Don’t walk a mile in flip-flops

Healthy tips for summer-fit feet and an invitation to join ‘Walk with a Doc’

Whether you’re wearing sandals or flip-flops or going barefoot, these warm weather choices come with risks for disease and injury.

Most Americans log about 75,000 miles on their feet by the time they reach age 50. Regular foot care not only helps your feet weather the summer season, but also to be ready for a lifetime of walking.

Use these tips to keep your hardworking feet healthy all summer:

• Walking barefoot exposes feet to injury, sunburn and infection, such as plantar warts, athlete's foot and ringworm.
• At the pool, beach, locker room or hotel room, wear shoes or flip-flops to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting bacterial infections.
• Apply sunscreen all over your feet when they’re exposed to the sun. Reapply after you've been in the water.
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to minimize heat-related foot swelling.
• Flex or stretch your ankles, toes and calves periodically.
• Wear water shoes for extra protection at the ocean, lake or river. Prevent bacterial or fungal growth by completely drying your water shoes before wearing again.

Learn more about diabetes foot care at ‘Walk with a Doc’ June 15

Beaumont Hospital, Farmington Hills welcomes all to attend "Walk with a Doc," a free, healthy living event on Thursday, June 15, from noon to 1 p.m. It’s led by a physician who emphasizes exercise and provides health tips. George Gopoian, DPM, a foot and ankle surgeon in Farmington Hills, will speak about diabetes foot care. Did you know that about 86,000 lower limbs are amputated annually in the U.S. due to complications from diabetes? Another startling fact---of all risk factors, weight is the most important, with more than 80 percent of those with diabetes classified as overweight.

The program will be held at the Heritage Park Nature Center in Farmington Hills. The park is on the west side of Farmington Road between 10 and 11 Mile Roads. The walk will be held rain or shine and will include healthy snacks. Register by calling Caroline Schairer, RN, at 248-441-1661. Also, mark your calendar for the next Walk with a Doc event. On Sept. 21, Courtney Mehock, D.O., a family medicine physician, will speak about getting to a healthy weight.