Between the Paleo Diet and the barefoot running craze that had everyone from running coaches to suburban dads ditching their sneakers for a "natural" running experience, it seems there has never been a better time to embrace our inner cave person and ditch the footwear. Or so popular culture would have us believe. And while nothing can beat the sensation of soft, warm sand or fresh grass 
between the toes, kicking off the shoes and going barefoot outside also comes with an increased risk of injuries.
Foot and Ankle Health in West Houston
Nothing will ruin a fun summer day quite like an injury that ends in a trip to the doctor. Every year, the podiatrists at the West Houston, TX-based Foot and Ankle Institute treat patients for a number of injuries that can be acquired from walking outside in bare feet, including:
- Fractures and sprains
- Cuts and lacerations
- Burns
- Puncture wounds
- Crush wounds
- Infections
People with certain underlying health conditions like diabetes, cancer, vascular disease, and rheumatoid arthritis are at an even greater risk for potentially serious health complications from injuries to the feet. Even something as basic as a ruptured blister or callous can have trouble healing, or become infected for a diabetic patient.
Keep Your Feet - and Your Doctor - Happy
With a few simple precautions, many of the most common foot and ankle injuries can be prevented. Although kicking the shoes off and running free can feel liberating, shoes should always be worn outside to avoid stepping on broken glass, nails, and other sharp objects that can cause cuts and infections. Running or walking barefoot on hard surfaces like concrete can also increase the risk of sprains and fractures. Keeping the feet clean and dry is also important to help prevent infections and other complications.
Find a Foot Doctor in West Houston
Persistent pain can be a sign of an injury. For more information on prevention and treatment for foot and ankle pain and injuries, contact Dr. Asia Lo, Dr. Sam Mendicino or Dr. Manish Patel at the Foot & Ankle Institute by calling 281-531-4100 to schedule an appointment today.