With fall slated to commence soon and winter following suit, it cannot be denied that the cold months are finally rolling in. When this happens, our feet go through various pathways, including slush, snow, and ice, making it more challenging to navigate walkways safely.
During these frosty times, implementing proper foot care and maintenance is essential not only to avoid dryness and discomfort, but also to veer away from serious issues such as fissures or worse, frostbite. With the right care and precautions, alongside the guidance of your podiatrist, you can keep your feet happy and healthy all winter long.
Limit Your Exposure to the Cold
Frolicking and playing in the cold can truly be a fun and magical time, especially when you’re out with friends or loved ones in the snow. However, it should be emphasized that you shouldn’t go out with bare feet in the cold or in the snow for any length of time as this exposes you to the elements and leaves your feet at risk for developing frostbite and other problems.
While limiting your feet exposure to cold may seem like common knowledge, reminding yourself regularly will help keep your feet health intact.
Check Your Feet Regularly
If your job doesn’t keep you out of the cold or you simply have to walk through icy weather, you should take the time to check your feet every single day. Exposing your feet to the cold makes your feet prone to numbness, drying, and dehydration, making it difficult to feel any sensation at times. This way, you’ll know if there are any cuts or sores you need to address.
While you’re at it, consulting with a foot doctor might be of help. As professionals, they can examine your feet regularly and keep tabs on your health and progress. Moreover, these experts are likewise equipped to make a diagnosis about the condition of your feet and, by extension, treat any foot-related condition you might have.
Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
In relation to the previous point, you should make sure to clean your feet daily with soap and water. In addition, drying it up well before putting on your socks and shoes can help keep bacteria and fungal infections at bay.
Keeping your feet clean also entails trimming your toenails regularly to prevent them from digging into your skin and causing ingrown toenails.
After washing your feet, slathering on some lotion or moisturizer can bring back some much-needed moisture, especially during cold, harsh weather. Massaging these creams will not only keep your feet soft and moisturized, it will also prevent your feet from cracking.
Wear Moisture-Wicking Socks
Moisture in your feet is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria, diseases, and other fungal infections to take effect. Stop these in their tracks by opting for moisture-wicking socks, many of which are made from natural fibers such as cotton or wool.
Having sensible socks is imperative, especially when you’re going into extreme temperatures or when your shoes aren’t waterproof at all. You can even layer by using thermal socks as your base layer and using wool or cotton socks for additional warmth. To complement moisture-wicking socks, a sprinkling of foot powder can help absorb excess moisture.
Remove Wet Clothing Right Away
If your socks, shoes, or boots happen to get soaked during your day, you should remove them right away and allow them to breathe and dry out. As mentioned, moisture is your enemy and wearing damp layers of socks and shoes can make mold and bacteria grow immediately.
Wet clothing can also make your body more susceptible to cold, making you prone to colds and frostbite, as well as foot conditions such as trench foot.
Final Thoughts
Keep your feet safe and healthy all throughout winter with these nifty tips. Should you encounter any foot-related issues, feel free to get in touch with a podiatrist today. With expert help and strategic maintenance measures, your feet can take you through the frostiest of times.