Step Into Spring: Your Sunday Podiatry Update
With the sun finally making an appearance this Sunday, Londoners are officially swapping heavy boots for trainers and sandals. As we transition into the warmer months, here is everything you need to know about keeping your feet healthy and active.
With the London Marathon coming up on Sunday April the 26th 2026, avoid wearing brand-new shoes for long walks or race day to prevent friction blisters. If you’ll be standing for hours (like near Tower Bridge), consider light compression socks to prevent “heavy legs” and ankle swelling.
Seasonal Foot Health Tips
As temperatures start to become warmer, your feet will start to behave differently. Here’s how to stay ahead:
- Hydration is Key. Coming out of winter, many of us deal with “heel fissures” (cracked skin). Apply a urea-based cream to the cracked skin.
- Check Your Tread. Inspect your spring trainers. If the soles are worn unevenly, it’s a sign that your gait may need an assessment to prevent knee or hip pain later this season.
- Keep feet dry (but not dehydrated). Damp feet = higher risk of fungal infections like athlete’s foot. Choose breathable shoes, rotate pairs so they can air out and consider dual-lined socks.
- Ease back into activity. If you’ve been less active over winter, don’t jump straight into long runs or walks. Gradually increase distance to avoid overuse injuries like plantar fasciitis.
- Mind your sandals. Flat, unsupportive sandals can lead to arch pain. Look for pairs with decent arch support and cushioning instead of completely flat soles.
- Watch for changes. If you notice persistent pain, swelling or skin changes in your feet, don’t ignore it. Early attention can prevent minor issues from becoming long-term problems.
- When heading outdoors remember sunscreen lotion 🧴 to your feet, it’s a commonly missed spot. We use Caudalie high protection spf50 oil which scores 100/100 on the Yuka app!
Podiatrist’s Pro-Tip: If you experience an “aching arch” after a long day of sightseeing, try the Tennis Ball Stretch. Roll your foot over a ball for 5 minutes when you get home to release the plantar fascia.
Spring is really about transition — your feet just need a bit of support while they adjust to more movement, lighter shoes and warmer conditions.
We are independent prescribers able to prescribe any medication from the BNF relevant to the lower limb, foot and ankle.
Are you suffering from any foot, skin or nail condition? At The Chelsea Clinic, we can help. One of our podiatrist can assist and then recommend what treatments are best to get you back on track. Podiatrist South Kensington
Schedule an appointment here or you may call us at +44 (0) 207 101 4000.
We hope you have a feetastic day!
-The Chelsea Clinic and Team
