Frostbite
Frostbite is a result of exposure to extreme cold of a body part. As the ice crystals form in the tissue, cell death occurs. Since the foot and ankle are furthest away from the heart, it is particularly prone to frostbite.
Mild exposure of body parts to the cold will often produce pain and irritation to the skin. As the exposure prolongs, the site might experience a burning sensation, or later, numbness. Blistering of the skin can occur. As the cold exposure progresses further, the skin will lose all sensations, and permanent damage to the skin will result. As the cold penetrates the skin, arteries, muscles, and tendons might become affected.
Frostbite can be prevented by limiting exposure to the cold. This involves keeping the feet as warm and dry as possible. If frostbite is suspected, the feet should be rewarmed by immersing in warm water (100 degrees Fahrenheit). During this time, do not rub or massage the foot, as it might cause skin damage. Early treatment of frostbite by a foot and ankle specialist is vital to limit the amount of soft tissue damage.
Frostbite is a result of exposure to extreme cold of a body part. As the ice crystals form in the tissue, cell death occurs. Since the foot and ankle are furthest away from the heart, it is particularly prone to frostbite.
Mild exposure of body parts to the cold will often produce pain and irritation to the skin. As the exposure prolongs, the site might experience a burning sensation, or later, numbness. Blistering of the skin can occur. As the cold exposure progresses further, the skin will lose all sensations, and permanent damage to the skin will result. As the cold penetrates the skin, arteries, muscles, and tendons might become affected.
Frostbite can be prevented by limiting exposure to the cold. This involves keeping the feet as warm and dry as possible. If frostbite is suspected, the feet should be rewarmed by immersing in warm water (100 degrees Fahrenheit). During this time, do not rub or massage the foot, as it might cause skin damage. Early treatment of frostbite by a foot and ankle specialist is vital to limit the amount of soft tissue damage.