Winter Foot Care❄

It feels like the cold weather is here to stay in Sydney this winter! I’m sure we all know someone who struggles with the drop in temperatures, but did you know it can affect your feet? Below is some information on the impact of colder temperatures and how to best take care of your feet

Cold weather can cause:

• Dry cracked skin (can be flakey or painful especially round the heels)

• Chilblains (red or purple patches on the skin caused by an abnormal reaction to cold and damp conditions)

• Exacerbate poor circulation (very cold feet)

• Fungal infections from damp footwear

But what can you do about it?

1.Moisturise Skin

Indoor heating can dry out skin. We also naturally produce less sweat and skin oils during cooler weather. Try to use cream with urea base 1 x day to help replenish the moisture and protect your skin barrier. Drinking a minimum of 2 litres of water every day is also recommended.

2. Ideal Winter Socks

• Choose natural fibre blends which help warm skin (i.e Bamboo, cotton, merino wool) but not too sweaty

• You want to keep feet warm but not sweaty

• Change wet/damp socks immediately especially in wet weather

• Avoid tight or multiple layers of constricted socks which can limit blood flow

3. Ideal Winter Shoes

• Shoes/Boots should feel snug and comfortable, but not tight. As tight shoes may affect your circulation. You should be able to wriggle your toes freely

• When you come home at the end of the day, remove your shoes/ boots and leave them out to dry. This will help cool them down for your next wear and prevent bacteria/fungal growth

4. Keeping Feet Warm and Clean

• Keep baths/shower warm rather than hot and not too long

• Dry feet and between toes well after showering

• Avoid warming foot against direct heat sources to quickly especially for people with diabetes (avoid burns)

• Diabetics may have impaired sensation because of diabetic neuropathy. This can make it difficult to feel if the feet are getting too hot, potentially leading to burns, blisters, or other injuries that are slow to heal due to diabetes

5. Trim Toenails Properly

• Cut toenails straight across to avoid ingrown toenails

• Ingrown nails may increase due to pressures caused by wearing enclosed shoes in winter

• Book in with Podiatrist for regular nail care

6. Watch for Circulation Issues

• Cold feet may signal poor circulation, especially in people with diabetes or Raynaud’s disease

• Other causes where cold feet can be a concern include hypothyroidism, anaemia or vitamin deficiencies (like iron or B12), Peripheral arterial disease

• Stay active to promote blood flow to your feet.

• Wiggle toes and move feet often to promote blood flow

• Elevate your legs when resting to improve circulation

Give these tips a go and if you require any further information, the team at Relief Podiatry is here to help.