Sandal Season Warning: 5 Foot Problems That Flare Up in Summer

As temperatures rise and closed-toe shoes make way for sun-loving sandals, suddenly, your feet have a lot more exposure — and a lot less support. Sure, these shoes can feel freeing after months of heavy winter shoes, but all that freedom can leave your feet prone to injuries and discomfort, too.

At Forward Foot & Ankle Associates, our team is committed to helping your feet stay healthy and comfortable year-round. Here, learn about some common summertime foot problems and what you can do to keep them at bay.

1. Cracked heels

Sandals and slingbacks may feel — and look — cool, but they expose a lot of your skin to sun, wind, and dry air — and for your heels especially, that can spell trouble. Without the cushioning and enclosed protection of your wintertime shoes, the skin on your heels can thicken, dry out, and eventually crack — sometimes deeply enough to cause bleeding.

To prevent heel cracking, regular moisturizing is key, especially with thicker creams designed specifically for the unique needs of your feet. Apply moisturizer anytime you’ve been in the water, and before bed, consider slathering moisturizer all over your feet and wearing thin cotton socks while you sleep.

2. Athlete’s foot

Warm weather means more time spent barefoot around the pool, and more sweating in your shoes. Combined, both these factors increase your risk of developing athlete’s foot, a fungal infection that causes intense itching, blistering, and peeling. 

Athlete’s foot isn’t just for athletes — anyone can “catch” this common fungal infection. To keep it at bay, never go barefoot in shared spaces like pools and locker rooms, change your socks regularly, and sprinkle the inside of your shoes liberally with antifungal foot powder. Washing your feet every day and drying them thoroughly can help, too.

3. Plantar fasciitis flare-ups

Summertime sandals often lack the support of more enclosed cool-weather shoes, which means more pressure for your arches (and the rest of your feet, too). Over time, lack of support can strain the plantar fascia — the thick band of supportive tissue that spans the length of your sole. The result: Nagging, stubborn pain that’s worse in the mornings and after any period of rest.

Switching to sandals with proper arch support and ample cushioning can make a big difference in plantar fasciitis symptoms. Stretching your calves and feet on a daily basis helps, too. Avoid high-impact activities that put a lot of strain on your feet to give your plantar fascia time to recover.

4. Blisters and abrasions

Many sandals simply aren't designed to be as snug as our winter footwear, and that means they’re more likely to move on our feet. Unfortunately, movement doesn’t just mean more freedom for your feet — it means more friction, too, especially when feet are wet or sweaty. Over time, friction leads to skin breakdown, leading to blisters, pain, and an increased risk of infection, too. 

When picking out your next pair of summer shoes, look for options designed to fit your feet more securely. For enclosed shoes, look for breathable materials that let moisture escape, wear moisture-wicking socks, and consider special protective pads for any areas prone to rubbing.

5. Sunburn

When most of us think of sunburn, we think of the obvious areas like the face, back, shoulders, and chest. But any area of exposed skin is prey to the sun’s UV damage — and that includes the skin on your feet.

Bottom line: Any area of exposed skin needs a good coating of sunscreen, including your feet. Apply sunscreen throughout the day and any time you’ve been in the water to ensure you enjoy consistent benefits.

Keep your feet healthy all summer long

One more tip: If you notice any issues, like pain, skin changes, or signs of infection, it’s important to schedule a visit with our team right away. Prompt care is essential for preventing more serious problems, like chronic ankle instability, deep infections, or skin cancer.

To keep your feet healthy and support an active, comfortable lifestyle, request an appointment online or over the phone with the team at Forward Foot & Ankle Associates in Midtown Manhattan and Staten Island, New York, today.