As the warm weather approaches, it’s time to trade in your cozy slippers and fur-lined boots for open-toed shoes and beach sandals.
Since April is Foot Health Awareness Month and the unofficial start to barefoot-season, here are some things you should be doing to put your best feet forward this summer.
Start these sunny days by making an appointment with your podiatrist. A podiatrist is a doctor trained to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and related structures in the leg.
CompleteCare Health Network Podiatrist, Dr. Nicholas Giorgianni recommends that people of all ages make an appointment.
“Spring is a great time to meet with your doctor about your foot health,” said Giorgianni. “We can look for nail fungus, nail discoloration, dry-cracked skin, moles, freckles and blemishes — all things that could indicate issues with your feet and possibly your overall health.”
If you or your kids exercise, play sports or are thinking about starting, consulting your podiatrist about proper shoe fit is also extremely important.
“A majority of sports or exercise-related injuries come from improper shoe type and fit,” said Giorgianni.
He recommends purchasing shoes in the afternoon, because your feet will be their largest and most swollen late in the day. He also recommends a “rule of thumb” when buying new shoes — having a thumb’s width between the tip of your big toe and the tip of your shoe.
“There shouldn’t be a lot of movement in your shoes,” he advised. “They should be snug, but not tight.”
As summer approaches, Giorgianni reminds people to take extra care of their feet, limit time in flip flops, as they can put a lot of stress on the feet and ankles.
Avoid walking around barefoot to reduce the risk of injury or diseases like athlete’s foot and plantar warts. Another summer must is sunscreen. Don’t forget to coat your whole body, including your ankles, feet and toes when heading outside.
Skin cancer prevention doesn’t stop at your knees!
A lot of podiatry is about prevention. Seeing your podiatrist regularly allows for a healthy body from head to toe.
Dr. Giorgianni is available on Tuesdays at CompleteCare Medical and Dental Professionals in Cape May Court House. Call (609) 465-0258 or visit www.completecarenj.org to schedule an appointment.
—Kim Tweed