4 Ways to Prevent Winter Foot Problems

Winter weather, heat, long hours on your feet—these are some of the conditions of the season that can cause a host of podiatric problems. At NY Foot Health, we want to educate people on how to best care for their feet. Many feet and ankle problems can be avoided with some basic care and simple precautions. Below are some steps you can take to keep feet healthy this winter.

Keep feet dry. Although many people associate fungal infections like athlete’s foot and fungal toenails with summer months when feet are bare, podiatrists treat many cases of these conditions during the winter months. Why? Fungi love dark, moist, warm places, such as the insides of shoes. Extra heat in your car, mall, office and home can mean long hours in sweaty socks. Change your socks as soon as they feel damp. Use a foot powder each morning to help absorb sweat. It’s also a good idea to alternate your shoes when possible.

Choose the right shoes. The risk for ankle sprains, fractures and other foot injuries can be reduced significantly by wearing shoes that have a good non-slip tread and a low, wide heel. Save your heels for short stints at parties and festive functions and change into them when you arrive.

Be salon savvy. A professional pedicure feels great on cold and tired feet and also makes toes pretty for holiday shoes. Be diligent, however, about choosing a salon that is state licensed and follows proper sanitizing rules for cleaning tools and foot baths to avoid infections.

Don’t ignore foot pain. If you twist your ankle ice skating or start to experience heel pain or other unusual symptoms, don’t wait. Make an appointment with your podiatrist and get podiatric problems evaluated promptly. Need help finding a podiatrist in your area? Contact us or use our online directory.