Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection affecting the skin on the feet, often beginning between the toes. It thrives in warm, moist environments and causes itching, burning, peeling, and cracked skin. Redness and flaking may also occur. Risk factors include wearing tight shoes, sweating excessively, walking barefoot in communal areas, and having a weakened immune system. This condition is contagious and can spread through direct contact or by sharing towels or shoes. A chiropodist can provide expert diagnosis and treatment, including antifungal therapies, skin care advice, and preventive education tailored to individual needs. If you notice signs of athlete's foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for prompt care and effective relief. 

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 Niagara Falls, ON . 

In spring, many people return to outdoor activities, such as walking, hiking, and gardening. Preparing your feet for the seasonal transition is essential to avoid discomfort or injury. Begin by gently stretching the feet, ankles, and calves to improve flexibility and circulation. These simple movements can ease stiffness from winter inactivity and help prevent strains. Equally important is choosing the proper footwear. Select shoes that offer support, cushioning, and a good fit to protect the feet from uneven surfaces and repetitive stress. Footwear that lacks support can lead to common problems, such as plantar fasciitis or tendonitis. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on how to protect the feet during the changing seasons.

Springtime is the season that many people use to get back into exercising and sports. It’s also a time when foot and ankle injuries may be more common. If you have a foot or ankle injury, 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. 

Common Foot and Ankle Problems in Spring 

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Shin splints
• Strains
• Sprains
• Fractures
• And more

Avoiding Injury

• Increase physical activity slowly and gradually
• Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes and socks
• Take time to rest following a workout
• Recognize and treat any injuries promptly 

Treatment at Home

• Rest the injured foot
• Apply ice to reduce swelling
• Compress the injured foot with a bandage
• Elevate the foot to prevent swelling

Serious, chronic, or particularly painful injuries require medical care by a professional. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . 

Proper foot care is essential for individuals living with diabetes. It is important to take time each day to carefully inspect your feet for any sores, blisters, redness, or swelling. Catching small problems early can prevent serious complications. Other measures include washing your feet every day with warm water and mild soap, gently drying them afterward, especially between the toes. Choosing shoes that fit well and offer good support helps avoid rubbing or pressure that can lead to ulcers.  Toenails should be trimmed straight across and kept short to reduce the risk of ingrown nails. Walking barefoot can lead to injury, so it is a good idea to wear protective footwear, even at home. If you have diabetes, and especially if you have any complications, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can provide treatment and help you to manage this serious 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 chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. 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 have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON .