Summer Camp and Foot Conditions

School will be out soon, and many parents have plans for their children to attend summer camp. Some camps are for sports. Others may be for robotics or music. Whether camp will last a few weeks or most of the summer, children enjoy the break from school. Before you send them off for a summer adventure, we recommend a check-in on their foot health.

Sometimes we may miss subtle hints about foot pain in our children. We may also forget that their feet are still growing; their shoe size can change. To best care for their feet, send them off to summer camp with a great pair of shoes. The shoes can have style and support. Follow along as the doctors at 

The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists share 3 foot problems that could pop up during summer camp and how to prevent them. 

1: Ingrown toenails

There are three common causes of ingrown toenails: narrow shoes, improper toenail trimming, and heredity. We can help you address the first two problems. Before you send your child to summer camp, check their shoes. We can help, too. If the toe box is too small, there is no wiggle room. Size up or try another style. With toenail trimming, focus on trimming straight across. Never pull or tear your toenail. 

Call us: If you notice redness or swelling, your toenail may have become infected. 

2: Foot infection

Unfortunately, infections are common in children. Young children may accidentally wear someone else’s shoes, switching footwear for fun. Exchanging shoes means sharing germs. Typical foot infections include athlete’s foot and plantar warts. A prevention tip is never share shoes, socks, or foot hygiene tools. We also recommend keeping feet clean, dry, and covered; don’t walk barefoot.

Call us: at the first sign of infection, as you risk spreading it to others. 

3: Achilles tendonitis 

For the kids in the sports camps (basketball, for example), Achilles tendonitis can become a problem. Repetitive action and quick starts can put your child at risk of this painful injury. One of the best prevention tips is to stretch before and after each practice or game. 

Call us: If your child has an injury, seek medical attention immediately.  With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team includes Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.