When we focus on our health we generally remember things like diet and exercise, but feet and their particular issues also require our consideration. Paying attention to conditions, problems or symptoms will help prevent further complications. 

 

The Right Footwear for the Activity

With warm weather, we tend to enjoy more activities outdoors like sports. Athletic footwear is designed with specific sports in mind. Running sneakers are for forward movement without sudden stops, turns, or other maneuvers. Runners land on their heels and then propel off their toes. Court sports may require something different. Sports like tennis, racquetball, basketball, squash, badminton, and volleyball involve sudden starts, stops, and side-to-side motions. Those activities may require more support through the ankle. Make sure you choose the correct sports shoes built for the sport, and things will be much easier on your feet.

 

Discolored Toenails and Athlete’s Foot

Warm temperatures create the ideal environment for bacteria and fungus to thrive. The most common cause of yellowed, thick, discolored, or deformed toenails is a fungal infection of the toenail. The fungus that infects the nail is usually the same fungus that causes athlete’s foot, a condition that is itchy, uncomfortable, and requires treatment. While you may apply anti-fungal creams, some toenail fungal infections may require laser treatment. The best way to protect your feet from these problems is to avoid walking barefoot in environments like locker rooms and public pool decks. A physical barrier like a shower sandal helps prevent exposure to various bacteria and fungi.

If you experience any of these symptoms, call your podiatrist for a thorough exam, diagnosis, and treatment.

 

Sweaty, Smelly Feet

Sweat can protect your body from overheating, it can also cause an offensive odor. Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, can be a challenge to manage. However, washing your feet daily, wearing moisture-wicking socks, alternating your footwear, and taking advantage of shoes made of fabrics that “breathe,” will help alleviate excess moisture and reduce odor. Remember that excessive moisture can also contribute to athlete’s foot and plantar wart infections.

 

Contact a podiatric specialist if you are experiencing any discomfort or pain.

 

You can count on the Foot & Ankle Specialists, PC foot doctors, to care for your feet using a full range of conservative and surgical therapies. Our expert team, including board-certified podiatrists Dr. Scott E. Hughes, Dr. Greg P. Vogt, and Dr. Christine I. Tumele, serve patients of all ages with state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment technologies, including on-site digital x-ray, and ultrasound, diabetic shoes, and digital scanning for custom orthotics.