As spring emerges, it is the perfect time to revitalize your foot care routine and prepare your feet for the warmer days ahead. Begin by indulging in a thorough foot soak to cleanse and rejuvenate tired feet, using gentle exfoliation to remove any lingering winter dryness. Transition to lighter, breathable footwear to promote air circulation and reduce the risk of moisture-related issues. Keep toenails trimmed straight across to prevent ingrown nails and invest in comfortable, supportive shoes for outdoor activities. Embrace the beauty of spring blossoms during walks, but be mindful of uneven terrain to avoid potential injuries. Hydration remains key, so moisturize your feet regularly to maintain softness and suppleness. If you are seeking help with foot care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist.

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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

As we age, it becomes increasingly important to pay special attention to our overall health. Sometimes our feet are overlooked despite the important role they play in our daily lives. Senior citizens, in particular, may face unique challenges when it comes to foot care. Proper foot care is essential to maintain mobility and prevent potential issues. Regularly inspecting the feet for cuts, bruises, or changes in color is a simple yet effective practice. Choosing comfortable and supportive footwear can alleviate discomfort and reduce the risk of developing foot problems. Keeping the feet clean and dry, especially between the toes, helps prevent infections. Additionally, gentle exercises, like ankle rotations, can improve circulation and flexibility. By incorporating these foot care practices into their routine, seniors can promote overall well-being and enjoy an active lifestyle with happy and healthy feet. If you are elderly or are caring for a senior citizen, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for additional tips on elderly foot care.

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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cracked heels, though often dismissed as a cosmetic issue, can have far-reaching implications for your overall health. These fissures, resulting from dryness and thickening of the skin, not only cause discomfort but can also create an entry point for bacteria and fungi. Left untreated, cracked heels may lead to infections, including cellulitis, which can spread rapidly and become life-threatening if not addressed promptly. The pain and discomfort associated with cracked heels can affect your gait, leading to changes in posture and alignment that may contribute to musculoskeletal issues over time. Additionally, cracked heels can hinder your mobility and quality of life, making it difficult to engage in daily activities comfortably. If you have cracked heels, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can successfully treat this condition, which may include prescribed medication.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, 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. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin
• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps
• Standing for long periods of time
• Walking barefoot
• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops
• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time
• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back
• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water
• Moisturizing the feet daily

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.

Toenail fungus, or onychomycosis, is a condition that primarily affects toenails. Symptoms of toenail fungus include discoloration, thickening, and separation of the affected toenail. It typically occurs when fungi infiltrate the nail bed, often spreading from adjacent skin infections, such as athlete’s foot, or through breaks or injuries in the nail itself. Risk factors include diabetes, circulatory issues, and immune system deficiencies, in addition to being over 60 years old, wearing poorly ventilated footwear, and working in humid environments. Athletes, especially runners, are also at a higher risk, due to toenail trauma and prolonged exposure to warm, moist conditions within their shoes. Prevention involves maintaining proper foot hygiene, wearing breathable footwear, promptly addressing nail abnormalities, and avoiding barefoot walking in public areas like changing rooms and showers where the fungal spread is more likely. Because eradicating toenail fungus can be a lengthy process, prompt attention is needed. If your toenails have been infected, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam and treatment options. 

Toenail fungus can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have diabetes or a compromised immune system, it may also be dangerous. To learn more about treatment options, 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 Does Toenail Fungus Look Like? 

A fungal infection of the toenail may cause the affected nail to become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and yellowish or brown in color. Sometimes the toenail may separate from the nail bed, become deformed, emit a foul odor, or cause pain or discomfort. 

What Causes Toenail Fungus? 

Toenail fungus is caused by a fungus that infects the nail bed. The fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments and is also contagious. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection of the skin, may spread to the nails and cause toenail fungus. 

What Treatments Are Available? 

Potential treatments for toenail fungus may include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal medications, such as medicated nail polishes that are applied directly to the affected nail, and laser therapy. Sometimes, a combination of treatments is prescribed. 

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.