Fax: (239) 692-9436
Tel: 239-430-3668How Warmer Weather Affects Foot Health
May 28 2025
Summer is just around the corner—and so are sweaty feet, blisters, sunburns, and swollen ankles! Don’t miss our latest article on how warmer weather affects foot health and what you can do to keep your feet happy all season long! #Podiatry #FootCare #SummerReadyFeet #HealthyFeet #FFLC
Patrick Bartholomew, DPM
Kevin Lam, DPM, FACFAS
As temperatures rise and daylight stretches longer into the evening, people are naturally drawn outdoors – whether it’s for a walk in the park, a hike through the woods, or just a leisurely day at the beach. While this seasonal shift can be invigorating, it also brings a number of foot health concerns that patients may not anticipate. For podiatrists, warmer weather is the perfect opportunity to educate and help prevent some of the most common seasonal foot issues before they become chronic problems.
Sweat and Fungal Infections
One of the first changes many patients notice is an increase in sweating. Warm, humid conditions often lead to moisture buildup in shoes and between the toes, creating an ideal environment for fungal infections like athlete’s foot or toenail fungus. Many patients may not realize that simply wearing closed shoes without breathable materials or failing to rotate footwear can significantly raise their risk. Encouraging patients to choose moisture-wicking socks and shoes made from breathable fabrics, along with emphasizing the importance of daily foot hygiene, can make a substantial difference. For those particularly prone to fungal infections, using antifungal sprays or powders proactively can also help during the hot months.
The Sandal and Flip-Flop Tradeoff
Footwear choices during summer can also contribute to discomfort or injury. Sandals and flip-flops, although appealing, often lack proper support. Flat, unsupportive soles can strain the plantar fascia and lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, especially when worn for extended periods. Patients may enjoy the convenience of flip-flops, but they should be advised that these shoes are better suited for short-term wear, such as at the beach or around a pool. For longer outings, sandals with built-in arch support and cushioning are far better alternatives.
Outdoor Activities and Injury Risks
Increased physical activity in the summer months also leads to a higher risk of injuries. From hiking and running to playing sports on uneven terrain, patients are more likely to experience sprains, strains, and even fractures. It’s essential for podiatrists to remind patients to wear activity-appropriate footwear and to pay attention to their surroundings – especially when walking barefoot. Hot pavement, hidden debris, or sharp objects in sand or grass can cause burns, cuts, or puncture wounds. A simple step like wearing water shoes at the lake or flip-flops in communal showers can prevent a wide range of foot issues.
Heat-Induced Swelling
Swelling of the feet and ankles is another common problem in warm weather, especially for individuals with circulatory issues, pregnancy, or chronic conditions like venous insufficiency. As blood vessels expand in the heat, fluid tends to pool in the lower extremities. Patients might complain of tight shoes or discomfort at the end of the day. Recommending simple adjustments such as elevating the feet in the evening, staying hydrated, wearing compression socks, and reducing salt intake can help them manage this seasonal swelling more effectively.
Special Considerations for Diabetic Patients
Patients with diabetes face particular risks in the warmer months. Many are tempted to go barefoot, but loss of sensation due to neuropathy means they may not feet minor cuts or burns – leading to infections that can become serious if not caught early. High temperatures also increase the risk of bacterial growth and poor wound healing. High temperatures also increase the risk of bacterial growth and poor wound healing. It’s critical to emphasize the importance of daily foot inspections, consistent hygiene, and choosing protective footwear, even in hot weather. Offering routine summer check-ups for diabetic patients can be a proactive way to identify and manage any developing issues.
Don’t Forget Sun Protection
Another area often overlooked is sun exposure. Many people apply sunscreen to their arms, legs, and face but forget the tops of their feet. This can lead to sunburn, which not only causes short-term pain but also increases the long-term risk of skin cancer. Podiatrists can remind patients to treat their feet like any other exposed area by applying broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30, especially when wearing open shoes or going barefoot. During routine exams, it’s also important to check for unusual spots or changes in pigmentation, and refer patients to dermatology if needed.
Nail and Skin Care in the Summer
Summer also brings a focus on aesthetics – patients often increase their grooming efforts as they expose their feet more frequently. However, improper nail trimming or at-home pedicures can result in ingrown toenails, infections, or skin irritation. Educating patients on safe grooming practices, such as trimming nails straight across and not too short, can help prevent painful problems. For high-risk patients, such as those with diabetes or poor circulation, professional foot care should be encouraged rather than at-home maintenance.
Ultimately, the warmer months are an opportunity to enjoy movement, sunshine, and outdoor activities – but they also demand a more mindful approach to foot care. By providing guidance, preventative strategies, and timely treatment, podiatrists can help patients keep their feet healthy and pain-free all summer long. Seasonal foot health isn’t just about comfort – it’s about ensuring mobility, independence, and quality of life.
If you are experiencing foot pain or have a non-healing wound on your lower extremity, contact Dr. Bartholomew’s office at (239) 430-3668 (FOOT) or visit www.NaplesPodiatrist.com to schedule an examination.
Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimally Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling.
