Prevent These 4 Winter Foot Problems
With each season comes new challenges to the health of your feet and ankles. At Goldsmith Podiatry, we want to help our Manhattan patients be proactive in the care of their feet all year round. Below are four common problems encountered during this time of the year and how to head them off at the pass.
Heel Pain. Heel pain can have several different sources. It is commonly caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, which can happen when shoes have inadequate arch support. Fashion boots, popular at this time of the year, are notorious for having little or no arch support. If you have been spending more time in this type of footwear, you may notice heel pain at the end of the day. Shoes with worn-down heel cups may also be the cause. It’s best to get heel pain checked by our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia. The foot doctor can help you track down the source of the discomfort and advise you on the steps to take to relieve the pain.
Ankle Sprains. Daytime temperatures can fall dramatically during December, and what was rain when you left in the morning may be ice on your way home. Be aware of the surfaces where you walk. Dark pavement may be slippery. It’s best to have shoes with a good tread to prevent ankle twisting injuries. If you are going to an event and want to wear heels, it’s best to change when you arrive. Consider keeping a small sandwich bag of sand or litter in your coat pocket to put down on a patch you can’t avoid.
Fungal Infections. The heat is on—in cars, homes, stores, the train. It can make your feet sweat more than usual. Hours spent in damp socks means a greater likelihood of developing a fungal infection. Be prepared to change your socks when they feel moist and use an antiperspirant or foot powder each morning to help your feet stay dry. If you get professional pedicures, be sure your salon is licensed and follows proper sanitizing procedures.
Gout. Although gout can have several different causes, including chemotherapy, obesity, diabetes, and stress, certain foods on holiday menus can trigger gout. If you’ve eaten red meat, organ meats, shellfish, rich sauces, brandy, or red wine and several hours later experience excruciating pain in the base of your toe, it may be a gout attack. Learning what your triggers are can help you avoid future attacks.
If you have any questions or concerns about your feet this winter, contact our Upper West Side NYC office by calling: (212) 877-1002.