While frostbite is most often associated with arctic climates, it can happen anywhere cold weather strikes — including Marietta, Georgia on those rare freezing nights or wind chills. Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues actually freeze, leading to loss of sensation and changes in skin color or texture. The toes and feet are among the body parts most vulnerable because they are farthest from the body’s core and often more exposed to cold conditions.
Frostbite typically begins with frostnip, a mild form of cold injury marked by feelings of cold, tingling, or numbness. As frostbite progresses, skin may appear white, grayish, or waxy and feel hard or numb to the touch. Blistering can occur after the area is rewarmed, and in severe cases, deep tissue damage can develop.
Prevention is the best defense, especially if you’re outdoors during unusually cold weather in Marietta:
Dress your feet in warm, moisture-wicking layers. Wear synthetic sock liners under wool or wool-blend socks to keep moisture off your skin and lock in warmth.
Choose insulated, waterproof footwear that fits well without squeezing toes — tight shoes can restrict circulation, increasing frostbite risk.
Limit your time outdoors in freezing or windy conditions, and take frequent breaks indoors to warm up.
Keep feet dry and warm — wet feet lose heat rapidly. Change out of damp socks or shoes as soon as you can.
Pay attention to early warning signs like tingling, numbness, or color changes in toes — it’s often easiest to treat frostnip before it becomes full frostbite.
If you think frostbite is developing:
Get out of the cold immediately and remove wet clothing.
Rewarm gently by soaking the affected feet or toes in warm — not hot — water; hot water or direct heat sources can burn numb skin.
Avoid rubbing or massaging the area — this can worsen injury.
Protect the area from refreezing. If frostbitten skin thaws and then refreezes, tissue damage can increase dramatically.
For mild frostbite (frostnip), this home care may help restore feeling and appearance. More severe frostbite — particularly if there is persistent numbness, blistering, or color changes — requires professional evaluation.
Even after initial first-aid measures, it’s vital to have a foot and ankle specialist assess the injury. Frostbite can lead to complications such as infection, long-term numbness, or tissue loss if not properly treated. A podiatrist can evaluate the extent of your injury, recommend appropriate wound care, and monitor healing.
In Marietta, GA, Dr. Ryan Goldfine, DPM and Dr. Shaynah Goldfine, DPM are experienced podiatrists who care for foot and ankle conditions — including cold-related injuries like frostbite. Whether you need expert evaluation after suspected frostbite, specialized wound care, or guidance on preventing cold-weather foot problems, they provide attentive, personalized care right here in the local community.
If frostbite symptoms are severe — such as intense pain that doesn’t improve after rewarming, large blisters, deep tissue changes, or loss of feeling — it’s important to get medical attention promptly. In some cases, advanced treatment is needed to limit tissue damage and support healing.
