Children are energetic and in constant movement. Heel pain in kids can result from over-activity, as well as participation in regular sports activities. Such pain often starts with tenderness in the back of the heel and may cause some discomfort when walking. The pain may become severe and interfere with daily functioning. Common causes of heel pain in children include calcaneal apophysitis, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and fractures. These are conditions that develop from overuse of the ankles. Calcaneal apophysitis, or Sever’s disease, is characterized by pain in the child’s heel growth plate. It happens in kids as young as six up to 15 years of age. With this condition, pain is caused by the pull of the Achilles tendon during sports and running activities. Plantar fasciitis develops from repeated stress and excessive use of the plantar fascia, the thick band of connective tissue along the arch of the heel. With this, one feels stiffness and pain after prolonged non-use, difficulty walking, and tenderness near the arch of the foot. Achilles tendonitis impacts the Achilles tendon, the strongest tendon in the body. It attaches to the two muscles of the calf to the heel bone and assists in pushing the foot forward while walking or running. Fractures can also lead to heel pain, especially among children who participate in high-impact sports. Symptoms include swelling, bruising, severe pain, and an inability to bear weight. If the child starts limping or walking on their toes, the problem deserves more attention, for if left untreated, these conditions can lead to lifelong problems, like arthritis. If your child suffers from heel pain that does not resolve in a timely manner, see a chiropodist for proper diagnosis and treatment options so that your child can experience relief as soon as possible.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel 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 it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs
• Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness
• Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time
• Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking
• Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . 

The feet are considered to be the foundation of the body, and they may need extra care and pampering as the aging process occurs. Many people spend years working on their feet, and this often involves standing or walking for the majority of the day. The importance of wearing shoes that fit correctly is crucial in maintaining good foot health. Additionally, the feet need basic care including trimming the toenails properly, and removing dry skin on a regular basis. This can be done by using a good moisturizer, and it may help to get regular foot massages. There are some seniors that find using a mirror is helpful in looking for cuts, bruises, and scrapes on the bottom of their feet. Circulation issues may be helped by soaking the feet in warm water, and this can be beneficial in relieving aches from tired feet. Diabetic patients are generally unable to feel any cuts on their feet, and a family member or caregiver may be able to provide help that is needed for a thorough visual check up. If you would like more information about how to care for elderly feet, please consult with a chiropodist who can answer any questions you may have.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, 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. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin
• Calluses and corns
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
• Fungal infections
• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer
• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails
• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility
• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury
• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . 

The foot condition known as cuboid syndrome generally affects the outer part of the foot. The gradual onset of this ailment can make it difficult to diagnose, despite its simplicity to treat. Cuboid syndrome occurs as a result of an injury that affects the ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone. It is common among athletes and ballet dancers and can be caused by an ankle sprain. Symptoms associated with cuboid syndrome include the inability to move the side of the foot, the toes becoming weaker, and the affected area getting red. Patients can find relief by elevating the foot and stopping the activity that caused the injury. Many patients experience added support from wearing an elastic compress and doing specific stretches. Among them are gently pushing the toes toward the bottom of the foot and putting pressure on the cuboid bone, which is located in the middle of the arch. Recovery can take approximately six to eight weeks and maybe sooner if it is a mild injury. If you have pain in this part of your foot, please schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can guide you toward the correct treatment techniques.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, 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. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot
• Swelling
• Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot
• Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . 

Corns and calluses can range from being unsightly minor nuisances to painful, more serious medical conditions. This is particularly true for those with diabetes. Pressure or rubbing from shoes or socks that do not fit correctly can cause a callus or corn to form in an effort to protect the underlying soft tissue. The pain is caused by the pressure that is placed on the tissue while wearing shoes. Corns and calluses are similar because they are hardened areas of the skin. Corns are smaller and rounder and have hard inner cores. Additionally, corns can have a softer, rubbery texture when they develop in between toes. In rare cases, corns can even form under a toenail which is referred to as subungual corn. Trying to remove a callus or corn at home is dangerous, especially for those with diabetes. Contact a chiropodist if you have a painful corn or callus. They can safely treat the area while relieving pain and preventing the corn or callus from getting worse.

Corns are small bumps or dry, hardened skin that can arise on the feet, usually in response to friction. Corns can be asymptomatic, or they can be uncomfortable or painful. If you have corns that are bothering you, 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 three types of corns:

• Hard corns
  • Often occur on the tops of toes
  • Feature a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin
  • Can be painful
• Soft corns
  • Often occur in between the toes
  • Soft due to constant exposure to sweat
  • Can be painful
• Seed corns
  • Tiny
  • Often occur on the soles of the feet
  • Usually asymptomatic

Corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly. They are typically benign and don’t require medical treatment. However, if your corns are causing you pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a chiropodist near you for treatment options. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON .