As many of my patients know, I love to travel. And beautiful beaches are my favorite. During a recent trip to Grand Cayman I watched some appalling things happen to feet. So I thought I would share my top tips for your feet at the beach.
1. Shoes are a good thing and for numerous reasons. But there is no need to wear cross trainers and socks all the time. Flip flops or sandals are the way to go. But leave the "fancy" flops for dinner out.
2. Planning on running on the beach? Don't do it barefoot unless you are used to running barefoot. The sand is much softer than your treadmill and will cause things like achilles tendonitis and posterior tibial tendonitis to occur and quite possibly ruin your trip activities. Take your running shoes for this one.
3. Heading out in the water and not sure what type of shoreline you are dealing with? Water shoes are great. I've been to several beaches that looked like there was a soft sandy entrance, only to find out that it was a rocky, spiny ledge in disguise. But if it is soft like baby powder...let those toes free!
4. I try to get in at least one spa day while on vacation and there is always a question of spa etiquette in different countries. But the one thing that is never a question...wear the provided slippers everywhere! It may be the top spa in the world but that doesn't mean the spa goers have the healthiest habits.
5. Don't forget your feet when applying sunscreen. One of the worst burns I ever got was on the tops of my feet. I could wear shoes for 4 days! Melanoma on the feet is rare, but can be the most deadly when it occurs. And don't think that beach time is the only time your feet are getting sun. Those walks out shopping with flips or sandals on allow plenty of sun time for those tootsies.
6. Feel a sting or a burn while walking? You may have stepped on glass hidden by the sand or a broken seashell. You can also step on broken coral at the waters edge that can really hurt. Best thing to do is immediately wash your foot with soap and water and check for anything that may be stuck in your foot. If necessary, seek medial attention.
7. If you are diabetic or have any problems with your sensation or circulation, always think "protect my feet"! Check the bottom of your feet often for cuts, scrapes or burns you didn't know you had. Again, seek medical treatment if you see any cut or burn on your feet. The organisms that grow in the ocean can cause serious infections very quickly.
Not sure what shoes are right for your beach vacation? Visit our certified pedorthist at Healthy Steps.
I love the beach and the water. And I am often barefoot on the beach when I can be, I'm just careful. But I must touch on one other topic. If you are snorkeling and come across a beautiful coral reef, please don't touch it or stand on it. This is not a resting area for humans. It is a home to millions of living organisms and fish and it is our job to protect them!
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2 comments:
Thanks for the great tips! Will make sure my feet are pretty for the beach :) Hopefully it warms up soon!
Nice guide on beaches! I would love to go there and will do whatever I like in the water. I will swim, eat my favorite food and of course will visit a Cayman gym to know what their way of training is.
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