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Your pinky toe is small, but if it gets injured it can be quite painful. Pain and swelling in this toe could develop from a variety of conditions including a break, tight-fitting shoes, a small bunion, hammertoe, a bone spur, or something else. This toe is particularly prone to injury because it is located on the outside of the foot. Sometimes it is easy to know why you feel pinky toe pain, (like if you dropped something heavy on it or your toe rubs against a tight-fitting shoe) but what is going on inside the toe may not be known. Rest and elevation may bring relief to a painful toe but additional treatment could be needed. If it is difficult to put weight on the foot, the toe seems out of alignment, or you have an open wound, it is particularly important to get it checked by a chiropodist who can properly diagnose the problem and treat it. 

Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When you are experiencing foot pain, it’s important to note the type of pain and its location, as this can help determine a diagnosis. 

Pain in the top of the foot may be caused by:

• Stress fractures

• Sinus tarsi syndrome

• Extensor tendonitis

• Tibialis anterior tendonitis

• Gout

• Athlete’s foot

• Ganglion cysts

Pain in the bottom of the foot may be caused by:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Foot cramps

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

• Plantar fibromatosis

• Posterior tibial tendonitis

• Stress fractures

• Flat feet

Pain on the side of the foot may be caused by:

• Ankle sprain

• Cuboid syndrome

• Peroneal tendonitis

• Stress fractures

• Bunions

• Corns or calluses

• Posterior tibial tendonitis

Heel pain may be caused by:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Achilles tendonitis

• Bone spurs

• Heel fractures

• Retrocalcaneal bursitis

• Sever’s disease 

Pain in the toes may be caused by:

• Gout

• Hammertoe

• Turf toe 

• Bunions

• Ingrown toenails

• Blisters 

• Arthritis

These and many more conditions can be treated by a chiropodist. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Achilles tendinopathy is an overuse injury of the Achilles tendon that causes it to become inflamed, painful, and stiff. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscles to the heel bone at the back of the lower leg and allows us to point our feet downward. When this tendon is stressed or used excessively, it can suffer tiny micro-traumas and tears over and over again. If these injuries do not properly heal the damage can build up on the Achilles tendon and lead to Achilles tendinopathy. Running on hard surfaces, wearing improper footwear, using poor technique when training, and accelerating workouts too quickly can contribute to the development of Achilles tendinopathy. Athletes such as runners, tennis players, and dancers are at risk of acquiring this condition because of how often they use the Achilles tendon. If you have injured your Achilles tendon in this way, there is good news. A chiropodist can help repair this important tendon and treat your painful condition. Reach out to your local chiropodist today to start the healing process. 

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Plantar fasciitis

• Fractures

• Turf toe 

• Joint dislocations

• Sever’s disease

• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, is when part of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. If not properly tended to, it can cause an infection and be extremely painful. Most often ingrown toenails affect the big toe's toenail which can result from incorrect trimming of toenails or wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow. This condition can also be caused by injuries, fungal infections, foot structure abnormalities, or repeated pressure on a toenail from activity. The elderly and teens are said to be particularly prone to ingrown toenails. If you know or suspect you have an ingrown toenail, try soaking your foot in warm, soapy water, drying it thoroughly, and gently lifting the nail off the nail bed so that it may heal. An over-the-counter steroid or antibiotic cream can be used as well. Prevention includes clipping toenails straight across and not too short, keeping feet clean and dry, and wearing properly fitting shoes. Bacteria or fungus can enter the skin and become infected, and the toenail may need surgery or removal so watch the affected toe carefully. If the toe or toenail becomes discolored or you notice pus drainage, it is important to see a chiropodist for proper care.

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth

• Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Crystals that form in the joints of the big toe may be indicative of a condition known as gout, which is considered to be a form of arthritis and can cause excessive pain. Gout can develop due to genetic reasons or from eating foods that have high levels of purines. These types of foods can include red meat, shellfish, or drinks that are made with large amounts of sugar. Uric acid forms in the bloodstream and lodges in the joints of the feet, often starting with the big toe. Common symptoms many patients experience can include tenderness in the affected toe, extreme pain, and the toe may be hot when touched. People who are overweight, have high blood pressure, or have kidney problems may also be prone to gout. Mild relief may be felt when specific medication is taken and the pain from gout attacks may diminish over time. If you are susceptible to gout or experiencing any symptoms, it is advised that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can successfully treat this condition.

Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. Please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Gout?

Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of gout include: 

• Sudden and severe pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth 

• Joint stiffness

• Joint deformity

Diagnosis

A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid. 

