winter foot problems

As the temperature decreases, we put on the layers, turn up the heating and snuggle up for the winter.  The long hot days of bare feet and sandals has ended and we now wear our long socks and cosy slippers, curled up on the sofa with a nice warm drink.

During the winter, we probably only see our feet for a few minutes in-between bathing or showering and pulling up our woolly socks so that leaves little opportunity to check your feet for any changes, which can mean conditions can develop without us being aware.

Several foot problems can arise due to specific conditions and  changes in footwear. The main foot problems during this season include:

Dry and cracked skin: 

Cracked skin, especially during winter, can be uncomfortable and potentially lead to more severe issues if left untreated.  Moisturise regularly by applying a thick, emollient moisturizer to keep the skin hydrated. Gently exfoliate the affected area using a pumice stone or a foot scrub to remove dead skin cells and promote smoother skin.  Avoid hot water as it can strip the skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness.

If the cracks are severe, persistent, or accompanied by signs of infection, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment. 

Corns and calluses: 

Wearing thicker shoes and boots can increase  pressure and friction, leading to the development or worsening of corns  and calluses.  It's easy to purchase a corn patch from the pharmacy and hope it will work and if you have diabetes, please dont try and fix them yourself.

Blisters:

Well-fitting and quality-made winter shoes will help keep your feet free of these pesky skin bubbles. But repeated rubbing may cause blisters to develop, especially if you’re breaking in new boots or shoes. If your new boots or shoes are causing blisters, it’s a sign that you shouldn’t be wearing them. It’s not worth the pain. You can also try inserting some extra padding between your skin and the problem area. Resist the urge to pop the blister yourself. Clean it with soap and water, and let it heal on its own. If it opens, put a antiseptic to avoid infection.

Chilblains:

Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can result in chilblains, which are painful, itchy, and  swollen areas on the skin caused by poor circulation.  Don’t rush indoors and put your feet on the radiator; this will only worsen the pain. Instead, allow yourself to warm up slowly with a nice cuppa and warm socks.

Ingrown toenails:

Wearing tight or improperly fitted shoes can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, which can be painful and prone to infection.

To prevent some of these issues, it is important to keep feet warm, moisturize regularly, wear proper footwear, and  practice good foot hygiene during winter. 

These may feel like small and simple things to sort, but it is safer, quicker and easier for you to just contact me and I'll take care of it in the comfort of your own home.