Why Do Your Feet Hurt When It's Cold?

Do your feet hurt when the weather begins to get colder? There are several reasons for this, so in today’s post, Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA, is breaking down some of the causes and ways to prevent cold-related foot issues from occurring.

Causes of Cold-Related Foot Issues

There are numerous reasons that a person’s foot can begin hurting when the weather turns cold. To remain healthy, it’s important to understand the cause of the pain so you can work towards preventing it.

Some of the most common problems you can experience include the following:

• Raynaud’s disease and frostbite are common winter foot conditions that can cause pain.
• Cold weather makes the tissues in your foot contract, which can pull on nerve endings.
• Wearing boots and other winter footwear that don’t fit right can cause serious pain.
• Tendons and muscles of the foot stiffen as it gets colder, resulting in pain when moving.
• People tend to put on extra weight in the winter due to an absence of activity, resulting in added pressure on the feet.

Preventing Cold-Related Foot Issues

Cold weather can have both an indirect and direct impact on your foot health. Here are some of the best ways to prevent the cold from causing foot pain:

• Stretch your feet daily.
• Never wear damp shoes or socks when outside in the cold.
• When your feet begin to feel uncomfortable, rest them.
• When shopping for winter footwear, make sure they provide proper arch and ankle support.
• Stay active to prevent added weight gain and improve circulation.
• Consider purchasing custom orthotics.

Don’t let foot pain ruin your winter experience. You don’t have to deal with this problem because it’s cold outside. If you want more information to ensure that your feet stay protected, contact Dr. Hubert Lee at CarePlus Foot & Ankle Specialists in Bellevue, WA. You can schedule an appointment online or by calling us at 425-455-0936.