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. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain

Foot pain can affect anyone, anywhere on the foot, from the heel to the toes, and even the arch and sole. Factors that contribute to foot pain include age, prolonged standing, excess weight, and congenital foot deformities. Injuries, wearing ill-fitting shoes, and intense physical activity are other culprits. In addition to injuries, conditions such as arthritis, gout, flat feet, and plantar fasciitis are among the more common causes of foot pain. One way to help manage foot pain involves wearing properly fitting shoes with sufficient support and cushioning. This also may include custom orthotic shoe inserts to correct any biomechanical issues that are contributing to the particular condition. Warming up before exercise, regular stretching, maintaining a healthy weight, and strengthening foot muscles through exercises are methods to avoid foot pain. However, persistent or worsening foot pain warrants professional attention from a chiropodist. This foot specialist can conduct a thorough exam and devise an appropriate treatment plan. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist to address foot pain concerns.

Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, 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. 

When you are experiencing foot pain, it’s important to note the type of pain and its location, as this can help determine a diagnosis. 

Pain in the top of the foot may be caused by:

  • Stress fractures

  • Sinus tarsi syndrome

  • Extensor tendonitis

  • Tibialis anterior tendonitis

  • Gout

  • Athlete’s foot

  • Ganglion cysts

Pain in the bottom of the foot may be caused by:

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Foot cramps

  • Tarsal tunnel syndrome

  • Plantar fibromatosis

  • Posterior tibial tendonitis

  • Stress fractures

  • Flat feet

Pain on the side of the foot may be caused by:

  • Ankle sprain

  • Cuboid syndrome

  • Peroneal tendonitis

  • Stress fractures

  • Bunions

  • Corns or calluses

  • Posterior tibial tendonitis

Heel pain may be caused by:

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Achilles tendonitis

  • Bone spurs

  • Heel fractures

  • Retrocalcaneal bursitis

  • Sever’s disease 

Pain in the toes may be caused by:

  • Gout

  • Hammertoe

  • Turf toe 

  • Bunions

  • Ingrown toenails

  • Blisters 

  • Arthritis

These and many more conditions can be treated by a chiropodist. 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.

How Runners Manage Blisters

Blisters on the feet are a common issue for runners, usually caused by friction and moisture. Friction arises from repeated rubbing between the skin and footwear, while moisture from sweat or wet conditions softens the skin, making it more prone to form a blister. Wearing Ill-fitting shoes and high-impact activities like running can worsen these problems, as do hot and humid weather,  and foot conditions like bunions or hammertoes. Proper footwear selection is vital, opting for shoes that fit well and offer sufficient toe space. Wearing moisture-wicking socks and applying lubricants like petroleum jelly can help keep feet dry and reduce friction. Gradual conditioning of the feet by slowly increasing running distances and intensity also helps the skin adapt and become more resilient. Protective padding, such as moleskin, can be applied to vulnerable areas to reduce friction and pressure. Regular foot care, including trimming toenails, addressing calluses and moisturizing, contributes to overall foot health and reduces blister risk. For guidance with painful or infected blisters, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, 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 a Blister? 

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin. 

Treatment 

If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad. 

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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Blisters

Blisters are fluid-filled bubbles of skin that can appear on any part of the body and are particularly common on the feet. Most foot blisters form due to friction. As you walk, run, or go about your daily activities, your shoes may rub against specific areas of your feet, causing the skin to become damaged. The top layer of skin then separates from the lower layers of skin. The area between the separated layers fills with a fluid called serum, whose purpose is to cushion and protect the raw skin below the blister. 

If you find a friction blister on your foot, it is highly recommended that you do not pop it. Popping the blister drains the fluid inside of it and exposes the raw skin underneath, increasing your risk of infection. Instead, protect the blister by loosely covering it with a bandage. You can also use special padding around the blister to protect it. Typically, friction blisters naturally heal over the course of one to two weeks. Friction blisters can be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and moisture-wicking socks. Wearing soft bandages over areas of your foot that tend to blister may also help. 

Sometimes foot blisters can be caused by problems other than friction. Blisters can develop due to a sunburn, frostbite, or exposure to an allergen, as well as from medical conditions such as fungal infections or eczema. If you frequently find blisters on your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist. 

