Keep Feet and Ankles Safe During Outdoor Activities
As the weather gets warmer, Middlesex County podiatrists Dr. Jason Grossman and Dr. Paul A. Osemene want to take this opportunity to remind you to protect your family’s foot and ankle health as you enjoy outdoor recreation. Here are 3 easy steps you can take:
1. Like the rest of your body, your feet and ankles are vulnerable to skin cancer. Use sunscreen when you’re barefoot outside. Apply carefully to feet and ankles, including between the toes. Reapply after swimming or if sweat may have washed your sunscreen away. Check feet periodically for new or changing moles, and report these to your podiatrist without delay.
2. Make sure your footwear is ready to provide excellent cushioning and support. Choose the right shoes for your activity, paying careful attention to ankle height as needed. Remember foot size changes with age, and have your feet professionally measured each year. Replace athletic shoes at least as often or if they’ve seen 500 miles of walking or running, whichever comes first. Talk to your foot doctor about orthotics, custom insoles that can help make any shoes even more comfortable to wear.
3. If you take a spill resulting in discomfort at the feet and ankles, take a moment to assess the issue. Severe pain should receive immediate care. If you want to wait, be sure to try anti-inflammatory medication combined with at-home RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) treatment. Call your doctor if the pain persists for more than 24 hours.
If foot or ankle pain keeps you from comfortably standing, walking, or enjoying daily activities, your foot doctor is here to help. With years of specialized training and experience, a podiatrist like Jason Grossman, DPM, and Paul A. Osemene, DPM is the best-qualified doctor to examine, diagnose, and treat all issues related to this part of your body. Call the friendly Advanced Feet and Ankle Care staff at (732) 679-4330 or click here to schedule a convenient appointment in our Old Bridge and Sayreville offices today.