Don't Let Your Feet Fall Victim to Winter: Podiatrist Foot Clinics Are Here to Help!

Podiatrist Foot Clinics are different from other foot clinics because of the wide range of treatments that they offer to patients, including custom foot orthotics, non-surgical treatment options, and physical therapy, as well as regular checkups and laser therapy. They also offer care that’s customised to your individual needs, such as your budget and time constraints, so you can be sure you’re getting the best treatment possible. If you or someone you know has been suffering from foot pain or any other type of foot problem this winter, find a Podiatrist Foot Clinic near you!

Cold Weather Sneakers

The cold winter months wreak havoc on our feet. Since they're one of our most sensitive areas, we need to take special care to ensure that our feet are warm and safe during these frigid months. It's crucial for a podiatrist foot clinics specialist in foot and ankle to help you with shoe selection because if you choose improperly, your feet could suffer greatly. While many people may be tempted by flip-flops or sandals, it's important that your feet stay covered at all times, even in warmer temperatures. During cold weather, flip-flops will not keep your feet from freezing. Even worse, walking around barefoot can lead to frostbite or broken glass wounds, so don't take any chances.

Insoles

It’s easy to blame cold weather for your bad foot health, but that’s usually not entirely accurate. More often than not, a lack of proper support—or simply wearing shoes that don’t fit right—is at fault. A podiatrist can help you find insoles or other types of foot support that keep you from landing on your heels when walking and change your gait in general. Doing so helps cut down on pressure, which minimises aches and pains and helps prevent future problems. Plus, a knowledgeable foot doctor can catch issues before they get worse; if left untreated, calluses, corns, and fungal infections could all make winter uncomfortable in more ways than one.

Protection from The Elements

Our cold and wet weather is tough on our feet, no matter what time of year it is. Shoes that are too tight or don’t provide adequate support can lead to fungal infections and other foot ailments, so even if you aren’t stepping out your door without a coat on during the winter months, it’s important to keep your toes protected. Luckily for you, it doesn’t take a lot of effort or expense to help keep feet healthy; in fact, these three tips will help keep feet protected all season long. First and foremost, remember that footwear matters just as much during winter as it does in any other season—comfortable shoes are critical for avoiding serious foot injuries.

Toe Warmers

The first line of defence against your feet getting cold is a good pair of warm socks. To further protect your toes, you may want to invest in toe warmers or toe covers. These special covers slip over each toe and are designed to keep moisture from being trapped in between them, which leads to chapping and discomfort. They’re an especially useful solution for anyone with diabetic neuropathy—which can cause numbness or pain even in mildly cold temperatures—or poor circulation, which makes it harder for blood vessels inside the body's extremities (like toes) to stay healthy during the winter months.

Dry Out Shoes

Even if your shoes are waterproof, you should always give them time to dry out before wearing them again. Moisture can seep in from the outside, but it can also build up from the inside of your shoes if you’re sweating. The bottom line is that moisture is bad for your shoes and will cause them to wear down more quickly than they would otherwise. As soon as you’re done wearing a pair of shoes, store them in a dry place where they’ll stay dry and odor-free until you need them again.

Get Rid of Dead Skin

Dead skin on your feet is like a peeling banana; once it starts, it’s hard to stop. And while you might be tempted to rub your feet with a rough pumice stone or callus remover, doing so can actually damage your skin and even cause infection. The best way to remove dead skin is through softening and sloughing—you can soften them by soaking them in warm water and gently rubbing a foot file across areas that are flaky or extra dry. Sloughing will help remove layers of dead skin, which you should continue to do regularly throughout the winter months as your feet tend toward dryness in general.

Moisturise Regularly

In order to keep your feet healthy in winter, it’s important that you moisturise regularly. This can help ward off dryness, cracked skin, and blisters, which are common in winter due to dry indoor air and more time spent inside. Dry feet could also lead to a number of foot-related ailments—such as athlete’s foot or nail fungus—which could make an otherwise enjoyable winter season much less enjoyable. Be sure you take care of your feet during the cold months by moisturising regularly and wearing warm shoes that provide ample room for your toes. When possible, opt for natural materials like wool or fleece—they’ll keep your feet warm while still being comfortable enough not to restrict blood flow.

Stay Away from Wet Surfaces

Slipping and falling is more likely when surfaces are wet. To keep your feet from slipping, take note of slippery areas and walk around or on them slowly so you don’t trip. If you see someone else slipping, quickly offer a hand and help them up if they fall; that way, you won’t end up in a similar situation yourself. Also, try not to be in a rush while walking outside; that can lead to carelessness. Overall, take preventative measures against slips and falls by making sure your own shoes have good traction or that you stay away from icy spots on sidewalks. This will protect your feet as well as those around you.