Winter is a time for hibernation and regeneration in preparation for the spring and summer seasons. We tend to wrap up and do the best we can to keep warm. This can often mean our feet remain covered for most of the time, which is great news for fungi’s viruses and bacteria. Problems that occur during winter can include athlete’s foot, fungal nails, and hard skin. This can make the transition to spring and summer a bit of a rush to make sure our feet are ready.
Below are some basic guidelines for keeping feet happy during wintertime.
KEEP YOUR FEET CLEAN.
Wash your feet daily. Use only lukewarm water—the temperature you would use on a new-born baby. Use this as an opportunity to have a foot soak once or twice a week. Dry by blotting or patting and carefully dry between the toes.
DAILY FEET CHECK UP – or as often as you can.
Check for cuts, blisters, redness, swelling or nail problems. Use a magnifying hand mirror to look at the bottom of your feet if you cannot bend over or get your partner to check. Contact a local Foot Health Practitioner / Podiatrist / your GP or diabetic nurse if you are living with diabetes if you see or feel anything unusual.
KEEP YOUR FEET DRY.
Keep your feet warm and dry. It is tempting to reach straight for the thickest sock you have or can buy. This can be problematic as they can make your feet sweat a lot which can lead to problems such as fungal viral and bacterial infections.
Think about wearing Socks that will keep you warm but also reduce sweating, such as bamboo socks or those made from Merino Wool Consider using an antiperspirant on the soles of your feet. Change your socks at least once daily.
If you do live with sweaty feet or participate in active sports, consider using products such as foot powder or foot deodorant.
KEEPING YOUR FEET WARM.
When we have been out in the cold it can be tempting to plonk our feet onto a warm or hot radiator to help your feet “warm up”. Avoid doing this if you can as this can put you at risk of developing Chilblains (uncomfortable painful swellings). The best thing to do is to wrap your feet in a nice blanket and allow them to heat up naturally….your body will do the work for you just give it time.
Speaking of shoes, it’s important to ensure that you’ve invested in shoes properly suitable for the season.
SHOES.
Wear shoes that feel comfortable and are suitable for the winter weather conditions for where you live. ~Your shoes should feel supportive and feel snug around the ball of your foot. You need to make sure you have enough room to wriggle your toes comfortably. Normal boots and shoes should generally be fine for everyday use. However, if you spend a lot of time on your feet or if you’re outside in wet environments, you may need to wear footwear there’s been more specifically designed for outdoor and winter use.
It is important that your shows are completely dry before you put them on. It is possible to dry your shoes by placing them on the floor by a radiator – do not place your shoes on the radiator as this may damage the structure of your shoe (shrinkage and the shoe glue can be broken down).
MOISTURIZE.
Use a moisturizer daily to keep dry skin from itching or cracking. Clear any moisturizer form between your toes – leaving cream to soak on on its own could encourage a fungal infection.
CUT NAILS.
If you are able to cut your nails yourself, where possible cut them straight across and file the edges. Try not to cut nails too short, as this could lead to ingrown toenails, and sore areas to your toes. If you have concerns about your nails, or are finding it difficult to cut them…..don’t worry…..don’t be embarrassed…..we all need help from time to time……get in touch with a local Foot Health Practitioner , Chiropodist, or Podiatrist. If you find it difficult getting out and about look for someone who works mobile and will visit you in your home.
SEEK HELP TO MANAGE CORNS AND CALLUSED SKIN.
Corns and hard skin are very common and nothing to be embarrassed about.
Think carefully about using over the counter products as some may irritate your skin and make the problem worse. Get in touch with a local Foot Health Practitioner , Chiropodist, or Podiatrist, as they will be able to help you manage these so your feet will feel more comfortable. If you find it difficult getting out and about look for someone who works mobile and will visit you in your home.
WALKING BAREFOOT
Try not to walk barefoot even at home. Always wear shoes or slippers. You could step on something and get a scratch or cut.
LOOK AFTER YOUR HEALTH.
Keep an eye on your general health and wellbeing … east as healthily as you can…..reduce or stop smoking……do as much physical activity as you can…..have some pamper time….
This blog contains general information and tips about foot healthcare related issues. As a Registered Foot Healthcare Practitioner I do not offer medical advice or a medical diagnosis. This should be sought from your GP / Specialist Doctor.
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