How to Keep Your Feet Healthy During Winter
Posted on: 8 August 2016
In the depths of the Australian winter, it is tempting to hide your feet in boots, socks or slippers in an effort to keep them warm. However, it is important that you pay attention to your feet during winter. Below are some ways you can keep your feet warm, dry and in top condition.
Keep your feet dry
Boots are a great footwear option; they can help to keep your feet dry and warm while you walk through pouring rain or cold mud. However, wearing a pair of high-quality boots and thick socks can cause your feet to become damp and sweaty. This can put you at risk of bacterial infections which can lead to discomfort and pain. An easy way to keep your feet dry is to sprinkle a little talcum powder into your socks before you put them on. When you take your socks off at the end of the day, you should wash your feet using anti-bacterial soap.
Wear the right sized shoes
If your shoes are too small or big, this could cause chafing of your feet. This can lead to bunions, painful blisters and callouses. By having your feet professionally measured when being fitted with new shoes or boots, you can avoid this problem. If you are still having problems with your footwear, you should contact a professional podiatric practice who will be able to carry out an examination of your feet and recommend shoe inserts which can help your shoes fit perfectly.
Keep your blood flowing
It is important that your keep the blood circulating through your toes and feet during the colder months. You can do this by pointing and flexing your toes and rolling your ankles periodically throughout the day. This will help to ensure that blood continues to flow to your feet, helping to keep them warm and healthy.
Maintain and groom your feet
Your feet may need a little extra attention during the winter, so it is important that you maintain a good grooming routine. If you often suffer from bunions or calluses, you should regularly soak your feet using an Epsom salt foot bath. This will help to soften the skin. You can then use a pumice stone to remove any hard or dry patches on your feet. After you have washed your feet, you should moisturise them.
If you are worried about maintaining the health of your feet during winter, you should contact a professional podiatrist who will be able to advise and offer treatment.
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