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Senior citizens can be especially susceptible to suffering falls, which may lead to serious health consequences. Often, the reason why seniors are susceptible to falling is due to decreased strength in the feet. When seniors fall, they may also further damage their feet due to foot injuries caused by the fall. Seniors may be likely to suffer a fall on their porches because they can often be slippery due to rain. One way to prevent this is by being sure to wear proper footwear when walking around on the porch. For example, flip-flops should be avoided on the porch because this kind of footwear can lead to trips and falls. Additionally, seniors can try to keep their porches clean, clearing clutter that may cause a fall. If you are struggling with preventing falls, contact a chiropodist.

Falls are a major cause of injury among the elderly. To learn more about preventing falls or to get treatment following a foot or ankle injury caused by a fall, 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. 

Falling is one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly. It is said that about 50% of falls that result in hospitalization occur in the home. Fortunately, there are steps that you can implement to reduce your risk of falling in the home. 

Tips to Prevent Falls at Home:

• In the bathroom - Place non-slip mats in the shower or tub, install grab bars near the toilet and bath, and wipe up any moisture or spills as soon as possible. 

• In the living rooms and bedroom - Remove loose wires, cords, or other objects that may be an obstacle to moving around safely. Make sure that you have good lighting throughout the home so that you can always see where you are going. Get rid of any rugs or mats that are not firmly anchored or that may cause you to trip. When walking around the home, move slowly. 

• In the kitchen - Store food and supplies in easily accessible areas, store heavy items in lower cupboards, and wipe up any spills immediately to prevent slipping. 

• On the stairs - Make sure that the stairs are well-lit and have secure handrails. Walk slowly when ascending or descending the stairs.  

• Outside - Keep walkways well-lit and clear of snow, ice, leaves, and man-made tripping hazards.

Maintaining your overall health, including the health of your feet, can also help to prevent falls. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and wear well-fitted, comfortable, and supportive shoes. If you have a mobility device, such as a cane, use it while walking.  

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.

Plantar fasciitis is an overuse injury that affects the bottom of the foot, causing pain mostly in the arch and heel. The plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the sole of the foot, can sustain tears from excessive pounding on the feet, over exercising, and obesity. Aside from rest and anti-inflammatory pain medication, experts recommend certain stretching exercises designed to relieve pain from plantar fasciitis. First is the towel stretch. This calls for sitting on the floor with legs extended. Then loop a towel around the ball of the foot and pull the toes toward the body. It’s important to keep the knees straight and hold the stretch for 30 seconds. Repeat three times on each foot. The second is the foot roll. Sit in a chair, and place the arch of the foot over a tennis ball or small water bottle. Roll your foot back and forth with enough pressure that you can feel the plantar fascia stretching. Continue for three minutes and repeat on the other foot. This exercise can be repeated several times throughout the day. To find out more about exercises that relieve pain from plantar fasciitis, please consult a chiropodist.

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Stabbing pain near the heel

• Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest

• Pain that increases after exercising

• Swelling

• Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

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.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a nerve disorder. Those with this condition often experience pain in the ankle, foot, and toes. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is caused by the compression of the posterior tibial nerve, which runs through a canal near the heel and into the sole of the foot. When the tissues around this nerve become inflamed, they can press on the nerve, therefore, causing pain. If you have symptoms of this syndrome, contact a chiropodist who is dedicated to foot health and can offer you the best treatment plan.

Tarsal tunnel syndrome can cause pain and progress over time. If you are experiencing any symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome, 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 Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome?

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is a condition in which the posterior tibial nerve, which is located within a structure called the tarsal tunnel on the inside of the ankle, is squeezed. Compression of the posterior tibial nerve can be caused by injuries, such as ankle sprains, systemic diseases like diabetes or arthritis, strain on the tarsal tunnel due to flat feet, or an enlarged structure like a cyst squeezing the nerve. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of tarsal tunnel syndrome can appear suddenly and are generally worsened by physical activity. 

Common symptoms include: 

• Tingling, burning, or electrical shock sensation on the inside of the ankle or bottom of the foot

• Numbness

• Shooting pain 

Diagnosis

Tarsal tunnel syndrome is diagnosed through physical examination. If initial treatment is ineffective, imaging or nerve studies may also be necessary. 

Treatment

Nonsurgical treatments for tarsal tunnel syndrome include resting and icing the foot, bracing or immobilizing the foot, wearing an orthotic device, modifying your footwear, and taking medications to relieve pain. Surgery may be needed if nonsurgical treatments are ineffective.  

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.

Diabetic patients can encounter foot problems if basic care needs are not met. Diabetes can occur as a result of elevated blood sugar levels and can come from specific foods that are eaten. Neuropathy is a common condition that can happen from being diabetic, and this is the inability to feel existing cuts and scrapes on the feet. The feet can become numb, and untreated injuries may develop into serious foot issues. Diabetic foot care can begin with checking the feet every day, and this can be done by using a mirror if a family member or caregiver is not present. This can be preceded by washing and drying the feet thoroughly and trimming the nails weekly. Many people choose to visit a chiropodist to have this done, which may help to eliminate ingrown toenails from developing. It is beneficial to monitor glucose levels daily, and this can help to educate the patient about which foods produce high sugar levels. People who smoke may have poor circulation, and it is suggested that smoking is stopped to ensure proper blood flow. Maintaining good foot care is crucial in diabetic patients, and it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you to manage this condition.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, 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. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. 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.

