Keep Feet Fit For Frosty Winter Sports

Thursday, March 1, 2001

(NAPS)—Skiing, snowboarding, ice hockey and ice-skating are all popular winter sports that require cold temperaturesand lots of time spent on the feet. The American Podiatric Medical Association would like to remind everyone who participates in these types of activities to protect their feet and ankles by following these winter sports guidelines: Always wearproperfootwear; insulated, waterproof boots or shoes are a must. Socks are also important. Podiatric physicians recommend a single pair of thick socks made of acrylic fibers that “wick” away moisture caused by perspiration in the boot. Properly fitted ski boots and skates are the single most important factor in safe and successful skiing and skating. Feet soaked in snow should get back indoors quickly. In sub- freezing temperatures, soaked feet are in immediate danger of frostbite. e Winter sports can put tremendous stress on the ankle, so before taking to the ice or slopes in cold weather, it’s impor- tant to loosen up the muscles by stretching. Stretching helps prevent muscle pulls andtears. If you are not sure if your ski boots or skates fit properly, or if an apparently proper-fitting pair still hurt your feet, take them to a podiatric physician who can evaluate the fit and make recommendations to improve both comfort and performanceontheice or slopes. For more information on foot health, you can visit the APMA’s Website at www.apma.org or call 1-800-FOOTCAREto request a free brochure.

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