Spring is here, and with the nicer weather coming, it’s the perfect time to show your feet and allow them to breathe again. But the warmer weather can be tough on your feet, so you need to give them some extra TLC, so they’ll stay healthy. Today Dr. Hubert Lee of CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is sharing some tips for keeping your feet in tip-top shape during the warmer months ahead.
Don’t go barefoot. Walking outside in the summer without wearing any type of footwear elevates the risk of injury and infection. So don’t take any chances!
Keep your feet clean. The best defense against fungal or bacterial infections is proper hygiene and regular inspection of the feet and toes. Cleanse feet each day with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
Always wear shower shoes when you’re in public places like pools and locker rooms to avoid athlete’s feet. To avoid ingrown toenails, keep toenails cut straight across and remove nail polish once in a while to allow your nail bed to breathe.
Protect your feet from the sun. Applying sunscreen is important in the summertime. When putting it on, be sure to also apply it to the exposed skin on your feet and ankles. Melanoma can develop anywhere on the body, but about 30% of all cases occur on the lower limbs.
Keep your feet fungus-free. Along with proper foot hygiene, you can also prevent toenail fungus by switching out your shoes regularly.
Avoid painful blisters. When wearing sandals and flip-flops, many people experience annoying blisters because the footwear is rubbing against their bare skin. Use padding or bandages to reduce friction.
If you follow these easy steps during the warmer months, your feet will feel and look their very best all season long. If you experience any pain or unusual issues – don’t hesitate - contact the office of Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, today at (425) 455-0936 to book your visit or schedule an appointment online.
