Flip-flop pain

We are all guilty of it, but try not to wear flip-flops continuously when the weather is hot. They don’t provide adequate support for you feet and can cause arch and heel pain if you wear them regularly. When choosing flip-flops, look for ones with arch and heel support.

Sunburn

Your feet are most exposed during the summer, so don’t forget the suncream. Use SPF30 and above, and reapply regularly to protect against skin cancer and leathery skin due to premature ageing.

Other tips for healthy summer feet

Swimming and paddling pools, gym showers and hotel bathrooms are breeding grounds for athlete’s foot and verrucas. Wear flip[-flops or Crocs to avoid catching them.

Don’t hide “ugly” toenails with polish. A thick, discoloured, cracked or crumbling nail could mean you have a fungal infection. It won’t go away by itself, so get it checked out.

Feet tend to swell during the day so buy new shoes or sandals later in the day when your feet are at their largest.

Try to vary your shoe type and heel height from day to day; one day with low heels, the next with slightly higher ones. Heel heights should be kept to about 3 cm for everyday use.