Winter can be a tough season for the feet because of several reasons. From the cold, dry wind that tends to dry your feet to the numerous foot issues that arise from it being enclosed in your socks and boots for long periods.
The cold weather during winter also reduces blood flow to your hands and feet, affecting the nerves, joints, and skin they supply. As a result, existing foot conditions such as neuropathic foot pain and arthritis might be worsened, so winter is a season to pay great attention to your foot health.
There is a tendency to want to keep your foot always in your boot and socks during winter, which can exacerbate an athlete’s foot or, in case of tight compression, cause you to have bunions.
Vargas Foot And Ankle Specialists have created a list of winter foot problems and how best to get foot care.
Winter Foot Pain
Cold weather can result in foot pain for so many reasons. One important cause of foot pain is frostbite due to extreme cold that cuts the blood supply to the tissues. Also, the blood supply to joints is reduced and can cause or worsen arthritic pain.
Athlete’s Foot
Fungal infections thrive in moist environments. During winter, your feet are likely to be snuck in socks and shoes all day, serving as a breeding ground for disease.
Chilblains
Chilblains occur following exposure to cold winter air that causes your blood vessels to constrict. When you get to a warmer environment, they are prone to be inflamed, causing red patches and swelling on the feet.
Blisters
You may have noticed you’ve been getting blisters more this season. Blisters are often discomforting from the friction of loose or tightly fitted shoes rubbing against the skin of your foot. It is essential to avoid them using soft stockings and ensure they don’t progress to a wound.
You must be on top of the situation during winter, so we have several things you can do to avoid these common foot problems.
Ensure adequate aeration
It is tempting to keep your feet cozy during winter; however, your feet must get air like every other body part. In addition, moisture can predispose your feet to fungal infections, which are very troublesome to treat.
Wear properly sized shoe
Ensure the proper shoe size that fits and accommodates your feet. Loose shoes can rub against the skin of your feet, leading to blisters. Also, very tight shoes can cause pressure on your foot and cause conditions such as bunions and plantar fasciitis to form.
Keep your feet clean
Ensure your feet are always clean. Adequately moisturize your feet daily to prevent cracks and fissures. Practice good hygiene on your toenails to prevent toenail infections.
See a podiatrist
One should see a podiatrist once every month to assess your foot and manage any foot problems. A podiatrist may also recommend prescription orthotics that help proper functioning.
At Vargas Foot And Ankle Specialists, we have experts who consult, examine, and manage any foot conditions you have. Visit us today to enjoy the best foot health available.
To Healthy Feet,
Dr. Marco Vargas DPM, FACFAS
