Dry, Cracked Heels? How Winter Weather Affects Your Feet and What To Do

December 7, 2023

As the chilly winds of winter sweep across the landscape, there’s no denying this season’s magic and beauty. The world transforms into a winter wonderland, and being cozy by the fireplace with a warm cup of cocoa has never been more tempting.

However, while winter’s charms are abundant, so are its challenges. One challenge many of us face during cold months is the painful and unsightly problem of cracked heels.

As temperatures drop, our skin becomes susceptible to dryness and dehydration, and our feet are no exception. Cracked heels are not just a cosmetic concern; they can also lead to discomfort and pain.

In this blog, we will explore the causes of cracked heels during the winter and offer some tips and remedies to keep your feet healthy and beautiful all season long.

How winter weather affects your feet

Here’s how winter weather affects your feet and what you can do to prevent and treat dry, cracked heels:

Low humidity

Winter air is drier, which depletes the moisture in your skin. When the air lacks humidity, your skin loses its ability to retain water, leading to dryness and, in some cases, painful cracks in the heels.

Hot showers and baths

Long, hot showers or baths can be tempting in cold weather. Fair warning, though: Hot water on your skin can strip your skin of its natural oils, worsening dryness and making your feet more susceptible to cracking.

Cold temperatures

Exposure to cold constricts blood vessels in your feet, reducing blood flow and making it harder for your skin to repair and rejuvenate. Cold temperatures can result in dry and damaged skin.

Indoor heating

Indoor heating systems can create a dry environment that further robs your skin of moisture. Transitioning between the cold and warmth – outdoors and indoors – may cause abrupt changes in temperature and humidity, which can stress your skin.

What to do to prevent dry, cracked heels in winter weather

To prevent and treat dry, cracked heels during the winter, consider the following:

Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is essential for overall skin health. Drink plenty of water to help your skin retain moisture.

Moisturize

Regularly apply a good-quality foot cream or lotion to your feet, especially after bathing or showering. Opt for products with ingredients like urea, shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid, as they can help lock in moisture.

Exfoliation

Gently exfoliate your heels to remove dead skin cells. You can use a pumice stone or a foot file, but be careful not to overdo it, as excessive scrubbing can worsen the problem.

Wear proper footwear

In winter, it’s crucial to wear proper footwear, such as moisture-wicking socks and insulated, comfortable shoes or boots. Proper winter footwear will help keep your feet warm and dry.

Limit hot showers and baths

Use lukewarm water for showers and baths when possible, and keep them relatively short to avoid over-drying your skin. Avoid overly drying your skin with a towel, and abrasion can further dry your skin. Bathing more than once a day can also remove the natural oils from your skin.

Use a humidifier

A simple at-home addition is a humidifier. Using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the indoor air, helping to prevent skin dryness.

Protect your feet

Wear warm, waterproof boots when outside in cold weather to protect your feet from extreme conditions. Over-the-counter insoles that provide extra cushioning under the heel can also help fend off cracked heels.

Professional treatment

A chiropodist can treat cracked heels by removing callused skin surrounding fissures to repair the skin’s elasticity and offload pressures on the heels to help the fissures close. You may also opt for a medical pedicure, which, among other benefits, includes an intense and comprehensive moisturizing treatment. Consider consulting a chiropodist for professional advice and treatment if your heels become severely cracked and painful.

Stop dry, cracked heels this winter at Feet First Clinic

By caring for your feet and keeping them well-moisturized, you can avoid or alleviate the discomfort of dry, cracked heels during winter. We at Feet First Clinic can help you with dry feet this winter. Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

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Foot care specialist performing Medical pedicure

