Al-Marsad Newspaper: Dr. Andrei Ovimtsov, a surgeon and a specialist in phlebology and trauma, warned of the dangers of cold feet and their impact on health.
In an interview with Radio “Sputnik”, the specialist indicated that exposure of the lower extremities to cold actually poses a threat to human health, because it can lead to arthritis.
He said: “Cooling the feet negatively affects the membranes of the joints, which can later be accompanied by pain and limited movement of the legs. A person may develop arthritis, and even joint deformity may occur.”
He added: If the feet are exposed to cold for a long time, it negatively affects the condition of the blood vessels as well.
He continued: “Exposure of the feet to cold during a long period negatively affects the walls of the arteries and may cause inflammation. This is followed by the appearance of micro-injuries in the vessels and changes in their inner wall, which causes the accumulation of plaques and consequently the disruption of the blood supply, which in turn leads to infections and skin diseases, including necrosis when exposed to cold for a long time.”
To avoid these risks, the doctor advised to warm the feet.
He explained, “The feet and lower extremities can be warmed by wearing underwear, special socks, and leather shoes lined with fur. In general, they can be warmed by anything that gives heat or preserves body heat. With the help of these clothes and items, it is possible to maintain a comfortable temperature of the joints and blood vessels. It is also necessary when staying for a long time in the street, to move constantly and not to stand still.”