Summer Tips for Managing Foot Conditions on Vacation

It’s vacation season, and at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center, we don’t want any existing foot conditions that may stop you from having fun. But if you’re managing something like plantar fasciitis or have diabetic foot concerns, those extra miles can become a real challenge. That’s why we’ve detailed some key tips on how to stay safe and pain-free on your next long-distance trip.

Foot Conditions That Could Easily Flare Up on Vacation

First, we’ll start with a list of conditions that could easily be exacerbated by long trips in the car or plane, a lot of walking, a poor diet, and too much activity:

• Plantar Fasciitis: This common cause of heel pain is notorious for flaring up with increased walking, especially on hard, unfamiliar surfaces like city streets or airport terminals (and of course, sandals).
• Bunions and Hammertoes: If you have these deformities, wearing different shoes for travel (especially dressier or less broken-in ones) or simply walking much more than usual can lead to rubbing, redness, and inflammation around the joints.
• Gout: Travel can throw off your routines and eating habits. New rich foods or alcohol can easily trigger a painful gout attack.
• Metatarsalgia: Highly susceptible to flare-ups from increased walking, especially if your shoes aren’t appropriate. The constant pressure can ignite symptoms you might usually keep under control.
• Ingrown Toenails: The combination of prolonged walking, feet swelling in warmer climates, and wearing shoes that become too tight can cause an ingrown toenail to develop.

Travel Tips for Healthy Feet

Strategic Activity Planning

It’s tempting to cram every sight into your itinerary, but overdoing it can quickly trigger a flare-up. Plan your days with built-in rest periods, and do so intentionally. Instead of a walking tour, go for a bus tour or a museum visit where you can sit and enjoy the exhibits.

As far as walking goes, you’ll want to patiently increase your walking distances in the weeks leading up to your trip, so your feet are better conditioned for the demands ahead. Your feet need recovery time just like the rest of you.

Combat Swelling on the Go

Long flights, extended car rides, and even just prolonged standing in warmer climates can lead to uncomfortable foot and ankle swelling. Long, tight socks like compression socks will help improve circulation and reduce fluid buildup.

When you’re sitting, make an effort to do regular ankle pumps and foot circles. But whenever possible, get up and walk around the plane or stop the car for a quick stretch.

Diabetic Foot Travel Essentials

Due to neuropathy and potentially poor circulation, foot wounds can be dangerous. That’s why we don’t advise you to be barefoot on your trip, not even by the pool, because hidden debris or hot pavement can cause unnoticed injury.

For more foot care facts and advice, consult Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax County, Virginia, about any podiatric concerns you’re facing. Set up an appointment today to find relief!