Dr. McKee’s Tips for Safe Summer Running

Summer is in full swing. The days are hot and even the evenings are warm. For patients who like to run, or even walk, for exercise, this can be a challenging time of year. Being outside for even short periods of time can be dehydrating and exhausting, and your feet can pay the price but it doesn’t have to be that way. Here are seven tips from James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS to keep you comfortable until the cool months of autumn.

1. Break in new shoes slowly. Your feet will sweat more in warm weather, and the risk of blisters increases. Alternate new shoes with old until they are comfortable.
2. Remember to give running shoes a day to air out in between wearings. Prevent athlete’s foot and other infections by spraying shoes with disinfectant to kill bacteria.
3. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate! Drink water before you head out, and bring some with you if you’ll be exercising for more than an hour or so. More water is good when you get home or opt for a commercial beverage with electrolytes. Remember that alcohol is dehydrating. Running first thing in the morning may not be such a great idea if you’ve had some drinks the night before. Give yourself the day to recover and head out in the evening.
4. Make accommodations for the weather. If you can avoid it, don’t do longer or higher-intensity workouts in the middle of the day when the sun is hottest. Head out in the early morning or after the sun has set.
5. If possible, choose a route that offers shade. Listen to your body. Slow down. Take a break if you need one.
6. Dress appropriately. Wear loose, light-colored clothing that allows for ventilation.
7. Don’t forget sunscreen. Be sure to apply it to any areas of your feet that will be exposed to the sun’s rays.

If exercising in the warm weather is proving problematic, or if you have any concerns about the health and well-being of your feet, ankles, or lower legs, your podiatrist can help. A foot doctor is an expert in treating all such illnesses or injuries. Schedule a convenient appointment with Dr. James M. McKee in our office on Solomons Island Road in Annapolis, MD by calling Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or by clicking here today. Dr. McKee will conduct a thorough examination, reach a careful diagnosis, and work with you to create an effective and individualized plan for your treatment and ongoing care.