Summer Foot Care in New Jersey: Common Foot Problems and Treatment Options

As the warm weather of summer arrives in New Jersey, it's time to think about more than just beach trips and barbecues. Summer brings a host of activities that can put additional strain on our feet, making it essential to prioritize foot care. At Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ, we understand the unique challenges that come with keeping your feet healthy during the hotter months. This blog will guide you through common summer foot problems and provide valuable tips and treatment options to ensure your feet stay in top condition all season long.

Importance of Summer Foot Care

Summer activities often involve increased walking, hiking, and spending time in public areas like pools and beaches, all of which can take a toll on your feet. The combination of heat, humidity, and physical activity can lead to a variety of foot issues if proper care isn't taken. Additionally, wearing open-toed shoes or going barefoot exposes your feet to potential injuries and infections.

Preventive foot care is crucial to avoid discomfort and more serious problems. Simple steps like wearing appropriate footwear, maintaining good hygiene, and paying attention to any changes in your feet can make a significant difference. By taking proactive measures, you can enjoy all that summer has to offer without compromising your foot health.

Common Summer Foot Problems

Blisters and Calluses

Causes: Blisters and calluses are common during the summer due to increased physical activity and wearing new or ill-fitting shoes. Blisters form when friction causes the layers of skin to separate and fill with fluid, while calluses develop as thickened areas of skin in response to repeated pressure or rubbing.

Prevention Tips:

• Choose shoes that fit well and are appropriate for the activity.
• Wear moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry.
• Use protective padding or blister prevention patches in areas prone to friction.

Treatment:

• For blisters, clean the area gently and cover with a sterile bandage. Avoid popping blisters, as this can lead to infection.
• Soak calluses in warm water and gently file them with a pumice stone. Apply moisturizing lotion to keep the skin soft.
• Seek professional help if blisters or calluses become painful or show signs of infection.

Athlete’s Foot

Causes: Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments like public pools, showers, and locker rooms. It can cause itching, burning, and peeling skin, primarily between the toes.

Prevention Tips:

• Keep feet clean and dry, especially between the toes.
• Wear flip-flops or shower shoes in public areas.
• Use antifungal powders or sprays as a preventive measure.

Treatment:

• Over-the-counter antifungal creams and powders are often effective.
• For persistent or severe cases, prescription medications may be necessary.
• If the infection spreads or does not improve, consult a specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis)

Causes: Heel pain, often caused by plantar fasciitis, can result from increased activity levels, wearing unsupportive shoes, or walking on hard surfaces. Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of your foot.

Prevention Tips:

• Perform regular stretching exercises for your feet and calves.
• Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning.
• Avoid walking barefoot on hard surfaces.

Treatment:

• Rest and ice the affected area to reduce inflammation.
• Use orthotic inserts to provide additional support.
• Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the foot muscles and alleviate pain.
• In severe cases, medical interventions such as steroid injections or surgery may be recommended.

Ingrown Toenails

Causes: Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and sometimes infection. This can be due to improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or injury to the toenail.

Prevention Tips:

• Trim toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
• Wear shoes that provide enough room for your toes.
• Protect your feet from injuries by wearing appropriate footwear.

Treatment:

• Soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water to reduce swelling.
• Gently lift the ingrown nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under it to help it grow above the skin.
• If the condition worsens or does not improve, seek professional treatment. In severe cases, minor surgical procedures may be necessary to remove the ingrown portion of the nail.

Sunburn and Dry Skin

Causes: Prolonged sun exposure can lead to sunburn on the tops of your feet, while hot, dry weather can cause the skin to become dry and cracked. This not only causes discomfort but also increases the risk of infection.

Prevention Tips:

• Apply sunscreen to your feet, especially if you plan to be barefoot or wear open-toed shoes.
• Regularly moisturize your feet to keep the skin hydrated.
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, which also helps maintain skin health.

