It’s that time of year—families are planning to get away for summer vacation. No matter where you are planning to go, we at Paul Klein, DPM FACFAS want to remind you to pack for your feet. Okay, so your feet won’t require their own suitcase, but bringing a few podiatric essentials will keep your feet comfortable and free from pain and injury. In turn, your feet will happily take you anywhere you want to go. Use the following as your pack list:

  • Flip flops or water shoes—if you don’t want to bring home a case of athlete’s foot, fungal toenails or a plantar wart, plan to keep your feet protected when walking in public places. Pools, changing areas and beach side bathrooms provide all the elements fungi need to thrive: damp, dark and exposure to lots of bare feet.
  • Sunscreen—chances are this will be in your bag, but remember to apply some to the tops and bottoms of your feet as often as the rest of your body—especially if you are spending the day at the beach or by the pool. A bad sunburn on your feet can make walking painful and also greatly increases your chances for melanoma and other skin cancers.
  • Nail clippers and an emery board—trim or file jagged nails promptly so they don’t catch on socks and tear. Remember to always cut nails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails from developing.
  • Sturdy athletic shoes—while strappy sandals may be fine for eating out and flips flops are good for the pool, you will need a pair of shoes that have good arch support and shock absorbing soles to keep your feet injury free for sightseeing, hiking and other vacation activities.
  • Moleskin and bandages—if you do start to feel a sore spot forming on your foot, applying a small piece of moleskin can prevent a blister from forming. If you don’t catch it in time, cover a blister with a bandage and some antibiotic ointment.

If you develop a wound or injury while on vacation, seek treatment promptly and be sure to follow up with us when you return. Our podiatrist, Dr. Paul G. Klein, will want to examine your foot and make sure it is healing properly. To make an appointment, contactour Wayne, NJ office at: 973-595-1555.