Cold Feet Remedies: How to Keep Your Feet Warm and Comfortable

July 20, 2023

Most of us experience cold feet metaphorically when we’re hesitant and nervous. But your feet can also feel cold to the touch if you suffer from a nerve disorder or poor circulation caused by a foot condition. Fibromyalgia, heart disease, diabetes and Raynaud’s disease are some of the most common causes of chronically cold feet. But knowing why your feet are chilly and clammy 24/7 is only one step towards relief. Let’s look at some of the best remedies for cold feet and how you can achieve optimal foot comfort.

Cold Feet Remedies

Exercises and stretches
Compression stockings
Orthopedic slippers
Additional remedies

Person with chronic cold feet wearing socks — Photo by wirestock from FreePik!

Exercises and Stretches

The link between circulation and cold feet is clear, so naturally, one of the best ways to keep your feet warm is by practicing foot exercises and stretches. From stretching and flexing your toes to ankle rotations to writing the alphabet with your big toe — there are dozens of low-impact foot exercises you can try. You can also perform most of these while sitting if you have mobility troubles.

Compression Stockings

Compression socks may help with chronically cold feet. Not only do they offer a layer of warmth, but they also work by helping your blood vessels work more efficiently, improving your body’s circulatory function. That said, if you have diabetes, you may want to look elsewhere for cold feet remedies, as compression socks may slow diabetic wound healing. They may also have the opposite effect of what diabetes patients need and restrict blood flow.

Orthopaedic Slippers

Orthopedic slippers can be an excellent foundation for your feet while lounging around the house – and we’re not talking about flimsy hotel slippers. Most varieties of orthopaedic slippers are snug and encompass the entire foot like a pair of shoes would. Slippers can be made with faux-fur collars, shearling linings, and high-quality uppers and footbeds that all work together to keep your feet toasty.

Woman wearing orthpedic slippers which are a known cold feet remedy

Additional Ways of Keeping Feet Warm

It’s tough to narrow down all ways to heat your cold feet. Here are some more remedies to consider:

Try products like heated foot pads or toe warmers.
Enjoy a warm foot bath, using a foot soak product from Gehwol to trigger as much blood flow as possible.
Speaking of foot baths, establishing a full foot care routine with medicinal moisturizers will take foot comfort to the next level.
Ensure your shoes accommodate your foot condition and promote a healthy foot environment and breathability.
Double up on your socks.
Wear waterproof shoes to repel cold water.

Remember, chronically cold feet are not a normal experience for most. It’s always best to check in with your chiropodist to ensure your remedies will help your condition.

Don't Let Cold Feet Ruin Your Days!

These remedies should help provide some relief – but your chiropodist can give you some much needed insight into your chronic cold feet!

Contact us at 416-769-FEET (3338) or use our online booking form to book an appointment!

Cover photo by jcomp from FreePik!

PrevPrevious Black Toenail: Causes, Treatment, and Prevention Tips

NextNext Heel Spur Relief: Non-Surgical Treatment Options and Lifestyle Changes

June 5, 2023

Cold Sweats: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage Them

Cold sweats are episodes of excessive sweating involving feelings of coldness, clamminess, and a drop in body temperature. Our feet are particularly prone to cold sweats due to their position (away from the heart) and function. This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage cold sweats. Causes of cold sweats There are several possible causes of cold sweats, including medical conditions, medication side effects, and emotional triggers. Learn more about the common cause of cold sweats in feet below: Hyperhidrosis Hyperhidrosis is the common term for excessive sweating. If you experience cold and sweaty feet without exercising or temperature changes, you may have hyperhidrosis. The underlying cause is an overreaction of your body's sweat glands. Stress and anxiety can also disrupt your body's sweat glands. There is an overall increased risk of infection in the presence of hyperhidrosis, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Peripheral Arterial Disease is a condition of the body's lower extremities. The leg's blood vessels become blocked or narrowed, restricting blood flow between your lower legs and heart. Fatty plaque in the arteries is often the culprit. You may be at greater risk of PAD if you have diabetes, are over 60, or have elevated blood pressure and cholesterol. Menopause A common cold sweats culprit is menopause. Blood circulation can increase or decrease based on hormonal changes, triggering sweats. Overactive thyroid A thyroid disorder can cause plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat) while deregulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid also messes with our blood circulation, giving the feet and skin only a quarter of the blood supply they usually need. Raynaud's disease Raynaud's disease causes cold hands and feet and numb toes. The condition decreases blood flow in certain body parts because of the blood vessels spasming in the area. Body temperature Sudden changes in core body temperature can trigger cold sweats. For instance, when sleeping, you may want to experiment with adjusting the room temperature up or down or even sleeping with your feet outside the blankets to thermoregulate your core body temperature. Other causes of cold sweats Wearing small shoes or shoes without proper ventilation: Shoes without proper breathing properties may trap in heat and cause your feet to sweat or have a cold sweat sensation. Neuropathy: Nerve damage, typical in diabetes patients, can cause excessive sweating and disrupt your average body temperature. Exercise: If you exercise and your feet continue to sweat or be moist afterwards, you may experience cold feet. Symptoms of cold sweats The top symptoms of cold sweats in the feet include Excessive sweating Feeling cold or clammy Shivering Paleness In addition to the symptoms in your feet, you may also experience these bodily feelings: Dizziness or lightheadedness Nausea or vomiting Weakness How to manage cold sweats The management of cold sweats will depend on the underlying cause. Here at Feet First Clinic, we recommend several treatment options, including: Foot deodorants, creams and sprays. Talk to your doctor about taking certain types of medications. For instance, antidepressants may lower triggers like stress and anxiety, which cause you to sweat more. Manage stress. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Ensure you're getting enough rest. A lack of sleep can trigger cold sweats, so try to get enough restful sleep. Daily foot hygiene practices. Keep feet clean and dry, regularly change socks, etc. Regularly air out your feet. Breathable footwear. Dress in layers. Removing or adding layers will stabilize your core body temperature and prevent significant shifts. Moisture-wicking socks. Schedule regular foot assessments to check for conditions that thrive in moist environments, like athlete's foot.