Treatment:

• For sunburn, apply aloe vera gel or a cooling lotion to soothe the skin. Avoid further sun exposure until the skin has healed.
• Use thick, moisturizing creams or ointments on dry skin, particularly before bed.
• If dry, cracked skin persists or becomes infected, consult a specialist for appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options at Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ

At Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ, we offer a comprehensive range of treatments to address all your summer foot care needs. Our team of experienced podiatrists is dedicated to providing personalized care and effective solutions for common foot problems. Here's an overview of some of the treatments we provide:

Custom Orthotics for Plantar Fasciitis: 

Our custom-made orthotic inserts provide the support and cushioning needed to alleviate heel pain and prevent further issues.

Professional Treatments for Fungal Infections: 

We offer advanced treatments for persistent athlete’s foot and other fungal infections, including prescription medications and specialized therapies.

Care for Blisters and Calluses: 

For severe or painful blisters and calluses, we provide professional care to promote healing and prevent complications.

Surgical Options for Ingrown Toenails: 

For chronic or severe ingrown toenails, we offer minor surgical procedures to remove the ingrown portion of the nail and prevent recurrence.

Comprehensive Foot Care: From routine check-ups to advanced treatments, our clinic is equipped to handle all your foot health needs, ensuring you enjoy a pain-free and active summer.

Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet in the Summer

• Regular Inspections: Check your feet regularly for any signs of blisters, cuts, or infections. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
• Good Hygiene Practices: Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.
• Proper Footwear: Choose shoes that fit well and are appropriate for your activities. Avoid walking barefoot in public areas to reduce the risk of infections and injuries.
• Hydration and Moisturizing: Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using moisturizing lotions on your feet, particularly if they are prone to dryness.

By following these tips and seeking professional care when necessary, you can keep your feet healthy and enjoy all the activities that summer in New Jersey has to offer.

Stay tuned for the second part of this blog, where we will delve deeper into specific treatment options available at Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ and provide more expert advice on keeping your feet in top condition throughout the summer.

At Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ, we pride ourselves on offering state-of-the-art treatments tailored to each patient's unique needs. Here are some more of the specialized services we provide to help you manage and prevent common summer foot problems:

Advanced Care for Severe Blisters and Calluses:

• Debridement: For thick calluses and severe blisters, we offer professional debridement to safely remove dead skin and promote healing.
• Custom Padding: We can create custom padding to protect sensitive areas and prevent further friction, allowing you to stay active without discomfort.

Comprehensive Management of Athlete’s Foot:

• Prescription Antifungals: For stubborn fungal infections, we provide effective prescription treatments that go beyond over-the-counter options.
• Laser Therapy: Our cutting-edge laser treatments target fungal infections with precision, reducing symptoms and preventing recurrence.

Holistic Approach to Heel Pain (Plantar Fasciitis):

• Shockwave Therapy: This non-invasive treatment stimulates healing in the plantar fascia, reducing pain and inflammation.
• Physical Therapy: We work with experienced physical therapists to create customized exercise regimens that strengthen the foot and lower leg muscles.
• Night Splints: To alleviate morning pain, we may recommend night splints that keep the foot in a dorsiflexed position during sleep.

Effective Treatment for Ingrown Toenails:

• Partial Nail Avulsion: This minor surgical procedure involves removing part of the toenail to relieve pain and prevent the nail from growing into the skin again.
• Matrixectomy: For recurrent ingrown toenails, we offer matrixectomy, a procedure that permanently removes the nail matrix to prevent future issues.

Taking care of your feet during the summer is crucial for maintaining overall health and enjoying the season's activities. By understanding common summer foot problems and how to prevent them, you can keep your feet in top shape. If you do encounter any issues, the expert team at Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ is here to help with advanced treatments and personalized care.

We encourage you to make an appointment for a summer foot health check-up. Our specialists can assess your foot health, provide preventive care tips, and address any concerns you might have. With our comprehensive services, you can step into summer with confidence and comfort.

Don’t let foot problems hold you back this summer! Contact Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ today to schedule your consultation and take the first step towards healthier, happier feet.

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• Special Offer: Take advantage of our special summer foot health check-up package – call us now to book your appointment!

By following the advice in this blog and seeking professional care when needed, you can enjoy all the fun and excitement of summer in New Jersey without worrying about foot problems. The team at Ankle and Foot Specialists of NJ is here to support you every step of the way. Happy summer and happy feet!