Do you know what to do to keep your feet healthy through the winter season? In this blog, podiatry expert Dr. Leonard Greenwald provides foot care advice for the best way to treat your feet during our cool and rainy San Jose, California, winters.
Here are five top tips for getting your feet ready for winter.
Have your feet taken a beating this summer? Depending on your activities and habits, your feet may have picked up corns and calluses, or even foot or toenail fungal infections. As we transition into winter, it’s a good idea to make sure these common podiatry problems are addressed and cleared up.
You’ll spend more time with your feet encased in socks or shoes, and letting a fungal infection continue under those conditions can create unwanted challenges. Talk to Dr. Greenwald about the foot treatments you need to be ready for winter.
Cooler temperatures mean it’s time to put away summer sandals and slides and switch to warmer, sturdier winter wear. With the end of autumn approaching, take a moment to assess where you stand in terms of footwear for the coming months.
Do you need new boots or winter shoes? Even if you have winter footwear left over from last year, it might be time for an update. Waterproofing can wear off over time, and the soles and treads of your shoes also wear down, reducing foot support and traction on slippery surfaces.
Poor-fitting boots or shoes put you at risk of blisters or gait problems. With the right footwear, your feet stay healthy and warm through the winter.
It can be tempting to let active habits lapse in the winter months, walking only the few steps needed between warm indoor environments. But, for the sake of your feet and whole-body health, you should keep moving and stay flexible.
If the weather outside is too discouraging, take up a seasonal indoor activity like rock climbing or dancing. Your feet will thank you!
If you live with a condition that causes poor blood circulation, such as diabetes, winter is a risky time of year for your feet. Maintaining active habits keeps your blood circulating, preventing foot problems like Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Talk to Dr. Greenwald about the unique risks your feet may face in the colder months due to poor blood circulation, and learn strategies that can help.
Your skin is often drier in the winter, which can lead to cracks around your heels and soles. Invest in a high-quality moisturizer and apply it regularly, especially around your heels, toes, and the soles of your feet. It’s also a good idea to exfoliate your feet weekly to clear away accumulated dead skin.
With these winter foot care tips, you can avoid problems like poor circulation, chafing, frostbite, and cracked skin. For a personalized consultation, contact Dr. Greenwald online or over the phone today to schedule an appointment.
