If the cold and dreary weather in Wayne, NJ has you planning a turquoise-water vacation in a warmer climate, we at North Jersey Podiatry will try to contain our envy and instead would like to offer some tips for taking care of your feet while you’re away. Nothing ruins a tropical vacation faster than foot trouble that prevents you from enjoying your time away from the winter weather.

Choose Shoes Wisely—blisters, shin splints or worse—an ankle sprain—can put a damper on your vacation before it even gets started. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes for travel day. Running to catch your flight and tromping through endless miles at the airport between flights require shoes that you are certain will not hurt your feet. It’s also a good idea not to bring shoes to wear on vacation that are brand new. You don’t know if they will rub or pinch anywhere and a day-long sightseeing tour is a terrible time to make this discovery.

Protect Feet on the Beach—it’s best to keep feet covered when walking on the beach. Sharp shells and jelly fish lurk among soft sand and can quickly turn a relaxing day into a stressful one if you step on them with bare feet. It’s also a good idea to have flip flops or shower shoes to wear around a resort pool or for when using public showers to get rid of sand at the beach to prevent fungal infections which are spread by direct contact.

Don’t Forget Sun Protection—your feet are just as susceptible to sunburn (and skin cancer) as the rest of your body. Sunburn on your feet will not only be painful, but can also prevent you from walking to the beach or pool and enjoying other activities on your vacation. Use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply after you’ve been in the water.

If, after you return from your getaway, you find that you are experiencing any foot or ankle discomfort, contact us by calling: 973-595-1555 for an appointment. Our podiatrist, Dr. Paul G. Klein will diagnose your foot problem and devise a treatment plan to eliminate pain and get you back to your regular routine.