Don’t Let Your Feet Ruin Your Day At The Beach
For many Americans, warm weather calls for a trip to the beach. An estimated 38 percent of summer travelers plan to go to a beach or lake this year.
But if you’re not careful, bare feet can run into trouble along those sandy shores, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons’ (ACFAS) consumer Web site FootPhysicians.com.
Here are some simple steps you can take to prevent foot problems.
Puncture wounds and cuts. Wear shoes to protect your feet from puncture wounds and cuts caused by seashells, broken glass and other sharp objects. Don’t go in the water if your skin gets cut-bacteria in oceans and lakes can cause a serious infection. A puncture wound should have medical treatment from a foot and ankle surgeon within 24 hours to avoid complications.
Jellyfish stings. A jellyfish washed up on the beach can still sting if you step on it. If tentacles stick to the foot or ankle, remove them. Vinegar, meat tenderizer or baking soda reduce pain and swelling. Most jellyfish stings heal within days, but if they don’t, see a doctor.
Sunburns. Feet get...