The kids or grandkids are out of school and it is really starting to heat up in the desert. What a better way to dodge the heat then to head to Northern Arizona or cooler parts of the country for a summer vacation. Whether visiting family, camping, heading to the beach, or exploring a new part of the country don’t forget about what gets you around, your feet! Below are a few healthy tips for your feet during this year’s summer vacation.
- Pack appropriate footwear – While thong sandals are great for the beach, they may not be the best choice for hiking around the Grand Canyon or Mongollon Rim in Northern Arizona. Not only are your feet exposed to injury like scrapes, cuts, bites or stubbed toes, they are also lacking proper arch support and cushion. This reduced support in combination with high activity could have you sidelined early on your vacation.
- Traveling – Traveling is always a part of a vacation. If traveling by car, be sure to stop to and stretch those legs especially if you are prone to swelling in the lower legs and feet. If flying, be sure to get up during the flight to get your legs moving.
- Know your limits – Vacations are a fun and exciting time. Trying to keep up with the kids or grandkids may be a huge challenge. Make sure you do not “over do it” especially if you are at risk for foot injuries, such as a diabetic may be due to decreased sensation in their feet. A long day of keeping up with the kids could cause serious complications from blisters to ulcers without even knowing it.
- Be prepared –More often then not, vacations are full of the unexpected surprises. Packing a first aid kit is always a good idea. Related to foot health, make sure you can clean and dress blisters, small cuts or wounds to prevent infection. Items such as gloves, Neosporin, antiseptic towelettes and bandages of all sizes are only a few items to be included. If you have any indication that the injury is infected or beyond your ability to treat, seek medical attention.
Vacations are a very exciting and memorable time. If during your vacation you had an unexpected complication in your foot health, please consider making an appointment with Dr. Jay C. Larson at Sole Foot and Ankle Specialists in Glendale, Arizona.