Extraordinary Festive Feet! 🦶✨🎄
December has arrived, bringing cosy socks, twinkling lights, and plenty of reasons to put your feet up. But before you settle into winter relaxation, take a moment to appreciate just how incredible your feet truly are. They carry you through Christmas shopping, winter walks, parties, and family gatherings — and for some remarkable individuals, feet are capable of so much more.
This month, we’re celebrating three extraordinary people who use their feet in ways that inspire creativity, resilience, and pure brilliance.
🎨 Peter Longstaff — Painting the World With His Feet
Peter Longstaff, whose artwork appears on many Christmas cards, was born without arms due to the effects of Thalidomide.
He paints entirely with his feet, producing beautiful landscapes and winter scenes. With exceptional control, he describes his right foot as functioning “just like a normal person’s right hand.”
His work is a powerful reminder of human adaptability and artistic spirit.
🎶 Felix Klieser — A Foot-Powered French Horn Virtuoso
German musician Felix Klieser has performed internationally despite being born without arms.
He plays the French horn using only his left foot to operate the valves while the instrument rests on a stand.
His technique, discipline, and musical sensitivity have earned him global acclaim.
Proving that artistry knows no physical limits!
🏹 Matt Stutzman — The World-Record Armless Archer
Paralympian Matt Stutzman, known as the “Armless Archer,” competes using a unique method involving his legs, feet, and shoulder.
He holds the world record for the longest accurate archery shot, surpassing even able-bodied competitors.
His determination and precision redefine what is possible through dedication and ingenuity.
❄️ Winter Foot Wonders: Surprising Seasonal Facts
Winter affects your feet more than you might realise. As temperatures drop, your body prioritises keeping internal organs warm, meaning your feet often feel the cold first. This is why warm, well-insulated footwear is so important for comfort and circulation.
Cold air outside and central heating indoors can dry out the skin, leading to cracked heels, roughness, and increased sensitivity. Chilblains also become more common as blood vessels react to rapid temperature changes.
Studies even show that people naturally take shorter, quicker steps in winter to reduce the chance of slipping — your body’s built-in “winter safety mode.” And if your shoes feel tighter by evening, that’s normal too; feet swell throughout the day, especially in heavier winter footwear.
This season, give your hardworking feet a little extra care. They carry you through every festive moment — they deserve it.
🎄 A Christmas Message from Medipod Clinics
Whether you’re enjoying winter walks, festive celebrations, or simply taking a quiet moment to rest, remember to look after your feet this December.
From all of us at Medipod Clinics,
Merry Christmas and a joyful start to 2026!
Thank you for your continued support — we look forward to caring for you in the New Year.
Thank you for reading this month’s blog – Extraordinary Festive Feet! 🦶✨🎄
Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director, Medipod Clinics