By Dr. Lori DeBlasi
Warm weather is a great excuse to show off your feet and polished toes. However, flexible sandals and flimsy flip-flops are one of the common causes of foot and heel pain. The foot and heel pain can negatively impact your day-to-day life. Also, if your pedicure isn’t done properly, it can lead to serious foot problems like ingrown toenails and foot fungus. Heel and foot pain, ingrown toenails, and foot fungus are not problems you want to deal with when attending pool parties, weddings, and vacations. Thankfully, there are ways to prevent these common aliments so you can enjoy a foot-pain-free summer.
Start with your shoes!
To avoid heel pain and other foot problems, follow these tips when purchasing your next pair of summer footwear:
WEDGES AND ESPADRILLES
Problem: Some styles can put you at isk for an Ankle sprain and instability with difficulty walking.
Solution: Try a wider, flatter wedge. Also, look for a rubber sole with good traction.
PEEP-TOE SANDALS
Problem: This style increases the pressure on your toes, bunions, and hammertoes.
Solution: Wear them only for short periods of time.
FLATS AND SLIDES
Problem: Inadequate cushioning and lack of foot support can lead to arch and heel pain.
Solution: Select a sole that doesn’t twist excessively or bend in the arch region. Try to find a cushioned inser for shock absorption. Avoid prolonged wear if you are going to be doing a lot of walking or standing.
PLATFORMS AND HIGH HEELS
Problem: Because the heel raises up, this produces more pressure in the front of the foot leading to pain in the ball of the foot. Also, with the higher heel position, the ankle becomes more unstable and can lead to ankle injuries.
Solution: Wear lower, more stable heels (two inches or under). A thicker heel is more stable than a skinny heel. Also, a wedge type heel is more stable.
YOUR WEDDING SEASON FOOTWEAR GUIDE:
Wedding season is in full swing!
Wear shoes that fit well—front, back, and sides—and have shock-absorbent soles, rigid shanks, and supportive heel counters.
Look for a shoe with a generous toe box area.
Inspect for cushioning at the front.
Remember: Excessive heel, wedge, or platform height can lead to instability and ankle rolls. Try keeping the height at two inches or under.
As always, treat heels like dessert—wear them sparingly!
DO’S AND DON’TS FOR A FABULOUS PEDICURE:
Don’t shave your legs before receiving a pedicure. Shaving creates small cuts on your legs that may allow bacteria to enter your body.
Do bring your own pedicure utensils to the salon. Why? Because bacteria and fungus can move easily from one person to the next if the salon doesn’t use proper sterilization techniques.
Don’t allow salons to use a foot razor to remove dead skin. Using a razor can result in permanent damage if used incorrectly and can easily cause infection if too much skin is removed.
Do use a pumice stone, foot file, or exfoliating scrub when eliminating thick, dead skin buildup, also known as calluses, on the heel and balls of the feet. Be sure to soak your feet in warm water for at least five minutes first.
Don’t apply nail polish to cover up discolored nails. Thick and discolored toenails could be a sign of a fungal infection. Nail polish locks out moisture and doesn’t allow the nail bed to “breathe.” If you think you have a toenail infection, schedule an appointment with a podiatrist immediately to get it checked out.
Disclaimer: This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
Dr. Lori DeBlasi is certified by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery®. Dr. DeBlasi works at Family Foot & Leg Center at the Colonial
Boulevard and Estero offices. She is accepting new patients. To make an appointment, call 239-430-3668 or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com.
1645 Colonial Blvd,
Fort Myers, FL 33907
(239) 430 – 3668 (FOOT)
www.NaplesPodiatrist.com