Barefoot Blunders: Five Common Summer Foot Injuries and How to Treat Them
As summer arrives, many of us can’t resist the feeling of warm grass or cool sand beneath our feet. Going barefoot feels freeing, but it can also leave your feet vulnerable to injury. At Merivale Podiatry, we are one of New Zealand’s most experienced podiatry clinics, we often see an increase in foot injuries during the warmer months caused by bare feet meeting the great outdoors.
Here are some of the most common barefoot mishaps, along with ideas on how to care for your feet if they happen.
1. Cuts and Grazes
Sharp shells, stones, and hidden objects in the grass can quickly lead to cuts and grazes. These can easily become infected, especially if you’re spending time at the beach or in public areas.
Treatment tip: Clean the wound gently with Microdacyn Wound Wash, apply an antiseptic such as Betadine or Crystaderm, and cover with a sterile dressing. You can find Betadine and blister care products in our online shop.
2. Blisters
When you spend more time barefoot or in sandals, friction and heat can quickly lead to painful blisters. Whether they appear after a long walk, a day at the beach, or from new shoes, it’s important to care for them properly to prevent infection and promote healing.
Treatment tip: Gently clean the area with Microdacyn, then cover with a Sterile Island Dressing secured with Hyperfix tape. To stop new blisters forming, try Engo Blister Patches. If a blister looks infected or keeps recurring, book an appointment with our podiatry team for a proper assessment. Book online
3. Burnt Soles
Hot sand, footpaths, and decking can burn the soles of your feet within seconds.
Treatment tip: Cool the burn under running water (not ice), and avoid popping any blisters. Keep the area clean with Spirulain Gel and protect it until it heals.
4. Sunburnt Feet
It’s easy to forget that the tops of your feet are just as vulnerable to sunburn as your shoulders or nose.
Prevention tip: Apply sunscreen to your feet before heading outdoors, especially if you’re wearing sandals or going barefoot.
5. Insect Bites and Stings
Bare feet are also more likely to attract insect bites, stings, or even mild allergic reactions.
Treatment tip: Wash the area, apply a cold compress, and use an antiseptic, such as Crystaderm, if needed. Avoid scratching, as this can break the skin and increase infection risk.
Last of all, no one likes dirty feet!
Whether you’re at the beach, the park, walking or out for a hike, keeping your feet clean is important. The Margaret Dabbs Foot Cleansing Wipes are ideal for cleaning your feet on the go, especially after a barefoot walk or day at the beach.
Do you need a podiatrist?
If you’ve injured your foot, have a wound that isn’t healing, or you’re concerned about pain, infection, or swelling, our experienced podiatry team at Merivale Podiatry is here to help.
Book an appointment today and let us help you stay active, comfortable, and ready to enjoy summer — safely.