Tips For Winter Foot Care

Winter can be brutal for your body and Feet in a lot of different ways. While it may look beautiful it does have harsh effects on your body. It is important to take care of yourself and keep safe during winter. Especially for those in the higher risk group of people. That is the people with diabetes or those with poor circulation. Here are some tips for winter foot care. Take a look at them to keep yourself safe during this winter.

The Hazards of Winter for Your Feet

The First thing you need to know is what is dangerous to your feet. What are the biggest risks?

Cold temperatures

This is the most obvious risk but it is just the fact that it’s so cold outside. If you go out unprotected, the exposure to the elements can lead to frostbite in a surprisingly short amount of time. Especially for your toes. It’s also dangerous for those with pre-existing health conditions.

Dry environments

Winters are relatively dry compared to the rest of the year. Indoor heating systems and furnaces are used more which removes even more moisture from the air. The end result, for many, is scaly and cracked skin. This is because your skin is desperate for moisture.

Swampy footwear

Winter and damp feet go together and walking around in your damp feet are no good for anyone. It is because your feet spend all day in waterproof boots that your sweat is trapped. You could be walking through snow and sleet in mesh-top tennis shoes but that would only cause more problems like athlete’s foot, fungal toenails, foul odor, blisters, and more.

Injuries

It doesn’t take a whole lot of precipitation or temperature to cause injuries. All that cold produces very dangerous and slippery conditions. This is why we see a lot of sprained ankles and other injuries right after severe winter weather.

Keep Them Clean

They are many reasons why you would want to keep your feet clean. The main reason would be to avoid getting an ingrown toenail, fungus or other unpleasant things on your feet. So you have to make sure that you take the time to wash them thoroughly every day. During winter you should take your time to dry them properly because the cold could have a worse effect if you don’t. Extremely hot water is not a good idea when your feet are very cold. Use slightly warm water to feel better. This way you could also avoid any injuries. If you find any problems the best option would be to call your podiatrist in Palmdale. Following these tips for winter foot care can help to a certain degree.

Wear the Right Socks

You need to use the right socks before going out. Not all types of socks can withstand the cold temperature. Choose some thick, warm socks that can help prevent your feet from getting too cold and can keep them dry on snowy and icy days.

Moisturize Regularly

As everyone knows moisturizing is very important for dry skins. During winter it is even more important to moisturize. To keep your skin from cracking and feeling any discomfort, use a rich lotion or foot cream on your clean, dry feet on a daily basis.

Wear the Right Shoes

When choosing what shoe to wear you must not only look for what would protect you from the cold but something that would be comfortable for you as well. Also, make sure that the shoes you choose have a lot of support and grip because a lot of accidents tend to take place during winters.

Wear Comfortable Boots

Don’t wear any tight footwear as it can decrease blood flow, making it harder to keep your feet warm. This increases the risk of frostbite or flaring up conditions. You should be able to wiggle your toes when you are wearing your boots, but your heel and the ball of your foot should be sturdy in your shoe. The main things a boot should have are a solid base, supportive heel, and laces or straps. This is to ensure that you’re able to remain stable on wet and slippery surfaces.

Dry Your Winter Shoes Out

Before going back outside in your boots or shoes again, be sure to dry them out thoroughly. Doing this will help prevent your feet from getting cold quickly as well as prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. It is even better if you have 2 pairs, and alternate them each day.

Give Them a Rest

Standing all day can be painful and even detrimental to the health of your feet. When possible, sit down and prop up your feet or soak them in a foot bath; giving yourself this rest will help prevent injuries. If you wear high-heeled shoes or other uncomfortable footwear, consider wearing comfortable flats at least a couple of days out of the week; your feet will thank you.

Exercise Your Feet

Before venturing out into the cold, give your feet a bit of exercise. In doing so you can help avoid any joint pains and other issues. Doing calf exercises, moving your feet in a circular motion and doing leg lifts can help. You do not have to dedicate hours to your exercise routine, but try to get your blood flowing before heading out into the winter weather.

Importance of Proper Foot Care

Taking care of your feet is important. This is especially true if you are diabetic or suffer from other health-related issues that could affect your feet or legs. Along with following these tips during the winter, make sure that you take good care of your feet all year long. Also, make sure to see a podiatrist if you notice anything wrong with your feet or are in pain. Follow these tips for winter foot care and you should be alright.