Breaking Free from Frostbite

It’s almost frostbite season! As the weather gets even colder, it’s important to take certain precautions to prevent injury and damage. We’re giving you all of the information and tips you need to say goodbye to frostbite this winter and keep your feet safe and toasty.

Signs and Symptoms

Frostbite is an injury to the skin and underlying tissue in your hands or feet due to freezing cold temperatures. The first stage of frostbite is frostnip and usually, you won’t have many symptoms other than cold, prickling feet.

As the damage progresses, you’ll experience numbness, inflammation, and even discoloration of the skin. Your joints and muscles could stiffen due to the cold. In severe cases, your skin may blister after you warm up.

Preventing Frostbite

The best way to avoid the damage and uncomfortable side effects of frostbite is to prepare well before you encounter the cold. Here are our top tips for success:

  • Avoid going outside in below-freezing temperatures, especially if it’s windy or wet

  • Change wet or sweaty socks and shoes before going out in the cold

  • Dress in layers to stay extra warm

  • Get a few pairs of quality socks or sock liners. Look for ones made of a wicking material that provides insulation, but isn’t too tight

  • Don’t wear shoes that are too tight, as it restricts blood flow

  • Buy shoes with extra insulation

  • Watch closely for signs of frostbite

  • Prepare well before going outside in cold temperatures, especially if you’re exercising or camping, or hiking

  • Exercise daily to keep your blood flowing

  • Look for shoe warmer inserts or insulated insoles

  • Eat well, stay hydrated, and limit alcohol

Here at PodiatryCare, PC, and the Heel Pain Center, we specialize in custom orthotics, along with various other foot and ankle ailments. Dr. Charlotte George, Dr. Matthew Tschudy, Dr. Rebecca Wiesner, Dr. Kristen Winters, Dr. Laura Vander Poel, and the rest of our team are dedicated to helping our Hartford County patients. To schedule an appointment at our Enfield location, call (860) 741-3041; for an appointment at our South Windsor location, call (860) 644-6525.

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