Keep Your Feet Warm and Protected This Winter

Winter is nearly upon us, and although some tend to get “cold feet” when the temperatures drop, there’s no need to hunker down indoors until Spring. Our podiatrist at Mark Costopoulos, DPM encourages our patients to keep moving during the cold weather months — provided you’ve taken the proper “steps” to keep yourself safe and comfortable in challenging conditions.

Here are some tips from the American Podiatric Medical Association to help you embrace the outdoors this Winter:

• Change gear: Don’t attempt to brave the elements in the same footwear you’ve worn in the warm weather. Sneakers, high heels, moccasins, Crocs and the like just won’t cut it in the snow and ice. Insulated, waterproof boots with skid-reducing treads are a must.

• Stay dry: Keep your feet from becoming damp and sweaty by choosing socks that wick away moisture. The best fabrics for the job are polyester, nylon, silk, rayon, wool and acrylics. Cotton is best avoided. Consider sprinkling foot powder inside your socks to absorb moisture. 

• Stride right: If you’re a runner, consider shortening your stride in wet or icy conditions to help maintain stability. Remember that your muscles are less flexible in Winter than Summer, so it’s extra important to warm up before starting your run. 

• Slippery slope: Never go skiing or snowboarding with anything other than boots designed specifically for those sports. Properly fitting ski boots should leave you enough room to wiggle your toes but the rest of the foot should be immobilized.

• Size matters: Don’t purchase kids’ boots or ice skates in a slightly larger size so that they’ll “grow into them” in a year. Properly fitted footwear is crucial for avoiding blisters and foot and ankle injuries.

Get off on the right foot this Winter by visiting our podiatrist at Mark Costopoulos, DPM for more tips on keeping your feet warm and healthy. Please contact us today for an appointment.