Protect Feet During Summer Activities

After the summer of 2020, many families had to remain home to stay safe from COVID-19. Summer is in full swing, and many of My Chicago Foot Expert patients – men, women, and kids – enjoy all kinds of outdoor fun. These barbecues, beach trips, sporting events, and other activities will be a welcome relief. But you won’t have a perfect time if you’re sidelined by a foot or ankle injury. Here are some tips from Cook County podiatrist Dr. Stavros O. Alexopoulos to keep you moving forward:

• Now is the time to check on your footwear and make sure everything is in good condition. Remember you should replace sneakers twice a year or every 500 road miles if they get heavy use. Is it difficult for you to stand, walk, or run without discomfort? Talk to your podiatrist about orthotics; custom shoe inserts made just for you. These prescription appliances can significantly improve cushioning and support, especially if you’re living with arthritisor another chronic illness.
• If you develop a blister, leave it alone. Protect the area with some padded moleskin to keep it comfortable and call your podiatrist for treatment.
• It’s tempting to skip your feet and ankles when you’re applying sunscreen, but these areas are as vulnerable to skin cancer as any other part of your body. Remember to reapply after sweating or swimming.
• Always wear closed shoes at the grill or campfire. A burn on the foot is not only painful; it’s dangerous. Infection can easily occur.
• Create a foot first aid kit and keep it handy. Be sure to include antibiotic ointment, an assortment of bandages including a compression wrap, instant ice packs, and a tweezer to remove foreign objects.

Keep your feet in excellent condition with an annual visit to your podiatrist for examination, diagnosis, and treatment. Your foot doctor is a medical expert with years of training and the best-qualified professional to care for this part of your body. Call the friendly My Chicago Foot Expert staff at (773) 561-8100 or click here to schedule an appointment to see Stavros O. Alexopoulos, DPM, in our safe Ravenswood office today.