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PROTECTING YOUR FEET AS COLD WEATHER APPROACHES

As colder weather approaches, protecting your feet is important and should not be ignored. It does not take freezing temperatures to cause cold injury to your feet. Mild brief exposure to the cold temperatures can cause foot related problems. Overexposure to cool, damp conditions can cause foot symptoms as well.
Several factors contribute to increased risk for cold-related injuries which include:
·         Inadequate protective gear: not wearing appropriate shoe gear.
·         Smoking: nicotine affects constriction of blood vessels which alter flow to your feet.
·         Alcohol use: one of the most common factors to cold injuries as alcohol dilates blood vessels which increase heat loss in the body. Also, if alcohol is consumed chronically it can cause decreased feeling in your feet.
·         Excess sweating: moisture increases heat loss.
Tips to protecting your feet from cold related injury include:
·         Wearing warm clothing: Dress in layers of insulation. Start wearing base layer made from wool or synthetic materials which will wick away sweat and have better insulation. Add a second layer if needed to remain warm to your feet.
·         Change socks when feet get wet, sweating or exposed to water.
·         Wear good fitting shoes: Try shoes on with socks when going outdoors. Be certain sock thickness does not make shoes too tight
If you experience similar symptoms, you should contact a foot and ankle specialist in a timely manner at Community Foot Specialists. For more information on further treatment options and other foot and ankle injuries, call to schedule for a consultation today at (937) 426-9500.

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