Summer is a time for playing outdoors, swimming, and simply enjoying being a kid. However, summer is also a time of year when foot and ankle injuries tend to spike for children.
Fortunately, there are lots of things parents and caretakers can do to help minimize this risk so your kids can keep on playing all summer long. Here are three summer foot care top tips to keep your kids safe.
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Choose the Right Type of Shoes for the Activity
Kids want to go, go, go, but before they head out the door, make sure they’re equipped with the right type of footwear for the activities they’ll be engaged in. When on the playground and playing sports, make sure they’re wearing sneakers with a supportive sole. Stay away from flip-flops and open-toed shoes for these types of activities.
Around the pool and at waterparks, choose non-slip sandals that will stay on their feet in slippery conditions.
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Don’t Forget Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a summertime must, even on little toes. If your child is wearing shoes that expose areas of his or her feet, be sure to apply sunscreen to those areas.
Remember to reapply sunscreen at least every two hours when outside and after swimming.
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Beware of Going Bare
There’s nothing quite like the feeling of bare feet in the grass in the summertime. But if you and your little ones are out at a public pool, playing in the park or somewhere other than your backyard, think twice about letting them go barefoot. Children can easily pick up funguses like athlete’s foot, step on sharp objects, or get stung by a bee — a particular challenge if your child is allergic to stings.
Have questions about foot and ankle safety this summer or want to schedule an appointment? Contact our Gaithersburg office online or give us a call at 301-948-2995.
