Summer means longer days, warmer weather, and kids on the move — running through sprinklers, playing sports, hiking trails, and spending hours at the pool. But all that activity also means more opportunities for foot and ankle injuries. Dr. Mikkel Jarman and the team at Pediatric Foot & Ankle see a surge of summer-related foot problems every year, and a little prevention goes a long way toward keeping your child active and pain-free all season long. Prioritizing Summer Foot Safety is essential for a healthy summer.
Choose the Right Footwear for Every Activity
Understanding the principles of Summer Foot Safety can help prevent injuries and ensure your child enjoys the summer activities safely.
Flip-flops and bare feet are summer staples, but they’re not always the safest choice. Flip-flops offer zero arch support and leave feet vulnerable to cuts, scrapes, and burns on hot pavement. Save them for poolside use only, and make sure your child has supportive, activity-appropriate shoes for sports, hiking, and long days of play. A proper fit — snug but not tight, with about a thumb’s width at the toe — matters more than ever during growth spurts.
Watch for These Common Summer Foot Problems
Blisters form when ill-fitting shoes or damp socks create repeated friction. Keep feet dry, use moisture-wicking socks, and break in new shoes gradually before long activities.
Plantar warts are caused by a virus that thrives in warm, wet environments like pool decks and locker rooms. Have your child wear water shoes or flip-flops in public areas, and avoid sharing towels. If you notice a small, rough bump on the bottom of the foot, have it evaluated — plantar warts rarely go away on their own.
Ankle sprains are one of the most common injuries in active kids, especially during running and jumping sports. Proper footwear with ankle support, along with strength and balance exercises, can significantly reduce the risk.
Cuts and puncture wounds are more common when kids go barefoot outdoors. Always inspect feet after outdoor play, clean wounds thoroughly, and watch for signs of infection such as redness, swelling, or warmth.
Sun Protection for Feet
It’s easy to forget sunscreen on the tops of feet — but sunburn there is both painful and common. Apply sunscreen to the tops of feet and ankles before outdoor activities, and reapply after swimming.
When to See a Podiatrist
Most minor blisters and scrapes can be handled at home, but some issues need professional attention. Schedule a visit if your child has:
- Heel or arch pain that doesn’t improve with rest
- A suspected plantar wart or persistent skin lesion
- An ankle sprain with significant swelling or inability to bear weight
- Any wound that shows signs of infection
At Pediatric Foot & Ankle, Dr. Mikkel Jarman and our team specialize in keeping kids’ feet healthy at every stage of development. Serving families in Chandler and Gilbert, AZ, we’re here whenever something doesn’t look or feel right. Don’t wait — early treatment almost always means faster recovery. Give us a call or schedule an appointment with Dr. Jarman today.
