Chill Out! Tips for Winter Foot Health

Each time of year comes with its own unique beauty and unique risks to foot health. Changes in season require some modification in the ways you take care of your feet.

Here are some tips from Dr. James M. McKee to keep your feet happy and healthy until spring’s thaw arrives:

• Avoid dangerous issues like chilblains and frostbite. Keep feet warm at all times. If you’re leaving the house, be sure to wear wool socks and insulated boots. Staying home? A pair of slippers with non-slip soles is your best bet. Wearing only socks around the house increases your risk of falling. This is especially important for patients with diabetes and other illnesses that decrease circulation. That diminished blood flow makes it harder than average for feet to warm up.

• Reduce your risk of foot and ankle injuries. Increase your stability on icy sidewalks by choosing footwear with a thick lug sole to improve traction.

• Do you enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or another outdoor winter activity? Be sure that your sport-specific footwear is appropriately sized and in good condition. If you’re new to your sport, consider investing a professional lesson or two until you get the hang of it. You’ll be less likely to hurt yourself.

• Apply moisturizer twice daily. Winter air is low in humidity and skin dries out, especially at the heels, which are prone to cracking.

• Of course, the best thing you can do for your feet any time of year is to see your podiatrist. With years of specialized training and experience, a board-certified podiatrist like James M. McKee, DPM, FACFAS is the best-qualified medical professional to examine, diagnose, and treat all illnesses and injuries of the feet, ankles, and lower legs.

Schedule a convenient appointment in our comfortable office on Solomons Island Road today. Call Podiatry Group of Annapolis, P.A. at 410-224-4448 or click here to reach our friendly staff.