Spring is fun, but can be tough on your feet. Before you trade your boots for strappy sandals and bare feet, make sure you follow these simple tips, courtesy of Kory Miskin, DPM. No matter the time of year, good foot health contributes to your overall health.
Below, podiatrist Kory Miskin, DPM, shares a few tips on how you and your feet can enjoy the sunshine.
- Going barefoot increases the risk of injury to your feet. Walking without the proper footwear in a public area can expose you to infections like plantar warts, athlete’s foot and ringworm.
- Remember the sunscreen. Sunburn is very common as we approach the warmer temperatures in the spring. To prevent getting sunburns, make sure to apply sunscreen all over your feet. It’s especially important across the top and front of your ankles and don’t forget to reapply after you’ve been in the water. Aloe Vera or Silvadene cream are great options to use in case you do get sunburn on your feet. They help to relieve those painful sunburns that you may accrue.
- Increases in activity can increase foot injury. Everyone is itching to get out and enjoy the warmer temperatures, which leads to increased activity overall. This can lead to blisters forming on your feet when walking/running/biking. To reduce the risk of developing blisters over time, try to wear moisture-wicking socks. Also, the use of moleskin can help prevent rubbing in those areas.
- Remember to warm up before you get moving. As you become more active, stress fractures, planter’s fasciitis and other generalized foot pain can develop. To limit this from happening, allow yourself to work into a routine that will allow you to stretch your feet and other muscles.
- Shoe gear is important. Make sure to get your feet measured regularly, as they can change size. Measuring them at the end of the day is the best time. Having an appropriate fitting shoe can help limit injury to your feet.
Good foot health contributes to your overall well-being and spring is a fantastic time to start enjoying the outdoors again! Remember to start slowly, gradually increasing your activity. Regular stretching, and warming up is very important. If a foot/ankle injury does occur, don’t hesitate to see a Podiatrist for help!
Dr. Kory Miskin joined the OCH Health System in December. He is available to see patients Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the OCH of Gravette Specialty Clinic and every other Wednesday at the OCH Southwest City Community Clinic in Southwest City, Missouri. Dr. Miskin can provide medical diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle problems. He received his education from Brigham Young University – Provo and from Kent State University College of Podiatric Medicine. He is currently is a member of the American Podiatric Medical Association and American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. To contact the OCH of Gravette Specialty Clinic, or schedule an appointment, call the office at 479-344-6870 or fax 479-344-6865.
OCH Health System 