Looking after your feet in winter

A regular foot care routine

Wash your feet every day in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Cut your toenails regularly, it may be easier to do it after a bath or shower when the nails are softer. When cutting your nails follow the natural free edge of the nail, not too short, and not down at the corners as this can lead to in-growing nails.

Footwear

A good shoe can be invaluable: it can help to keep your feet warm and dry during wet weather. Ensure that the sole is not too thin and if possible wear a shoe that is made from natural fibers.

Common winter foot problems

Cracked heels often occur during the winter, even though their feet are covered. People can forget about moisturising their skin and staying hydrated during winter, and this results in the skin drying and cracking. use a foot file, emery board or pumice stone to gently rub away the hard skin, then apply a rich moisturising cream, preferable urea based cream.

Chilblains

As featured in last months newsletter. Chilblains are patches of red,swollen and itchy skin which commonly appear on the toes in the winter ( as well as other extremities, for example fingers, ear tips) People with poor circulation often experience chilblains. They're made worse by moving from a cold environment to a hot environment, for example, by jumping into a hot bath when you are very cold. Chilblains are fairly harmless but they can be very uncomfortable. Prevention is key. Make sure you wear loose warm layers on your feet to keep them warm.