Walking In a Winter Wonderland
Winter is here! Do you know which hazards may be heading your way? From winter weather to in-home hazards, we’re here to help you stay safe. At PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center, we always like to start with a check around the home. What lurks around your place?
After we do a home check, then we look at worries that occur during winter sports or in winter weather. See what we can find in these three categories. Then, get to work. What are some ways that you can reduce your risk of being impacted by these hazards?
Winter worries at home
Watch out for heated blankets or electric heaters! Our skin is very sensitive, and we never recommend placing your feet near direct heat. If you have diabetes, you may also have a condition known as diabetic peripheral neuropathy. The condition is defined by nerve damage, which means a person may not realize the hot temperatures on their feet. It can result in dangerous burns.
Winter worries during sports
From the wrong size ski boots to exposure from the cold, there are some concerns with winter sports. The first way to prevent issues is to make sure you’re wearing the right size shoes that are the right style for the sport. Measure again each year to avoid hitting the slopes in the wrong size. Support should be the first concern when considering your shoes and style.
Winter worries during weather
Please don’t wear your sneakers out on a rainy day. Choose to wear rain boots or another style of shoe with traction. Slips and falls are common. Sprains and fractures are, too. Check the weather before you venture out for the day and plan. It’s not a bad idea to keep a backup pair of shoes in the car. Winter injuries are more common than you think.
This winter season, we want to help you worry less and enjoy the winter more. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or walking to the mailbox, some things could go wrong. By considering these concerns, you can be a few steps ahead this season. We’re here to help.
Our board-certified team of foot and ankle doctors at PodiatryCare, PC and the Heel Pain Center has experience with addressing foot needs, including bunions and hammertoes, pediatric foot care, custom orthotics, heel pain, diabetic foot care, and more. The team includes Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, and Dr. Laura Vander Poel. We have two locations in Hartford County: 1379 Enfield Street, Enfield, CT, and 1350 Sullivan Avenue, South Windsor, CT. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.