Blog

Plantar fasciitis is a condition that occurs when the fibrous attachment that connects the toes to the heel becomes irritated and inflamed. This band of tissue is medically known as the plantar fascia and is essential in supporting the foot's arch and biomechanics during activities, such as walking and running. Excessive tension and stress can lead to damage and inflammation of the plantar fascia. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is overuse, resulting from daily activities or intense physical exertion. This overuse can lead to inflammation, which causes swelling, tenderness, and pain primarily in one foot, though both feet can be affected simultaneously. Contributing factors to plantar fasciitis can include a sudden increase in physical activity, prolonged standing on hard surfaces, and walking barefoot. In addition, inadequate foot support from ill-fitting shoes, certain medical conditions, and rheumatoid arthritis may result in plantar fasciitis. Further, obesity, flat or high-arched feet, and lack of warmups before exercise may be factors. Regular use of high-heeled shoes, and wearing worn-out footwear are also known causes. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. Overweight individuals experiencing heightened pressure on the plantar fascia ligaments are more susceptible. Wearing unsupportive footwear, such as high heels, further elevates the risk. To reduce or eliminate the pain of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can offer treatment options. 

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 chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. 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.

Arthritis in the midfoot, a condition marked by inflammation of the joints, can significantly impact one's mobility and overall foot health. This form of arthritis affects the intricate network of joints connecting the tarsal bones in the middle of the foot. The condition often manifests as pain, swelling, and stiffness, hindering the natural range of motion. As the cartilage that cushions the joints wears down over time, the bones may rub against each other, exacerbating discomfort. Causes of midfoot arthritis vary and include age-related wear and tear, previous injuries, or underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Understanding the definition of midfoot arthritis is pivotal for early detection and intervention. By recognizing the causes and symptoms, individuals can work with chiropodists to develop personalized strategies that alleviate pain and preserve the functionality of this part of the foot. If you have pain in your foot, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose midfoot arthritis, and offer appropriate treatment options.

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 chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. 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

A broken ankle, a common injury, can bring excruciating pain and limited mobility. It typically occurs when one or more of the three main ankle bones consisting of the tibia, fibula, or talus are fractured. This injury is often the result of a traumatic event, such as a fall, twist, or impact. The symptoms of a broken ankle are hard to miss. Immediate pain and swelling around the ankle are typical, as well as bruising. Weight-bearing becomes almost impossible, and the ankle may appear deformed. The injured area can be tender to the touch. While the severity of a broken ankle can vary, it is essential to seek medical attention from a chiropodist who can provide a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment. This may involve casting, bracing, or surgery, depending on the extent of the injury. Understanding the implications of a broken ankle is the first step toward a successful recovery and restoration of normal function. If you have broken your ankle, it is strongly suggested that you confer with this type of medical professional who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

test template

Selecting the appropriate footwear for your fitness routine is necessary for comfort and injury prevention. Walking and running shoes may appear similar at first glance, but they are designed with distinct purposes in mind. Walking shoes are tailored for heel to toe motion, offering flexibility in the forefoot and ample cushioning to absorb shock during each step. These shoes are great for casual walkers and provide comfort for long strolls. Running shoes, on the other hand, are engineered to endure the higher impact of running. They offer enhanced cushioning, stability, and support, with a design that encourages a midfoot or forefoot strike. The outsole typically has deeper treads for better traction. Wearing the wrong type of shoe can lead to discomfort and potential injuries. So, whether you are walking or running, choosing the right footwear can help to optimize your performance and safeguard your foot health. If you would like additional information about how to choose the appropriate shoes for your fitness regime, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist.

Finding the right shoes can sometimes be a major hassle, especially if you intend to work out in them. There are shoes on the market designed specifically for running and walking, but it can be difficult to differentiate between the two and find the right shoes for you. If you’re having trouble finding the right shoes, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What are the differences between running and walking shoes? 

These two types of shoes vary along several parameters.

• Cushioning: Runners need more cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas of the shoe, while walkers can get away with less cushioning.

