Seasonal Foot Care in Buckinghamshire: Keeping Your Feet Healthy All Year Round

1. Winter Foot Care - Protecting Your Feet from the Cold & Damp

Cold weather in Buckinghamshire can have a significant impact on foot health, increasing the risk of chilblains, cracked skin, and circulation issues. Chilblains occur when feet are exposed to cold temperatures, causing redness, itching, and swelling. If left untreated, they can become painful and lead to sores or infection. Winter is also a time when dry, cracked skin worsens, particularly for those prone to eczema. The combination of cold outdoor air and indoor heating can strip moisture from the skin, leading to painful cracks, especially on the heels. Applying a rich foot cream daily helps maintain hydration and prevent fissures.

Reduced activity during colder months can also affect circulation, which is particularly concerning for individuals with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Keeping feet warm with fleece-lined, insulated footwear helps prevent further circulation issues and reduces the risk of frostbite. To maintain foot health, avoid walking barefoot on cold floors, wear thermal socks, and dry feet thoroughly after getting them wet. Regularly checking feet for changes is essential, particularly for those with diabetes or poor circulation. Prioritising winter foot care helps prevent discomfort and serious complications.

2. Summer Foot Care - Keeping Your Feet Healthy in the Heat

During the summer, warm weather and increased sweating create the ideal environment for athlete’s foot, a common fungal infection. To prevent this, wash feet using an antibacterial and antifungal body wash or a gentle option like Sanex. It’s essential to clean feet thoroughly, including between the toes, and ensure they are completely dry before putting on socks or shoes. Lamisil cream is an effective treatment to clear the infection if it occurs. Wearing breathable footwear is key to reducing moisture buildup - choose cushioned flip-flops or open-toed shoes that allow airflow while still providing adequate support. Moisture-wicking socks are also beneficial in keeping feet dry, particularly for those prone to excessive sweating. If feet become sweaty, wash them more frequently to prevent the growth of bacteria or fungus.

Sun exposure is another concern, as feet are often overlooked when applying sunscreen. To avoid sunburn, make sure to apply SPF regularly, particularly on the tops of feet and toes.

Walking barefoot increases the risk of splinters, cuts, and infections. If something becomes lodged in your foot, soak it in Epsom salts and attempt to remove it with tweezers. If the object is deeply embedded, seek medical attention. Always wear shoes in communal areas to avoid verrucas and infections. When using swimming pools, inspect feet regularly, and cover any cuts with waterproof plasters to prevent exposure to harmful bacteria. If you already have a verruca, cover it with a waterproof plaster or use a verruca sock for protection.

3. Spring & Autumn Foot Care: Adapting to Changing Conditions

With unpredictable weather in spring and autumn and increased activity levels, it’s important to be prepared for varying conditions. Rainy weather can leave shoes and socks damp, creating the perfect environment for fungal infections. Investing in waterproof footwear, such as GORE-TEX® trainers, helps keep feet dry while maintaining breathability. Choosing shoes that balance warmth and ventilation ensures comfort without overheating, and it’s a great time to check that comfortable insoles are in place for longer walks.

With increased activity, sweaty and odorous feet become more common. Prevention is key - wear moisture-wicking socks, air out shoes properly, and avoid going barefoot inside footwear. If odour develops, some shoes can be washed, insoles should be replaced, and shoe sprays or UV sterilisation devices can help eliminate bacteria and odour. In severe cases, retiring a well-worn pair may be the only solution. Properly fitted footwear also reduces the risk of blisters, preventing discomfort during longer walks. Additionally, springtime allergens, such as pollen and plant irritants, can cause skin reactions, especially when wearing sandals or walking barefoot. Be cautious in overgrown areas, where feet may brush against bushes.

Keeping your feet healthy year-round is essential to prevent foot problems such as ingrown toenails, corns, calluses, and fungal infections. I can provide seasonal foot treatments, or just when you need them. For regular routine care, it's recommended every 8 weeks. If you need professional foot care in Buckinghamshire, I offer treatment in areas including Aylesbury, High Wycombe, Amersham, and surrounding locations. Book an appointment today for expert help with nail cutting, foot pain, and more.