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How Winter Sports Can Take A Toll On Your Feet

How Winter Sports Can Take A Toll On Your Feet

 

How Winter Sports Can Take A Toll On Your Feet

There are all sorts of sports during the winter that can begin to take a toll on your feet, including skating, skiing, and more. There can be a number of foot ailments that can arise, and you will need to know how to deal with them. The good news is that working with a podiatrist will help you to care for your feet in winter.

It goes without saying that getting out and getting fresh air in the winter while enjoying exercise can do your body good. However, you need to make sure that your feet are ready for the cold temperatures and winter weather.

Winter sports can lead to foot ailments like blistering, strains, sprains, athlete’s foot, and calluses. You need to wear the right things on your feet to protect them, such as warm socks and the right shoes and boots. These are some of the more common foot ailments that you may experience and how you can deal with them:

Calluses

Being on your feet for most of the day can lead to calluses before too long. These are areas of the skin that become hard and thickened, which usually appear on the balls or heels of your feet. If you have boots or shoes that are too tight, it can make this problem even worse. Always look for footwear that fits right and also take the time to exfoliate your feet whenever you can.

Blisters

Skates, ski boots, and other outdoor shoes can lead to blisters when you are out in the cold. You could have bony or knobby areas on your feet that will become irritated due to the rubbing and friction with ill-fitted shoes or boots. Wearing the right socks can make all the difference, where some people do best with a thinner sock that is absorbent. Cotton is always a good choice.

Athlete’s Foot

Whenever your feet get hot and sweaty inside your winter footwear, this can be a prime environment for the development of Athlete’s Foot. This is a condition that tends to grow when your feet are in moist, warm and cramped shoes, such as ski boots and ill-fitted winter footwear. Make sure that you dry between your toes before putting your shoes on and also look for socks that will absorb the moisture or wick it away instead of keeping your feet wrapped in it.

Bruising, Aches, and Pains

Whenever you are skiing, sledding, or being active most of the day, you need to be sure that you have the right footwear for support. Some people also do best when adding insoles to comfort their feet. It is also a good idea to do some stretches before you take part in winter activities so that your feet can have a bit of warm-up. If your feet are hurting, a warm foot bath is good for calming and soothing. Just be sure that you also use a nourishing foot cream after to keep the moisture in the skin.

No matter what types of foot woes you are dealing with during the winter months, seeing your podiatrist for a checkup and advice can be very helpful. You can always turn to Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic to help you care for your feet this winter!

Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic can help you care for your feet in winter. Call Dr. Hall at (425) 482-6663 for more information.