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Experts agree that wearing the right running shoes is essential for comfort, performance, and injury prevention. When trying on running shoes, ensure there is enough room for toe movement without feeling cramped. Your heel should feel snug and secure without slipping. For wide feet or foot conditions like bunions, be sure the toe box is wide enough to be comfortable. Get your feet measured professionally, as sizes can vary between brands. Consider the terrain you will be running on, as different surfaces require different shoe features. Understand your gait type and body weight to select appropriate support and cushioning. A chiropodist can analyze your foot and gait to recommend suitable shoe types, and to determine whether custom orthotics may be needed. Wearing the right running shoe is a great way to prevent injuries. It is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam before making decisions about the type of running shoe that is best for your feet.

The right running shoes can sometimes be difficult to find. With so many options on the market, it’s important to know the unique needs of your feet prior to buying running shoes. If you require assistance, 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 looking for running shoes, take into consideration:

• The type of running you will be doing

• The terrain you plan to run on

• Your gait or running pattern

• Your arch type 

• Other unique foot needs

A chiropodist can help by examining your feet and your gait to determine what types of shoes may be best for you. Some runners may require motion control shoes, which prevent your foot from rolling too far inward while you run. Others may need stability shoes, which offer more balance, cushioning, and support. When shopping for shoes, make sure that they are the right size, fit comfortably, and are made 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.

Flat feet, or pes planus, can develop over time due to various factors, with weakening of the posterior tibial tendon being a primary cause. This tendon, which supports the foot arch, can become strained from years of walking, running, and standing, leading to inflammation and eventual tearing. Factors such as obesity and pregnancy can worsen the strain. Other factors leading to flat feet include systemic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes, which affect foot health. Additionally, the natural aging process can contribute to the gradual flattening of the arches as tendons and ligaments lose elasticity and strength. If you notice changes in your foot structure or experience discomfort associated with flat feet, a chiropodist can provide expert assessment and a personalized treatment plan, which may include orthotics, to alleviate symptoms and prevent further complications. It is suggested that you contact this type of doctor who can help you to manage flat feet.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, 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 Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

• Overpronation of the foot

• Shin splints

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

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.

Running injuries can affect the feet, and it is beneficial to implement effective running injury prevention strategies into your fitness regime. Strengthen muscles and joints with core stability, leg strength, and balance exercises. Avoid increasing mileage or intensity too quickly to let your body adapt and minimize overuse injuries. Mix up your routine with cycling, swimming, or yoga to prevent overuse injuries and fortify various muscle groups. Listen to your body and prioritize rest days and adequate sleep for tissue repair and muscle recovery. It is helpful to invest in proper running shoes and gear to support your biomechanics. If you are interested in learning about additional running injury prevention techniques that can protect your feet, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist. 

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, 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. 

Some common running injuries include:

• Achilles tendonitis

• Shin splints

• Ankle sprains

• Stress fractures

• Plantar fasciitis

• Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

• Train slowly and gradually

• Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run

• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot

• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete

• Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs

• Warm-up prior to a run

• Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

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 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.