Summer Foot Safety: Avoiding Common Foot Injuries

Published July 31, 2025

Summer Foot Safety: Avoiding Common Foot Injuries

By: Tiomara Paylor, D.P.M.

As one of the newest members of The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics and part of the NoVa Foot & Ankle care center, it has been a true pleasure to join such a respected and accomplished group of orthopaedic leaders. I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this newsletter and connect with our wider community.

As summer winds down, many of us are making the most of sunny days at the beach or by the pool. To finish the season injury-free, it’s important to stay aware of common foot injuries – and how to prevent them:

  • Protective footwear is essential: Hot sand, sharp shells and hidden debris like broken glass can lead to painful injuries. Wearing proper footwear at the beach is one of the best ways to avoid stepping on unseen hazards. At the pool, nonslip slides not only help prevent slips and falls, but they also reduce your risk of exposure to athlete’s foot and plantar warts, both of which are common when walking barefoot in moist, shared spaces. While going barefoot may seem harmless, even minor cuts or abrasions can go unnoticed and quickly escalate if left untreated.
  • Keep your feet dry: Whenever possible, dry your feet thoroughly after swimming, especially between the toes. Prolonged moisture creates an ideal environment for blisters, fungal infections and skin breakdown. Just as importantly, don’t forget to apply sunscreen to the tops of your feet, which are often overlooked and prone to sunburn.
  • Stay hydrated and alert: Dehydration is more common in summer and can lead to swelling in the feet that restricts healthy circulation. If you’re spending time outdoors, drink water regularly and limit prolonged sun exposure. And before diving in, always check the depth of the water to avoid sprains, fractures or other impact-related injuries.

The sun may keep shining well into fall, but foot injuries don’t have to follow you into the next season. A few simple, smart precautions can help you stay comfortable, protected and active for the rest of summer – and beyond. Contact the specialists at The Centers for Advanced Orthopaedics to book your next appointment. Or, if you're looking for some advice over the phone, try VantaStat.com.