ONE PERK OF A BEACH-BOUND VACATION IS KNOWING YOU CAN LOUNGE HAPPILY WITH YOUR TOES DANGLING IN THE WARM WEATHER, SHOE-FREE WITH THE SAND AT YOUR FEET. BUT ALAS, THIS IDYLLIC SETTING DOES COME WITH ITS OWN SET OF TOOTSIE TROUBLES.
Wouldn’t you rather spend time collecting sea shells instead of doctor bills? Luckily, there are ways to prevent foot predicaments so you can enjoy barefoot bliss:
- Wear shoes or flip-flops around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room, and even on the carpeting or in the bathroom of your hotel room, to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting any bacterial infections.
- Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of ankles, and don’t forget to reapply after you’ve been in the water.
- Limit walking barefoot as it exposes feet to sunburn, as well as plantar warts, athlete’s foot, ringworm and other infections, and also increases the risk of injury to your feet.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking water will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat.
- Activities at the beach, lake, or river may require different types of footwear, so be sure to ask the contact at each activity if specific shoes are needed.