Don't let foot problems ruin your summer fun! Spending more time in Galveston or hiking around Houston can lead to foot problems like athlete's foot, ingrown toenails, or plantar warts. These issues can arise due to increased activity, wearing improper shoes, and being exposed to the environment. This article will discuss various summer foot health issues and provide practical solutions to keep you happy and your feet comfortable so you can fully embrace the sunny days and summer vibes.

Ingrown Toenails and Tight Footwear

Tight footwear and physical injuries, such as stubbing your toe or repetitive trauma, can contribute to painful ingrown toenails. Genetic factors can influence this condition, and improper nail trimming is another common cause. Cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or cutting too close to the skin can lead to nails growing into the skin.

Early signs of ingrown toenails might include discomfort when pressing on the toe or wearing shoes. Ingrown toenails happen when a nail grows into the skin, causing foot pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

Symptoms of ingrown toenails include redness, swelling, tenderness, and sometimes pus around the affected area. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can lead to severe infections that might spread to the underlying bone, requiring more intensive treatment.

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails:

Trimming nails straight across without tapering the corners.
Wearing shoes that fit well and provide enough room for the toes.
Keeping feet clean and dry to prevent infections.

If you have an ingrown toenail, soak your feet in warm water several times a day. This will help reduce swelling and alleviate pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers and topical antibiotics can also help. In severe or recurrent cases, a podiatrist may perform a minor procedure to remove part of the nail or the nail bed to prevent recurrence.

Plantar Warts and Communal Areas

Plantar warts are a common summer foot issue, often contracted from walking barefoot in communal areas like pools. These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which thrives in warm, moist environments.

Plantar warts are small, grainy growths that appear on the soles of the feet. Tiny black dots may be present, indicating clotted blood vessels. These warts can be painful, especially when walking or standing, as they grow inward because of the pressure from body weight.

Walking barefoot in communal areas can cause warts on the sole of your feet

Preventive Measures Include:

Wearing protective footwear, like water shoes or flip flops, in communal areas to avoid direct contact with surfaces that may contain the virus.
Keeping your feet clean and dry.
Avoid sharing shoes or socks.

Home treatment options for plantar warts range from over-the-counter solutions or SWIFT Microwave therapy in our office. Keeping your feet clean and taking precautions can prevent plantar warts, so you can have a comfortable summer.

Athlete's Foot and Summer Moisture

Athlete's foot is a common condition in the summer, primarily because of increased moisture from sweating. This fungal infection thrives in warm, damp environments, making your feet more susceptible during the hotter months. Public places like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers are familiar sources of this infection.

Symptoms of athlete's foot include itching, burning, and stinging sensations between the toes or on the soles of the feet. The skin may become dry and flaky or develop blisters and cracks, leading to discomfort.

Preventive Measures Include:

Wash your feet daily with soap and water, and thoroughly dry them, especially between the toes.
Wearing moisture-wicking socks and breathable shoes to reduce sweating.
Always wear flip-flops or water shoes in communal areas to protect your feet from potential fungal exposure.

Home treatment options for athlete's foot include our athletes foot kit or over the counter creams, sprays, and powders. Maintaining good foot hygiene is vital to keeping athlete's foot away and enjoying a comfortable, itch-free summer.

Doctor’s Inc. Provides the Care You Deserve

With these simple tips, you can keep your feet healthy and comfortable all summer long. Start today and enjoy the benefits of happy, pain-free feet to embrace the sunny days and warm evenings fully.

Ready to give your feet the care they deserve? Visit our online store to shop for top-quality foot care products. For personalized treatment and comprehensive doctor recommendations, book an appointment with us today. At Doctors Inc., we're here to help you achieve and maintain optimal foot health, ensuring you have the best summer yet.