Foot pain is a frequent problem during winter. Cold temperatures can cause the tissues in your joints to contract, making them pull on your nerve endings and cause joint pain. Your ankle and foot have many joints, which makes them more vulnerable to the cold, as well as injuries.
Therefore, you may want to take precautions this winter to prevent chronic foot pain. Here are some tips to follow this season:
Rest Your Feet
Too much stress can cause foot pain. To avoid this, allow your feet to rest and try not to overexert yourself. You may want to consider putting up your feet and giving them a much-needed break if you start feeling discomfort because of the cold temperature.
Stretch Your Feet Daily
During colder days, you can avoid getting foot pain by stretching your feet. You want to do exercises that engage your entire foot, especially your arches. You should also pay attention to your ankles, as well as your calf muscles.
However, make sure not to overdo the exercises — overtraining can also be damaging. Overstretching can lead to injuries and pain, so it’s essential to find the balance between activity and rest.
Stay Active During Winter
Another factor that may cause foot pain during winter is excess weight. It can be tempting to stay inside because of the cold and snow, and you may find yourself becoming inactive and lethargic. A lack of movement, coupled with rich meals during the holiday season, can cause you to put on extra weight.
Your weight directly affects how much physical stress your feet bear. The heavier you get, the more pressure your feet experience. To prevent excessive weight gain, you should consider exercising or working out during winter.
Keeping active helps you shed weight and lessens the stress on your feet and ankles. In addition, working out strengthens your muscles, which can help support other tissues in your feet. This makes you less prone to foot pain caused by injuries.
However, be mindful of the exercises you do. Pace the frequency of any high-impact workouts that put too much force on your feet and ankles. It’s also important to consider the pacing and intensity of your exercises. Know your limits to avoid injuring yourself.
Use Proper Footwear
Wearing ill-fitting shoes can sometimes cause chronic foot pain if you use them for a long time. When choosing footwear, it’s essential to check if they provide adequate support. You may want to look at the following standards when picking out a pair of shoes:
- Well-fit; snug, but not too tight
- Provide adequate support for your ankles and feet arches
- Have ample cushioning to absorb shock and stress
- Cater to your feet’s specific needs
Pay attention to how your shoes fit your feet. Shoes that are too small constrict your feet, causing various foot problems, including pain. Conversely, shoes that are too large won’t support your feet correctly.
Another factor to consider when choosing footwear for winter is insulation — your shoes should be able to keep your feet warm. Winter also brings snow, so always wear waterproof shoes with good traction.
You may also want to consider using orthotics for additional comfort and support. You can buy drugstore insoles, but custom orthotics will do a much better job.
Tend to Any Preexisting Injuries
If you have foot injuries, take it easy and refrain from applying too much pressure on your injured foot. If your pain is chronic, go to a foot doctor to get your injury checked. Symptoms of untreated conditions and injuries may get worse during winter weather.
Expert Foot Doctor in Dover, New Jersey
You’re more susceptible to chronic foot pain during winter because of the effects of cold temperatures on your joints. However, there are several ways you can prevent or manage foot pain this winter. If you experience foot pain despite practicing preventive measures explained here, it’s best to consult a foot doctor.
If you’re looking for a foot and ankle doctor near you, look no further than Orthopedic Associates of West Jersey. Our experienced providers can give you a comprehensive treatment plan for your foot pain.
Do you need foot pain treatment? To keep safe from COVID-19, you can have a virtual consultation via telephone or computer! You can schedule a consultation using our secure online appointment request form.
We look forward to helping you with your podiatry needs!
