As we enjoy the long, hot summer, we think only of long strolls on the beach and the feel of sand through our toes. We never think of the dangers that might be lurking outside with all that fun, sun and sand. From playing sports on the beach and swimming, to walking in sandals or open-toed shoes, many summer activities put persons with diabetes at risk for foot injuries and infections that could lead to more serious diabetic complications -- even amputation. Here are some tips on protecting your feet and preventing injuries so you can go stay on the beach and enjoy your summer outdoors.

Do not walk barefoot
Walking barefoot puts your feet at risk for many injuries and infections including punctures; sunburn; as well as microorganisms that cause plantar warts, athlete's foot, ringworm and other infections. Something as minor as stubbing a toe on a coffee table or bumping a soccer ball at the park can lead to a serious foot ulcer. While at the beach, seashells, sharp stones, glass or other debris from the ocean can puncture the skin and cause serious infections that can be made worse by diabetes. Walking barefoot on the hot pavement is especially dangerous and can lead to severe burns.

To prevent injuries and protect your feet, always wear closed-toe beach shoes or sandals everywhere -- around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room and even on the carpeting or in the bathroom of your hotel room. Some activities or sports at the beach may require different types of footwear to be worn. Always wear the shoes designed for each activity. To be safe, pack an extra pair of sneakers or protective water shoes. If your shoes get wet, they should be dried out completely before you wear them again to prevent bacteria or fungal infections.

Use sunscreen on your feet
Spending long hours in the sun can expose your feet to harmful rays that increase your risk of sunburns and skin cancer. Your feet are just as much at risk for skin cancer as the rest of your body. However, according to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, persons often do not apply sunscreen to their feet when they apply sunscreen to the rest of their body.  Many don't realize skin cancer can occur on the feet from unprotected sun exposure and not applying sunscreen to the area. Skin cancer on the foot, including squamous or basal cell carcinoma and melanoma, often goes unnoticed because people don't check their feet as diligently as they check other body parts. To lessen your risk for skin cancer and sunburns, remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially on the top and front of ankles, and even the toes. Don't forget to reapply after you've been in the sea.

Stay hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day while you are in the sun or on the beach. This will not only help with overall health, but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by the heat.

Exercise your feet
Even though you may be on vacation or enjoying the summer, continue your exercise routine. Keep the blood flowing in your feet with periodic ankle flexes, toe wiggles and calf stretches.

Inspect your feet daily
Especially during the summer! Inspect your feet every day before putting on your shoes and after taking them off. If you are not flexible enough to see underneath your feet, using a mirror can be helpful. Check the sides of your feet, between the toes and at the heel. Diabetics should always inspect the inside of the shoe before putting them on for debris that may rub and injure their feet. Even a small pebble or sand can create a small sore that may not cause pain, but can lead to more serious ulcer or infection if not treated promptly. Symptoms of skin cancer can be as subtle as an abnormal-looking mole or freckle found anywhere on the foot, and often go unnoticed without routine foot exams.

In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with handy on-the-go foot care supplies to care for your foot. These may include sandals to wear by the pool, spa, hotel room, or even airport security check points, sterile bandages for covering minor cuts and scrapes; antibiotic cream to treat any skin injury; moisturizing cream or lotion to hydrate feet; blister pads or moleskin to protect against blisters; anti-inflammatories to ease tired, swollen feet; toenail clippers to keep toenails trimmed; emery board to file smooth rough edges or broken nails; pumice stone to soften callused skin; sunscreen to protect against the scorching sun and aloe vera cream to relieve sunburns.

Following these simple tips can help you protect your feet from the summer heat and prevent injury to your feet, allowing you to have an enjoyable and uneventful time at the beach. If you injure your foot or ankle while on vacation or at the beach, seek professional medical attention from a podiatrist right away. The earlier injuries are treated, the faster they can heal and prevent more serious complications. Healthy feet will help you have a safe and enjoyable summer.

o For more information email foothealth242@gmail.com or visit www.foothealth.org, apma.org or orthoinfo.aaos.org. To see a podiatrist visit Bahamas Foot Centre on Rosetta Street, telephone 325-2996 or Bahamas Surgical Associates on Albury Lane telephone 394-5820.

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