Wondering Soles
Recently, my family and I were lucky enough to spend a month travelling around Italy, Spain, France & England.
As a podiatrist, my foot health was always a priority before, during and after our trip. We averaged 20,000 steps per day, so our feet certainly put in the hard yards during the month we were away!
Being on the move and exploring new places can be exhilarating, but it can also take a toll on your feet if not adequately cared for.
Given our recent experience, I wanted to share my top foot health tips and tricks for those planning a holiday - whether it be a lazy break by a tropical pool or a challenging trek through the wilderness.
PS - I’ve also included a few photos from our trip!
Colosseum - Rome, Italy.
This magnificent arena was built between 72 A.D. and 80 A.D. in the heart of Ancient Rome.
Fine-grained sand once covered the floor of the Colosseum to absorb blood from the games.
On our tour we learnt that the word “arena” comes from the from Latin word “harena”, meaning sand.
Before you leave …
As well as thinking about suitcases and passports, please think about your feet!
Footwear
First and foremost, packing the right footwear is essential.
Ask yourself: "What shoes will be the most appropriate for this trip?" Do you need thongs for pools/showers? Do you need supportive walking shoes for long days? Slides can be handy on a long-haul flight.
Ideally, it's best to pack comfortable and supportive shoes that you have worn in (and aren't brand new).
Any shoes that cause pain or problems at home, will undoubtedly cause problems on your trip - so please don't pack them!
TOENAILS
I know it might sound odd to think about your toenails before you go on holiday (it's much more exciting to think about where you will go and what you will do), but looking after your nails before you go may stop problems from happening whilst you're away.
Ensure that your nails are cut correctly (straight across, following the natural curve of your nail), as nails that are too long or short can cause pain (and you don't want any issues while you're off on an adventure).
If you have any worries or concerns, please see your podiatrist.
For those of us who like to have some colour on our nails whilst on vacation, the best time to apply this is 1-2 days before departure.
*TIP - we recommend Dr Remedy Nail Polish (in stock at Blackwood Podiatry), a healthy, non-toxic alternative to traditional types of nail polish.
First Aid & Foot care Products
It's a smart idea to pack a small first aid kit containing antiseptic (such as Betadine) and sticky plasters (I personally recommend Elastoplast Sensitive Strips for your feet). These items can be used to treat a range of foot issues such blisters or other skin/nail injuries.
On our trip we also went through a lot of antihistamine tablets and Medicreme Antiseptic Cream to treat mosquito bites, predominantly on our feet and legs! So think carefully about what issues could affect your foot health at your destination.
Also, don’t forget to pack your nail care equipment (in case of a torn nail or other nail injury), as well as some moisturising cream for your feet.
Compression Socks/Stockings
Compression socks or stockings can improve circulation and reduce swelling during long flights or train rides.
Please ask your healthcare practitioner if these are suitable for you.
*TIP - Blackwood Podiatry sells compression socks & stockings. Please pop in to see us if you would like to purchase any socks/stockings for your next trip and we can measure and assess the best product for you.
PODIATRY/MEDICAL CHECK-UP
If you wear orthoses and are going on a holiday where you will be on your feet a lot, it's a good idea to see your podiatrist at least a month before you leave to review your devices.
Similarly, you should see your GP before departure to ensure you have up-to-date vaccinations and the correct medications for your trip.
Podiatry Clinic - Madrid, Spain.
I was very excited to find a podiatry clinic next door to our hotel in Madrid!
Whilst you’re away …
TRAVEL DAYS
Sitting for extended periods, whether on planes, trains, or buses, can cause swelling and discomfort in your lower limbs. Make sure you stand up, walk around, and stretch every few hours. This simple act will help improve your circulation and reduce your risk of developing blood clots.
FOOT CARE & HYGIENE
Maintaining proper foot hygiene is another important aspect of foot health while travelling.
Keep your feet clean and dry to prevent bacterial or fungal infections. Take the time to wash your feet thoroughly and change into fresh socks each day.
If you get time (I must admit, I didn't!), apply a moisturising cream regularly to your feet while you are away. This can be particularly important in very hot or cold climates to prevent your heels from cracking.
TIP - Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your feet, especially when spending a lot of time outdoors.
Eiffel Tower - Paris, France.
We climbed the 674 steps to the second floor before catching the elevator to the very top.
And when you get back home again …
Nail polish
It's time to give your nails a break! Take your nail polish off when you get home to allow your toenails to breathe and get the oxygen and nutrients they require to stay healthy.
TIP - ideally, wait to reapply new colour for at least a few days. The longer you can give your nails a break from colour, the healthier they will be.
GIVE YOUR FEET A LITTLE LOVE
Whether you've been lazing by the beach or walking up a mountain, your feet may not be in optimal condition by the time you arrive home from a holiday.
So when you get home, please give your feet some TLC by massaging them with moisturiser regularly over the next few weeks.
If you experienced any foot pain or other foot-related issues during your travels, book in to see your podiatrist to have these issues looked at.
Please remember to prioritise your foot health when travelling. Your feet are essential to any adventure, so you must look after them. 👣
Big Ben - London, England.
London was our biggest walking city - on this day we did over 28,000 steps!
One child may not have been too impressed!
A final note ...
I am so fortunate to have such a brilliant team behind me to allow our family to travel for a month. Emma, Ian, Deanna and Fiona did an amazing job holding the fort at Blackwood Podiatry in my absence. I couldn’t have done it without them!