Are your feet ready for the cold?

So we have turned back the clocks so that only means one thing, the days are getting

colder and shorter. The winter season is now approaching and it can be a difficult time

for your feet. Especially as your feet now are enclosed in those winter shoes all the time

and you might not notice problems going on. Are your feet ready for the cold?

In this blog, we will talk about Raynaud’s syndrome, Chilblains and getting ready for the

party season.

Are your feet cold? – Raynaud’s Syndrome

Raynaud’s syndrome affects your blood circulation. It is caused by smaller arteries that

supply blood flow to the skin narrowing in response to cold or stress. The main areas

affected are fingers and toes and they often turn a white or blue colour and will feel cold

and numb until the blood flow improves. This is when they have warmed up.

There is no quick fix for the treatment of Raynaud’s phenomenon and it is something

that needs to be discussed with your GP.

You can improve the circulation in your feet by following these 6 quick steps:

1. Walking is the simplest yet most effective exercise to help improve blood circulation in your legs.

2. Stretching exercises.

3. Different sitting positions.

4. Compression hosiery.

5. A foot massage.

6. Wear thick warm socks.

One of the simplest ways is to massage your feet. Massaging your feet stimulates circulation. Rub and massage your feet to relax them and encourage better blood flow. Use warm water to reheat the feet but not hot water.

Wear warm socks to retain the warmth. Do not use hot water bottles on your feet.

Chilblains

These are often seen at this time of year. A chilblain is usually found on a bony part of

your foot, i.e the end of your toes. It can present itself as a red or purple colour and are

usually cold and sore.

Chilblains form after intermittent or prolonged exposure to cold or damp air. This

causes the blood vessels near your skin’s surface to tighten leading to decreased

oxygenation and inflammation in the exposed areas. They often get better on their own

after a week or two without treatment.

Correct socks can help prevent chilblains. Go for breathable fabrics, such as wool,

moisture-wicking that can reduce sweating. Look for socks that keep you both warm

and dry.

The party season is upon us!

Well, we all enjoy a good party around the festive season with Christmas parties and festive nights out. Advice for the ladies is to limit your wearing of high heels, and for the gents, those pointy shoes are never good for feet.

Wear them in moderation and follow the 20-80 rule. That’s 20% in bad shoes and 80% in good shoes; things such as supportive footwear and comfortable shoes. So I am not saying don’t wear those fabulous shoes, but just limit their usage.

In the meantime, if you have any foot-related issues do let us know or simply book to

make an appointment. Alternatively, get in touch with our Podiatry and Footcare clinics

in Beeston, Nottinghamshire and Ilkeston, Derbyshire. Remember to keep your feet

protected from the cold.