How to manage your feet in winter

Here on the Sunshine Coast, we are immensely fortunate to have lovely mild weather all year round. However, for some of us, our feet act as though we are in the Arctic Circle!

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The most common problem is dry, cracked skin. 

This is most often seen around heels, but can be a problem anywhere on the foot. Daily moisturising with a specialist heel balm is the best self-management - catch it before it gets bad! 

However, some feet can get a bit out of hand. Systemic factors, such as (but not limited to) Diabetes, Thyroid conditions, Psoriasis, and dermatitis will predispose people to skin problems with their feet, however, sometimes it's just bad luck! This is where your podiatrist will be helpful. They can provide immediate assistance with reduction and smoothing of callosity, as well as options for ongoing self management.

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The other form of hard skin that can be more troublesome in winter is corns.

This is where a very small, hard ball of skin can form, and can be very painful.  

Corns that are virtually painless in summer sandals can be terribly uncomfortable in any enclosed footwear, and poorly fitted footwear that pinches toes will exacerbate the problem.

Corns can form in response to poorly fitted footwear. Any problems with circulation or sensation in the foot can mean that a simple corn can be quite dangerous - they can cause so much pressure that an ulcer can form underneath, which can lead to infection. 

The good news is, your podiatrist should be able to provide immediate relief by getting rid of the corn, and advise on ongoing care. Note that a corn is not a separate growth with a "root" that can be cut out once, but a pressure related formation of skin - so unless you can start walking on your hands, it is probably going to come back! 

Thickened or ingrown nails are another problem that is often exacerbated by winter footwear.

Toes may suddenly become sore when heavier bedclothes or closed-toe footwear cause more pressure. Your podiatrist will be able to reduce the thickness of nails and clear the edges to provide you with immediate reduction in symptoms, and advise on the best way to manage in the future.  

Your podiatrist is uniquely qualified to manage all of your foot concerns. Please, give us a call here at Dan Everson Podiatry if you have any problems - and Move Without Pain®.