Made-to-measure shoes can also be prescribed, and registered chiropodists/ podiatrists will also be able to advise you on the correct type of shoes to wear, and where to obtain them. Registered chiropodists/ podiatrists can also provide protective shields for your toes, or padding to relieve pressure and reduce friction. Any secondary problems, like ulcers or corns, can also be treated. They will also refer you to a specialist for further treatment, if they consider it necessary. Specialist teams of rheumatologists, chiropodists/podiatrists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists, along with specialist nurses, will provide the most effective care and treatment for arthritic patients, especially those with rheumatoid arthritis.

Chilblains

Many people suffer from cold feet in winter, but not all of them develop chilblains. Whether they do or not depends to a large extent on the efficiency of the circulation.

Chilblains are small itchy, red swellings on the skin, which can become increasingly painful, can swell and then dry out leaving cracks in the skin which expose the foot to the risk of infection. They occur on the toes, particularly the smaller ones, fingers, the face, especially the nose, and the lobes of the ears. They can also occur on areas of the feet exposed to pressure, for instance, on a bunion or where the second toe is squeezed by tight shoes.

Cold feet

Chilblains are caused by the skin's abnormal reaction to cold. Damp or draughty conditions, dietary factors and hormonal imbalance can be contributory factors. If the skin is chilled, and is then followed by too rapid warming next to a fire or hot water bottle, chilblains may result.

WHO IS MOST AT RISK?

This condition mainly affects young adults working outdoors in cold places or people who do not wear socks or tights in winter. Elderly people, whose circulation is less efficient that it used to be, people who don't take enough exercise, and those suffering from anaemia, are also susceptible.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?

With the onset of the cold weather, susceptible people will experience burning and itching on their hands and feet. On going into a warm room, the itching and burning is intensified. There may be some swelling or redness, and in extreme cases, the surface of the skin may break, and sores (ulcers) may develop.

WHAT CAN YOU DO?

To help prevent chilblains, keep your body, feet and legs warm, especially if your circulation is poor and your mobility is limited. The whole body, rather the just the feet, needs to be kept warm. Trousers, long boots, tights and leg warmers or long socks will help. You can also help prevent chilblains if you follow the a regular foot health routine.

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