As we age, maintaining a safe and secure home environment becomes paramount to prevent falls, which can lead to serious injuries. Implementing simple fall prevention techniques can significantly enhance the safety and independence of seniors living at home. An effective technique can be to remove clutter. This can help to eliminate tripping hazards, ensuring clear pathways throughout the house. Placing sturdy handrails in hallways and staircases, and installing grab bars in bathrooms can provide adequate support and stability. Having good lighting will brighten up all areas, especially stairways and entrances, that can improve visibility and reduce the risk of missteps. Using non-slip mats or adhesive strips to secure rugs can be helpful in preventing accidental slips. Empowering aging individuals with these fall prevention techniques ensures they can continue to enjoy their independence and live comfortably in their own homes for as long as possible. It is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can give you additional methods on how to prevent falling.

Falls are a common but preventable problem for older adults. If you would like to learn more about preventing falls, 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. 

Did you know that most falls occur in the home? Fortunately, there are many simple changes that you can make to the living environment to reduce the risk of falling. 

In the Bathroom:

• Install grab bars near toilets, bathtubs, and showers
• Put non-skid mats on all surfaces that may get wet

In the Bedroom:

• Keep a light near the bed so that you can easily turn it on if you have to get up at night
• Keep the path from your bedroom to the bathroom clutter-free and well-lit
• Consider installing a bed rail for added support

In the Kitchen:

• Use non-skid mats
• Wipe up any spills immediately
• Move commonly used items to areas that are easily within your reach

In the Hallways:

• Place handrails on both sides of the stairs
• Install good lighting in the hallways and around the entire home
• Keep hallways free of clutter
• Don’t use throw rugs or small area rugs

In Other Living Areas: 

• Keep loose cables, cords, and wires near the wall and away from walking surfaces
• Make sure that all carpets and rugs are secure firmly to the floor
• Arrange your furniture so that it is not in your way when you walk
• Use chairs and couches that you can easily get up from

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.

One of the most common complaints of heel pain comes from a condition known as plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a wide band of tissue that runs from the toes to the heel. The main cause of plantar fasciitis is the degeneration of collagen in the area where the plantar fascia connects to the heel bone. The main function of the plantar fascia is to provide support for the arch and absorb pressure in the heel from prolonged standing, walking, or running. Symptoms are usually felt first thing in the morning after sleeping. Pain and stiffness develop and will generally get worse later in the day. Being overweight and overtraining are the two major causes of plantar fasciitis. People who have flat feet or high arches are also at further risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Rest, stretching and strengthening exercises are the best treatments for plantar fasciitis. A change of footwear that offers more cushioning and fits well, in addition to wearing custom orthotics, are other treatment options. For more information on managing plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you make an appointment with 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 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.

Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection, known as tinea pedis, that causes itching and scaling between the toes or on the bottom of the foot. The spaces between the toes can crack, split or peel, and blisters may develop. Because athlete’s foot is contagious, coming into contact with the infected area can easily spread the fungus to other parts of the body. This particular fungal infection thrives in warm and moist environments, such as sweaty socks, swimming pool shower areas, and gym locker rooms. A precaution for avoiding contamination is to wear some type of foot covering in these areas. Furthermore, washing the hands thoroughly if they have come in contact with the infected toes may help to limit the spread of athlete’s foot. Additionally, it is beneficial to avoid sharing towels and to disinfect the shower or bathroom spaces after use. It is also a good idea to expose the feet to fresh air as much as possible, in addition to wearing cotton rather than synthetic socks. If an athlete’s foot infection does not improve after applying antifungal cream, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for more advanced treatment options. 

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, 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 Athlete’s Foot? 

Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include: 

• Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet
• Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet
• Scaly, red rash on the foot
• Blisters
• Foul odor

Treatment

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both. 

Prevention

Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices. 

You can prevent athlete’s foot by:

• Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day
• Wearing shoes when walking in public areas
• Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others
• Wearing shoes and socks made out of breathable materials

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.