The recent heat waves are driving North Jersey Podiatry patients to the lovely Jersey shore in droves! And who can blame them? A day at the beach can be ruined, however, if you sustain a foot injury. Below are some important items to include in your beach bag to prevent foot trouble while at the shore.

Flip flops—put these on when you get out of the car and while you are trying to set up your umbrella and beach chair. Oftentimes people step out onto the sand barefoot and think it feels hot but not too bad but as they walk the sand literally begins to burn their feet. Use flip-flops in restrooms and changing areas too so that your feet don’t come in contact with surfaces that may contain fungi and bacteria that can lead to athlete’s foot and fungal toenails.

Sunscreen—use on the tops and bottoms of your feet. Reapply every few hours and remember, even if you are using a water-resistant sunscreen lotion, to put it on again after swimming or wading.

Sneakers—walking or running on the sand is hard on your feet because of the way it shifts and gives with every step. It’s easy to sprain an ankle, particularly if you are playing games like volleyball or frisbee. Even long walks on the beach can leave you with heel or arch pain if you are barefoot.

Baking Soda—did you know that jellyfish can still sting even if they are washed up on the sand? It’s true if you step on a tentacle accidentally and get stung, applying baking soda should help ease the pain and swelling. Most stings will heal on their own in a few days but if it doesn’t appear to be getting better, make an appointment to see our podiatrist, Dr. Paul G. Klein.

Bandages and Antibiotic Ointment—hopefully, if you’re wearing flip-flops or sneakers you will prevent any sharp objects buried in the sand from injuring your feet. But just in case you do get a cut or puncture wound, clean the area and apply antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Avoid the water to keep bacteria from entering the wound.

If after your day at the beach you are left with aching feet or an injury that doesn’t resolve in a day or two on its own, contact our Wayne, NJ office by calling: (973) 595-1555.