Avoid the Street When Walking with Bare Feet
Walking barefoot can be a fun experience. When you walk barefoot, though, you should know that it can hurt the health of your feet. Walking barefoot on a hard surface can cause your foot to collapse from the added stress to the foot. It may also cause infections because your feet are exposed to bacteria and viruses. When this happens, you may experience toenail fungus, athlete’s foot, and other problematic conditions. These conditions make your feet more prone to infections. If you have diabetes, you will need to be especially careful to keep your feet clean and always wear socks.
Places You Should Avoid with Bare Feet
- Dark and moist places–these areas include places like shared bathrooms, gym floors, and pools. Bacteria breeds in these places because of the dampness. Protect your feet with footwear appropriate to those conditions.
- Outside of your home–this includes areas like the street, sidewalk, and any rugged ground conditions. Harder surfaces can injure your feet, allowing an opening for unwanted bacteria and viruses causing infections.
- Your home–while flip-flops and slippers may be comfortable, they can cause foot and ankle problems if you’re wearing them all the time. Give your feet both protection and support by limiting the time you wear these types of shoes.
Walking with bare feet in a safe environment that will not cause damage to your feet may help improve the flexibility and strength of your foot. Over time that helps to reduce injuries to your feet, and may also improve your balance and posture. Consult your podiatrist if you’re unsure how to best address any foot or ankle problems you may be experiencing.
The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists serve Green Valley, AZ, Tucson, AZ, and Oro Valley, AZ. They will help you heal from any issue and help you ensure that you have the best care for your feet and ankles. Our doctors are experienced in using the latest and most innovative solutions and technology. From PinPointe FootLaser techniques to custom orthotics, our team of doctors is dedicated to helping you heal. Christopher M. Funk, D.P.M., FACAS, Bradley A. Whitaker, D.P.M., FACAS, Peter C Merrill, D.P.M., AACFAS, and Zeno Pfau, D.P.M., will provide you with the utmost care and treatment. Please call us today at (520) 575-0800.
