Chilblains (or erythema pernio) is a characteristically painful condition that occurs primarily during the winter months affecting predisposed individuals. The Knox Podiatrists and Ringwood Podiatrists at Eastern Foot Care commonly see Chilblains occurring over the colder months in Melbourne.

Signs and symptoms typically associated with Chilblains include:

• Tissue redness around the toes
• Itching
• Inflammation
• Pain
• Blistering

Occasionally ulceration may occur which is more complicated and requires urgent attention.

rimarily the condition is one of vascular impairment and tissue damage in response to exposure to cold temperatures. It is important to distinguish Chilblains from other systemic pathologies, as they may in fact be related to a number of chronic medical conditions. Typically however they are benign and with time and conservative care will resolve.

Chilblains are best prevented by keeping the feet warm in warm cotton or wool socks and good enclosed footwear, use of bed socks, avoidance of direct heat sources on the feet (eg heat packs), and maintaining a good ambient temperature in the home.

In the event of Chilblains occurring the Eastern Foot Care Knox podiatrists and Eastern Foot Care Ringwood podiatrists recommend the following:

• Keeping the feet warm with appropriate socks and footwear
• Gentle massage at home with a lanolin-based emollient
• Assessment and diagnosis by your podiatrist to exclude systemic involvement
• Paraffin wax bath therapy to soothe chilblains and expedite healing

The Eastern Foot Care Knox podiatry team offers paraffin wax therapy to soothe the symptoms of Chilblains and expedite the healing process.