A major winter storm is expected to impact more than 235 million Americans across 40 states this weekend, with one expert warning that a common cold-weather accessory could be more harmful than helpful.
While you’re suiting up to face the chill, you may want to think twice about your footwear.
“With the possibility of a winter storm approaching this weekend, it’s important for every New Yorker to be cautious of the foot and ankle problems that can be caused or worsened by wearing snow boots,” Dr. Rock G. Positano, a podiatrist for the Hospital for Special Surgery, told The Post.
“Since there are more risks than rewards with snow boots, these shoes certainly aren’t made for walking.”
Positano noted that while snow boots appear “safe,” they offer little to no orthopedic support.
“This leads to tendon and ligament overuse, which can cause painful injuries, especially when making long treks in the snow or in the rain,” he explained.
“An influx of knee and back problems can also arise from the lack of support, mixed with the presence of underlying orthopedic problems.”
In addition, Positano shared that snow boots are not as well insulated as we might assume, and this lack of protection can lead to skin issues such as frostbite and ulceration.
“The likelihood of these can increase if you also have sensitive skin,” he added, “so making sure you have footwear that can handle harsh weather but accommodate any skin conditions is vital.”
According to Positano, those with poor circulation or a history of ankle, heel or foot issues are particularly vulnerable to the effects of bad boots.
For those who must brave the incoming, inclement weather, Positano offers the following guidelines.
- Don’t walk long distances or stand in one spot for a long period of time when in the snow.
- Don thicker socks that act as a “cushion” when wearing snow boots.
- Ensure the boot actually fits your foot. A study showed that over 80% of the population wears shoes that are the wrong size. This causes orthopedic issues at all levels of the body.
- If you have a history of heel, ankle or Achilles problems, wearing a supportive orthopedic sock when putting on boots increases shock absorption, providing some protection for your feet.
- Don’t wear wet socks, as this is the perfect environment for blister formation, skin rashes and other dermatological issues.
- If you wear prescription or non-prescription orthotics, it is advisable to put them in the snow boot, as this helps to improve orthopedic alignment and support the arch.
Positano previously told The Post that heel pain is the “great imposter,” which can mask many other conditions, such as psoriasis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and blood clots.
Above all, he urged people to avoid self-diagnosing any discomfort down there.
“Don’t trivialize its presence, as this pain may have many origins ranging from musculoskeletal trauma to cancer,” Positano warned. “It may not be life-threatening, but it is certainly quality-of-life-threatening.”
