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Protect Your Feet While Traveling

Planning a summer vacation trip? Whether you’re exploring the greater Philadelphia area or venturing further in the U.S. or even abroad, remember to pack necessities like tickets and sunscreen. But don’t neglect the basics – making sure your feet are ready to cover those miles is as important as renewing your passport.

The podiatrists at Your Next Step urge you to get your feet in their best condition for pain-free vacation memories. Take a few moments to read the following common-sense tips for happy traveling feet:

Pack Shoes for Each Activity

Take along a variety of well-fitting shoes depending on your plans at your destination:

  • Don’t forget to pack your custom-fitted orthotics for maximum arch support.
  • Wear shoes that slip off easily for airport security checks and wear socks too.
  • Add an extra pair of light sneakers that can be worn if other shoes get wet. Wearing damp shoes fosters the growth of harmful bacteria and fungus.
  • Pack a pair of flip flops but try to wear them only at beaches and pools. Too much walking in flip flops can cause foot and heel pain, sprained ankles and tendonitis because of their limited heel and arch cushioning and overall support.
  • The tops of feet are easily sunburned – apply to your feet each time you reach for it.
  • If you’re planning more adventurous activities, select well-fitting hiking boots and wear acrylic socks that wick away moisture.

Our Ardmore shoe store stocks a variety of top of the line footwear that is stylish as well as sturdy.

Be Prepared for Foot First Aid

Tuck a small foot first-aid kit in with your toiletries. Include:

  • Moisturizer rich in emollients
  • Blister pads or moleskins to prevent blisters and protect feet
  • Sterile bandages
  • Antibiotic cream
  • Sunscreen
  • Nail clippers and emery board

There are some foot problems that you can treat yourself. Unbroken blisters should be covered with a blister pad or moleskin to ease pressure. Wear different shoes to reduce rubbing.

If the blister is open, clean the site with soap and water. Leave the flap of skin unless it looks infected. Dress with antibiotic ointment and a clean bandage. Remove the bandage at night to let it air.

For more serious problems or if the area becomes infected and looks red, swollen or warm, seek out a doctor quickly.

If you’ve brought home more than souvenirs from that wonderful vacation – like a foot or ankle problem or injury – be sure to call us at 610-642-8837 for an appointment at our Ardmore or Paoli, PA offices. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, board certified or qualified foot doctors, will examine your feet and discuss a treatment plan with you. Call or send an email through our website to get started on the road to recovery.

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