Preventing Frostbite on your Toes

When the weather gets cold, we know to protect our hands with gloves and our neck with scarves. What isn’t thought about as often is how to protect our toes from frostbite. We at Cherrywood Foot Care would like to share the best ways to prevent your toes from getting frostbite. If you do get frostbite, a Podiatrist in Baldwin can give you the treatment you need.

What is Frostbite?

Frostbite is when the skin and underlying tissue freezes. It is most common on the fingers, toes, nose, ears, cheeks, and chin. Symptoms of frostbite include:

  • Cold skin and a prickling feeling
  • Numbness
  • Depending on the severity, the skin can appear red, white, blueish-white, or grayish-yellow
  • Hard or waxy-looking skin 
  • Clumsiness due to muscle stiffness
  • Blistering after rewarming

If you notice any of these symptoms, contact a doctor right away. A Podiatrist in Baldwin can help!

How to Protect your Toes from Frostbite

Now that you know the symptoms of frostbite, you need to learn how to protect yourself. There are many precautions you can take to prevent frostbite on your toes:

  • Wear 2 layers of socks. The first pair should wick moisture from your skin. The next layer should be made of wool to keep heat insulated. 
  • Wear boots that fit well. Boots that are too tight can restrict blood flow.
  • Make sure your footwear is waterproof and covers your ankles. There is a greater chance of frostbite if you get your feet wet.  
  • Avoid alcohol as it makes you lose heat more easily. On the other hand, a warm drink can help give you a boost to your body heat. 
  • Moving around keeps your blood flow up and helps you stay warm.

Skin exposed to cold, windy weather is most susceptible to frostbite, so make sure to bundle up!

How a Podiatrist in Baldwin can Help

If you do get frostbite, Cherrywood Foot Care can help! There are multiple ways to treat frostbite. A doctor can rewarm the skin and remove the damaged tissue. Our Podiatrist in Baldwin will make sure you get the best possible care. Don’t hesitate to contact us and make an appointment! 

Cherrywood Foot Care