5 Foot Care Tips for College Students Returning to Campus

College is a time to account for everything your teens need to survive on their own. But have they forgotten about their feet? When entering a big campus, their feet are faced with uneven terrain, hills, and a lot of walking. So, how can their feet successfully navigate this next chapter in their lives? Find out from us at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group.

The Correct Shoes

That walk to class that seemed short on day one can start to feel like a marathon by mid-semester. And those flimsy flats might not be built for the mileage of campus life. Any podiatrist will tell you: your shoes are your most important piece of gear.

So, make sure you’re considering your schedule and how long your walks to class will be. And save the less supportive shoes for short-term wear.

Foot Infections

Dorm showers, gym locker rooms, and shared living spaces are all part of the college experience, but the potential for infection doesn’t have to be. The number one rule to prevent common infections like athlete’s foot and plantar warts is to never go barefoot in your shared showers.

So, always wear a pair of flip-flops to protect your feet. It’s a simple habit that can save you a lot of itchy, uncomfortable trouble.

The Freshman 15

College is a time of new diets and routines, and the often-mentioned Freshman 15 isn’t just a concern for your waistline; it can also put extra stress on your feet. Any sudden weight gain puts you at risk for heel pain like plantar fasciitis, especially combined with the amount of walking you’ll be doing.

Eating a healthy diet and taking advantage of your campus gym can help manage weight and keep your feet feeling good.

Workouts

Speaking of which, campus gyms and intramural sports are a great way to stay active. But be mindful of your footwear and level of activity. It can be tempting to jump straight into a pickup game the first week on campus, but a foot injury is certain to put a damper on things.

Nail Care

With all the demands of college life, simple things like proper nail care can fall by the wayside. Improper toenail trimming, and frankly, not clipping them at all, can easily lead to a painful and inconvenient ingrown toenail.

So pack a pair of clippers and remember to use them correctly!

If you’re worried about your foot pain, come see the expert team at New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.