Walking Around A Lot This Summer? Here Are 4 Things You Need To Do To Protect Your Foot Health

Summer is approaching, and with warmer weather comes more physical activity. Getting out and walking is a favorite activity in the summertime. But the hot weather and increased time on your feet can lead to unwanted issues.

If you’re walking around a lot this summer, here are 4 things you need to do to protect your foot health.

1. 1. Choose the Right Footwear With the Right Fit
      Many people develop problems during the summer as a result of wearing the wrong footwear.

      Many people develop strains of the heels and arches because they overlook the importance of wearing the right shoes. Worse yet, many don’t feel the need to invest in high-quality footwear that can protect them from injuries.

      Choose shoes that provide the proper arch support for your feet. Footwear that features the right heel cup and padding gives your feet the support they need to cover long distances.

   2. Reduce the Risk of Infections
      Summer heat can present risks related to infections. Hot weather can make your feet even hotter inside your shoes. This encourages the overgrowth of bacteria and can lead to a fungal infection.

      You should change your socks regularly when walking in the summer. When socks become moist due to sweat, fungal infections can arise. Walking barefoot in public places can also present a risk for infections and should be avoided whenever possible.

      Keep your feet clean and carry an extra pair of socks when walking for long distances. It’s also important to keep your toenails trimmed and practice basic hygiene for your feet.

   3. Prevent Injuries With Stretching
      Keeping the joints of the feet and ankles flexible is a great way to prevent injuries and chronic aches and pains. Muscle tightness restricts movement of the joints and creates compensations that lead to stress on the knees, hips, and lower back.

      Stretching your calf muscles and using a ball underneath the arches to release tight muscles and fascia are just some of the ways you can maintain mobility in the feet.

   4. Avoid Wearing New Shoes on Long Walks
      A new pair of shoes may give you the support you need to walk long distances in the summer. But they can also cause problems if they aren’t broken in properly.

      When purchasing a new pair of shoes, wear them for a short period of time before gradually increasing the time you spend walking in them.

      New shoes can cause blisters and sores to form. But if you choose the right shoes, ones that provide a comfortable fit that’s right for your feet, you may not need to break them in at all.

      Your physiotherapist can help you choose the right footwear and provide instructions on how to break them in when necessary.

These 4 tips protect your foot health when walking in the summertime. Chronic pain from the wrong footwear and increased risk of infection are just some of the issues you should be aware of.

Putting these steps in place will keep your feet healthy all season long so that you can get the most out of your summer activities.