Feet often tend to get neglected in the winter months as we hide them away until the warmer weather comes, but it is equally important to keep feet healthy in the winter. Winter weather throws many challenges at us from freezing temperatures to damp wet conditions and this can have an effect on your feet and consequently your overall health. This is particularly important for the elderly, people with circulation problems and diabetics.
Appropriate footwear and socks
It is important to choose appropriate foot wear that will keep your feet warm, dry and well supported as winter weather can make feet damp and wet. This may make you prone to blisters and athletes foot, so it is important to make sure that your feet are comfortable and dry. Make sure socks are changed regularly and try to wear ones that are made of natural fibres or newer synthetic ones that wick away moisture. It is also a good idea to wear a shoe with a grip to help prevent slips and falls particularly for the elderly.
Chillblains – What are they?
If you are prone to chilblains it is especially important to keep feet warm and dry in the winter months. These typically occur on the extremities and present as small painful itchy lump which are red/purple in colour. They are thought to occur as an abnormal response to extreme cold conditions.
Use a good moisturiser
Feet tend to sweat less in the winter and exposure to dry air from the outdoor and central heating can cause the skin to become dry and cracked. Help combat this by drinking plenty of water and use a good foot moisturiser to keep the skin supple and stop dehydration. This can help ward off any fungus and bacteria and if skin is intact it is better protected to ward these off.
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