Winter’s gone and spring is in full swing, which means that many families are preparing for a summer vacation. Whether you’re heading out for a relaxing week at the beach, or an adventure-filled getaway, illness or injury to your feet or ankles can ruin your good time. It’s important to take steps to prevent foot health. Here are some tips from Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM to reduce your risk of negative incident:
- Pack the right footwear for your trip. Will you be walking all day? Be sure to bring comfortable, supportive shoes. If you’re investing in a new pair, take the time to break them in before you go. Blisters are no fun at all! Add a pair of inexpensive shower sandals to your packing list. They will act as a barrier in hotel rooms and on pool decks, protecting your feet from plantar warts and other infections.
- Create a small foot first aid kit and tuck it in your daypack. Be sure it includes antibiotic ointment, assorted bandages, an instant ice pack, a pair of toenail clippers, and a pair of tweezers for removing foreign objects such as splinters.
- Indulging in a salon pedicure before your trip? Be sure to choose a salon that doesn’t just look pretty, but offers excellent and observable hygiene practices such as sterilized instruments and disposable basin liners. Refuse to allow the nail tech to use a grater or razor on your feet. The small nicks and cuts that can result offer access to fungus and other opportunistic infections.
- Traveling by plane? Reduce your risk of dangerous blood clots by getting up and moving around every hour or so. If you know that you have Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI), be sure to wear your compression socks to ensure good leg health.
Of course, the best thing you can do to keep feet, ankles, and lower legs looking and feeling great is to see a board-certified podiatrist like Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos regularly. Your podiatrist is an expert in examination, diagnosis, and treatment and is the best-qualified medical professional to care for of this part of your body. Schedule a convenient appointment in our modern, comfortable Chicago office. Call our friendly staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here today.