A pesky toe problem in the winter

By Dr. Donald Pelto Podiatrist

Now that it's getting cold outside, we see more patients coming in to our of�ices with redness at the tips of their toes. They notice some tiny red dots with swelling that are painful and can be itchy in some cases. The discomfort seems to get worse after showering, when those little �luid �illed sacs become more evident due to increased blood �low in the toes.

Usually, this is a case of chillblains, a condition quite common here in New England. Chillblains can be problematic for some patients, causing sores on the toes and even sloughing off of the skin.

Keeping the feet warm

For those who are prone to develop this problem, the best way to prevent chillblains is to avoid exposing your feet to cold temperatures. Warm socks that are not too tight can be helpful. Unfortunately, there is no cure for chillblains but we have had great success in treating the symptoms with prescribed steroid creams.

Chillblains can affect people of any age, but it seems to be more common in adult women. It can be associated with was looking for.

“I don’t believe we ever really got numbers from them, and whatever scanty numbers we had didn’t seem close to being able to preserve the White Cliffs structure which was the primary mission that we were charged with,” Helwig said.

In their response to the RFP, HAPO estimated that the total development would cost $3.8 million. The study done by DBVW indicated that it would cost between $6 to $11 million to do any rehabilitation or adaptive reuse of the property, Pelletier said.

According to Pelletier, they requested financial backups, resumes on the principals, presentation files and additional budget. As of the meeting, they hadn’t received them.

Members noted that Metro West has worked together as a team and have experience working with historic properties and affordable housing.

“I think the town needs housing. I like the idea of having affordable housing. I think it’s important to the community,” member Norm Corbin said. “I’m proud that we have 10% [affordable housing] and can do better.

“I really don’t think that we need more office space, even if we call it cooperative offices. I don’t think we need food truck pads on that property. Any small units that he wants to put in are unique, and they might be good for little startups, but honestly, I don’t envision them on the property,” said Corbin.

Member Diana Nicklaus said that during the feasibility phase, she hadn’t been excited about the idea of housing being added to the site.

“But after hearing and reading what Metro West has done on other sites, I think this would be a brilliant solution for many reasons,” Nicklaus said.

Helwig noted that the committee received public comment via email, who he said were opposed to Metro West’s project.

Raynaud’s, another condition related to cold exposure. Access the Central Massachusetts Podiatry website for pictures. Call 508-757-4003 for an appointment with one of our foot specialists. Same day visits might be available in Worcester and Westborough. This article was edited and condensed. Read the full feature at www.centralmasspodiatry.com/blog

Central Massachusetts Podiatry

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