Winter and Your Feet

Findlay has just experienced its first snow flurries over the Thanksgiving holiday! This begins to mark the beginning of the winter season. Winter brings many of its own joys, such as Christmas, New Year, snow, and many outdoor sporting opportunities. But it also brings its own list of concerns for your feet and their health. Here are some tips and things to consider as we enter this winter season.

1. Look out for the weather! Snow and ice can be one of the most fun parts of winter, but they also can cause accidents. Always be careful on ice and snow, as slipping can cause trauma. It is a good idea to have the appropriate footwear for the weather. Do not hesitate to wear your boots in the weather and change them when you get inside (say when you arrive at work, putting on your work shoes). And giving yourself a little extra time to commute allows you to drive and walk safely to your destination. A hurried pace and ice generally don't mix.

2. Wear the right footwear. Retire your sandals for the winter, they will be in the closet still when summer rolls around again. You need to protect your feet from the elements, and keep them warm, especially if you have circulation problems. You should invest in a good pair of snow boots. They should be waterproof to prevent excess moisture around your feet, which increases your chance for fungal infections. You are probably already changing your shoes, so don't be afraid to change wet socks either. You can treat your boots with waterproofer and foot powder to keep them dry. They should also offer good traction to prevent you from falls. And it is a good idea to purchase boots which offer good ankle support to prevent a twisted or rolled ankle on the ice.

3. Treat your skin for the season. Skin is especially susceptible to drying out in winter, and this includes the skin on your feet. Remember to clean your feet every day and look for any signs of infection or change in your skin. Dry your feet thoroughly to prevent fungal infections, and moisture your skin. Moisturizing prevents your skin form drying and cracking, which gives bacteria, viruses, and fungi access to your body. It also helps improve the look of your feet. Remove excess callus on your feet with a file or emery board. Your feet need a little pampering, and winter is an important time to make sure they are getting the attention they need.

4. Enjoy sports and activities which require your feet and the winter weather. Often we get less exercise in the winter. Do not be afraid of the elements, but instead find activities which require you to get your feet outside and exercise! Try ice skating, skiing (downhill or cross country), snowboarding, snowshoeing, hiking, curling, building a snowman having a snowball fight, or any other outdoor activity. Not only will the fun help you appreciate the season, but it will serve your body well for you to get the exercise.