As temperatures rise in SWF, millions of Americans will be heading to our beautiful beaches. Beach days translate into watersports, playing or walking in the sand, and lots of sunshine. However, there are risks associated with beach days that can affect the health of your feet. Here are some tips to protect the health of your feet so you can enjoy many more beach days.
First, make sure you wear shoes to the beach. Shoes will reduce your risk of puncture wounds or other cuts/sores that can occurs from stepping on seashells, broken glass or other sharp objects that may be hiding in the sand. If you have any open wounds or other injuries to your skin skip going into the ocean until they heal fully. Bacteria in the ocean, lakes or other bodies of water can lead to infections. If you do experience any injuries like a puncture wound make sure to get treated right away by a foot and ankle specialist.
Another common beach injury includes being stung by a jelly fish. It’s important to remember that a jelly fish washed up on shore can still sting you. If you do get stung, and their tentacles are stuck on your foot or ankle, make sure to remove them. Be cautious to protect your hands from getting stung as well when removing the tentacles. Vinegar or baking soda can help reduce the pain and swelling. Most injuries will heal within a few days, but if they don’t seek medical attention.
Everyone knows to apply sunscreen, however many forget to protect their feet from the sun as well. Make sure to apply sunscreen to your feet and toes. Don’t forget the soles as well. Skin cancer can occur on the foot and ankle. It also important to remember sidewalks and sand can become very hot during these hot summer days. Wear shoes to protect the soles of your feet from burning, especially if you have numbness of the feet or any type of neuropathy.
Beach days also include engaging in different activities on the sand or in the ocean. Walking, jogging or engaging in athletic activities on soft uneven surfaces like the sand can cause heel pain, ankle sprains and other foot and ankle injuries. Continue to use supportive shoes while engaging in these types of activities while at the beach to reduce your risk of injury.
People with diabetes should be extra cautious while at the beach. Diabetics are at a greater risk as many have poor blood flow and/or numbness of the feet. If you have diabetic related neuropathy (numbness) you will not feel the pain from cuts, puncture wounds or burns. Any type of skin break down in a diabetic can cause an infection that can rapidly progress leading to hospitalization and or amputation. Diabetics should always wear shoes to the beach and perform frequent foot checks to look for cuts, wounds or ulcerations. If any skin breakdown occurs, they should see their foot and ankle specialist immediately.
Remember these tips so you can enjoy many more beach days. If you do experience any injuries make sure to schedule an appointment with your local foot and ankle specialist.
Isin Mustafa DPM, MSHS, AACFAS
For more information, you may contact Dr. Isin Mustafa at Family Foot & Leg Center at (239) 430 – 3668 (FOOT). Family Foot & Leg Center has 8 locations throughout Collier, Lee, & Charlotte Counties to quickly resolve all your foot and ankle problems.
Naples Podiatrist
3161 Harbor Blvd., Suite B
Port Charlotte, FL 33952
(239) 430 – 3668 (FOOT)
www.NaplesPodiatrist.com