☀️ Summer Foot Health: Stay Active & Pain‑Free in the Season Ahead ☀️

Summer is a wonderful time for enjoying the outdoors—but warmer weather, sandals, and increased activity can bring unique challenges to foot and ankle health. At Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, we’re dedicated to helping you stay active, comfortable, and pain-free all summer long.

1. Choose Footwear That Supports Your Feet

Flip‑flops and fashion sandals may feel light and cool, but they often lack arch support, cushioning, and proper fit—leading to heel pain, plantar fasciitis, blisters, and even stress fractures. Instead, opt for lightweight shoes with good arch support and breathable materials. If you are wearing sandals for extended walking to standing make sure they have a good arch in them. 

2. Keep Feet Clean, Dry & Fresh

A daily routine of gentle foot washing and thorough drying—especially between the toes—is essential to prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot, odor, and skin irritation. Soaks such as Tolcylen™ can help keep skin soft, hydrated, and fungal free. 

Moisture-wicking socks help keep feet dry; we recommend avoiding 100% cotton socks and those that have bulky seams, are ill-fitting and are old or worn. We are a fan of wool socks and those that have a synthetic blend. Also, make sure they are snug "ish" fitting. Some of our favorites are Smartwool®, Bombas®, and Feetures®. 

3. Protect Against Burns & Sun Exposure

Our skin, including feet, is vulnerable to UV damage—especially when wearing sandals or walking barefoot. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+) to both tops and soles, and reapply after swimming or sweating. This is especially important if you have a recent surgical incision/scar as a sunburn can lead to increased discoloration, thickening, and sensitivity.  Avoid walking barefoot on hot pavement, pool decks, or sandy surfaces to reduce risk of burns and injury. 

4. Prevent Blisters, Cracks & Corns

Friction from heat and ill‑fitting shoes and sandals without support can lead to blisters, calluses, and cracked heels. To minimize discomfort:

• Wear well-fitting, supportive shoes (and socks)—even inside the house—to reduce rubbing.

• Use padded blister guards, lubricating balms, or moleskin on pressure-prone areas.

• Soak in Tolcylen™ to hydrate skin and minimize callouses and use a high quality moisturizer with a keratolytic that breaks down the calloused tissue.

5. Stay Hydrated & Manage Swelling

Warm temperatures can cause fluid retention, leading to swelling and discomfort. Keep cool by:

• Drinking water throughout the day.

• Elevating your feet after extended walking or standing.

• Soaking feet in cool (not ice-cold) water to decrease inflammation.

• Wearing light compression socks if you have circulation concerns.

Seek care if swelling persists or worsens, as it may signal underlying vascular or nerve issues

🎯 When to Reach Out to Us

We encourage you to schedule an appointment if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent pain or swelling

• Recurrent or painful blisters

• Deep cracks or callus pain

• Heel or arch pain affecting walking or activity

At the Foot and Ankle Center of Iowa, we tailor personalized prevention and treatment plans—whether that’s custom orthotics, shoe recommendations, medication and supplementation, physical therapy, or surgical options if needed.

👣 Enjoy Summer With Confident, Healthy Steps

By choosing supportive footwear, practicing foot hygiene, moisturizing appropriately, and protecting your feet from sun and friction—even small daily habits can help you avoid common summer foot issues. Your feet support every step of your life—give them the care they deserve this season, and let us partner with you to keep you moving without pain.

If you have questions or concerns with respect to your feet schedule your consultation with one of our experts today. Call us at 515–639–3775 to schedule.