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Chilblains Treatment: Relief for Sore, Itchy Toes

Cold weather leaving your toes red, swollen, or itchy? Our podiatrists provide personalised chilblains treatment to ease discomfort and manage flare-ups. Book today!
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Say goodbye to painful, itchy chilblains.

Chilblains can leave your toes red, swollen, and sensitive, especially during the colder months. We help identify what's causing the irritation and find ways to relieve it.

Our podiatrists provide personalised chilblain treatment, focusing on skin protection, reducing inflammation and keeping your feet healthy.

Whether it's your first flare-up or a problem that returns every winter, we'll help you understand what triggers your chilblains and how to avoid them.

We take the time to assess your feet and recommend care suited to your needs. You'll also receive practical tips on staying warm and protecting your skin from further irritation.

Book an appointment with Foot HQ and take the first step towards healthier, more comfortable feet.

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Common causes of chilblains

Chilblains can develop when cold skin warms up too quickly. Small blood vessels may react abnormally to the temperature change, causing inflammation, redness, and swelling.

Spending time in chilly, damp environments can trigger chilblains, particularly when your feet aren't properly insulated or protected from the cold.

People with circulation problems may be more susceptible to chilblains because their blood vessels struggle to respond normally to changing temperatures.

Shoes that squeeze your toes can restrict circulation and increase discomfort, particularly when your feet are already sensitive to cold temperatures.

Some people naturally have a stronger reaction to cold weather, making them more likely to develop chilblains even with relatively mild temperature changes.

Certain conditions, including Raynaud's phenomenon and some autoimmune disorders, can increase your risk of chilblains or contribute to recurring symptoms.

Foot HQ podiatry care for chilblains

How we treat chilblains.

We use different techniques depending on your symptoms and needs. Here are some of the ways we can help.

Nail & Skin Care

Gentle podiatry treatments that manage dry, cracked or irritated skin, protect sensitive areas and support healthy skin recovery and lasting comfort.

Custom Orthotics

Custom-made foot inserts designed to redistribute pressure, reduce friction around sensitive areas and improve everyday walking comfort.

3D Running Assessment

Advanced movement analysis that examines foot mechanics, identifies pressure points and helps improve comfort during physical activity.

Mapping, Taping & More

Personalised foot care including pressure mapping, protective padding, taping and footwear advice to reduce irritation and improve comfort.

What makes Foot HQ the best choice?

Elite Physio treatment session | Foot HQ

15+ Years Experience

With over 15 years of experience, our podiatrists have treated a wide range of foot conditions, including chilblains. We know how to assess your symptoms and recommend care that works for you.

Elite Physio physiotherapist examining patient foot | Foot HQ

The Latest Technology

We use modern podiatry equipment and assessment techniques to examine your feet, identify areas of concern and provide appropriate care for your skin, circulation and overall foot health.

Elite Physio hands-on physiotherapy foot treatment | Foot HQ

Unmatched Customer Care

From your first appointment to ongoing foot care, we're here to make things easier. We listen to your concerns and carefully tailor your chilblains treatment to your individual needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do appointments cost?

Prices vary slightly depending on how long of an appointment you need (30 minutes or 60 minutes).

Initial Appointment: $100 - $160

Follow Up Appointment: $90 - $160

Patients also get 30-50% back from their health insurance depending on their provider. This is not a quote, check with your provider for exact rebate amounts.

What are chilblains?

Chilblains, also called pernio, are small, inflamed areas of skin that develop after exposure to cold, particularly in damp conditions. They commonly affect the toes but can also appear on the fingers, heels and other exposed areas.

They occur when small blood vessels react abnormally to cold temperatures and subsequent warming. This can lead to redness, purple discolouration, itching, swelling and tenderness.

Chilblains aren't contagious and often improve within a few weeks, although they can return during colder weather.

How long does chilblains treatment take? 

Your initial appointment allows your podiatrist to assess your symptoms, examine your skin and discuss a suitable management plan.

Most chilblains settle within one to three weeks when the skin is protected from further cold exposure, although recovery varies depending on severity and individual health factors.

If symptoms aren't improving, continue to recur, or develop into open sores, further assessment may be necessary.

Should I warm my feet quickly to get rid of chilblains?

No. Although it might be tempting to put cold feet straight against a heater or soak them in hot water, rapid warming can make chilblains more uncomfortable.

Instead, warm your feet gradually using dry socks, comfortable footwear and a warm indoor environment.

Avoid scratching or rubbing affected areas, as this can damage already sensitive skin. If you're unsure how to manage a flare-up, a podiatrist can recommend suitable care.

What are the benefits of professional chilblain treatment?

Seeing a podiatrist can help you better understand your symptoms and avoid habits that may make the irritation worse.

Professional assessment is particularly useful if chilblains keep returning, affect your ability to wear shoes comfortably, or cause cracks and sores.

You'll also receive practical advice on looking after your feet during winter and identifying symptoms that need additional medical attention.

Do I need a referral?

You don't need a GP referral to access our privately funded services.

Do you accept health funds?

Absolutely! We also offer on-the-spot health fund rebates to help make quality podiatry care more affordable and convenient.