This pattern (winter-only, both feet, heel/back of feet, pain + numbness, improves in summer) is most commonly due to cold-induced vascular spasm (Raynaud-type reaction / perniosis or chilblains) rather than true “frostbite”. Likely causes: Poor peripheral circulation in extreme cold Vascular spasm (blood vessels temporarily narrow) Chilblains (inflammatory reaction to cold + humidity) Tight/insulating footwear trapping moisture in cold weather What you should do: Keep feet warm + dry at all times (avoid damp socks) Use layered wool socks + insulated shoes Warm foot soak at night (lukewarm water, not hot) Avoid sudden cold exposure (cold floor, barefoot walking) Supportive care: Sesame oil massage before sleep (improves circulation) Ginger + warm fluids in winter Regular walking/exercises to improve blood flow Important: If skin turns white/blue, cracks, or ulcers form → get evaluated for Raynaud’s phenomenon or vascular issues Also consider vitamin B12 and thyroid check if not done Regards, Dr Raghuveer (Ayurvedacharya)
Hello, Your symptoms sound more like chilblains/pernio (cold-induced inflammatory reaction) rather than true deep frostbite, especially because -it happens every winter -affects exposed pressure areas near the heel, -worsens with cold exposure -causes pain and difficulty wearing shoes -and improves completely in summer In very cold areas like Himachal pradesh this is fairly common What happens Cold exposure causes -sudden constriction of small blood vessels, -poor circulation to skin -inflammation after rewarming This can lead to -red/purple patches -swelling -burning or itching -numbness/tingling -pain while wearing shoes Important sometimes similar symptoms can also occur with -Raynaud’s phenomenon -autoimmune disease -diabetes -anemia -vitamin deficiencies -poor circulation disorders Please consult if -ulcer develop -skin turns black -severe swelling -symptoms worsen yearly -fingers also affected Ayurvedic view This usually resembles -aggravated vata from severe cold exposure -impaired peripheral circulation -rakta vaha srotas disturbance Cold, dry climate strongly aggravates vata External care 1) Mahanarayan taila massage on feet before sleep may help circulation and dryness After massage -wear warm cotton/wool socks Do Not apply very hot heat suddenly to cold feet Internal support 1) Ashwagandha capsules= 1 cap twice daily after meals with warm milk =sometimes used for vata balance, circulation support, cold intolerance 2) Trikatu churna=1/4 tsp with warm water before meals =may help circulation in some people Winter diet advice -warm soups -ghee in moderation -sesame -nuts -warm water -herbal teas Avoid -cold drinks -prolonged barefoot exposure -damp socks/shoes Foot wear advice (very important) Regular shoes may not protect enough in severe himachal winter Use -insulated footwear -moisture wicking socks -layered socks Keep feet -warm -dry -but not excessively tight Avoid -scratching lesions -direct heater/fire exposure on numb feet -sudden temperature changes Your recurring winter-only symptoms are most consistent with cold induced vascular inflammation such as chilblains/pernio rather classic frostbite. The key treatment is -aggressive cold protection -improving circulation -reducing vata aggravation -keeping feet warm and dry consistently throughout winter Do follow Hope this might be helpful Thank you
