Everyday Foot Care

Good foot care is proactive, rather than reactive. While a chiropodist can diagnose, treat, and help you manage a variety of foot and ankle conditions, preventing foot problems and keeping the feet healthy is something that you can do at home as well. Having and following an established daily foot care routine can be very beneficial. 

Maintaining good foot hygiene helps prevent a variety of foot problems, including infections like athlete’s foot and fungal toenails. It is important to wash your feet every day using lukewarm water and mild soap. Wash the entire foot, from heel to toe. Then dry the foot thoroughly, taking extra care to dry in between the toes. Moisturizing the heels and soles of the feet after washing them can help keep the skin soft, hydrated, and free of cracks. 

Stretching and strengthening the feet can maintain or improve their mobility. There are many easy foot exercises that you can do to keep your feet strong and flexible, such as toe scrunches and heel raises. Maintaining a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help keep your weight under control, relieving excess pressure and strain on the feet. 

Finally, wearing the right shoes is one of the easiest ways to care for the feet. Many people wear shoes that are too tight or narrow, shoes that don’t support the feet adequately, and shoes that are made of materials that trap moisture on the foot. Opt for comfortable, properly-fitted shoes that support and protect your feet. 

For more information about daily foot care practices for good foot health, please consult with a chiropodist.

Hints for Keeping Your Feet Healthy

Most people do not think about their feet until pain or discomfort disrupts their daily activities. Healthy feet allow for stability and movement, but issues such as bunions, hammertoes, and arch pain can develop over time. Wearing improper footwear, repetitive strain, and medical conditions like diabetes also can contribute to foot problems. Numbness or tingling in the feet may indicate nerve damage, while persistent swelling or joint stiffness could signal arthritis or circulation concerns. Wearing well-fitted, supportive shoes can help prevent discomfort, and regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, blisters, or skin changes is especially important for people with diabetes. Heel pain, often linked to conditions like plantar fasciitis, can make walking difficult and may require medical treatment. A chiropodist can assess your foot health, provide treatment for structural problems, and offer custom orthotics to relieve pain and improve foot function. Addressing your foot concerns early can prevent further complications and maintain mobility. If you are experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.

Caring for your feet is not just something done at the chiropodist’s office. Good foot care starts at home. If you would like to learn more about daily foot care practices, 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. 

There are many things that you can do at home to help care for your feet, including: 

  • Wearing shoes and socks that fit properly

  • Washing the feet daily with soap and water

  • Drying the feet thoroughly

  • Applying moisturizer to the soles and heels of the feet

  • Taking a walk and exercising the feet regularly 

  • Doing foot stretches and strengthening exercises 

A chiropodist can help figure out a manageable foot care routine for you to keep your feet healthy. 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.

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Curing Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are a common foot problem. They occur when areas of skin on your heels become dry and thicken, forming calluses. Over time, these calluses can crack, causing discomfort or pain in the heel. Other symptoms associated with cracked heels include flaky skin, itching, bleeding, redness, inflammation, and foot wounds. Additionally, deep, painful cracks known as fissures can form on the heels. Fissures leave your heels at an increased risk of becoming infected. 

Cracked heels may be caused by standing for prolonged periods of time, walking barefoot or in open-back shoes, wearing poorly fitted shoes, taking lengthy hot showers, using harsh soaps to wash your feet, and living in a climate with cold temperatures or low humidity. Sometimes cracked heels can be caused by an underlying medical condition, such as a vitamin deficiency, fungal infection, or psoriasis. 

Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent cracked heels and to treat them when they occur. You may be able to prevent cracked heels by wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes with a closed back, wearing orthotic devices to pad your heels as you walk, or wearing padded socks. Keeping your feet exfoliated and moisturized is also a key step, in both prevention and treatment. Applying a thick moisturizer on the heels regularly is highly recommended. 

If you have chronic cracked heels, cracked heels that don’t respond to home treatment, or if you are diabetic or have peripheral neuropathy, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Causes of Uncomfortable Heel Fissures

Heel fissures are cracks in the skin that develop on the heels due to excessive dryness and pressure. These cracks can become deep and painful, especially while walking or standing for long periods of time. Symptoms include rough, thickened skin surrounding the heel, visible cracks, redness, and occasional bleeding if the fissures are severe. Causes include prolonged standing, footwear with inadequate cushioning, dehydration, and underlying conditions like diabetes or eczema. Exposure to dry or cold environments can also worsen the condition. If left untreated, heel fissures can lead to infections and increased discomfort. Regular moisturizing, gentle exfoliation, and wearing supportive footwear can help prevent and manage this condition. Cracked heels can cause difficulty in completing daily activities and, if this is true for you, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

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.

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Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition in which the nerves of the lower limbs become damaged. 

The symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include tingling, numbness, and unusual sensations in the feet, weakness, and burning pain.  This problem often co-occurs with diabetes, but can also be caused by viral infections, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, and genetic disorders. 

Peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed through medical history, physical examination, and specific tests that may assess your reflexes, and ability to feel touch or vibration in your lower limbs. Treatment for peripheral neuropathy will depend on the underlying cause. For example, if your peripheral neuropathy is caused by diabetes, then controlling your blood sugar levels will be emphasized. For peripheral neuropathy pain, you may be prescribed oral medications. For preventing complications from peripheral neuropathy, your chiropodist may recommend wearing properly fitted, comfortable shoes and inspecting your feet daily for any abnormalities. 

If you are experiencing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Does Being Tall Increase the Risk of Nerve Damage in the Feet?