Treatment

Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.  

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Ankles are hinged synovial joints which means they are capable of greater movement and fluidity, allowing us to move our feet downwards and upwards, and side to side. Ankles are composed of three bones: the talus, tibia, and fibula. There are several ligaments that hold these bones together and support them. Although these ligaments are strong and flexible they can become overly stretched beyond their limits or even tear. These types of injuries are known as ankle sprains. Ankle sprains can range from mild to severe and symptoms can range in intensity as well, depending on whether one or more ligaments are affected and whether there is any tearing. There may be varying degrees of pain, swelling, possible bruising, and in more severe cases, a reduced ability or inability to put weight on the affected foot. Some athletes may be tempted to allow what they perceive as a mild sprain to heal on its own without seeking the care of a chiropodist. This is not suggested as it is sometimes difficult to differentiate between an ankle sprain, ankle strain, or even a broken ankle. Ankle sprains that do not heal properly may lead to future sprains or chronic ankle instability. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, call a chiropodist who can diagnose your condition properly and treat it accordingly.

When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Difficulty walking

• Ankle instability

• A reduced range of motion in the ankle 

Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of: 

• Resting the injured ankle

• Applying ice

• Elevating the ankle

• Compressing the ankle

• Over-the-counter pain medications

• Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle

• Ankle exercises 

• Surgery (in rare cases) 

It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

For many people, running a marathon, 26.1 miles, is the fulfillment of a longtime goal. And for others it is just the beginning. These people, who run a 50K (31.07 miles) up to 100 miles, are considered ultra runners. In both cases, protecting the feet is of paramount importance. Three main tips from running experts are wearing shoes that fit properly, managing moisture, and training the feet. Shoes can be the runner’s best friend or worst enemy. Keeping your feet from moving inside the shoe is considered of vital importance. Also, shoes with ample midfoot space are recommended. Keep them laced tight, but not constricting. Breathable uppers in the shoe helps control moisture buildup. Wearing thinner (or no) socks and changing shoes and socks frequently are also a good idea. Finally, practice helps to get your feet used to distance running and to build up a resistance to blisters. If you are a distance runner, it is important to have an ongoing relationship with a chiropodist who can monitor the condition of your feet and provide further guidance on how to protect them. 

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Some common running injuries include:

• Achilles tendonitis

• Shin splints

• Ankle sprains

• Stress fractures

• Plantar fasciitis

• Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

• Train slowly and gradually

• Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run

• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot

• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete

• Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs

• Warm-up prior to a run

• Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Many things have been negatively affected by the pandemic and foot and ankle health is no exception. Being confined for several months to their homes, many people adopted a casual attitude about footwear. Unfortunately, walking around barefoot or in stocking feet for prolonged periods of time can be bad for your feet, particularly if you have arthritis. People who have arthritis and walk regularly can add stress to the joints which are already inflamed and irritated from arthritis. Without support from shoes, the fat pads on the bottom of the feet that are referred to as shock absorbers can get worn down putting further pressure on joints. Additionally, conditions that often develop from having arthritis such as plantar fasciitis, tendinitis, bone spurs, and bunions can intensify from walking barefoot. Those with arthritis can consult with a chiropodist who can treat their symptoms while offering preventative measures to take to avoid making their condition worse.

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain

• Joint stiffness

• Swelling in or around the joint

• Restricted range of motion

• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs

Many people suffer from cracked heels. Despite all our heels do for us, it is easy to forget to take care of our them. Medically, cracked heels are known as heel fissures or regular linear cut wounds that appear on the surface of the skin. Besides being unattractive, cracked heels can become painful and start to bleed if not tended to. This condition can result from dry skin and footwear that does not fit well or have enough cushioning. Additionally, walking improperly, and being overweight may contribute to the onset of cracked heels. This ailment is more common in senior citizens and those who are on their feet a lot. To avoid complications of cracked heels, it is important to treat them as soon as they are noticed, and it is wise to prevent them from happening in the first place. In general, keep feet clean and dry, moisturize regularly, do not go barefoot, wear properly fitted closed shoes, and keep hydrated. If attempting to take care of cracked heels on your own, avoid picking at or peeling the dead skin as this can make it worse or lead to infection. It is best to consult with a chiropodist who can better help you safely treat this condition and provide suggestions for preventing this from happening again.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin

• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps

• Standing for long periods of time

• Walking barefoot

• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops

• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly

• Living in a cold or dry climate 

• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time

• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back

• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water

• Moisturizing the feet daily

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.