|
Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(NUI) - Whether it's the downhill rush of snow skiing and sledding or the rough-and-tumble of ice hockey, most people enjoy winter sports.
In the absence of long, sunny days, winter sports provide the exercise that active Americans otherwise wouldn't get without being cooped up in a gym.
But before hitting the slopes or skating rink, it's important to protect your feet. Healthy feet and ankles not only are crucial to success in competition but also help keep the body upright and out of the emergency room. Any problems with the foot or ankle could have serious repercussions for winter sports participants.
Without warm, dry clothes, any wintertime outdoor activity is a potential health risk. Proper footwear, such as insulated, waterproof boots or shoes, is as important for winter warmth as coats, hats or gloves.
Socks are also important. Podiatric physicians recommend a single pair of thick socks made of acrylic fibers, or a blend including them, that draw away moisture caused by perspiration in the boot.
Feet wet from snow should get back indoors quickly. In subfreezing temperatures, cold, wet feet are in immediate danger of frostbite, a serious, painful condition that can result in the loss of toes or fingers. Skin color changes, from blue to whitish, can't be seen under a boot, but if toes are extremely cold for a prolonged period or go numb, the danger of frostbite is there. New battery-powered heated ski boots are effective in preventing its occurrence.
Here are a few other problems to be aware of:
* Blisters. Friction in winter sports footwear often causes blisters. Do not pop a small blister, but if it breaks on its own, apply an antiseptic and cover it with a sterile bandage.
* Bleeding under the toenail. Pressure in the toe box of a ski or skate can cause this condition, known as a subungal hematoma. Such a condition should be treated by a podiatric physician to prevent the loss of a toenail.
* Bone problems. Bunions at the joints on the inside or outside of the foot often become irritated in ski boots or skates. Pain at these joints may indicate a need for a wider or better-fitting boot.
If you are not sure whether your ski boots or skates fit properly, take them to a podiatric physician who can evaluate the fit and make recommendations to improve comfort and performance.
For more information on winter foot health, visit www.apma.org or call 1-800-FOOTCARE to request a free brochure.
|
© Copyright by Eveningsnews.com
Top of Page
|