April 29, 2024

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Heel pain is a common complaint affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles, from athletes to office workers. It can be frustrating and debilitating, whether it's caused by plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent heel pain and keep your feet happy and healthy. This blog post explores practical tips and exercises for preventing heel pain and maintaining optimal foot health. Causes of heel pain Before diving into prevention strategies, it's essential to understand the common causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, is one of the leading causes of heel pain. Other culprits include: Heel spurs Bony growths on the heel bone Achilles tendonitis Inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel Factors such as improper footwear, overuse, obesity, and poor foot mechanics can contribute to the development of heel pain. Heel pain prevention tips Choose supportive footwear. Invest in shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability. Look for options with a slightly elevated heel to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put added pressure on the feet and exacerbate heel pain. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce the risk of developing heel pain. Gradually increase activity. Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, such as jumping into a rigorous exercise routine or increasing mileage too quickly. Gradually increase activity levels to allow your feet time to adapt and prevent overuse injuries. Stretch regularly. Incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility and prevent tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Focus on stretching the calves, hamstrings, and plantar fascia to alleviate tension and reduce heel strain. Practice good foot mechanics. Pay attention to your foot mechanics when walking, running, or participating in sports. Avoid overpronation or excessive rolling inward of the feet, as this can strain the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Heel pain exercises Calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other, keeping the back leg straight and the heel on the ground. Lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the calf of the back leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Plantar fascia stretch. Sit on the floor with one leg extended before you. Loop a towel around the foot and gently pull the toes towards you until you feel a stretch along the bottom of the foot. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Achilles tendon stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height and lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the back of the lower leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Heel pain can be debilitating and impact daily activities and quality of life. Incorporating these prevention tips and exercises into your routine can reduce the risk of developing heel pain and keep your feet healthy and pain-free. Remember to listen to your body and seek professional medical attention if you experience persistent or severe heel pain.

April 25, 2024

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

Foot reflexology benefits are becoming a hot topic. Studies show that published scientific articles on the subject are increasing, piquing public interest. But is there a reason to subscribe to holistic foot care? Can foot reflexology techniques truly benefit our health or treat common foot conditions? And if so, how does reflexology for health work? Let’s answer all of these questions today! How Does Foot Reflexology Work? Foot reflexology is a holistic practice. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, known as reflex points, which correspond to various organs, glands, and parts of the body via an energetic connection. By stimulating these points, the goal is to help with a wide variety of ailments and health concerns. For example, the toes may correspond with the head and brain, the ball of the foot with the diaphragm and arms, and the area of the foot between the ball and heel corresponds with the small intestine. Check out this detailed chart from Healthline for more. How Reflexology May Help With General Health Problems Reflexology may be a good option for you if you experience any of the following: Premenstrual symptoms: A significant study demonstrated that foot reflexology could effectively reduce cramping and hormonal side effects. Participants were observed after 8 foot reflexology sessions. Blood pressure: Reflexology can sometimes reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Don’t forget, your feet and your heart are connected in other ways too! Mental illness: Holistic foot care may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in adults. Chemotherapy side effects: Foot reflexology may help reduce shortness of breath in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Can Foot Reflexology Treat Foot Conditions? Be sure to talk to your chiropodist if you are interested in trying new foot care treatments; this applies to reflexology or any type of unfamiliar service. It’s worth researching holistic foot care if you have any of these conditions: Plantar fasciitis: Reflexology techniques involving pressure points and trigger point release may reduce heel pain. Heel spurs: See note on plantar fasciitis above. Osteoarthritis: Holistic foot care may stimulate blood circulation, mildly relieving joint stiffness. Diabetic neuropathy / Diabetes Mellutis: Studies indicate that foot reflexology may help increase skin sensation and reduce blood sugar levels.

