The following is a reprint of an article written by Dr. Josephine Kleyner of Hamilton Podiatry, with offices in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, and Manhattan.
Most people are concerned about the health and appearance of their feet during the summer months, but by the time winter rolls around, feet are all but forgotten, shoved back into boots and heavy sneakers. We should be vigilant about foot care during the colder months, when falling temperatures, drier air, ice and snow and closed-toe shoes can contribute to foot problems. Here are some tips to keep you on your feet this winter:
- Invest in some good shoes. Trying to put thick socks into thin summer sneakers isn’t the way to go. Good winter shoe should be waterproof, have enough room to fit two pairs of socks to insulate feet and prevent moisture buildup, and have a gripping sole to prevent slips and falls. For men and women who wear shoes that can easily get ruined in the wet, slushy streets of NYC, buy overshoes that can be slipped on over dress shoes as a way of keeping feet dry and warm and improving traction.
- When purchasing socks, one pair should be a light synthetic ‘wick’ sock, to transfer moisture to a thicker wool outer sock, where it is absorbed and evaporated to the outside. Cotton socks absorb moisture and make for a soggy environment, which ultimately makes the feet cold and wet and sets them up for frostbite and athletes foot. Cotton socks are a great alternative to change into once in a warm, dry environment.
- Lets try to keep our feet looking great, even though they are covered up most of the time in the colder months. Keeping toenails trimmed to avoid ingrown toenails, and to keep slathering on the lotion to avoid painful superficial and/or deep skin fissuring. Feet tend to dry out in the winter, which can cause cracks and peeling, so use a hypoallergenic lotion at least once a day to prevent irritation or infection from dry skin.
- Watch your step when walking and keep an eye out on the streets, because cold weather leads to slippery surfaces and cracks in the sidewalk. Clear pavement can be covered in ice which you may not be able to see, so you need to pay attention, because a good shoe alone won’t be able to protect you.
- Don’t make quick, sudden moves on slippery surfaces. Even if you don’t fall, you could pull or tear something, which may cause a foot or ankle sprain or strain. This can take weeks, or even months to heal, which makes for a not so happy winter.
- Even we don’t see dramatically cold weather in NYC like some of our neighboring northern states, try not to stay out in the cold for too long. This can lead to numbness and pain in the toes and feet, which could mean the beginnings of frostbite. If this occurs, start by applying a warm towel and water to the affected area at the first sign of numbness, then seek a doctor’s care immediately to be sure to prevent any irreversible tissue damage.