3 Ways to Prepare Your Feet for Cold Weather
Here at our Westfield, IN podiatry practice, we’ve noticed the colder weather, and that means it’s boots season! But before you start shopping online for new winter boots, we want to make sure your feet are ready for the months ahead. Because, if you don’t take care, the frigid temperatures can combine with snow and ice to take a major toll on foot health.
Start Upping Your Moisture Routine
When it’s cold outside, we pump up the heat indoors, and lose humidity in the air around us. Without that moist air, your feet can easily dry out. And that’s when you may develop cracked skin (especially on your heels) which are painful and leave you open to infection.
To prevent this winter hazard, start the season by getting your feet as soft and smooth as possible. You can gently exfoliate rough spots on your feet. And be sure to moisturize daily, using a urea-based foot cream if skin is already dry.
Switch Out Socks Daily (Or More Often)
In our Indiana winters, it’s not unusual to come home with damp feet. Either they get sweaty inside your winter boots, or you were unlucky and stepped in a puddle or snow bank. Remember to change wet socks as soon as you’re able, to avoid bacteria growth and fungal infections. If you know you’ll be out for hours on a cold, damp day, consider wearing sweat-wicking athletic socks to help keep your feet dry.
Get Enough Support
In the spring and fall, we all know how to keep our feet comfortable. We choose the right shoes, and stick to wearing prescribed orthotic devices. Many people forget about arch support in winter, however, which can lead to spike in foot pain.
Want to avoid this problem? First, remember that you can wear orthotics with your winter boots. And, for a bit of extra support, think about looking for extra-special socks. Features to consider include:
Cushioning in the toe and heel, to make up for thin-soled boots.
Elastic arch support to prevent tired, aching feet.
If you start prepping for winter right now, your feet should be well protected for the months ahead. (But, if you have diabetes, check out these additional winter foot safety tips.) And, if you’re already dealing with foot pain, make an appointment with our office today. We’ll get you feeling better before the colder weather ramps up the war against your delicate foot health!