5 Ways to Take Care of Your Feet and Ankles This Winter

We get it: it’s the middle of January, you wake up, and your joints immediately feel stiff. Especially for foot and ankle conditions, the winter weather worsens more than just arthritis. That’s why today, we at Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland are providing 5 expert tips on how to make life for your feet a bit more comfortable from now to Spring.
1. Combat Dry Skin
Winter air can sap moisture from your skin and cause dryness, cracked heels, and a higher chance of skin infections. Combat this by moisturizing your feet daily with a thick, emollient cream, ideally after bathing. Also, consider using a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home!
2. Choose the Right Footwear
Well-insulated, waterproof boots should keep your feet warm and dry. But avoid tight-fitting boots or high heels that can restrict circulation and exacerbate foot problems. The key is to aim for thick soles and warm interiors that will prevent everything from falls to frostbite.
3. Stay Active
While it may be tempting to hibernate indoors, regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining good circulation and preventing stiffness in your feet and ankles. Engage in indoor activities like walking, yoga, or stretching to keep your feet moving. A treadmill run is safer than a jog outside this time of year, anyway.
4. Pay Attention to Circulation
Cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels, worsening circulation problems in the feet and ankles. If you have conditions like peripheral artery disease or Raynaud’s disease, take extra precautions to keep your feet warm and monitor them for any signs of decreased circulation, such as tingling, numbness, or discoloration.
5. Manage Existing Conditions
Winter can exacerbate existing foot and ankle conditions. So, if you have temperature-sensitive conditions like arthritis or neuropathy, be vigilant about managing these conditions and monitoring your feet for any changes.
In pain? Call Foot & Ankle Associates of Cleveland in Solon, Ohio, at (440) 903-1041 or contact us online to schedule a consultation. Dr. Craig B. Frey, Dr. Megan L. Oltmann, Dr. Jim Swienconek, Dr. Rachel Robinson, and Dr. Courtney Yoder treat patients in Portage, Geauga, Cuyahoga, and Summit Counties, proudly serving Solon, Aurora, Bedford, Chagrin Falls, Hudson, Macedonia, and Twinsburg, too.