With the arrival of summer comes the need to cool off once in a while – and where better to do that than at the pool? As well all the fun things you can do in and around the water, there are also dangers that can cause problems for your feet. Here’s how to avoid them without stressing out.
Wear shoes around the pool area
It’s obvious that the area surrounding a pool will be both damp and warm. What’s less obvious is that this is the perfect environment for bacteria and fungus to flourish. If you go barefoot in a public area, you’re asking for trouble, so keep your feet covered.
- The best choices are lightweight shoes with comfortable, flat soles. Water shoes are a great option.
- What goes for the pool area itself also goes for the community shower afterwards, so don’t leave your feet uncovered there, either.
Keep your feet clean and dry
Of course, you won’t have dry feet when you’re actually in the pool! But the fungal and bacterial infections that lurk around the poolside love moist feet, so it’s best to take a shower right after you leave the water, then dry off carefully.
- After your shower, take particular care to ensure that the areas around your toenails and between your toes are free from moisture.
- Keep your shoes to yourself – don’t share them – and don’t wear them if they’re damp. Change your socks as soon as you feel them getting sweaty.
Watch out for glass and other things that could trip you up
Toenail infections aren’t the only things you need to be careful about when you’re at the pool. Watch out for broken glass that can easily go unnoticed by barefoot revelers. Other concerns include sunburn, splinters and sprains. It’s normal to be excited by a day at the pool, but a little caution can prevent it ending with a trip to the doctor.
- Sunburn on your feet is very uncomfortable and makes it hard to wear shoes. So don’t forget to apply some sunscreen to your feet and toes.
- Never run around the poolside. It’s easy to slip, which can easily lead to painful bruises or even more serious ankle sprains.