November 5, 2021

Cracked Heels and Heel Fissures: The Dangers and What You Can Do

Cracked heels (heel fissures) are a common foot condition that can affect anyone. The main culprit behind cracked heels is dry skin. Cracked heels are often worse in the winter when the outdoor air is dry and the heaters are blasting full force at home, at work, and in public. Sometimes hectic lifestyles and the daily grind can get in the way of maintaining proper foot care to protect your feet from dry skin. Luckily, you have the option to see a Toronto foot specialist for your cracked heels. There are also many products and foot care tips you can use to manage and prevent them. Let's discuss cracked heels in-depth and answer the following questions: What are cracked heels? Are there risk factors? Are there dangers or complications that may arise from having cracked heels? How do you treat cracked heels? What Are Cracked Heels? Cracked heels are what they sound like: cracks in the heels of the feet. Sometimes referred to as heel fissures, cracked heels are caused by dry skin. The skin on the bottom of your feet may also be hardened, in addition to being excessively dry. Web MD notes that sometimes cracked heels are just a cosmetic problem. That said, deeper cracks often present with bleeding and pain. If you suspect you may have cracked heels, you can check for the following common symptoms: Hard skin on your heels that feels like plaster Dry skin Flaky, crusty or peeling skin Heel pain Foot callus formation surrounding the heel You may notice the following in severe cases: Bleeding Redness Loss of sensation in the heel Swelling/inflammation Causes and Risk Factors Risk factors include standing for long hours on hard surfaces, which places excessive pressure on the pad of the heel and contributes to splitting the skin. Seasonality can also play a role, as cold weather in the fall and winter can make your skin dry. Likewise, heated public spaces in the winter, as well as taking long hot baths and showers, can quickly dry out the skin on your feet. Other causes and risk factors for cracked heels include: Using soaps and products with harsh chemicals Obesity can increase pressure on the heel pads Ill-fitting, unsupportive footwear Dehydration can contribute to dry skin Neglecting regular foot care, like moisturizing and exfoliation Diabetes: Studies show that diabetics with high blood sugar are more likely to have dry skin Flat feet and high arches: These biomechanical foot conditions can place excessive pressure on the heels Eczema Are There Dangers Or Complications? Cracked heels are normally a mild foot condition, but complications and more serious symptoms may present themselves if they are particularly deep and painful. First and foremost, if you have diabetes, untreated cracked heels may lead to a serious foot ulcer (sometimes resulting in amputation). According to Everyday Health, people with diabetes must regularly consult with a chiropodist to examine their feet. Mild foot conditions can result in serious complications for people with diabetes due to a compromised immune system, poor circulation and diabetic neuropathy (loss of sensation) in the legs and feet. The loss of sensation means people with diabetes may be unaware of the seriousness of foot conditions without the assistance of a chiropodist. With cracked heels, this is extra important to acknowledge, as diabetes patients are prone to dry skin. Because diabetes also impairs the immune system, it's very easy for cracked heels in diabetes patients to get infected, which can lead to serious complications. Even if you don't have diabetes, or perceive your cracked heels to be mild, you should still see a foot specialist and learn how to treat them. If left untreated, deeply cracked heels can become progressively more painful and bleed. This can affect your quality of life, causing consistent soreness on your heels. Likewise, unchecked cracked heels can impact your ability to go about your daily life. Severely cracked heels can also make you vulnerable to a bacterial infection called cellulitis. Telltale signs of cellulitis include warm, swollen and painful skin surrounding the infected area. How Do You Treat Cracked Heels? Before you worry too much about cracked heels, you can rest assured that there are plenty of treatment options available. These include treatments with a Toronto foot specialist and things you can do at home to prevent and treat cracked heels. A chiropodist can help by removing foot callus formation surrounding the affected heel. This repairs the skin's natural elasticity. They can also make footwear recommendations that provide more cushioning and support for your heel, offloading pressure on the heel pad. Examples include Superfeet insoles, which can be easily inserted into your everyday shoes. This can be particularly helpful for people struggling with obesity-related cracked heels, people with flat feet, and those who stand for long hours on hard surfaces. Chiropodists can also recommend products you can use to manage your cracked heels. Feet First Clinic offers products from Gehwol, a brand that specializes in foot creams, baths, deodorants, balms, salves, and more. One of their superstar products is Gehwol's medical salve for cracked skin. Perfect for people with cracked, dry skin that regularly flares up, this salve can prevent the problem from getting worse by warding off itchiness, flaky skin, bleeding and irritation. Active ingredients include medicated soaps, Vaseline, lanolin, camphor and menthol. The latter helps soothe your sore feet, while other components work to protect the natural strength and elasticity in your heels. Additional Treatment Options and Products Include: Dermal therapy heel care: This soothing cream moisturizes your heels and is an excellent preventative measure against dry, hard skin. For the best results, you can moisturize your feet daily with this cream, allowing for consistent moisture restoration during the winter. Routine exfoliation. Gehwol's Soft Feet Peeling Scrub is a great option! As a preventative measure, use scent-free soaps without chemicals. Soaps should also moisturize your feet. Avoid long, hot baths until cracked heels improve.

