Tips for Protecting Your Feet and Ankles in the Winter

We’ve all got that one friend who insists that it’s OK to wear flip-flops and shorts year-round. Truth be told, it’s
really not a good decision for maintaining feet and ankle health. The wellbeing of your feet and ankles in the
winter is often forgotten, often resulting in injuries and illness. We suggest the following tips for protecting your
feet and ankles in winter.

Keep your feet clean and dry.
As recommended throughout the year, keeping your feet clean and dry is especially important in the winter
season. It prevents the growth of odor-causing bacteria and fungal infections. Use gentle soap and avoid using
super-hot water as this can cause your skin to become dry. It may seem silly, but make sure your feet are
completely dry everywhere before putting on socks and shoes.

Change footwear as soon as you come indoors.
This is especially true if your shoes/boots and hosiery have had water seep in. It’s very important to let those
shoes/boots thoroughly dry before attempting to wear them again. Get the wet socks off, and wash your feet,
drying them thoroughly. This will remove any bacteria that has started to grow.

Moisturize.
Keeping the skin on your feet and ankles moisturized is an important part of keeping them healthy and
preventing cracks and bleeding from happening during the cold and dry winter months. Apply a good
moisturizer to legs and feet to keep them supple and itch-free.

Prevent ingrown toenails.
Many people forget to trim their toenails during the winter season because they aren’t wearing flip-flops or
sandals. Improperly trimmed or untrimmed toenails are at a great risk of becoming ingrown and increase the
potential for infection.

Consider wicking socks.
If your feet always feel damp or look dimpled or puckered after taking off your socks, you should consider
purchasing socks that wick moisture away from the foot.

Expose your feet.
Just like the rest of your body, your feet need time to rest and heal. Leave them uncovered for a few hours a
day while you’re watching TV or relaxing at home. Never walk barefoot at home. We suggest you slip on a pair
of comfy slippers to protect the soles of your feet from injury. If you are planning to go outside, even just to get
the mail, make sure you’re wearing footwear that will protect you.

Appropriate footwear is key.
Not only should you consider the health of your foot and ankle skin, but their bones and joints as well. The
shoes and boots you wear should be able to handle the weather you’ll be facing. Make sure that boots have
good traction to prevent falls and that they fit well to prevent slips and falls that can result in broken bones.

Don’t delay seeking medical attention.
If your feet are showing symptoms of cracking, bleeding or peeling that don’t resolve with use of OTC
medications or creams, it’s time to see a foot care specialist. If your feet are bruised, swollen, or discolored,
flaking or bleeding, seek attention as soon as possible.

The winter months can be brutal, but with proper care your feet and ankles can remain healthy and injury free.
The doctors and staff at North Texas Foot & Ankle are here to help you keep them that way. If your feet or
ankles are showing symptoms resulting from the harshness of winter, call today at 214-574-9255 to begin yourpath back to healthy feet and ankles. Telemedicine appointments are also available