Most of us intrinsically know that exposing our feet to winter temperatures for prolonged periods of time is dangerous, but when you don’t have much of a choice, you might just grin and bear it. Before you get too complacent with your foot care, however, it’s worth it to know just why you need to have warm, dry shoes all winter long.
Frostnip
Frostnip is frostbite’s less angry cousin—it can range from uncomfortable to downright painful, but because the skin tissue never actually freezes, there’s no lasting damage once your feet have been rewarmed. If your feet feel prickly and have turned either white or red, you might be suffering from frostnip in Rochester Hills, MI. The best solution for this is getting indoors and warming your feet, whether that means soaking them in warm water, warming in front of the fire or wrapping them in a hot towel straight from the dryer.
Frostbite
Frostbite is significantly more severe. This occurs when the temperature is below freezing, and can cause lasting damage—including the need for amputation. Depending on how much of the skin tissue freezes, you may get away with painful blisters, or you could lose your toes. This is particularly scary because, since your feet go numb, you might not even realize how much damage is being done.
If you suspect you have frostbite, proceed to the nearest Rochester Hills emergency room immediately. Doctors may help you rewarm your feet by putting them in warm water or in hot towels, while dispensing pain medication, sterile dressings and antibiotics and removing any frozen tissue.
To combat this, wear warm, breathable boots and medium-weight socks that wick moisture away from your feet—and be sure to stay indoors as much as possible.
Immersion (trench) foot
Immersion foot, or trench foot, comes from prolonged exposure to cold and wet conditions. It doesn’t require freezing temperatures, but the symptoms are similar to frostbite. If your feet are white or red, and form blisters, you may have trench foot. If left untreated, you might suffer from long-term nerve damage.
To treat the symptoms of immersion foot, clean and dry your feet, soak them in warm water and avoid wearing socks while sleeping. This should help your feet heal and adjust, but bear in mind that symptoms can last for weeks.
The main goal for your winter should be to keep your feet warm and dry all season long. Invest in a great pair of waterproof, breathable boots, as well as socks designed to keep you warm without cutting off your circulation.
Keep your feet warm this winter
Haig Shoes has been offering the best shoes, socks and other protection against the winter cold since 1987. Whether you’re trying to avoid frostnip, frostbite or immersion foot in Rochester Hills, MI, you can count on us for great footwear at affordable prices. Our goal is to match each customer with a comfortable, stylish and safe pair of shoes every time. Stop by today to discover your perfect pair.