Causes and Symptoms of Poor Foot Circulation

Poor foot circulation can stem from various underlying factors, impacting the flow of blood to your feet and leading to discomfort and other symptoms. One common cause is peripheral artery disease, or PAD, which occurs when arteries become narrowed or blocked, restricting blood flow to the extremities. Diabetes can also contribute to circulation issues, as high blood sugar levels can damage blood vessels over time. Additionally, conditions like obesity, high blood pressure, and smoking can exacerbate circulation problems by further constricting blood vessels. Symptoms of poor foot circulation may include cold feet, numbness or tingling, swelling, cramping, and slow-healing wounds. If left untreated, these symptoms can escalate into more serious complications, such as ulcers or infections. It is vital to address the root cause of poor circulation through lifestyle changes or medication. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can successfully treat poor circulation.

Poor circulation refers to a lack of adequate blood flow in the body. The feet and ankles are frequently affected by poor circulation. If you have symptoms of poor circulation, 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 causes poor circulation?

Poor circulation is typically caused by a buildup of a fatty substance called plaque in the arteries that supply the lower limbs. When plaque accumulates, it causes the blood vessels to narrow and harden, making it harder for blood to move through them. Without an adequate blood supply, the lower limbs do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients to stay healthy. This can produce a variety of symptoms, especially as the condition progresses. 

For some people, there are no noticeable symptoms. If symptoms do arise, they can include 

  • Muscle cramps

  • Weakness

  • Fatigue

  • Pain that gets worse with physical activity

  • Balance problems

  • Difficulty walking

  • Wounds that heal poorly 

  • Hair loss

  • Discoloration

  • Coldness

Other causes of poor circulation include blood clots, varicose veins, diabetes, obesity, and Raynaud’s disease. 

Screening

Your chiropodist can perform a variety of simple, safe, and noninvasive screenings to assess the circulation in your lower limbs. One common vascular test is the Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test. During an ABI, the chiropodist measures your blood pressure in your arms and ankles and compares the two numbers to derive a ratio. The ratio is then used to determine your risk of having poor circulation. Another screening measure is a Doppler ultrasound, where sound waves are used to image the blood flow in the lower limbs. 

Who is at risk?

Those most at risk of having poor circulation are older adults and people with a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease. If you are at risk, it’s suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist. 

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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Poor Circulation

Poor circulation in the lower limbs is typically caused by atherosclerosis, the narrowing and hardening of arteries due to a buildup of plaque. However, there are other causes, such as blood clots, varicose veins, diabetes, obesity, and Raynaud’s disease. When there is inadequate blood flow to the lower limbs, their tissues do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients to stay healthy. This can produce symptoms such as muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, coldness, numbness and tingling, hair loss, and discoloration. Additionally, any wounds that form on the feet and ankles may heal slowly and poorly due to an insufficient blood supply. 

Poor circulation in the lower limbs can seriously affect your quality of life. Its symptoms can make it difficult to walk, stand, and get around in day-to-day life. Furthermore, if left untreated, poor circulation can greatly increase one’s risk of having a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack or stroke. 

In some cases, people with poor circulation do not experience any symptoms and may be unaware that they even have this problem. Because of this, it is important to get regular screenings. This is especially true if you are at risk of having poor circulation. People with an increased risk include adults over the age of 60 and those with a personal or family history of cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, or diabetes. 

To learn more about poor circulation in the lower limbs, get screenings, and find the right treatments for you, please consult with a chiropodist. 

Gout Pain Can Be Managed

Gout is a painful, inflammatory form of arthritis. Those affected will typically feel an intense stiffness in the joints of their feet, particularly in the big toe. Schedule a visit to learn about how gout can be managed and treated.

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.

Foot Care Routines for Healthy Feet

Maintaining proper foot care is essential for overall well-being and mobility, yet it is often overlooked in daily routines. Establishing a regular foot care regimen can promote foot health and prevent common problems. Start by cleansing your feet daily with mild soap and warm water, ensuring to dry them thoroughly, paying extra attention to the spaces between toes. Next, inspect your feet for any abnormalities such as cuts, blisters, or changes in skin color or texture. Trim toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails, and moisturize your feet to keep skin hydrated and supple. Wear well-fitting, supportive footwear suitable for your activities, and consider using cushioned insoles or orthotic inserts for added comfort and support. Additionally, engage in foot strengthening exercises and gentle stretches to improve flexibility and prevent injuries. If you have developed foot conditions from not having a good foot care routine, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can guide you toward effective care methods.

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 chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. 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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