How to Care for Your Feet During a Heatwave: Expert Summer Footcare Tips
- Matthew Jolly
- Jul 6
- 4 min read
Following the record-breaking June heatwave in the UK, forecasters are warning that further periods of unprecedented hot, humid weather are likely this summer. As hot weather becomes more frequent and intense in the UK, it’s important to understand how these soaring temperatures can affect your feet. When a heatwave hits, the feet tend to swell, sweat more and become more prone to blisters, fungal infections and sunburn. Here are our tips for keeping your feet healthy during a heatwave.
Keep Feet Cool and Dry
It’s a good idea to wash your feet daily with cool water ensuring that you dry them thoroughly afterwards, especially between the toes. It is important not to use ice or ice water applied directly to the skin because this can damage the skin tissue. If your feet are sweating heavily, it is a good idea to wear moisture-wicking socks and to consider changing them halfway through the day.
Choose Breathable Footwear
Choice of footwear plays an important part in helping to keep your feet cool during a heatwave. We recommend avoiding plastic shoes which can trap heat and moisture, instead opting for shoes made from canvas, mesh or leather which allow more airflow. If you like to wear sandals, ensure they fit well otherwise rubbing can lead to an increased risk of developing blisters. It is also advisable not to wear brand-new shoes on very hot days.
Apply Sunscreen
Remember to apply sunscreen if you will be outside and exposing your feet to the sun even for short periods. Skin on the feet can burn easily and sun cream should be applied to the tops of the feet, toes, ankles and between footwear straps where the skin is exposed. We recommend choosing a cream with a high SPF rating and re-applying the cream every two hours or more frequently if you are sweating heavily or swimming.
Try to Prevent Swelling
During a heatwave it is very important to stay well-hydrated, as dehydration can cause swelling of the feet to worsen as well as causing other issues for the body. If you are standing for long periods, try to elevate your feet for 10-15 minutes afterwards and wiggle your toes and flex the ankles if sitting for long periods too.
How to Manage Blisters and Reduce the Risk of Getting Them
Heat and sweat soften the skin, whilst swelling caused by heat increases the risk of chafing with footwear, all of which create a higher chance of developing blisters. When walking during a heatwave make sure that you choose suitable, well-fitting footwear and consider using an anti-friction balm on key areas of the feet most likely to be prone to friction. If you develop a blister, it is a good idea to protect it with a padded dressing and try not to burst it unless absolutely necessary.
Monitor for Fungal Infections
Warm, humid conditions provide an ideal environment for fungal infections to develop. Ensure that you wear flip flops in public showers or swimming pool changing rooms and dry feet thoroughly, especially between the toes to prevent fungal infections occurring. If you notice peeling, cracking or itching between the toes, consult a pharmacist who may be able to provide an anti-fungal cream – these are often most effective when usage is started at the early signs of infection. Continue to monitor your feet and should symptoms worsen, consult a doctor.
Why Does Hot Weather Make Your Feet Swell?
Yes. High temperatures cause blood vessels to widen, allowing fluid to collect in the feet and ankles. Staying hydrated, elevating your feet when resting, wearing comfortable footwear and the avoidance of standing for long periods can all help reduce swelling.
What Precautions Should I Take When Walking During a Heatwave to Protect my Feet?
It is important to recognise that during periods of extreme heat we may need to modify our behaviours and lifestyle to enable our bodies to cope. If you need to walk outside during the heatwave, try to do this early in the morning or late in the evening when temperatures are at their coolest and avoid going outside in the middle of the day if you can. Never walk on hot pavements with bare feet.
Make sure that you take extra water with you to stay hydrated, take regular breaks in shady areas and consider planning your route beforehand to factor in places where you might be able to sit down in the shade for a brief rest. Check your feet afterwards for any blisters, sores or rubbing.
What Precautions Should Sufferers of Diabetes or Poor Circulation Take to Protect Their Feet in a Heatwave?
In addition to following the tips in our blog above, patients with diabetes or poor circulation should inspect their feet daily for burns, cuts or blisters. Seek medical advice promptly if you notice any wound that is not healing as it should.
How can PediStick Help to Keep my Feet Healthy During a Heatwave?
PediStick has been designed to enable patients with reduced mobility to reach their feet and apply nourishing, protective moisturising cream. Now with a range of interchangeable applicator heads, PediStick can be used with a foot inspection mirror to check for cuts, blisters and wounds or to clean between the toes using a specially designed inter-digital toe cleaner. For more information, visit the PediStick shop here.
Comments