One of the best things to do during the summer in New York City, or really any time of the year, is to visit Rockaway Beach. If you are also planning a trip to Far Rockaway Beach in sunny Queens, don’t forget to protect your feet from hot sand. Walking barefoot on hot sand can cause sand burns that are also known as beach feet. It can be a really painful condition that happens when the sand becomes hot enough to burn the skin on the soles of your feet. During the summer, sand temperature can rise very quickly under direct sunlight. It increases the risk of burns and blisters.
Why Hot Sand Can Be Dangerous for Your Feet?
Beach sand can look harmless, but on sunny days it can become extremely hot. Sometimes the temperature reaches above 120°F (49°C), especially around midday. In most cases, the sand is much hotter than the actual air temperature. At such temperatures, walking barefoot can cause injuries to the skin on your feet and even cause redness and irritation, painful blisters on the soles, and burning or stinging sensations.
Human skin typically feels pain at around 111°F (44°C), and burns can occur very quickly when the temperature rises further. That’s why even professional beach athletes, such as surfers and beach volleyball players, wear protective footwear or take precautions to protect their feet from hot sand.
Why Do You Get Beach Feet?
A beach day can be fun, but it can leave your feet sore, tired, or painful for various reasons. One common problem is footwear. Most people wear flip-flops or flat sandals when they head to the beach, but these don’t provide the needed support. Beach trips are about a lot more walking than expected.
You start from the parking area to the beach, along the boardwalk, all while carrying umbrellas, chairs, bags, or other gear. If you don’t have the proper support, your feet can become tired, sore, and overworked by the end of the day.
Hot sand and strong sun can even cause burns on the soles of your feet from the heated sand and on the top of your feet from sun exposure. Additionally, heat and humidity can cause swollen feet, and if you have poorly fitting flip-flops, those can rub against your skin, causing painful blisters.
How Can You Prevent The Problems in the First Place?
Don’t Walk Barefoot For Long Distances
Walking on the beach can feel much more relaxing. Even soft sand can make your muscles work harder, which helps you burn more calories and strengthen your feet and legs. However, long walks on the beach can be safer and more comfortable with proper footwear. When you walk barefoot on soft sand, it can change the way your feet move and can put extra stress on your muscles, heels, arches, tendons, and ligaments. It can cause foot or muscle soreness, arch pain, heel strain, and plantar fasciitis (heel pain caused by inflammation). Going barefoot can cause burns from hot sand.
Check out the Common Causes of Heel Pain and How a Far Rockaway Podiatrist Can Help.
Keep The Right Pair of Shoes
When heading to the beach, most people prefer to pack light. Beach gear can take up so much space, especially on a road trip. But one thing that is worth bringing along is two different types of shoes to keep your feet comfortable and protected throughout the day.
- Supportive Sneakers or Walking Shoes
These can be a comfortable solution for long walks, boardwalks, and parking areas, and carrying beach gear. You get the proper support, and these can help prevent foot pain and fatigue.
- Slip-on Sandals or Beach Shoes
These are best for walking on the sand, quick trips near the water, and easy comfort at the beach. When you use sandals with arch support, those can help reduce strain on your feet during long beach days.
Walking barefoot or wearing unsupportive flip-flops for hours can cause foot soreness, fatigue, blisters, heel or arch pain, and even burns from hot sand. When you keep your feet protected and supported during beach outings, your entire trip feels much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Ankle Pain Without Injury? 8 Possible Causes Behind It.
Always Apply Sunscreen To Your Feet
Before you put on your sandals and head to the beach, remember to apply sunscreen on your feet, including your toes and ankles. It is best to apply sunscreen before wearing your shoes or sandals to cover your entire feet.
Protecting your feet from the sun can prevent sunburn, painful skin irritation, increased risk of skin cancer, and long-term sun damage. The skin on your feet is usually overlooked when applying sunscreen, but it can burn just as easily as the rest of the body, especially during the long beach days.
Protect Your Feet If You Have Open Wounds
When you are on the beach, searching for shells is a commonly enjoyed summer activity. But those seashells, rocks, broken glasses, or other sharp objects hidden in the sand can easily cut or puncture your feet. Even small cuts on the feet can become more painful or infected because sand and ocean water may contain irritants and bacteria.
You need to be extra careful when you take a step, especially near rocks or shells. If you have any cuts or scrapes, clean them as soon as possible. It is best to avoid going to the beach if you have an open wound on your foot until it heals completely to reduce the risk of infection.
How To Prevent Swollen Feet At The Beach?
Hot weather, long hours of sitting, and heat exposure can sometimes cause your feet to swell after a day at the beach. You cannot avoid swelling completely, but you can take some steps to reduce foot swelling. Drink a lot of water throughout the day to stay hydrated. It helps your body regulate fluid balance and can reduce swelling.
Keep walking and stretching regularly to improve circulation and prevent fluid from collecting in the ankles or feet. Don’t sit for very long periods, as it can increase swelling, especially in hot weather. Avoid wearing tight or poorly fitting sandals. These can make swelling and discomfort even worse.
We Are A Call Away To Treat Your Beach Feet.
The beach can feel miles away from our clinic, but most of our patients in Far Rockaway, NY, will be hitting the surf and sand this summer. At Pro Foot Doctors, we want to make sure that the beach feet don’t ruin the fun and excitement of your summer holidays. If you need any help with your sore, burned, tired, or swollen foot, we are just a call away. Book an appointment for your visit, and we will get your feet feeling better again so you can enjoy the rest of your summer comfortably.
