The warm weather during spring and summer offers a perfect time for people to show off their toes and slide into their favorite sandals. When though open footwear happens to be more comfortable that full cover shoes, they do not offer full protection and you would not only be at risk of bumping your toes, but also of getting toenail fungus, ingrown toenails and other equally nasty infections. In case you have an ankle or foot concern, you should promptly see a skilled Orland Park podiatrist.

There are tips that can help in getting your feet summer-ready. First, do not be tempted to walk bare foot when at the public pool. Facilities that are open to the public are a dangerous site because concerns like toenail fungus are highly contagious. Visiting the locker room showers without any footwear would also increase your chances of getting ringworms and athletes foot.

You may also want to avoid clipping the edges of your toenails. Instead of doing this, choose to cut the nail straight across. This will significantly reduce the chances of getting an ingrown toenail after the nail fails to grow outwards and grows towards the skin instead. As minor as the concern may sound, it can leave you in devastating pain.

If you get an ingrown toenail, do not attempt to cut the nail further. Simply disinfect the area and keep it clean at all times. In the majorities of cases, it will heal on its own. If it does not, you need to visit a podiatrist. This will be a vital thing to do, especially if pus forms, the pain becomes unbearable or foot circulation is affected. This would be a sign that the infection is increasing.

Pedicures are crucial for reasons that go beyond aesthetics. It pays to schedule for regular appointments at the nail salon in order to maintain clean and healthy feet. Before you visit the first salon you can find, bear in mind that nail artists use a range of shared tools and products and this can increase your chances of picking a nasty infection. To prevent this, choose specialists who maintain high standards of hygiene.

Even during the warm season, you have to keep the feet dry. During this time, you will sweat more and this will create excellent conditions for fungus to thrive. If you must wear closed footwear during the summer, always apply antifungal powder before wearing your socks. Also opt for breathable footwear in order to keep your feet comfortable and dry.

Trimming your cuticles will put you at risk of suffering from toenail fungus, hangnails and other equally nasty infections. The cuticles protect your nails from germs and elements that cause infection. If you want your toenails to look great and you are worried about the cuticles, simply soak the feet in warm water and then push the cuticles backwards using a cuticle pusher.

The most prevalent foot concerns during the summer are toenail fungus and ingrown toenails. It is possible to prevent these infections or get reliable treatment from a skilled podiatrist. An ideal doctor will ensure your foot health by not only accurately diagnosing and treating concerns, but also providing dependable preventative care.