LIVINGLIVING
We hide our feet away in winter and foot care can often be
forgotten, but cold weather can have an adverse effect on your
feet. Here are tips on keeping your toes in tip-top condition.
1. Shoes: Ideally you should purchase
some good quality winter shoes. If you're
going to be out and about then it would
be good idea to make sure your shoes
are waterproof. When purchasing your
winter shoes allow for some extra room
for thicker socks. To prevent slips and
falls it is essential that the shoes have
adequate grip.
2. Socks: The best way to deal with cold
feet is to prevent heat loss by keeping
the feet warm and dry. The wearing
of natural fiber socks (e.g. wool) is
advisable. If you suffer from cold sweaty
feet then you could wear a thin synthetic
sock to absorb moisture to a thicker
outer sock.
3. Pretend you're in sandals! When we
wear sandals we make an effort to make
sure our feet are looking presentable. In
the winter months we hide them away
and pay little attention to them. Feet will
dry out in the winter, which can lead to
cracks and peeling of the skin. Keep your
feet moisturized especially around your
heels. Make sure your nails are trimmed
and are neat and tidy.
4. Walk softly: The cold weather can lead
to slippery and potentially dangerous
pavements and roads. Even with a good
shoe with adequate grip it is advisable to
walk softly and not to make any sudden
movements. Ankle sprains and ligament
tears are common during winter months.
5. Beware of chilblains! Chilblains are
small, itchy, painful lumps that develop
on the skin. They develop as an abnormal
response to cold. They usually go away
over 7-14 days. If you are prone to
develop chilblains then you should keep
warm in cold weather and avoid excessive
exposure to the elements.
www.drfoot.co.uk