The summertime is a great time to show off your new sandals and allow your feet to breathe. But since the warmer months can be rough on your feet, it's important to give your feet a little extra care to keep them looking great and feeling healthy. Here are a few tips from NY Sports Podiatry for keeping your feet in tip-top shape during the summer.

Keep feet clean

The best line of defense against fungal infections is proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes. Wash feet with soap and water daily, and dry them thoroughly to prevent infection. Wear shower shoes in public places, like pools and locker rooms. And to prevent ingrown nails and toenail fungus, keep toenails trimmed straight across.

Avoid walking barefoot

Walking outside in the summertime without shoes increases the risk of injury and infection.

Protect feet from the sun

Wearing sunscreen is extremely important in the summertime- and that means lathering up the exposed skin on your feet and ankles too.

Keep your feet fungus free

Coupled with good foot hygiene, you can also prevent toenail fungus by alternating your shoes. And if you suspect a fungus infected nail, visit NY Sports Podiatry right away for early treatment.

Treat your feet to a pedicure

Eliminate rough, dead, winter skin and improve the appearance of your toenails with a pedicure. Do it yourself or pamper yourself to a professional one for attractive summer feet you'll be proud to show off. But don't leave nail polish on all summer long. Remove it periodically to allow your nail bed to breathe.

Prevent painful blisters

Sandals and flip flops can lead to irritating blisters when they rub against your bare skin. Use padding or bandages to prevent and reduce friction.

Examine your flip flops

I'm not a big believer in in the long term use of Flip Flops.  When they started becoming popular some 20 years ago,  I thought they would go by way of the bell bottom but they are here to stay.  Many people can't wait to pull them out of the closet in spring and often don't put them away until the first snow.  They are truely here to say so if you can't beat'em......... you know the rest.  Here are some of the positives of them.  Flip flops are great for allowing your feet to breathe all summer long.  With proper UV protection,  they let some of the much needed sunlight get exposed to the feet.  This is beneficial for a fungus and warts don't appreciate the sunlight either. Choose a Flip flop style with arch and heel support to keep feet healthy and pain free.  Avoid thong sandals which often create blisters, sore feet and ankles.  Make sure your flips flops are dry before using them to prevent further blistering and friction.  Some Flip Flops, especially Crocs are very slippery on wet tile and ceramic surfaces. 

Following these easy steps during the summer months can go a long way in keeping your feet looking and feeling their very best. Inspect your feet daily, and if you encounter any unusual foot problems or experience pain, contact our Port Washington office for a thorough evaluation.