Are You Experiencing These Common Cold-Weather Foot Conditions?

At this time of year, we find that many patients experience foot pain. Whether due to acute injuries or chronic pain, today Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC are sharing information regarding some of the most common cold-weather foot conditions. 

1. Blisters: You can get a blister at any time of year, but winter sports gear rentals and holiday shopping increase the risk. It’s often challenging to find the perfect fit when it comes to rental skates or boots, and the friction that is created by your foot sliding around can cause a blister. During marathon shopping trips, footwear that seemed comfortable enough for a few hours of light wear suddenly become painful over the course of a full day of shopping.

2. Cracked Heels: This is one of the most common cold weather conditions. The cracks look unappealing and can be painful if they’re deep enough. The easiest way to help prevent heel cracks is to apply moisturizing cream, particularly after a shower.

3. Athlete’s Foot: While many think this is only an issue during the summer months, it can also happen in winter. It typically occurs when you layer up several pairs of all-wool or all-cotton socks because the feet can’t breathe, and they begin to sweat. This sets the stage for athlete’s foot. Avoid this problem by wearing acrylic blend socks.

4.  Foot Pain: Regardless of the pain, if you want to stay active during the cold weather, be sure to see your podiatrist if it lasts more than a couple of days and has no apparent cause.

5. Fractures: Skiers, skaters and snowboard buffs are especially at risk for accidents that can cause a fractured metatarsal or ankle. Even just walking on uneven surfaces, particularly those with icy patches, increases the risk. Wearing properly fitted footwear with padded socks can decrease the risk by protecting the feet.

If you are experiencing these or any other conditions, contact the office of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, Dr. Brittany Ciaramello, at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC! 

We serve both New Haven County and Fairfield County areas. You can schedule an appointment by calling our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown location at (203) 270-6724. You can also request an appointment online.