• Heel height: Runners need a higher heel to provide them with stability, but the ideal height of the heel for runners varies depending on their running gait. Walkers generally don’t need a built-up heel.  

• Heel flare: Flared heels can help provide extra stability for runners with certain gaits, while walkers may benefit from a flared heel to control the motion of their foot. 

• Flexibility: Both runners and walkers need shoes that are flexible. 

For more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, and to figure out which shoes may be right for you, please consult with a chiropodist. Feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Foot stress fractures, often seen in athletes and military personnel, are tiny cracks or breaks in the bones of the foot, typically caused by repetitive stress and overuse. Unlike acute fractures resulting from sudden injuries, stress fractures develop over time due to the cumulative impact of activities like running or jumping. Those at higher risk include athletes engaging in high-impact sports, dancers, and individuals with sudden increases in physical activity. Female athletes, in particular, can be prone to stress fractures, often linked to factors such as hormonal changes and inadequate nutrition, affecting bone health. Additionally, those with certain medical conditions, low bone density, or wearing improper footwear may also face an increased risk. Understanding foot stress fractures, their causes, and risk factors is vital for preventing these painful injuries, ensuring the safety and well-being of those most susceptible. If you have developed a foot stress fracture, it is strongly suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can help you with appropriate treatment, and guide you toward effective prevention techniques.

A stress fracture often requires medical attention as it can progress and worsen over time. Please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. 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.

A broken toe, although seemingly minor in the realm of injuries, can be incredibly painful and disruptive. Knowing the causes and recognizing the symptoms is essential for timely and appropriate medical care. The causes of a broken toe are diverse, typically resulting from direct trauma such as stubbing the toe against a hard object, dropping something heavy on it, or sustaining an injury during physical activities. Moreover, fractures can occur due to repetitive stress, as seen in athletes or those who engage in high-impact sports. Recognizing the symptoms of a broken toe is vital for prompt diagnosis and treatment. These often include severe pain, swelling, bruising, and difficulty in moving the affected toe. In some cases, the toe may appear misshapen or discolored. Pain tends to intensify while bearing weight or when trying to move the toe. Seeking medical attention is important to assess the extent of the injury, and the appropriate treatment method can then begin. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat this condition. 

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Cracking sound at the time of injury

• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe

• Difficulty walking

• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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 warts, also known as verruca warts, are a common skin condition caused by the human papilloma virus, or HPV. While there are over 100 different strains of HPV, only a select few cause warts on the feet, with the others are more likely to affect hands, face, or genitals. Plantar warts often appear on weight-bearing areas, like the heels, due to their contagious nature. Although they are generally not a serious health concern, the discomfort caused by plantar warts can be quite painful, especially given their location on the sole of the foot. Warts can go away on their own, but plantar warts may require active treatment and removal, which can vary in duration. A chiropodist can offer several treatment options, such as microwave technology or freezing them off with cryotherapy. In some cases, warts may clear up without such intervention, but ignoring severe plantar warts can lead to prolonged discomfort and changes in posture or gait. Further, the virus can spread to other body parts and even be transmitted to other people. If you or your child has been infected with plantar warts, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for treatment options.

Plantar warts can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re suffering from warts on your feet, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What Does a Plantar Wart Look Like? 

Plantar warts are fleshy growths that generally have a rough, grainy texture. They may look and feel like a callus and are usually small and can grow individually or in clusters. Plantar warts may have small, black dots at their center that are actually tiny blood vessels. Warts interrupt the natural lines of your skin. 

Treatment Options

• Salicylic acid - A chemical solution applied directly to the wart

• Cryotherapy - Freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen

• Minor surgery - Removing the wart through excision

• Laser treatment - A concentrated beam of light is used to remove the wart

• Wearing comfortable shoes and socks to avoid irritating the wart

• Over-the-counter medications for pain relief

• Patches to keep pressure off the warts

Plantar warts can go away on their own, but this may take several months to years. If your plantar warts are bothering you, seeking medical treatment is 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.