Utah’s stunning snow season brings skiing, sledding, and cozy nights by the fire — but it also brings cold, dry air and icy conditions that can wreak havoc on your feet. As temperatures drop, your circulation slows, your skin dries out, and your joints stiffen.
For many people, that means cracked heels, painful arthritis flare-ups, or even frostbite after prolonged outdoor exposure.
At Dan Preece, DPM, & Darren Groberg, DPM, partners of Utah Musculoskeletal Specialists, our board-certified podiatrists see a surge in cold-weather foot problems every year. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, walking the dog, or just navigating icy sidewalks, understanding how winter affects your feet can help you prevent painful setbacks.
Cold weather doesn’t just make your toes feel numb — it affects the entire structure and function of your feet. Lower temperatures cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing circulation to your toes and heels. This limited blood flow makes it harder for tissue to stay warm, hydrated, and healthy.
Meanwhile, Utah’s low humidity and indoor heating pull moisture from your skin, leaving it dry and prone to cracking. And if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or inflammatory arthritis, winter’s impact can be even more pronounced.
Your feet are most vulnerable to:
Chilblains (pernio): Painful, red or purple bumps that form when skin is repeatedly exposed to cold but not freezing temperatures.
Frostbite: Tissue damage caused by prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. It often affects your toes first and can lead to long-term complications if not treated quickly.
Dry, cracked heels: Cold, dry air and hot indoor environments sap moisture from skin, leading to fissures that can bleed and become infected.
Arthritis flare-ups: Cold and damp conditions can stiffen your joints, aggravate inflammation, and reduce flexibility — particularly in your midfoot and toes.
Knowing what you’re up against makes it easier to take preventive steps before these problems develop.
A few small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in keeping your feet warm, comfortable, and healthy all winter long.
Wear moisture-wicking socks made of wool or synthetic blends, not cotton. Cotton traps moisture, which increases the risk of chilblains and frostbite. If you’ll be outdoors for long stretches, bring an extra pair of dry socks to change into halfway through the day.
Cold air and indoor heating pull water from your skin, leaving your heels rough and cracked. Apply a rich foot cream or ointment after bathing and before bed. For deep cracks, apply moisturizer and wear socks overnight to lock in hydration.
Movement increases circulation and helps prevent stiffness and cold-induced pain. Gentle foot exercises — such as ankle circles, toe curls, and calf stretches — help keep joints flexible and improve blood flow to your toes.
Opt for shoes that provide insulation, traction, and support. Waterproof boots are best for snow and slush, but make sure they fit well — shoes that are too tight can restrict circulation and worsen cold-related injuries.
Cold weather can mask early warning signs of injury. Inspect your feet for color changes, cracks, sores, or blisters, especially if you have diabetes or neuropathy. Early detection prevents minor problems from turning into major issues.
These habits not only help prevent discomfort but also protect long-term foot health throughout Utah’s long, dry winters.
Even with the best prevention, winter can still leave its mark. If you notice persistent redness, pain, swelling, or cracks that won’t heal, we can help. At Utah Musculoskeletal Specialists, we diagnose and treat a full range of cold-weather foot problems — from frostbite and chilblains to arthritic flare-ups and skin fissures.
Our personalized treatments may include advanced wound care, circulation assessments, joint therapy, and custom orthotics to restore comfort and function. With expert podiatric care, you can recover faster, prevent recurrence, and get back on your feet — literally — all season long.
Don’t let winter sideline you. Protect your feet from the elements now — and if the cold still catches up with you, know that Utah Musculoskeletal Specialists is ready to help.
Call us today, or schedule an appointment online to learn how we can help you stay active, pain-free, and comfortable all winter long.
