Corns on the Feet
Corns are hardened lumps of skin that are caused by excess friction. When wearing shoes or socks that don’t fit properly, the skin can become irritated from the shoes rubbing against them, or from squished toes rubbing against each other. This can lead to the development of a corn. Corns are usually benign, but they can sometimes cause discomfort or even pain. In those cases, seeking the care of a chiropodist is suggested.
There are three types of corns. Hard corns are commonly found on the tops of toes. They are characterized by a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin. Soft corns are typically found between the toes. They are soft due to continuous exposure to sweat. Seed corns are tiny and typically found on the soles of the feet. They usually do not cause any symptoms. Generally speaking, corns can be uncomfortable or painful when excess pressure is applied to them while standing, walking, or wearing poorly-fitted shoes or socks.
The best way to prevent corns is to wear shoes and socks that fit properly. Pain from a corn can be relieved by using over-the-counter corn pads, soaking your feet in lukewarm water, exfoliating and moisturizing the skin of the feet, and wearing comfortable shoes and socks. If these measures don’t help, then you may want to consult with a chiropodist for more treatment options.
Are You Suffering From Nerve Damage?
Neuropathy is a condition that can lead to numbness or loss of sensation in the feet, but it can also cause pain. This condition is more likely to develop for those who are diabetic, obese, or with high blood pressure.
Managing an Infected Foot Blister
Foot blisters are often caused by friction, typically from wearing tight or poorly fitting shoes, or engaging in repetitive activities such as walking or running. These blisters act as a natural defense mechanism, forming a protective bubble of fluid to shield the underlying skin from further damage. However, if the blister’s protective layer breaks, the risk of infection increases. Signs of an infected blister include redness, warmth, pain, swelling, or the presence of pus. In severe cases, the infection can spread, leading to conditions like cellulitis, which requires immediate attention. A chiropodist can help to manage foot blisters, particularly when infection is suspected. They can safely drain the blister and clean the area antiseptically to prevent further complications. Addressing infected blisters promptly can help avoid serious health risks. If you have an infected blister on the feet, 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 Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner 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 Scarborough, ON .
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.
Foot and Ankle Injuries in Runners
Running is a high-impact activity that often results in foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive stress. Plantar fasciitis, a common issue, causes pain in the heel and arch, often due to overuse or wearing improper footwear. Achilles tendonitis, marked by inflammation in the tendon connecting the calf to the heel, is another frequent running injury, typically caused by increased training intensity. Sprained ankles, one of the most common running injuries, occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are overstretched, often from uneven surfaces or missteps. Stress fractures in the foot, which are tiny cracks in the bones, can develop from repeated impact without adequate rest. A chiropodist can assist by evaluating your foot mechanics, recommending custom orthotics to distribute pressure evenly, and providing guidance on appropriate footwear and stretching routines. This can also help reduce recovery time and prevent recurring injuries, ensuring that you can run safely. If you need guidance dealing with a running injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment 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 Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner 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 Scarborough, ON .
Preventing Running Injuries
Running injuries are a serious cause for concern. Not only are they painful, but they can also become chronic or take a while to fully heal. This makes running even more difficult in the future. To maintain your mobility and keep on running, it’s important to take measures to avoid injury.
Some of the most common running injuries, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis, occur due to repetitive overuse or overtraining. When running, you should train slowly and gradually. Do not increase the mileage, intensity, or duration of your runs too quickly. Allow yourself time to rest and recover following each run. Avoid running on concrete or other hard surfaces if possible and choose dirt trails or grassy terrains instead. Hard surfaces don’t absorb shock well, putting more strain on your lower limbs.
It’s also important to wear the right shoes. Choose shoes that fit your feet properly and provide adequate cushioning and support. If you have any biomechanical differences or a dysfunctional gait, consult with a chiropodist to help you find the right running shoes.
In addition, having strong, flexible feet and ankles helps prevent injury. Do stretching and strengthening exercises daily for maximum benefits and warm-up prior to each run. To learn more about preventing running injuries, or if you have sustained a foot or ankle injury while running, please consult with a chiropodist near you.
Persistent Cold Feet in Winter
Cold feet are a common concern during winter, often due to the body’s natural response to colder temperatures. When exposed to the cold, blood vessels in the extremities constrict to keep the body’s core warm, which reduces circulation to the feet. While this is a normal bodily reaction, persistent cold feet may be a signal of underlying issues, such as anemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or peripheral artery disease, known as PAD. Anemia results from insufficient red blood cells, affecting oxygen delivery and causing cold sensations. Diabetes can impair circulation and nerve health, while hypothyroidism slows metabolism, impacting blood flow and temperature regulation. PAD occurs when narrowed arteries limit circulation, particularly to the feet. If cold feet are accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or changes in skin texture, a chiropodist can evaluate your foot health and provide guidance on ways to improve circulation. If you need help managing chronic cold feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.
The winter months can bring about new or worsening foot and ankle problems. If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.
Winter Foot Problems
- Cracked heels - Dry, cracked skin on the heels of the feet that is associated with cold, dry weather
- Athlete’s foot - A fungal infection on the skin of the feet
- Blisters - Fluid-filled bubbles of skin that usually form in response to friction
- Fractures - Broken bones in the feet or ankles
- Metatarsalgia - General foot pain
- Chilblains - Spasming of the small blood vessels in the toes in response to exposure to cold weather
- Raynaud’s disease - Numbness, pain, and color changes in the toes due to cold weather
Prevention
- Wear warm socks and shoes
- Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold
- Moisturize the heels regularly
- Keep your feet clean and dry
- Walk carefully in areas that may be icy
- Wear non-slip shoes
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Winter
Winter can be a time of new or worsening foot and ankle problems. Wintertime foot problems can be caused by a combination of cold weather, a more sedentary lifestyle, an increase in body weight, wearing unsupportive shoes, and weather conditions that can increase the risk of injury.
The cold weather can wreak havoc on your feet. A cold, dry climate can be responsible for dry, cracked heels. More than just an aesthetic problem, these cracks can be deep, painful, and prone to bleeding. To prevent them, it’s suggested that you take extra care to exfoliate and moisturize your feet in the winter and wear shoes and socks that protect your feet from the cold. Cold weather can also cause the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) in your toes to spasm, leading to problems such as chilblains and Raynaud’s disease.
On the other hand, feet that are too wet from sweat are also a problem. In the winter, many people wear warm, thick socks made from materials that trap moisture. This creates the perfect breeding ground for fungi that can cause athlete’s foot and fungal toenails infections. Wear moisture-wicking socks to avoid this issue.
A more sedentary lifestyle and weight gain during the winter can put strain on the feet and ankles, increasing the risk of injuries that are caused by excess strain and pressure. Plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, and general foot pain are both common.
Icy weather conditions can increase your risk of twisting an ankle or falling and sustaining an injury. To avoid this, wear thick-soled, non-slip boots and take extra care to look out for ice when walking outside. If you have any foot or ankle problems this winter, it is suggested that you seek the care of a chiropodist.
Common Causes of Foot Pain
Foot pain can stem from various conditions, with two common causes being plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This condition often leads to sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the joints. When it affects the foot, it typically causes pain in the toes, midfoot, or ankle, accompanied by stiffness and swelling. Both conditions can make walking or standing for extended periods difficult. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot conditions.
Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner 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 Scarborough, ON .
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.