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During the summer, feet are subjected to conditions that differ from the norm. Increased walking, long walks, wearing more open-toed footwear, exposure to sand and water, as well as use of swimming pools and lidos, can contribute to changes in the skin, nails and the way the foot copes with daily strain.

Although many of these situations are initially regarded as temporary discomforts, their progression can compromise your well-being whilst on holiday and may require specialist care.

Taking simple precautions helps to prevent common foot problems and reduce the risk of pain, infections, cracks, blisters or injuries that may require treatment at a podiatry clinic.

What are the most common foot problems during the summer?

The most common problems seen at this time of year include:

• Blisters caused by excessive friction
• Cracked and dry skin
• Plantar warts
• Fungal infections of the skin and nails
• Pain in the soles of the feet associated with long walks
• Ingrown or injured toenails
• Calluses caused by pressure or friction.
• A feeling of tiredness or discomfort in the feet

The combination of heat, humidity, increased physical activity and changes in the type of footwear worn contributes significantly to the onset of these conditions.

How can you protect your feet during the summer months?

To reduce the risk of foot problems whilst on holiday, it is important to take simple and consistent preventive measures.

1. Wear suitable footwear

Footwear should be comfortable, fit the foot properly and be suitable for the type of activity. For long walks, flip-flops or very shallow sandals do not always provide the necessary support and may contribute to plantar pain, fatigue or strain.

Whenever you are going on long walks, you should opt for stable, breathable footwear that fits the foot well.

2. Wear flip-flops in swimming pools and changing rooms

Swimming pools, changing rooms, public showers and communal areas are environments where dampness encourages the growth of microorganisms. Walking barefoot in these places can increase the risk of coming into contact with viruses and fungi associated with plantar warts, athlete’s foot and other infections.

Wearing flip-flops helps to reduce direct contact between your feet and potentially contaminated surfaces.

3. Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing

After a bath, a swim in the pool or the sea, it is important to dry your feet carefully, including the spaces between your toes.

Prolonged dampness between the toes can lead to skin maceration and create conditions conducive to the development of fungal infections.

4. Avoid wearing damp socks or shoes

Wearing damp socks, trainers or shoes for long periods can increase the risk of irritation, unpleasant odours, skin maceration and the development of fungal infections.

Whenever possible, you should change your socks, alternate your footwear and allow your feet to remain dry and well-ventilated.

5. Moisturise your feet skin

Exposure to heat, sand, salt water and open-toed footwear can contribute to dryness, roughness and cracks, particularly around the heels.

Regular moisturising helps to maintain the skin’s integrity and reduce the risk of painful cracks. You should avoid applying cream between your toes, as this area should be kept dry.

6. Watch out for changes to your feet and toenails

Whilst on holiday, it is important to be alert to signs such as persistent pain, changes in nail colour, thickening of the skin, deep cracks, recurring blisters, peeling, itching or suspicious lesions on the sole of the foot.

Early detection allows you to seek specialist care before the problem worsens.

Enjoy your holidays without neglecting the health of your feet

Not all foot problems disappear spontaneously after a few days’ rest. Persistent pain, recurring blisters, changes to the nails, deep cracks or skin lesions should prompt a specialist assessment.

A podiatry consultation at FootStudy in Braga enables the early identification of changes that may arise during the holiday period, the assessment of risk factors and the development of prevention strategies.

Early intervention is often crucial to preventing the worsening of conditions that initially manifest only as minor discomfort.