There are different types of ankle fractures, consisting of partial and complete. A partial break refers to a bone that is slightly cracked, as its name implies. A thorough fracture is a complete break, and the bone ends up in two pieces. Many broken ankles are treated by wearing a cast or a protective boot, and this is often adequate in providing the necessary support as the healing process occurs. For severe fractures, surgery may be required to ensure complete healing. This is advised if the bones are displaced, or tendons and ligaments are torn. There may be metal pins, screws, or plates inserted in the foot that hold the bones in place as the ankle heals, and possibly removed at a later date if necessary. Patients have found mild relief when the affected foot is frequently elevated, and mild pain relievers may be suggested for pain and discomfort. If you have fractured your ankle, please schedule an appointment with a chiropodist sooner rather than later who can recommend the treatment option that is correct for you.

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A condition known as plantar hyperhidrosis, or more commonly sweaty feet, can be annoying and even embarrassing. Some people sweat so much that their feet slide around in their shoes. Sometimes the feet can become infected and smell bad. Hyperhidrosis also can cause the feet to feel cold because they are continuously wet. While the cause of plantar hyperhidrosis is not clear, it seems to be a case of overactive sweat glands that are inherited. Sweaty feet are more common in men than in women and more common among young adults. It is wise to wash your feet daily with antibacterial soap to ward off infections that may cause foot odor. Using an antifungal foot powder may also help. Absorbent shoe inserts and moisture-wicking socks are suggested. Drying out your shoes thoroughly after wearing them and alternating shoes each day are good ideas. A chiropodist can offer a number of other treatment options, including Botox injections and certain prescription medications. For more information, please consult a chiropodist.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating of the feet. This problem is not only embarrassing but can also cause a variety of foot health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for plantar hyperhidrosis. If you have very sweaty feet, 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. 

Signs & Symptoms

• Excessive foot sweat

• Sweating from both feet

• Slipping out of shoes due to sweat

• Damp footprints

• Ruined shoes

• Frequent foot infections

• Friction blisters

• Whitish foot color

• Wrinkly, pruney feet

• Cold feet

• Strong odor

Treatment Options

• Topical antiperspirants - Powders, creams, or gels that are applied directly to the feet to prevent sweating; can be over the counter or prescription strength

• Oral medications - Pills taken by mouth to reduce sweating temporarily

• Iontophoresis - A procedure that uses a mild electrical current conducted through water to reduce activity in hyperactive sweat glands

• Botox - Injected into the feet to prevent activation of sweat glands

In addition to these treatment options, footwear modifications, such as wearing shoes and socks made of breathable or moisture-wicking materials, are also suggested. 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.

Flat feet are common, especially among young children who are born with them. Within a few years, however, most children’s arches develop naturally. In general flat feet, medically known as pes planus, are caused by the collapse of the medial longitudinal arch of the foot. There are three main types of flat feet. The first is termed flexible flat feet, which affects both feet, is generally painless, and does not usually cause any disability. This is the type that is most common in young children. In flexible flat feet, the arch appears to be present when the foot is at rest. It only becomes flat when bearing weight. The second type, flexible flat feet with a shortened Achilles tendon, also affects both feet, but may cause some disability and pain. This can be diagnosed by studying the range of movement in the ankle, which indicates the length of the tendon. The third type is termed rigid flat feet. It is far less common, but may cause pain and some disability. In rigid flat feet, the arch remains permanently flattened. This condition is frequently linked with bone or inflammation disorders. For more information on flat feet, please consult a chiropodist.  

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, 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 Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

• Overpronation of the foot

• Shin splints

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

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.

With a focus on exercise and weight loss in current times, more and more people are engaging in new activities, such as running, cycling, and aerobics. With this increase in activity, sports-related injuries are on the rise. Stress fractures of the foot and ankle are common, but diagnosis and treatment are often challenging as signs and symptoms can overlap with other diagnoses. A stress fracture results from repetitive stress that does not go as far as an acute fracture. When one sustains a stress fracture of the heel or ankle, it may present itself with pain, redness, and swelling. When the diagnosis is not straightforward, an imaging test might be needed to determine exactly what is going on. If you feel you have sustained a stress fracture or are not sure why you feel foot pain, contact a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and treatment.

A stress fracture often requires medical attention as it can progress and worsen over time. 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. 

A stress fracture refers to a fine crack in a bone. This type of fracture is especially common in the feet, as they often endure repetitive pressure from daily activities such as walking or running. Stress fractures occur when the affected bone can not support the load being placed on it. Stress fractures in the foot can occur in any bone, but often affect the metatarsal bones which connect the toes to the rest of the foot, the heel bone, or the navicular bone on the top of the foot. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of a stress fracture may include: 

• Deep, dull pain

• Sharp, localized pain

• Intermittent pain

• Tenderness 

• Weakness

• Swelling

• Bruising 

• Changes in the biomechanics of the foot

Diagnosis

Stress fractures in the foot are diagnosed via medical history and a physical exam. You may also need to have diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, bone scans, or an ultrasound performed to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out any other problems.  

Treatment

Nonsurgical treatment options include resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications, modifying your footwear, wearing a cast, and using crutches. Certain types of foot fractures, such as navicular fractures, respond poorly to nonsurgical treatment and may need surgery to fully heal. 

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.