It’s time to shift from Summer sandals and barefoot back to more structural shoes for work and school. This will bring new challenges to the foot creating situations for new blisters, sweaty feet, arch pain or infections.
Common Foot Problems in the Fall:
Blisters and friction
The foot not being used to a full-last structural shoe can make it susceptible to new friction points, which can then lead to blistering. Also adding new demand, for instance, carrying heavy backpacks or adding a new physical education class for kids at school can contribute. Put the extra effort into purchasing new supportive shoes to handle this new load or demand and ask for an official sizing by your shoe salesman using a Brannick device. This may limit the chance of abnormal friction or new blisters.
Ingrown Toenails
Pressure of a normal toe box after the toes have been free to move in a sandal or barefoot can cause irritation, or inflammation within the toes leading to ingrown toenails. Be mindful when buying new shoes to have adequate room in the toe box and be prepared for any new pain or inflammation around the nail bed. If you do experience this, a couple days of epsom salt soaks and keeping antibiotic ointment on the affected toe may help.
Arch Pain or Plantar Fasciitis
Not being prepared for increased demand to the foot during a long walking commute to work or added physical education to school-age children may cause arch pain or plantar fasciitis. Prepare yourself by purchasing well-made, supportive shoes to match the demand of the day. If you do start to experience heel or arch pain, a couple days of rest, ice, and adding an arch support can sometimes quickly relieve your symptoms.
Sweaty Feet and Infections
Not being used to confining the foot in an enclosed shoe with socks for long days at the office or in the classroom can cause increased sweating or perspiration of the foot which may lead to minor skin irritation or even athletes foot also known as Tinea Pedis. Try keeping the foot dry by using moisture wicking socks and alternating your shoes. If you do end up with skin irritation or infection, make sure you’re washing your feet every day with soap and water, including between the toes and see your local podiatrist.
Other tips for back to school or back to work transition would include making sure your shoes are well fitted and supportive, break-in any new shoe gradually, and protect your feet in shared spaces for example school locker rooms, swimming pools, karate or gymnastic mats. Try to wear flip-flops or sandals as much as possible in shared spaces and consider wiping the bottom of the feet with skin cleansing wipes.
Conclusion
Transitioning from summer sandals back to fall shoes doesn’t have to mean foot pain or problems. By choosing supportive footwear that are properly fit, maintaining proper hygiene, and monitoring skin conditions, you can avoid these bothersome issues. At HealthyFeetStore.com we are committed to keeping your feet healthy and happy.
Written by
Dr. Jeffrey S. Hurless
DPM, FACFAS Board Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon/Podiatrist
Medical Director, HealthyFeetStore.com
 |
 |