Summer is soon a distant memory. Flip-flops are back in the closet, and bare feet are not an option in school hallways and classrooms. While you're considering the best footwear for your child this autumn, our Woodbridge VA podiatrist is here with tips and tricks to keep your child's feet healthy and happy. Here are some important factors to consider when it comes to the health and hygiene of your child's feet.
Our Woodbridge VA Podiatrist Wants the School Year to Start with All the Right Shoes
Our podiatrist in Woodbridge recommends that students of all ages – from preschoolers to teenagers – start the new school year wearing well-fitted shoes. Younger children's rapidly growing feet should be measured for every new pair of shoes, as their shoe sizes may quickly change. Too-tight shoes may cause blisters or calluses, which eventually may become infected. Older children involved in sports need athletic shoes with good support, flexibility, and traction.
No matter what age, students have plenty of options for footwear made with breathable fabrics, such as canvas or mesh. These materials are good choices for shoes, according to our Woodbridge VA podiatrist, as they allow air to circulate more freely around the foot.
Teach Your Back-To-Schoolers These Basic Foot Hygiene Tips from Our Woodbridge VA Podiatrist
Dry Feet Are Healthier Feet
According to our podiatrist in Woodbridge, thoroughly drying your feet after a bath or shower is important for good hygiene health. Keeping the feet completely dry – especially between the toes – will help prevent fungal infections, which tend to grow and thrive with excess moisture.
Don't Overlook Those Pesky Toenails!
Our Woodbridge VA podiatrist says cutting the nail straight across can help to prevent painful ingrown toenails. If your child has persistent pain, redness, or swelling around the toenail area, call The Podiatry Center for advice about additional treatment.
When Is Sharing NOT a Good Idea?
Answer: when it comes to any footwear, cautions our Woodbridge podiatrist. Whether it is wearing hand-me-down shoes or borrowing soccer cleats from a teammate, shared footwear may also mean shared fungal infections.
Call Our Woodbridge VA Podiatrist to Learn More!
Our podiatrist in Woodbridge VA wishes you a happy and healthy school year! If you have any concerns about your child's feet at any time during the school year, contact The Podiatry Center for advice from our expert podiatry team.
The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact The Podiatry Center, with a convenient podiatry office near Woodbridge, by clicking here or by calling 301.656.6055.
