Now that the cold winter weather has passed and sunlight is beginning to peek through the clouds, it’s time for the kids to escape the clutches of the television and embrace the playground. Whether it’s playing a game of tag, playing a sport, or having fun in the sandbox, many kids will be active this summer.
However, a day in the sun can end up with a day at the doctor’s office if proper safety measures are ignored. Before the kids check out the giant slide in the pool, the oversized toys in the park, or the thrill rides in the amusement park, prepare them with the right footwear and protect them with proper care.
These tips from the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) could save the bottoms of your child’s feet this summer:
– Watch your child’s walking patterns carefully. Does your child have inward or outward pointing toes, knock knees, or other gait abnormalities? These problems can be corrected if detected early and treated by a podiatrist.
– Children’s feet change size quickly, so always measure your child’s feet every time you buy new shoes.
– When shopping for shoes, look for stiff material on each side of the heel, adequate cushioning, and a built-in arch. The shoe should be folded at the ball of the foot, not in the middle of the shoe.
– Never wear used shoes.
– Limit the time children wear platform or high-heeled shoes and alternate with high-quality sneakers or flats. High-top sneakers generally help prevent ankle sprains.
– Don’t buy shoes that need a “break-in” period. Good shoes should feel comfortable right away. For athletic activities, choose shoes that are designed for the sport your child will play.
– Never pack new shoes for your children to wear on vacation.
– Walking barefoot on pavement, hotel or airplane carpet, in hotel bathrooms or locker rooms, and near swimming pools can make your child susceptible to a host of infections. Always wear a pair of flip-flops or strappy sandals made of soft, supple leather to avoid getting bacteria or fungus like athlete’s foot or plantar warts.
– When applying sunscreen, don’t forget to put some on your child’s feet. Also, always remember to reapply.
– The lack of complaints on the part of a young person is not a reliable sign. The bones of the growing foot are so flexible that they can twist and distort without the child realizing it.
– Be careful with the application of home remedies on children’s feet. Preparations strong enough to kill certain types of fungus can damage the skin. The best thing you can do is visit an APMA member podiatrist for treatment.
For more information, visit www.FootAnkle.com.