8 Warm Weather Foot Pain Remedies

For us at Goldsmith Podiatry, the warm weather provides a paradise for many of our patients with chronic foot conditions. While the increased activity and transition to less supportive shoes can sometimes leave our feet aching, there are many natural podiatric benefits that summer provides. Continue reading to learn how to beat the heat, heal your feet, and creatively use these next few months to your advantage.

Water

Ah, water. Nature’s cool relief for tired and achy feet. Whether you’re swimming or simply dipping your toes, the cool temperature helps reduce swelling from conditions like plantar fasciitis. Also, the buoyancy of water offers a reprieve from the pressure of your weight, which allows muscles and joints to relax and recover.

Cold

Beyond a full soak, summer provides creative ways for targeted cold therapy. Try freezing a water bottle and rolling your foot over it – this provides excellent, deep, cold massage for the arch and heel and is perfect for pinpoint pain relief from conditions like metatarsalgia.

Dedicated cold packs can also be easily applied after a long walk or hike to reduce localized swelling and inflammation.

Hydration

Internally, however, the heat may cause us to lose fluid. Proper hydration reduces foot and leg cramps, ankle swelling, heel cracking, and overall skin dryness.

Sand

After months of pounding pavement, summer invites us to softer terrains, like grass and beaches. Gentle, low-impact activity on forgiving surfaces can promote a more natural gait, improve flexibility, and engage muscles that are typically neglected in thick sneakers.

Exfoliation

But the sand isn’t just soft. It provides a natural exfoliation for your soles and shaves off calluses and thick, dry areas.

Footwear

While sandals and open-toed shoes are a summer staple, not all are created equal. Opting for lightweight, breathable footwear allows your feet to air out, reduce sweat, and create a less hospitable environment for fungal growth to prevent diseases like athlete’s foot.

Elevation

Summer is synonymous with kicking back. Literally. Whether you're reclining on a hammock, a poolside lounge chair, or just propping your feet up on pillows while watching TV, raising your feet above heart level helps gravity drain excess fluid from your ankles and feet.

Stretching

The warmer temperatures of summer make your muscles and tendons naturally more pliable and less prone to stiffness. So, take advantage of this increased flexibility to perform consistent stretches for your calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and plantar fascia.

It’s also known that summer temps reduce inflammation, which is why many arthritis sufferers report feeling better in warmer climates.

Now, it’s time to flock to the countryside and enjoy some time at the beach!

Start today. Your feet will thank you tomorrow. For more advice when it comes to your foot health and wellness, give us a call at (212) 877-1002 so Dr. Howard Goldsmith, Dr. Rosanna Troia, and Dr. Kristina T. Ruff at Goldsmith Podiatry can help alleviate any podiatric problems you’re facing.