One perk of a beach-bound vacation is knowing you can lounge happily with your toes dangling in the sunshine, shoe-free with the sand at your feet. But alas, the dream comes with its own tootsie troubles. Even when you are lounging, soaking up the rays, your feet are vulnerable. There are ways to prevent foot predicaments so you can return to your sun-kissed dreams and enjoy a liberated summer adventure!

Here are 7 helpful tips to protect your feet from the heat:

Limit walking barefoot as it exposes feet to sunburn, plantar warts, athlete's foot, ringworm, and other infections, and also increases the risk of injury to your feet.

Wear shoes or flip-flops around the pool, to the beach, in the locker room, in the bathroom, and even on the carpeting of your hotel room to prevent injuries and limit the likelihood of contracting any bacterial infections. But try to avoid wearing flip-flops for extended periods.

Remember to apply sunscreen all over your feet, especially the tops and fronts of your ankles, and don't forget to reapply after you've been in the water.

Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Drinking water will not only help with overall health but will also minimize any foot swelling caused by heat.

Keep the blood flowing with regular ankle flexes, toe wiggles, and calf stretches.

If you injure your foot or ankle while on vacation, seek professional medical attention from a podiatric physician. Many often only contact a doctor when something is broken or sprained, but a podiatrist can begin treating your ailment immediately while you're away from home.

In case of minor foot problems, be prepared with the following on-the-go foot gear:

• Sterile bandages—for covering minor cuts and scrapes
• Antibiotic cream—to treat any skin injury
• Blister pads or moleskin—to protect against blisters
• Motrin or Advil (anti-inflammatory)—to ease tired, swollen feet
• Toenail clippers—to keep toenails trimmed
• Sunscreen—to protect against the scorching sun
• Aloe vera or another cooling cream—to relieve sunburns

At Feet First Foot Care establishing a routine visit with our board-certified podiatrist Dr. Adam Mucinskas is easy. Call our Cromwell, Connecticut office at (860)-632-5499 or schedule online via our website, and our scheduling coordinator will contact you to confirm.