Feet in Winter...

What’s the most important foot care during winter?

Your feet should be protected from cold and damp weather by keeping them warm and dry, with good skin texture. This is critical to support good blood circulation, especially for diabetics. Poor skin texture can be seen in skin that is flaky and dry, as well as in skin that is too moist. Adjust dry flaky texture with an exfoliating cream followed by applying a good foot and heel balm. Consult a podiatrist for anti-perspirant foot treatment.

Why do my feet feel colder than my hands in winter?

Hands are closer in distance to the heart than feet, so arterial blood from the core reaches the hands warmer than blood to the feet. Also, you are more likely to be moving your hands in a way that promotes blood circulation than you are moving your feet. If your hands and feet are inadequately insulated, your body will slow down blood circulation to your arms and legs so that it protects the warm core temperature that your internal organs need to function properly.

Can my choice of shoes affect blood circulation in the feet?

Yes, if you wear shoes or boots that have inflexible soles, you prevent the natural bending action at the ball of your foot which would promote blood circulation. Low heel shoes and boots with flexible soles promote blood circulation more than high heel boots. Tight shoes and a toe shape that does not match your foot shape will decrease blood circulation.

What should I know when buying winter shoes and boots?

Try to buy boots that don’t squeeze the front of your foot as they can cause an inflammation of the big toe, or an ingrown toenail. Remember to buy a larger size if you intend wearing one or even two pairs of socks with boots. Look for shoes and boots that have special built-in cushioning - this helps to protect from cold, and promotes blood circulation under the ball of the foot.

My feet are always cold at night. What’s the best way to warm them?

Have a warm bath or soak your feet in warm water (not hot) for 5 to 10 minutes before going to bed. Then rub your feet with your favourite heel balm and get into bed that you have previously warmed for at least 15 minutes (hot water bottle or electric blanket). A pair of non constricting thick socks works well for extreme cases. Remember to switch off the electric blanket once you’re in bed. Never place a heating pad or electric blanket directly in contact with your feet, nor sit with your feet exposed in front of a heater or fire.

My feet are always cold in winter. What can I take?

Before and during winter, you may try a course of Gingko-biloba which is a herb that promotes blood circulation. You may find a preparation of this also contains Nicotinamide (also known as Niacin or vitamin B3) which is also useful for blood circulation. Include more ginger, cayenne and chilli in your diet, preferably fresh. Consult a podiatrist for a vascular and neural assessment if the condition still persists.

Why do my feet feel numb in winter?

During cold weather the body moves the bood away from the feet and toes, which causes numbness the longer you are exposed to the cold. As soon as you can, warm your feet in warm water (never hot) for 10 minutes and then dry well and briskly with a dry towel to restore circulation. Change clean socks every day and remember to dry well between toes to avoid fungal infection.

Froggie’s Own Footcare Range

Call the SA Podiatry Association 0861 100 249 to locate your nearest podiatrist.

Foot Facts brought to you by Froggie 031 450 0207, in the interest of better footcare.