Winter in India is cold, but not as snowy and icy! It is important to take certain precautions to ensure that your feet stay warm and dry. This is particularly important to those people in higher-risk groups, such as diabetics, those with poor circulation, who have medical conditions, or who may be more susceptible to damage from falls.
Here are some tips, and tricks that will keep your feet looking and feeling healthy this winter, and keep you going just like spring and summer!
- Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry
Most of the feet problems that occur are because of unhygienic conditions, and not drying out your feet often. Winter boots and wool socks will keep your feet warm and toasty, but they may also cause them to sweat a lot. Damp feet get cold more easily and are prone to bacterial and viral infections. Foot powder can help keep your feet clean and dry.
Treat yourself by avoiding sweat throughout the cooler weather in these skin areas, and dry your feet thoroughly after each footbath. Pay special attention to areas between the toes.
It is also wise to wear socks made of moisture-wicking material, where moisture is taken away from the skin. Extra moisture can also cause the skin to cool down more quickly and potentially lead to frostbite. Many companies even make socks with infused silver or copper, which are quite helpful in keeping the heat in and moisture and bacteria away. Materials such as merino wool are great for keeping warm and wicking moisture at the same time.
2. Wear Comfortable Footwear
Wear footwear that fits comfortably and that isn’t too tight or loose. Tight footwear can decrease blood flow, making it harder to keep your feet warm, increasing the risk of frostbite, or flaring up conditions, and loose footwear can give the space to enter the unnecessary dirt or anything that can make the moisture PH balance uneven. You should be able to wiggle your toes, but your heel, instep, and the ball of your foot should be sturdy in your shoe. Boots should have a solid base, supportive heel, and laces or straps to ensure that you’re able to remain stable on wet and slippery surfaces. It is also important to inspect the tread on the boot. You want to make sure it has a good traction and will hold well on snow and ice. If you are purchasing winter gear for your children, such as winter boots, skates, or ski boots, avoid the temptation to buy a larger size to get two seasons of wear out of the shoes. Footwear must fit properly right away to prevent chafing, blisters, and foot injuries.
Winter Foot Care Tips & Tricks
- Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry. Winter boots and wool socks will keep your feet warm and toasty, but they may also cause them to sweat a lot.
- Wear Comfortable Boots.
- Dry Your Winter Boots and Shoes Out.
- Wash Your Feet Every Day.
- Take Care of Your Skin.
3. Dryout Your Winter Boots and Shoes
Before going back outside in your boots or shoes again, be sure to dry them out thoroughly. Doing this will help prevent your feet from getting cold quickly as well as prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria. Even better have 2 pairs, and alternate them each day.
4. Wash Your Feet Every Day
Wash your feet daily. Keeping feet clean can prevent toenail fungus and other unpleasant problems.
Make sure that your feet are completely dry before you put socks and shoes on again. Change socks daily.
It is also a good idea to soak your feet in Epsom salt and warm water periodically to relieve discomfort and prevent infections. Be sure to remember to keep it to 10 minutes maximum per session.
5. Take Care of Your Skin
Cold weather means less humid air, which means less moisture for your skin and nails. When your skin dries out, it splits and can lead to painful fissures, increased pain, and chances of infection. Skin problems can be particularly troublesome for people with diabetes or those with impaired circulation. Remember to use a good moisturizer daily, not just when your skin looks like you need it. As a result, your skin will be supple and smooth. If possible, apply moisturizer shortly after a bath or shower, it will soak in better and have a more significant overall effect.
6. Remember that wearing a nice piece of material in footwear is always recommended, whether it may be the socks, or it might be your shoes wearing the right material in feet is always a good pick than a material that not only damages the skin but also brings that uncomfortable situation while walking.
It’s important to remember that, it is a lot easier to maintain good skin than it is to fix a problem.