Put Your Best Foot Forward This Summer

According to the American Podiatric Medicine Association, the average person will walk close to 75,000 miles before they reach the age of 50. Incredibly, that distance is the equivalent of FIVE roundtrip flights from London to New York! Yet, despite our feet being a practical and exceptional means of transport, we just don't always care for them the way we should. This is especially true when warmer weather sets in and our "dogs" are more freely exposed to the elements.

Without socks and more substantial shoes to protect them, summer feet can become moving targets for cuts, scrapes and sunburn. Moreover, infections - be they bacterial or fungal like Athlete's Foot - can wreak havoc on our loyal tootsies. This is precisely why our feet merit more care and attention in the dog days of summer. Luckily, the recommendations for keeping your feet healthy and happy are simple; and could even be considered relaxing to many.

Taking Care of Your Loyal Dogs

Podiatrists and experts suggest the following to put your best foot forward this season:

1) Moisturize Daily - use a soothing foot cream every day that replenishes water stores and heals dry skin. Buy one that does not contain alcohol. If your feet are particularly dry, apply your foot cream at night and put on 100% cotton socks before bedtime.

2) Avoid Excess Wear of Flip Flops - while they are typically worn to the beach or pool, many Podiatrists are concerned that thongs do not provide the foot with enough support and can cause heels to slide, thereby resulting in foot injuries. Wearing them in public places like lavatories and large cities also widens your chances for developing bacterial infections.

3) Change your shoes and socks regularly - this is especially true if your feet perspire profusely in the summer months. Also recommended: wear socks that are made with materials that wick away excess moisture to avoid contracting Athlete's Foot.

4) Apply Sunscreen - it's not just for your face and body, so use it with sandals, open-toe shoes or when your feet are exposed to the sun. Avoiding the risk of melanoma is crucial, but feet with a nasty sunburn can be painful and debilitating to most.

5) Diabetic Rx - Specialists agree that Diabetics should not wear open-toe shoes, or walk barefoot. They should also avoid salon pedicures to minimize the danger of potential infection. Additionally, they should be using moisturizer on a daily basis, while manually checking their feet.