April 22, 2024

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen. As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age. 1. Maintain proper hygiene Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup. 2. Moisturize regularly Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple: Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties. For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture. 3. Supportive footwear As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape, and opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning. 4. Consistent exercise Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age. 5. Routine and regular check-ups Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.

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.

March 28, 2024

Ultimate Guide to Moisturizing Your Feet: Say Goodbye to Dry Skin

Wondering about top foot moisturizing tips and dry skin remedies? Look no further! Skin-related issues are common at Feet First Clinic, so we know a thing or two about the secrets behind soft feet! Keep reading to master our step-by-step guide on the perfect hydrated skin care routine for your feet. Foot Moisturizing Tips: A Step-by-Step Guide Numerous studies support the use of high-quality moisturizing creams on the feet to fight xerosis (the medical term for dry skin). Dry skin acts as a foundation for common foot problems, like pain and soreness, bleeding, cracked heels, peeling skin, and more, so moisturization not only makes your feet feel smooth to the touch, but it also gives you protection against future troubles. Moisturizing can also help you manage more serious concerns, like diabetes and psoriatic arthritis. Below are the steps you should follow to guarantee you are lathering your feet up the right way: Step 1: Get the right products Step 2: Cleanse and exfoliate your feet Step 3: Moisturize your feet Step 4: Protect and maintain Step 1: Get the Right Products For the best results, choose medicinal moisturizing creams from brands like Gehwol. These focus on hydration, are fragrance-free and made without harsh chemicals. Their Soft Feet Cream contains urea (which absorbs moisture and softens skin) and glycerin (which relieves dryness and retains moisture). It also contains soothing and pleasant ingredients like avocado oil and honey extract. Their Med Salve for Cracked Skin may be the best bet for a more aggressive moisturizing treatment. Due to it being a salve and not a cream, it is specially designed to penetrate the skin more thoroughly. Likewise, in addition to being a good choice for people prone to cracked heels, it is suitable for diabetics. Another good option is the deep penetrating heel care cream from Dermal Therapy. Step 2: Cleanse and Exfoliate Your Feet Before moisturizing comes foot hygiene! You should always start with a clean base. Clean your feet in warm water with fragrance-free, gentle soaps, and thoroughly dry, especially in between the toes (vulnerable area for fungal infections). To go the extra mile, exfoliate your feet with a scrub product and finish off with a foot file on the bottom of the feet. This eliminates dead skin cells, making your moisturizer more effective! Step 3: Moisturize Your Feet Moisturizing itself is pretty simple. Use a generous dollop (but not too much) of moisturizer and focus on dry areas, if you have any. Massage the moisturizer into your feet using circular motions, ensuring full coverage. Avoid the area in between the toes if you’re prone to infections or wounds (if you have diabetes). Moisture can build in the between the toes more easily than other areas. Step 4: Protect and Maintain Repeat this process regularly, ideally daily or at least a few times a week, to keep your feet soft, smooth, and well-hydrated. If your skin is especially vulnerable and sensitive, like for those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, a regular routine is extra important to help you manage painful flar- ups.

March 21, 2024

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Foot hygiene and solid foot care tips are your secret weapons for happy and healthy feet! Everyone should practice a clean and healthy foot routine, but those with foot conditions such as diabetes or chronic fungal infections should be extra vigilant. Today we’ll talk about the best foot cleaning practices and how to implement them into your daily foot care routine. Foot Health Essentials: How to Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Foot hygiene is pretty straightforward stuff! But you may make some minor missteps along the way. Take a look below at the best ways to wash, dry and moisturize your feet. Washing Your Feet Wash your feet daily with natural, gentle soaps in warm water. Hot water can negatively impact your blood circulation by increasing the size of the blood vessels, so be careful with temperatures. Moisturizing Your Feet Use lotion on the bottom and top of your feet. This can help you prevent calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. Natural, fragrance-free and medicinal lotions are your best bet (try Gehwol at Feet First Clinic!). If you have diabetes, be extra careful to avoid putting lotion in between your toes; it could cause an infection depending on the lotion. Fungal infections also favour wet toes and tend to appear there. Keeping Your Feet Dry Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them. If you get lazy and keep them damp, you are again more likely to attract contagious fungal infections (they love moist environments!). Invest in products that help manage foot dampness and repel excess moisture. These include moisture-wicking socks (also remember to change your sock frequently!), waterproof shoes and boots, running shoes with perforated holes in the uppers, and various foot deodorant products (creams, powders, sprays). These products are also great for preventing foot odour. Toenail Care and Foot Hygiene Keeping your nails in top shape is an important element of foot hygiene. Follow these nail care tips to protect your nails and keep them clean and strong. Cut your nails straight across with high-quality nail clippers. Don’t try to shape them during this stage! Avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin; this will cause ingrown toenails. Gently use a nail file for subtle shaping. Don’t try to cut your own cuticles if you’re prone to infections. They protect the nails and getting rid of them improperly may welcome fungi. Schedule a medical pedicure for professional care and a cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.

