Millions of Americans will go barefoot this summer and thousands will suffer injuries such as cuts and puncture wounds. Some will develop serious infections that may require surgery.
The best way to protect your feet and toes from injury is to wear shoes. But if your summer just would not be the same without the sand between your toes or walking in your backyard barefoot, you can make it a safer summer by following these tips:
TIP: See me or a foot and ankle specialist of your choice for a puncture wound.
WHY: These injuries may embed unsterile foreign objects deep inside the foot. A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process. This will help avoid complications such as tissue and bone infections or damage to tendons and muscles in the foot. Foot and ankle surgeons are trained to properly care for these injuries.
TIP: Make sure you have been vaccinated against tetanus. Experts recommend teenagers and adults get a booster shot every ten years.
WHY: Cuts and puncture wounds from sharp objects can lead to infections and illnesses, such as tetanus.
TIP: Apply sunscreen to the tops and bottom of your feet.
WHY: Feet get sunburn, too and sun exposure can lead to rare but deadly skin cancers on the feet.
TIP: Inspect your feet and your children’s feet regularly for skin problems such as warts, calluses, ingrown nails and suspicious moles, spots or freckles.
WHY: The earlier a skin condition is detected, the easier it is to treat.
TIP: Wear shoes around swimming pools, locker rooms and beaches.
WHY: To avoid cuts and abrasions from rough anti-slip surfaces and sharp objects hidden beneath sandy beaches and to prevent contact with bacteria and viruses that can lead to athlete’s foot, plantar warts and other problems.
TIP: Use common sense.
WHY: Every year, people lose toes while mowing the lawn barefoot. Others suffer serious burns from accidentally stepping on stray campfire coals or fireworks. Murky rivers, lakes and ponds can conceal sharp objects underwater.
Contact my office if you suffer a summer injury to your feet.
Dr. Ruth Ann Cooper
Dr. Ruth Ann Cooper