When temperatures drop in Peoria, Arizona, so does the humidity—and your feet can feel it. While winter here may not bring snow boots and frostbite, the drier air and cooler temps can still lead to some frustrating (and painful) foot issues, especially when it comes to the skin and toenails.

At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we see a rise in skin and toenail problems this time of year. Here’s what to look out for—and when it’s time to make an appointment with a podiatrist.

1. Cracked Heels and Dry Skin

Cold weather and dry air can cause the skin on your feet—especially your heels—to become rough, flaky, and cracked. Cracks in the heel can go deeper and turn into painful fissures that may bleed or become infected if not treated properly.

Watch for:

• Deep or painful heel cracks
• Redness, swelling, or signs of infection
• Bleeding or oozing skin

What helps: Moisturize daily with a thick, fragrance-free cream. Avoid walking barefoot around the house. If your heels are painful or cracked skin isn’t healing, we can provide medical treatment and professional-grade products.

2. Fungal Toenail Infections

Toenail fungus doesn’t take a holiday break. In fact, closed-toe shoes and sweaty socks can create a perfect environment for fungal growth—especially if you're reusing shoes without proper airing out.

Signs to watch for:

• Yellow, thickened, or brittle nails
• White patches or dark streaks under the nail
• A foul smell coming from the nail

Fungal toenails don’t usually get better without treatment. At Roadrunner Foot and Ankle, we offer advanced treatment options, including laser therapy, to help restore healthy nails.

3. Ingrown Toenails

Colder months often mean tighter, closed-toe shoes, which can press on the nail edges and cause them to grow inward. Combine that with improper nail trimming or minor trauma, and you have a recipe for a painful, inflamed toe.

Watch for:

• Redness or swelling at the edge of the toenail
• Pain when wearing shoes
• Drainage or signs of infection

If you’ve been trying to treat an ingrown nail at home with no success, don’t wait. We provide safe, non-surgical and surgical options such as Onyfix®   to relieve pain and prevent recurrence.

4. Athlete’s Foot and Skin Infections

Even in winter, fungal infections like athlete’s foot can spread in warm, enclosed environments—like shoes, slippers, or gyms. Dry, itchy, peeling skin between the toes or on the soles could be more than just dryness.

Call us if you notice:

• Persistent itching or burning
• Scaly or red patches
• Skin breakdown or foul odor

Prompt treatment with prescription antifungals can stop the spread and reduce discomfort.

Protect Your Feet This Winter

Winter may feel mild in Arizona, but your skin and nails can still suffer. If you’re noticing any changes in your feet—or something just doesn’t look or feel right—don’t wait it out. Early treatment prevents bigger problems.

Call Roadrunner Foot and Ankle in Peoria, Arizona today to schedule an appointment with Dr. Margaret Withrow or Dr. Dylan Kaumaya a foot exam. We’ll help you keep your skin, nails, and feet healthy all season long.