Peripheral neuropathy affects the nerves in the feet, causing numbness, tingling, or even pain. Researchers have explored whether being taller increases the risk of developing this condition. Since taller individuals have longer nerves, signals must travel a greater distance, making them more vulnerable to damage. Poor circulation in the lower limbs can also contribute to nerve dysfunction, especially in those with diabetes or other underlying health conditions. Symptoms often start in the toes and progress upward, making it difficult to detect injuries or feel temperature changes. This loss of sensation can lead to wounds that go unnoticed, increasing the risk of complications. While height may be a factor, other issues like diabetes, alcohol use, and vitamin deficiencies play a role. If you experience numbness or burning in your feet, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist who can assess nerve health and recommend appropriate treatment options.

Neuropathy can cause permanent nerve damage if left untreated. If you are experiencing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, 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 Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves of the peripheral nervous system, which provide sensation to the limbs. The feet are often affected. Peripheral neuropathy can have many different causes, but it is most commonly associated with diabetes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:

  • Pain

  • Numbness or tingling sensation

  • Burning sensations

  • Weakness

  • Loss of balance

Diagnosis

Peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed based on medical history and physical examination. Various tests performed during physical examinations can help determine the type of peripheral neuropathy you may have and what is causing it. 

Treatment

Treatment for peripheral neuropathy will depend on what is causing it. For example, if your peripheral neuropathy is caused by diabetes, then managing your blood sugar, exercising regularly to strengthen the legs and feet, and taking pain medications may be recommended as treatments. 

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.

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Are Bunions Affecting Your Everyday Life?

Have you noticed a bony protrusion on the side of your big toe? If so, you may have developed the foot condition known as a bunion. Don't let bunions interfere with your daily activities.

Hammertoes

Hammertoes are a common foot deformity in which one or more of the small toes bends downwards at the middle joint. This puts the toes into a hammer or mallet-like shape, hence the name of the condition. Hammertoes can be very uncomfortable and even painful, causing symptoms such as irritation, inflammation, redness, stiff toe joints, muscle contracture, and corns, calluses, and sores on the tops of the affected toe joints. 

Hammertoes can either be flexible or rigid. Flexible hammertoes are those that can still be moved at the joint. Rigid hammertoes are those that can no longer move due to stiff, tight joints. Flexible hammertoes slowly turn into rigid hammertoes when no steps are taken to treat this condition. 

Seeking treatment for hammertoes is strongly suggested, as they tend to get progressively worse over time. The main goals of treatment in the early stages are to slow or stop the progression and manage symptoms. Your chiropodist will likely recommend changes in your footwear. Wide, roomy shoes that have a large toe box and a low heel can give your toes extra space and prevent them from crowding and becoming further deformed. Orthotic insoles can be worn in the shoes for added support. Corns and calluses on the tops of the toes may need to be padded to protect them from irritation. Over-the-counter medications can be taken to relieve pain. In more severe cases, your chiropodist may suggest corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery is another treatment option for hammertoes but is usually reserved for severe cases where the toe has become rigid and immobile. 

If you notice hammertoes or any other foot deformity, it is strongly suggested that you seek the care of a chiropodist. 

Definition and Symptoms of Hammertoe

Hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more toes bend downward at the middle joint instead of pointing straight. This condition results from an imbalance in the muscles, tendons, or ligaments that keep the toe properly aligned. Common causes include wearing tight or high-heeled shoes, genetic predisposition, arthritis, or foot structure abnormalities. Over time, the affected toe may become rigid and difficult to straighten. Symptoms often include pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty in moving the toe. Corns or calluses may develop due to friction against footwear. In severe cases, walking becomes uncomfortable, and open sores can form if left untreated. If you have developed hammertoe, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can effectively treat this condition.

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity in which one or more of the small toes bends downwards at the middle joint. Though it may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, this is not the case. Hammertoes can be uncomfortable, painful, and even debilitating in severe cases. If you suffer from hammertoe, 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

  • One or more small toes bending downward at the middle joint

  • Pain or irritation on the affected toes

  • Corns and calluses

  • Inflammation

  • Redness

  • Stiff toe joints

  • Sores on the tops of the toes

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can typically diagnose hammertoes through physical examination. X-rays may need to be taken to see the extent of the damage.

Treatment

Hammertoes tend to progressively worsen with time, so getting prompt treatment is very important. In its early stages, the progression of hammertoe can be slowed down or stopped. Your chiropodist may suggest changes in your footwear. Wearing wide, comfortable shoes with a larger toe area and a low heel can help you avoid putting pressure on your toes. You may also be prescribed orthotics. Over-the-counter medications or corticosteroid injections may be used to relieve pain. If you have any corns or calluses, your chiropodist may suggest padding them to avoid further irritation. In advanced cases, surgery may be 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. 

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Foot Pain

If you’re suffering from foot pain, it’s important to note the locations and quality of your foot pain. Pain can affect any part of the foot, including the top, bottom, side, heel, or toes. The pain may be sharp, stabbing, dull, achy, burning, or stinging, and can come on suddenly or develop gradually over time. 

Pain in the top, bottom, or side of the foot can have many causes. In addition to the type of pain and its location, it’s also important to note when the pain started, what you were doing at the time, and what aggravates the pain. For example, pain in the top of the foot that worsens with physical activity or weight-bearing, that has gradually gotten worse over time, and is accompanied by swelling and tenderness could be indicative of a stress fracture. 

Pain in the heel is a frequent concern, especially among patients who participate in sports, run, or wear high heels. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heels to the toes, can cause stabbing heel pain. The pain is usually at its worst upon taking your first few steps in the morning or after a long rest and can radiate to the arch of the foot. Plantar fasciitis is also often associated with heel spurs, bony outgrowths on the heel bones that can be painful if they poke into the surrounding tissues. 

Foot pain can be caused by not only injuries but also problems with the biomechanics of the feet and underlying health problems, like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy. If you’re experiencing foot pain, please seek the care of a chiropodist near you. 

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