you wear flip flops especially if you are walking for a prolonged period of time.  Also, do not wear flip flops for playing sports or even hiking. Find a pair that offer arch support and provide stability to the foot and ankle.

Ease into activities:   If you are starting a new sport this summer, start out slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration over time.  This allows your feet and body to adapt to the demands of the activity and reduces the risk of injuries. Always wear the right shoes for the sports or activities you are participating in.

Be cautious around water:  If you are swimming in your pool, lake or even ocean, be mindful of the depth and conditions of the water.  Jumping into an unknown body of water can lead to foot and ankle injuries, including sprains or fractures. Always be cautious before jumping in.

Pay attention to your surroundings:  Watch out for uneven terrain, slippery surfaces, or sharp objects.  Just doing this can cut your risk of any type of foot injury.

Maintain proper foot hygiene:  Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent fungal and bacterial infections. Also avoid walking barefoot in public areas like pools, gyms, or locker rooms.  Use foot powders or antifungal sprays and if needed change your socks regularly especially if your feet tend to sweat excessively.

Listen to your body:  Pay attention to any pain, discomfort, or unusual sensations in your feet.  If you experience persistent pain or notice any swelling, call our office to schedule an appointment to prevent further damage. 

We want to wish you a pain free summer and remember if you have foot pain or injure your foot, please make an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow and Dr. Dylan Kaumaya at Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria Arizona.  We want you to enjoy your summer!