Fear The Yoga Mat

Being barefoot when practicing yoga is not only good etiquette to the practice, but also better for your body. Much like with running being barefoot during yoga allows your body to engage in it’s natural stance. However there are precautions...

As with other types of exercise done indoors in groups, yoga has the potential to create a germ-filled environment.  Yoga mats can contract and contain infections from toenail fungus to the common cold. To be safe we suggest you always use your own yoga mat, and clean it properly after each use (whether you felt sweaty or not). Don't go barefoot if you have open sores on your feet, and wash your feet after class to avoid any contamination.

If you are prone to picking up fungus, viruses or bacteria we also suggest looking into Yoga socks. They come in a variety of types and colors and actually enhance performance with no-slip grips.

Barefoot: Safe or Sorry?

It is summertime in Charleston. Weather is warm, sun is shining and the grass is plush and green- so the question remains… do we really need shoes?

Like so many other questions there isn’t one simple conclusive answer. 

Many studies today are promoting ‘earthing’- the practice of walking barefoot on natural surfaces, such as sand, soil, grass etc.  “Early studies are showing that the health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth. The planet has its own natural charge, and we seem to do better when we’re in direct contact with it,” via MindBodyGreen.com.

Aside from the natural link of walking barefoot, doing so can also expose your feet to substantial injury, infections and bacteria. Also, walking barefoot at the beach can expose your feet to burns from the sand or pavement.

Since the age of man the invention of shoes has decreased the function of the feet. Meaning that the first humans’ feet were more durable, less sensitive and tougher in structure- by shoeing feet our general foot structure has evolved over time to need more support and protection.

Being barefoot is freeing and, when done safely, is completely okay. However the idea that we can go shoeless as our ancestors did is not realistic.  

When going barefoot remember these tips:

- Wear sunscreen on your feet

- Properly bandage any open wounds or scrapes (or wear shoes until wounds are healed to avoid infections)

- Avoid going barefoot in extra germy environments such as public pools, waterparks and docks (always clean & dry feet well before putting shoes back on)

- Wear shoes on any rough surfaces such as pavement, cement, splintery docks and so forth

Pools: a Podiatrist's Nightmare

Like us, we are sure many of you are already enjoying pool days or perhaps an outing or two to Whirlin’ Waters. As much as we love water days in Charleston these activities can result in unwanted foot problems such as warts, nail fungus, athlete’s foot and more.

The most common cause for these issues are the bacteria infested, damp areas surrounding public swimming areas, locker rooms and showers. In the instance of public pools hundreds of people trample through this bacteria thriving environment unintentionally spreading fungus and giving it an ample place to grow...and in result, others pick up these conditions. We suggest wearing water shoes to avoid most problems and making sure to clean and dry feet well after exposure to these areas.

If you are concerned about any of the following please see our office for the most effective treatments. Recent studies show increased evidence of how easily conditions can spread among family members as well as to public. 

- Discolored Toenails (resulting from Onychomycosis)

- Thickened or Flaking Nails

- Symptoms of Athlete’s Foot (itching, scaling, inflammation)

- Newly formed warts

Fighting the Fungus

Fungal infections can be tricky and sometimes hard to notice. Fungus can affect the toenail for years before causing any trouble or showing any signs. If you’ve noticed changes in the formation or color of your nail, whether quickly or over time, you may be suffering from a toenail fungus.

Although some over the counter treatments and routine cleaning can suppress or temporarily treat the issue, seeking help early is the best method to prevent spreading or a more severe infection.

The best tip for avoiding fungal issues it to keep your feet clean and DRY! This is especially important during our hot Charleston Summers.

Leaving feet wet and/or dirty may not only cause toenail fungus but other fungal conditions such as athletes foot.

For more information on Fungal Conditions visit our Website.