Ever experienced a tingling or burning sensation in or noticed a change in the colour of the skin on your feet when exposed to the cold? An extreme cold weather warning is in effect for several areas in Ontario this week. When the temperature dips it is important to dress appropriately to protect the body’s extremities from the elements. Feet and toes are far away from the body’s core, which makes them even more susceptible to cold injuries. The body’s defense against cold injuries starts with constricting its blood vessels to reduce the amount of blood circulating.
Frostnip
This is the stage just before frostbite. The vessels in feet and toes constrict in an effort to protect themselves. The skin and tissues are still supple and permanent damage has not yet occurred. Gently warm the toes and feet to bring the temperature back to normal.
Frostbite
Skin and the underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. This happens in stages. Frostnip is the preliminary stage but as the skin changes colour, it advances to the superficial stage. When the skin and the tissues underneath become affected the deep stage occurs and may ultimately cause tissue death and permanent damage. Once the tissue dies, the area becomes numb. If frostbite is suspected, seek medical attention immediately. This is a serious injury and requires treatment from a doctor.
Chilblains
Pronounced CHILL-blayns, this condition occurs when the tiny blood vessels in the toes (also known as capillaries) become inflamed and cause redness, itchiness, swelling and blisters. When an individual has chilblains, they are hypersensitive to the cold. Keeping your toes dry and warm, applying lotion to soothe itch and gradual rewarming of the skin without friction all help to increase comfort.
Raynaud’s
Primary Raynaud’s disease and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon both result from cold sensitivity but differ in why they occur. The cause of Raynaud’s disease is unknown and is less severe than Raynaud’s phenomenon which is caused by an underlying medical condition oftentimes affecting the immune system. Both cause a temporary restriction of blood flow to the toes. The toes will turn white, then blue and then red as the blood flow returns after warming. There is no cure so prevention is key. Always dress appropriately in cold temperatures.
Immersion foot syndrome
Also known as Trench Foot, is caused when the feet are wet for a prolonged period of time. This condition may or may not occur during cold temperatures and it was first identified in World War I when soldiers fought in the cold and wet trenches without being able to change out of their wet socks and boots. If feet are too wet for too long, infection may develop which in severe situations can lead to gangrene. Waterproof winter boots or shoes and warm socks will help to prevent this from happening.
BioPed clinics have lower limb clinicians to help keep your skin healthy and help you find appropriate cold weather footwear to get you through our Canadian winters.
