Medical professionals are issuing urgent warnings about thermal burns to unprotected feet as California's Sacramento Valley experiences an unprecedented 2024 summer heatwave with extended triple-digit temperatures. Dr. Phong Le, President of the California Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA), emphasizes that feet require special attention during extreme heat, noting that pavement temperatures can soar dozens of degrees higher than surrounding air. This concern follows research from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) School of Medicine published in the Journal of Burn Care & Research showing hot surfaces can cause second-degree and third-degree burns within seconds.
Vulnerable populations face particular danger from thermal burns to foot soles. Dr. Le explains that young children, seniors, and those with diabetes, poor circulation, or neuropathy that causes loss of sensation are especially at risk because they may not feel the heat until severe damage occurs. Recognizing burn symptoms is crucial for prompt treatment, with indicators including pain or burning sensation, swelling, redness, blister formation, and skin peeling. Dr. Le strongly advises seeking immediate medical attention from a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (DPM) when these symptoms appear, as untreated burns can lead to infection, permanent tissue damage, or amputation.
Preventive measures offer essential protection during scorching conditions. Dr. Le recommends never going barefoot, particularly for individuals with diabetes or neuropathy, and always wearing protective footwear on hot surfaces. Beachgoers should apply sunscreen to feet, especially tops and toes, while seeking shaded paths and limiting outdoor activities to cooler hours significantly reduces burn risk. The current heatwave highlights broader public health impacts of extreme weather, with thermal burns to feet representing a less obvious but serious concern alongside more recognized dangers like heat exhaustion and sunburn.
As climate patterns shift toward more frequent and intense heatwaves, understanding and mitigating these risks becomes increasingly important for public safety. The CPMA's warning extends to pets, with Dr. Le noting that animals' paws can also burn on hot surfaces, recommending walks during cooler morning and evening hours. With the 2024 summer continuing to break temperature records, podiatric experts stress that proactive foot protection measures and awareness of risks can help residents remain healthy despite challenging conditions. For those seeking professional care, the CPMA recommends visiting https://www.calpma.org to find a licensed Doctor of Podiatric Medicine.
