Does heel pain in winter mean I've developed chilblains?

Generally, whether heel pain in winter is caused by chilblains should be determined based on specific symptoms, skin manifestations, and environmental factors. If there is persistent pain or skin abnormalities, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The detailed analysis is as follows:

If the heels have been long exposed to cold environments and present with redness, swelling, and itching, and the pain worsens upon warming without peeling or cracking, it may be due to chilblains. This condition results from an inflammatory response caused by poor local blood circulation; pain usually gradually subsides as circulation improves with proper warmth retention.

Heel pain accompanied by dry, peeling skin, deep cracks, or sharp pain upon pressure—especially when symptoms do not significantly improve with warming—is generally not caused by chilblains. Such cases are often related to skin keratosis or plantar fasciitis, requiring targeted treatment according to the underlying cause, as simply keeping warm will not relieve the pain.

During winter, special attention should be paid to heel health. Wear warm, non-slip socks and shoes daily to reduce cold exposure. Soak feet in warm water every night to promote blood circulation, then thoroughly dry and apply moisturizing skincare products to maintain soft skin. If pain persists or skin breaks develop, promptly identify the cause and intervene early to prevent worsening symptoms that could affect daily activities.