Keeping Feet Safe at the Beach

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The beaches are open! At Goldsmith Podiatry we know that many of our Manhattan patients are very much looking forward to getting out and are willing to leave early to get a spot. Don’t let a foot injury spoil your fun in the sun.

Observe the following four precautions to ensure your beach day will be the best it can be:

Flip-Flops On—with burning hot asphalt and sand that’s been absorbing the sun’s rays, there’s no getting to your beach spot without footwear. It only takes seconds to burn the soles of your feet. In addition, you’ll want flip-flops for using the restrooms, showers, and changing areas. Fungal infections are passed on by direct contact and moist, public places are prime places where they thrive.

Reapply Your Sunscreen—it’s certain you’ll have sunscreen in your beach bag, but the trick is to remember to reapply to your feet and the rest of your body every couple of hours, and whenever you come out of the water. Don’t forget the bottoms of your feet if you’re spending time just sitting on the beach blanket. Sunburn on the bottom of your feet is quite painful and can sideline you for several days.

Pass the Baking Soda—it won’t take up much extra space and a bag of baking soda can save the day if you get a jellyfish sting. Be aware that even jellyfish that have washed up on shore can still sting you if you step on them. Vinegar can also help relieve the pain of a sting. Most of the time a jellyfish sting will heal on its own in a few days. If you notice the area is still red or getting more painful, make an appointment at our Upper West Side office by calling: (212) 877-1002 so that one of our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith or Dr. Rosanna Troia, can take a look.

Pack Your Sneakers—if your ideal beach day includes long walks along the shore or more active pursuits like volleyball and Frisbee, be sure you bring athletic footwear. Trying to play in flip-flops is a sure-fire path to an ankle sprain or other injury.

If your summer fun results foot or ankle discomfort, contact us 212-877-1002

Summer Foot CareGoldsmith Podiatrysummer foot wear, sunscreen, summer foot health, beach-side foot care