Dangers of Barefoot Lifestyle

Walking barefooted is one of the most exciting ways to enjoy summer. Without any hassle on your feet, you will sure have a great time running on beaches. But did you know that some people who are taking their shoes, sandals and socks suffer injuries such as cuts and puncture wounds. The worst thing is, some cases of these injuries develop infections that require surgery.

So if you are one of those people who finds a happy world barefooted, please keep in mind these safety tips from the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons:

• Make sure you're vaccinated against tetanus. Teens and adults should get booster shots every 10 years.
• Apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet to protect them from sunburn. Rare, but deadly, skin cancers can develop on the feet.
• Wear flip-flops or sandals around swimming pools, locker rooms and beaches. They'll help protect against cuts and abrasions from rough anti-slip surfaces and sharp objects hidden in beach sand, and prevent contact with viruses and bacteria that can cause athlete's foot, plantar warts and other foot problems.
• Use common sense. Every year, people lose toes while mowing the lawn barefoot and others suffer serious burns from accidentally stepping on stray campfire coals or fireworks. Remember that murky rivers, lakes and ponds can conceal sharp objects underwater.
• People with diabetes should never go barefoot, even indoors, because they may not "feel" a foot injury.
• If you suffer a puncture wound in your foot, see a doctor within 24 hours. A puncture wound must be cleaned properly and monitored throughout the healing process to avoid complications such as tissue and bone infections or damage to tendons or muscles in the foot.
• Inspect your feet on a routine basis for skin problems such as warts, calluses, ingrown toenails, suspicious moles, spots or freckles. The sooner a condition is detected, the easier it is to treat.

Let's not risk our own self without thinking of our safety and just enjoying what we enjoying. We must also consider the awful things we might experience due to our carelessness. On the other hand, we must not also limit ourselves to things we know we can do! Think of precautions but make sure to push yourself to the highest and do the right thing.

Be safe always!