It's sandals season: Here's how to keep your feet in tip top shape

Your feet take you everywhere, from morning walks to summer adventures. But many people don't realize how much their overall health depends on healthy feet.

Whether you're slipping into sandals, walking barefoot on the beach or heading out on an outdoor adventure, it's important to make sure your feet are ready for action.

While flip-flop weather leaves your feet more exposed, foot care should be on your radar in every season. This is especially true for people with certain health conditions. These include diabetes, nerve damage and circulation issues such as blood clots or peripheral artery disease (PAD).

Why foot health matters more than you think

Other parts of your body are affected by how you treat your feet. That's why your doctor or other caregiver might check your feet if you mention having knee pain or backaches.

"Your feet are the foundation for your whole body," says John Stanger, DPM, a podiatrist with PeaceHealth in Florence, Oregon. "When your feet aren't healthy, it affects how you walk, stand and move through your day."

Simple issues like ingrown toenails, calluses or shoes that don't fit well also can make every step painful.

And if you're not paying attention to your feet, it can be easy to misstep, twist an ankle or take a tumble. Injuries from a fall can take a while to heal.

Summer foot care basics

Here's how to keep your feet healthy in the warmer months:

Choose the right footwear

• Sandals should fit well and have a stiff sole. Flip-flops are OK for short periods, but they don't offer much protection or support for longer activities. Dr. Stanger recommends comfort-sandal brands such as Birkenstock, Oofos and Fit Flop. "They tend to partner the luxury comfort of a sandal with built-in support for the foot," he says.
• Be mindful of the fit for closed-toe shoes as well. If they're too big it can cause blisters. If they're too tight it can cause ingrown nails and corns.
• Wear shoes that breathe. Look for materials that let air flow and moisture escape.
• Select styles that will protect your feet from hot surfaces. Pool decks, sand and pavement can get hot enough to burn your skin.
• For summer activities, choose footwear designed for your activity, such as hiking boots for trails and water shoes for rocky beaches.

Check your feet regularly

• Summer activities like hiking, swimming and walking on hot surfaces can cause injuries you might not notice right away. Each day, look for cuts, blisters, swelling, redness or changes in skin color.

Keep your feet clean and dry

• Wash your feet daily with soap and water, especially after swimming or sweating.
• Dry between your toes to prevent infections like athlete's foot. Over-the-counter products like Miconazole powder or spray can help with this, too.
• If you're wearing closed-toe shoes, change your socks regularly.

Maintain your skin and nails

• Trim your toenails regularly. Clip straight across, since curved cuts can cause painful ingrown nails. Be mindful of going too short. If the edge of your nail is below the skin at the side of your toe, it may cause swelling and redness.
• Summer heat and chlorine from pools can dry out your skin. Use a good moisturizer on your feet, but avoid the areas between your toes. Moisture there can lead to fungal infections.

For more doctor-approved tips for summer, check out this guide from the American Podiatric Medical Association.

When to see a professional

Regular self-care can help you spot signs of a foot-related concern early, so you can get help. You should see a doctor or other caregiver about your feet if you have:

• Diabetes, circulation conditions or nerve damage.
• Foot pain that doesn't go away after a few days.
• Signs of infection like redness, warmth or swelling.
• Wounds that won't heal.
• Thick, discolored or ingrown toenails.

"We want to help people stay active and comfortable," Stanger says. "Good foot care can prevent serious conditions down the road."

At a visit, you can expect your care team to:

• Do a complete exam of your feet and check your blood flow (circulation).
• Observe how your feet move when you walk (biomechanics) and see if there's anything unusual that might affect your health.
• Take a look at your shoe and sock choices to make sure they are helping, not hurting, your feet.

Many insurance plans cover foot care for people with diabetes or circulation conditions. Check with your health plan to see about your specific benefits.

Your summer foot action plan

This summer, make foot care part of your daily routine.

Whether you're planning beach days, hiking adventures or just want to be comfortable for everyday activities, you'll find that good foot care can help you fully enjoy each day.

And if you have concerns about your feet, reach out to your doctor or other caregiver as soon as you can.

"Don't wait until you have pain to think about your feet," Stanger says. "A little prevention goes a long way."