Breaking News Alert: Neuropathy and cold weather are not friends!
I live in Michigan, and it’s cold. in the month of December. Yep, I know, shocking, right? But, once temps drop below 40 degrees, it’s all we Midwesterners ever seem to talk about—or rather, complain about.
For the typical winter despisers like myself, December to early March is all about layering up, thawing out, and making it through. While many people dislike cold weather, for those of us living with chronic conditions and disabilities winter brings substantial cold weather pain and other challenges. Full disclosure, during COVID I became a snowbird and will be lucky to be leaving Michigan after Christmas for a few months. Although I will soon be escaping the freezing cold, I survived 50 winters with neuropathy. The cold weather sucks and brings with it substantial pain and increased health risks for people with disabilities. So, If moving to Florida or Hawaii is not in the cards for you this year, there are some things to keep you looking hot and prevent those chills from multiplying. Here are some awesome products that are guaranteed to help: When it’s freezing outside, there is nothing better than being snuggled up on your couch wearing a cute pair of soft pajamas. Add a mug of yummy hot chocolate, a cozy electric blanket, and a few juicy Netflix originals, and you’re all good for a lazy winter afternoon. Of course, we occasionally have to get up to go to the bathroom etc. A luxe pair of heated AFO friendly slipper socks help and offer traction to prevent you from falling. You might even warm up between shows using a paraffin kit. The warm wax feels amazing on stiff fingers and numb toes. To stay healthy going to & from during the winter, try popping a few vitamin gummies before heading out to your car. A heated car seat is a must have if your car doesn’t already have them built in. In terms of what to wear, leg warmers not only fit over AFOs, but they also look cute over jeans or dresses with an awesome pair of shearling lined disability & AFO tall winter boots. Or, short dual zipper ones with awesome traction. After returning from the gym or anyplace outdoors, Throw on a soft cardigan and a comfy pair of soft, warm lounge pants. On a really freezing day, I would suggest heating up a few hand and foot warmers and slipping them into your boots and mittens. Of course, every cold weather fashionista needs a pair of shearling earmuffs with bluetooth, and an awesome winter disability friendly parka. What keeps you looking and feeling your best in the winter with an invisible disability? I would love to hear from you in the comments below.
Thanks Lainie, this is great. I thought I knew all the cold-weather hacks. Now I am waiting for my electric blanket to die so I can justify buying the cute sherpa one.
Thank you for reading Ardra! I love our little blogger support group of two.?? Merry Christmas
Lainie,
Interestingly, I was wondering about those paraffin baths just last week. It was cold and wet her in Baltimore and I recalled how wonderful it felt the one time I had this treatment at the Occupational Therapists. Thanks for the link!
Lainie, do you buy up a size and wide on shoes and boots?
Hi Tina,
If the shoe is not wide or extra wide, I definitely size up. But, in shoes & boots that come in wide sizes, I wear my regular size.
You are so welcome & thanks for always being so supportive. I think the paraffin feels amazing too. Merry Christmas Cyndi!
Lainie, thanks so much for all your great research & posts. Because of you I am feeling more confident about my braces and CMT than ever. Happy New Year!
Thank you sooooo much Lisa! Because of you I’m smiling and feel very fulfilled by this blogging thing ?