Why should you wear shoes around the pool?

Now that the outdoor pools are open in our community, I am writing to remind people that it is important to wear shoes around the pool area and in the locker rooms. There are a variety of important reasons why this will keep your feet safe! 1. Warts are caused by a virus that inhabits warm, moist environments like the pool and changing rooms. Warts are painful areas on the feet that can multiply and cause pain with shoes, walking, and sports. After swimming, it is helpful to dry the feet thoroughly. If you noticed a new area on your foot that looks like a corn or callous and hurts, it is important to get it assessed, as it may be a wart. Warts are often treated with acid and topical medications. 2. Athlete's foot or tinea pedis is a fungal skin infection that also thrives in wet, hot locations, like sweaty feet or the floors of locker rooms. It is also very easy to pass on to other people. The feet may get itchy, red, or develop small painful blisters. Athlete's foot needs to be treated typically with a cream, gel, or ointment that is prescribed by a physician. To prevent this condition, it is important to keep the feet dry by changing socks frequently, spraying the feet with anti-fungal spray, and wearing shoes in locker rooms. 3. Walking barefoot in locker rooms or around the pool can cause you to step on a foreign object like glass, splinters, tiny rocks, and other small items. These can cut the skin or become lodged in the skin. It is important to get proper treatment if you step on something outside to avoid infection or development of a sore that will not heal. Foot Problem? Give us a call, 708-763-0580, or visit oakparkpodiatry.com.