Beach Bag Essentials for Your Feet

At Pasco-Hernando Foot & Ankle, we know our Nature Coast patients have many beautiful Florida beaches to enjoy. However, nothing is worse than having your fun in the sand and sun disrupted by a foot or ankle issue. Below are a few items to pack in your beach bag that will help prevent or treat common foot problems at the beach.

Vinegar—okay this may seem strange, but vinegar can relieve the pain and swelling caused by a jellyfish sting. (Baking soda and meat tenderizer will also work.) Remember you can still get stung by a jellyfish washed up on the beach if you step on it.

Flip-Flops/Water Shoes—while not great for daily summer footwear, flip-flops can provide some much-needed protection at the beach. They can prevent burns to the soles of your feet from hot sand and burning asphalt. They also offer some barrier to jagged shells, broken glass, and other sharp objects buried in the sand that might give you a cut or puncture wound. Finally, don’t forget to slip them on when heading to the restroom or changing area to keep your feet from coming in contact with fungi and bacteria that can cause athlete’s foot, fungal toenails, and other infections.

Sunscreen—this should already be in your beach bag but consider this a reminder to apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of your feet to prevent a crippling burn. A water-resistant variety that has an SPF of at least 30 is recommended. Reapply every two hours and after you’ve been in the water.

Sneakers—if you decide to play some extreme frisbee or a game of beach volleyball, you could go home with an ankle sprain instead of a victory trophy if you attempt to play in flip-flops. For more active beach pursuits, be sure to bring athletic shoes to prevent sports injuries.

Mini First Aid Kit—it’s a good idea to have a few bandages, antiseptic wipes, and some antibacterial ointment to use in case of minor cuts or bug bites.

If you do sustain an injury at the beach, be sure to make an appointment at our Hudson office (727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799) so that our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales can examine your feet and prescribe any necessary treatment.