Whether it is daily soreness or lingering injuries, you may have noticed your foot or leg pain feeling worse in winter.
Dr Paul Dowie, one of Australia’s leading musculoskeletal podiatrists from Foot and Leg Pain Clinics, provides some insight into why things can feel worse during the colder months.
1. Cold temperatures can cause the tissues in your joints to contract and pull on nerve endings, which can contribute to stiffness and joint pain.
2. The cold can contribute to less blood supply to joints and tissues which can restrict movement and exacerbate underlying soft tissue injuries or degeneration which you might not even be aware of.
3. We are often less active in winter, so like any muscles in the body, the muscles in the feet and legs can become less conditioned and therefore weaker, less malleable and more prone to stress and injury.
4. We usually spend more time at home with winter’s shorter, colder days, often resulting in extended periods in unsupportive footwear like slippers or socks. This can strain foot and leg muscles, joints and tissues resulting in pain and injuries.
Some tips to try and prevent winter foot and leg pain include:
* Wearing supportive shoes even if you’re spending extended periods at home and inside;
* If you have orthotics wear them around the home, even in your slippers;
* Keep exercising – the benefits a simple daily brisk walk can have on muscles, joints and tissues are amazing; and
* If you have sudden onset pain, recurring or consistent soreness, get it checked by an experienced musculoskeletal podiatrist to help prevent a worsening of the condition.
The Williamstown clinic is located at 87 Ferguson Street.
For appointments, phone Foot and Leg Pain Clinics on 1300 328 300.
