Treatments for Cold Feet

Brrrrr! Are you having problems with cold feet? Cold feet can make it difficult to sleep at night and they can be a distraction during the day. Fortunately, treating cold feet isn't difficult. There are several ways you can treat your cold feet to make them warm and comfortable--from wearing layers of socks to soaking them in hot water.

Socks

• If you chronically suffer from cold feet, particularly at night, wearing socks can help keep your feet warm. Layering socks can particularly help. For the inner layer, pick a pair of socks with natural fibers or made from a synthetic fabric that wicks moisture away from your feet. For the outer layer, choose looser-fitting socks that are made from an insulating fabric, such as wool. This combination will keep your feet dry and keep in the heat generated by your own body.

Warm Water

• Soaking your feet in warm water, or taking a bath or shower in warm water, is a good treatment for cold feet. Don't use water that is hot, because this can cause foot pain and possibly burns. Soaking your feet in warm water is effective because the water surrounds your foot and warms the entire surface. Gently swishing your feet will help circulate the water, taking away the water cooled by your cold feet.

Exercise

• Cold feet can be caused by poor circulation. Exercising increases your circulation and will help warm your cold feet. Aerobic exercise is better than weight-bearing exercise for the purpose of treating cold feet.

Rubbing

• Rubbing your feet provides warmth in two ways. If you or someone else rubs your feet with warm hands, it will transfer the warmth from the hands to your feet. You'll also produce heat through friction, which works even if you rub your cold feet together.

Warning

• Cold feet can be a symptom of a circulatory blood disorder, diabetes or other diseases. If you frequently experience cold feet, consult your doctor to find out if there is an underlying cause that requires medical treatment.