April 11, 2024

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

You are what you eat! This statement could not be more true, as the foods we consume help our bodies function at their best. The connection between nutrition and foot health isn’t widely known or obvious, but a healthy diet can work wonders for bone and joint health in the lower extremities. Eating the right foods for strong feet may also help you avoid painful foot conditions when combined with other foot care practices. Keep reading to discover nutrition and foot health secrets! How Good Nutrition Benefits Foot Health Healthy eating can lead to stronger feet by helping prevent excess inflammation. Inflammation can be protective and healing, but on the flip side, too much can lead to the following: Tissue damage Joint degradation (arthritis) Injuries and mobility issues Reduced bone density Moreover, a healthy diet supports proper blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor blood circulation can lead to cramping in the lower extremities, fatigue, varicose veins, and even ulcers, which are very dangerous for diabetics. Lastly, when we fuel our bodies with whole foods and don’t overeat (it’s okay to indulge on occasion!), we can maintain a healthy weight. Living your life at a healthy weight poses many benefits for your feet, including: Enhanced mobility and flexibility Decreased strain on the foot (your feet are carrying less weight, which is extra important when you have flat feet) Improved circulation to the feet Less edema and water/salt retention The Best Healthy Diet for your Feet Now let’s get to the fun part — exploring all of the yummy and nutrient-rich foods you should eat for strong feet! Check below for a list of the top choices to help your feet feel great. Keep in mind you can eat many more foods than these; we just think these options stand out as foot health power foods! Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Leafy greens: High in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health. Berries: Packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support overall foot health. Greek yogurt: Contains calcium and probiotics, beneficial for bone density. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate foot pain and swelling. Avocados: Provides healthy fats and potassium, essential for maintaining proper muscle function and reducing cramping. Beans and legumes: High in fiber, protein, and various nutrients that support overall health and can help prevent foot-related complications like diabetes. To learn more about great foods for foot health, read here. In terms of what to avoid or eat in moderation, foods that cause inflammation are the main culprits. These include: Red and processed meats Baked goods and pasta made with refined carbohydrates Deep fried foods High-sugar foods like candy and soda Foods with trans fat (certain types of butter, chips, etc)

April 8, 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being.

April 4, 2024

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Today we delve into the relationship between walking and health, with a specific focus on foot mechanics and how crucial they are. The impact walking has on your overall health is something most people don’t think about in their day-to-day life. But foot motion science suggests everyone should learn about this topic! When your walking pattern is compromised, even slightly, it can put you at risk of developing foot pain, in addition to heel and ankle pain, back pain, knee pain and even hip pain! This can wreak havoc on your overall life as you experience worsening discomfort. Let’s explore more about the connection between your walking pattern and overall health! The Connection Between Walking and Overall Health To start, here are some basic tidbits of info to remember: The scientific term for “walking pattern” is gait. There is an inverse relationship between musculoskeletal foot conditions and your gait. Foot issues can lead to gait abnormalities as you try to accommodate new pain while still getting to the places you need to go. However, abnormal walking patterns can also put you at risk of developing additional problems. In addition to pre-existing foot conditions, risk factors that may lead to gait abnormalities include age-related foot changes, your foot type (flat feet or high arches), having foot/ankle injuries in the past, balance and neurological disorders, and ill-fitting and low-quality footwear. Common Types of Gait Abnormalities and How They Affect Our Health Two gait abnormalities we see a lot at Feet First Clinic are overpronation and supination. Overpronation is synonymous with flat feet and the resultant issues that develop when you have a flat/fallen arch. When you “overpronate,” your foot rolls inward excessively as you stride forward. Supination is when you place too much weight on the outside of your feet. These walking patterns are often subconscious and your way of trying to adjust to having “non-typical” feet. Gait abnormalities can completely mess with your lower extremities. In more scientific words, they affect your feet and ankles and lead to misalignments in the lower body, which may contribute to issues such as knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back problems. This is because your body’s skeletal system is connected and everything must work in harmony. You are also more prone to injury when you overpronate! Lastly, there are many specific versions of gait abnormalities. One may not overpronate or supinate, but different types of pain can result in various compensatory movements. Check out this valuable resource from Stanford Medicine for more. Treating Abnormal Walking Patterns Don’t worry if you think you may have a gait abnormality. Unless your walking pattern is caused by a severe medical issue, you can often work hard at correcting it. There are many services, medical devices, and products you can try. Foot assessment: Understanding your feet is the first step (no pun intended!). Video gait analysis: This will provide valuable insights into biomechanical issues, your foot type, and any noticeable abnormalities. Custom-made orthotics: Orthotics work by improving your gait, over time, and with correct usage. Strengthening and balance exercises: These improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability. Surgical interventions (in severe cases of foot deformities, for instance, bunion correction). Footwear modifications: Medical shoes and stability/motion control shoes can often help. Focusing on your posture: This helps properly align the body’s skeletal structure. Remember: everything is connected, from head to toe!

April 1, 2024

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

Request an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

Share:

Cold Feet Remedies: How to Keep Your Feet Warm and Comfortable

Cold Feet Remedies

Exercises and Stretches

Compression Stockings

Orthopaedic Slippers

Additional Ways of Keeping Feet Warm

Don't Let Cold Feet Ruin Your Days!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

Cold Sweats: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage Them

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)