March 11, 2024

Custom Orthotics: When and Why You Might Need Them

Do you often find yourself experiencing foot pain after a long day on your feet? Or maybe you struggle with posture or want to enhance your athletic performance? Custom orthotics may be the solution. This blog post explores why custom orthotics may be necessary, how they benefit your feet, and how to them. Why and when might you need custom orthotics? Custom orthotics are specially designed inserts inside your shoes to support and correctly align your feet. They are built custom to your feet to address any specific issues you may be experiencing. While over-the-counter shoe inserts can provide some relief, they often lack the precision and support that custom orthotics offer. There are several reasons why you might need custom orthotics: Foot pain: Whether dealing with plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, or arch pain, custom orthotics can help alleviate discomfort by providing support and cushioning to the affected areas. Posture improvement: Misalignment in the feet can lead to poor posture, which can cause pain and discomfort in your knees, hips, and lower back. Custom orthotics can help correct these alignment issues, resulting in better posture and reduced pain. Athletic performance: Athletes often rely on their feet to perform at their best. Custom orthotics can provide the support and stability needed to optimize biomechanics and prevent injuries during physical activity. How do custom insoles benefit your feet? The benefits of custom orthotics extend beyond just relieving pain and discomfort. Below are some ways they can improve the health and function of your feet: Improved support Custom orthotic insoles provide support where you need it most, whether in the arches, heels, or balls of your feet. This added support can help distribute pressure and reduce strain on muscles and ligaments. Better alignment By correcting misalignments in the feet, custom insoles can help improve overall body alignment, leading to better posture and reduced risk of injury. Enhanced shock absorption Custom orthotics are made from materials that offer superior shock absorption, helping to cushion your feet and joints from the impact of walking, running, or jumping. Overuse injury prevention Overuse injuries are a common concern. Orthotics can help prevent these injuries by providing stability and support to the feet, reducing the risk of strain and overuse. How do you get fitted for custom orthotics? Getting custom orthotics is straightforward. You can expect the following while being fitted for custom orthotics: 1. Schedule a foot assessment The first step is to schedule a foot assessment with a chiropodist or foot specialist who can assess your feet and discuss your needs and concerns. 2. Physical Exam During the assessment, your feet are examined to identify issues such as flat feet, high arches, or abnormal gait patterns. If you have pain or foot concerns, let your chiropodist know. It also helps to inform your chiropodist about any activities or sports you engage in regularly plus the footwear you own and wear. 3. Gait analysis A video gait analysis helps evaluate how you walk or run to identify biomechanical issues contributing to your foot pain or discomfort. The gait analysis is part of a biomechanical assessment, which also includes a range of motion and weight-bearing assessment. All three help create a more comprehensive overview of your feet. 4. Customization Based on the assessment and analysis findings, your orthotics are designed to address your unique foot structure and alignment issues. Casting captures the foot in a subtalar joint neutral position. At Feet First Clinic, chiropodists use plaster, 3D scanning or foam to cast your feet. 5. Fitting Once the orthotics are made, you return to the specialist for a fitting. The chiropodist will ensure the orthotics fit comfortably inside your shoes and provide the necessary support and alignment. 6. Follow-up Follow-up appointments can be helpful to monitor your progress and adjust the orthotics to ensure optimal comfort and effectiveness.

February 8, 2024

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.

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