Managing Peripheral Neuropathy in the Winter

You can further exacerbate the symptoms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the winter months. It can occur because of inclement weather, colder temperatures, too many sweet treats, and reduced activity levels. To help stay on top of your foot health during the cold weather months, Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC in New Haven County and Fairfield County are sharing five tips for people with diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the winter.

Wear gloves and socks whenever you go out. If you have diabetes, it's essential to keep your hands and feet dry and warm in the winter months. Spend a little extra and invest in a good pair of gloves if you're spending time out in the cold for extended periods.
Be sure to remain active. When the bad or dreary weather hits, it can sometimes be challenging to go outside for a walk or do other things to remain active. Be sure to get the recommended amount of physical activity from your doctor to help maintain your overall health.
Check and recheck your shoes and socks. Before putting your socks and shoes on, make sure to check for holes, breaks, or any other problems. Turn them over to make sure there are no pebbles or rocks inside. A hole in a sock or a loose piece of material can cause an injury.
Avoid smoking and too much caffeine. Drinking too much caffeine or smoking can cause blood vessels to constrict and blood flow to slow. When it’s cold outside, it's essential to keep the blood flowing throughout your body to keep you healthy and warm.
Examine your feet regularly. The holidays can be a busy time, but it's incredibly important to check your feet periodically. Be sure to do regular foot examinations to look for any signs of injury.

You don’t have to live with a diabetic-related foot problem in winter! Contact the office of Dr. Joel Segalman, Dr. Stephen Lazaroff, and Dr. Brittany Ciaramello at Performance Foot & Ankle Specialists, LLC in New Haven County and Fairfield to schedule an appointment. You can reach our Waterbury office at (203) 755-0489 or our Newtown office at (203) 270-6724.