Winter Foot Care Tips to Keep Your Feet Healthy

Winter in Colorado can be beautiful—bright snow, crisp mornings, and plenty of cold days. But the combination of dry air, icy sidewalks, and heavy boots can be tough on your feet. Many people in the area notice more cracking, soreness, and nail problems once winter sets in, even if their feet felt fine just a few weeks earlier.

Why Winter Is Hard on Feet

The Front Range has very dry winter air, and indoor heating dries things out even more. Your feet lose moisture quickly, and thick socks or insulated boots can trap sweat. Add in icy sidewalks and uneven surfaces around town, and the risk of foot injuries goes up.

Common winter issues people experience in Longmo include:

– Cracked, dry heels

– Itchy or peeling skin

– Ingrown toenails from tight boots

– Toenail fungus from trapped moisture

– Cold or numb toes

– Sprains or bruises from slipping on ice

– Flare-ups of heel and tendon pain

1. Keep Your Feet Warm—But Don’t Let Them Sweat

It’s normal to bundle up in freezing temperatures, but overheating your feet inside boots can create a damp environment that leads to fungus or irritation.

Tips:

• Wear wool or moisture-wicking socks.
• Change socks if they get damp.
• Choose breathable winter boots.
• Avoid placing foot warmers directly on the skin.

2. Prevent Cracked Heels With Daily Moisture

Dry, cracked heels are one of the most common winter complaints in Colorado..

Tips:

• Apply thick cream after bathing.
• Avoid lotion between toes.
• Use a pumice stone a few times per week.
• Wear socks over cream at night for stubborn dryness.

3. Choose Supportive Winter Footwear

Supportive footwear helps prevent strain and pain while walking on snowy and icy surfaces.

Look for:

• Roomy toe box
• Good traction
• Waterproof material
• Warm but breathable lining
• Orthotic-friendly structure

4. Stay Safe on Icy Sidewalks

Falls are a major source of winter foot injuries.

Safety Tips:

• Take short, careful steps on icy ground.
• Wear boots with deep tread.
• Keep sand or kitty litter in your car.
• Stick to cleared walkways.

5. Trim Toenails Properly During Winter

Toenails are easy to ignore when feet stay covered, but nail issues can get worse in winter.

Tips:

• Cut straight across.
• Don’t trim too short.
• Keep nails dry.
• Watch for signs of fungus.

6. Watch for New Winter Foot Pain

Changing activity levels—whether more winter sports or more indoor time—can trigger new pain.

Common pains:

• Heel pain
• Achilles soreness
• Stress fractures
• Neuroma flare-ups
• Ball-of-foot pain

7. Keep Feet Dry to Prevent Fungus

Boots trap heat and moisture, which encourages fungus.

Tips:

• Rotate boots daily.
• Let shoes dry overnight.
• Change socks when damp.
• Use foot powder if needed.

8. Extra Care for People With Diabetes

Dry air and cold temperatures make winter riskier for diabetic feet.

Checklist:

• Moisturize daily (not between toes).
• Inspect feet nightly.
• Wear socks and shoes indoors.
• Keep feet warm and dry.

9. Orthotics Can Improve Winter Comfort

Orthotics help with heel pain, arch issues, tendon problems, arthritis, and fatigue.

10. When to See a Foot Specialist

Contact us if you notice:

• Persistent heel or arch pain
• Cracks that bleed
• Thick or painful toenails
• Burning, tingling, or numbness
• Swelling after a fall
• Fungus that isn’t improving
• Any changes in diabetic feet

Final Thoughts on Winter Foot Care

A few daily habits—moisturizing, wearing supportive boots, keeping socks dry, and paying attention to new pain—can keep your feet healthy and comfortable through the colder months.

If you have concerns about your feet this winter or want expert guidance, call to schedule an appointment with James Yakel, D.P.M. at (720) 600-3380

Servicing Communities Along the Front Range and Beyond

Berthoud, Dacono, Fredrick, Firestone, Longmont, Niwot, Erie, Lafayette, Louisville, Superior, Mead etc.