Our feet can be some of the first areas to be affected by the cold weather. How you look after your feet during the colder months can help you avoid pain and problems down the track. Having cold feet is common especially during the cooler months, but there are tips you can follow to help protect them!
At Melbourne Foot Clinic, we provide top-tier podiatry Melbourne services for our patients. Treating cold feet is no problem! Keep reading for more information on cold feet and appropriate treatment.
What are Chilblains?
Chilblains are a common side effect of the cooler weather. They present as painful lesions on the toes that appear as blue, red or white patches of discoloured skin. They can be swollen and itchy and in bad cases can break down and ulcerate.
Chilblains often occur in people with poor circulation – elderly, teenagers, people who live a sedentary lifestyle and people with other health conditions such as diabetes. Wearing tight shoes can also contribute to poor circulation to the toes, too.
Chilblains typically clear up within a couple of weeks, dependent on exposure to warmer weather and ongoing treatment. While chilblains do not lead to permanent injury, your feet can potentially be susceptible to infection – left untreated, this could cause severe damage.
How to Treat Cold Feet or Chilblains
There are a variety of ways that you can treat cold feet or chilblains. However, if your cold feet persists, worsens over time, or is impairing your everyday functioning – despite undergoing a period of self-treatment, please visit your Podiatrist.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures and Moving Between Them Quickly
If your feet are cold, try putting on some warm socks and shoes/slippers and walking around to get the blood moving. Don’t go straight to putting your feet on top of the heater!
Avoid Getting Your Feet Wet and Keeping Them Wet
This often occurs walking through wet grass. If this is a problem for you, changing your shoes to a trail runner or hiking boot should help. We can help advise you as there are many options on the market depending on your needs. If your feet do get wet, make sure to dry them well and change your socks as soon as possible.
Wear Thicker Socks Where Possible
This will help insulate your feet. Thin stockings or sockettes will not keep you warm. Try to wear 100% cotton socks if possible – they’re much more breathable compared to synthetic materials such as polyester. Cotton socks are perfect for those who suffer from allergies or sensitive skin.
Apply Creams or Ointments
Applying creams or ointments can help promote blood flow, reduce itching or heal any areas of ulceration.
All in all, cold feet are easy to treat! If you still have concerns, see your podiatrist for advice regarding what will work best for your specific needs. In need of a podiatrist Melbourne? Our team at Melbourne Foot Clinic are here to help! Specialising in foot, ankle, and lower-extremity health, we pride ourselves in our ability to treat patients so they can get back to doing what they love. Book an appointment with us today!