Why You Should Not Walk Barefoot!

The warm weather is here, and I have seen lots of people shedding their shoes and walking barefoot. Although tempting, free, and fun, walking barefoot can pose many risks to the feet both inside and outside the house. I have had patients recently who stepped on objects while barefoot in their own homes. Simple things like hardwood floors and pet hair can easily penetrate the bottom of the foot and cause pain, open sores, and infection. Additionally, broken glass, toothpicks, and other objects on the floors of our homes can puncture our feet. Even dropping an object on a bare foot in the house (cans, bottles, etc.) can cause a puncture wound, fracture (break), soft tissue injury, or swelling. Outside, the risks of barefoot walking increase dramatically, and people can step on more serious things, which can include rocks, nails, wood, and many other materials. Additionally, barefoot walking outside exposes the foot to cuts and abrasions from sharp surfaces. I have also had patients burn their skin while walking barefoot outside on hot sand. Choosing a supportive and protective shoe for inside and outside the house will stabilize the foot and also generally sheild it from some of these dangers. Foot pain? Give us a call, 708-763-0580.