Daily Foot Care for Healthy Feet
Taking care of your feet each day is essential for overall health and comfort. Start by washing and thoroughly drying your feet daily to prevent infections and keep skin fresh. Staying active helps improve circulation, while simple foot stretches maintain flexibility and reduce stiffness. Choosing comfortable shoes and keeping toenails trimmed can also protect your feet from discomfort and injury. A chiropodist can provide expert care by addressing common concerns, such as corns, calluses, ingrown nails, and foot pain, which helps you maintain healthy feet for the long term. If you experience persistent foot issues, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can treat various foot conditions, and guide you on additional foot care routines.
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 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.
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 Scarborough, ON .
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.
Do You Suffer From Painful Feet?
Painful deformities, such as hammertoes, can be treated. Stop living with foot pain, and have beautiful feet again!
Types and Causes of Blisters on the Feet
Blisters on the feet can take different forms depending on their cause and appearance. Clear blisters are usually filled with serum, a fluid that protects damaged skin. Blood blisters occur when small blood vessels are damaged, and infected blisters may have a yellow or white tint due to pus. Friction is the most common cause of foot blisters, especially when wearing shoes that are either too tight or too loose. Moist, warm skin increases the chances of blister formation during walking or running. Certain medical conditions, infections, or skin disorders may also trigger blisters. In rare cases, exposure to chemicals or allergens can cause the skin to blister. A chiropodist can examine your feet, identify the source of blistering, and recommend treatment to support healing. If you have problematic blisters on your feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.
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.
Causes and Treatment of Lateral Foot Pain
Lateral foot pain is often caused by peroneal tendonitis, which affects the tendons running behind the outer ankle bone. These tendons can become irritated from overuse, ankle injuries, or issues like high arches or inward-tilting heels. Lateral foot pain usually builds up slowly and tends to worsen with activity, especially in sports that involve repetitive ankle movement or uneven surfaces. Common symptoms include soreness around the ankle, pain when turning the foot inward, and stiffness in the morning. Other possible causes of lateral foot pain include ligament sprains, cuboid syndrome, or strain on nearby tendons. A chiropodist can evaluate the foot for signs of injury, structural problems, or muscle weakness. Non-surgical care may involve reducing activity, using orthotics to support the foot, and doing specific exercises to strengthen the lower leg. A chiropodist can also track your progress and adjust your care plan as you recover. If the outer side of your foot hurts, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.
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.
Dealing With High Arches
High arches, also known as pes cavus, occur when the arch of the foot is raised higher than normal. This condition places extra pressure on the heel and the ball of the foot, which may lead to pain, instability, or difficulty finding comfortable footwear. People with high arches may notice that their foot appears hollow when standing, and the weight is unevenly distributed. Symptoms include shortened foot length, pain during walking or running, and difficulty fitting into shoes. High arches may develop due to underlying bone or nerve conditions, but, in some cases, the cause is unknown. A chiropodist can evaluate whether the arch is flexible or rigid, often with a physical exam and imaging tests. Custom orthotics or supportive footwear modifications are commonly recommended to improve stability and relieve pressure on the forefoot. If you are experiencing arch pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment options.
The biomechanics of your feet play an important role in your foot health. To learn more, 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.
Foot biomechanics refers to the study of the structure, function, and motion of the feet. The feet and ankles are a complex system consisting of many bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons that work together to move your feet. Understanding the unique biomechanics of your own feet can help you and your chiropodist make informed decisions about your foot health care. This includes decisions about the best preventive measures to avoid foot pain, the best treatment options for various foot problems, and finding the best shoes for your feet.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Biomechanics of the Feet
Foot biomechanics is an area of foot care that examines the structure, function, and motion of the feet. When these factors are carefully examined, they can provide more information about potential causes of foot and ankle pain and help your chiropodist find the best treatments for the unique needs of your feet.
The study of biomechanics dates back to ancient times but became more well known in modern history when findings claimed that changing or controlling the forces between the ankle and foot can lead to positive clinical outcomes when treating various foot and ankle conditions.
The advent of modern technology, such as computer analysis, has continued to expand on these discoveries and helps medical professionals make informed decisions about patient care. Understanding the biomechanics of the feet can help in the diagnosis of various conditions and prescribing targeted treatments that reduce or eliminate pain. For example, a chiropodist can analyze your gait, or walking pattern, and determine if there are any abnormalities that can be treated with custom orthotics or footwear modifications.
How Aging Affects the Feet
Aging can bring several changes to the feet that may impact comfort and mobility. As skin naturally loses elasticity and moisture, dryness and cracked heels can develop, sometimes leading to infection, if not properly managed. Ligaments may stretch over time, lowering the arch and contributing to flat feet, which often cause pain, swelling, and reduced stability. Toes may also be affected, with hammertoes forming from years of pressure, resulting in corns, calluses, and pain. Toenails often become thicker, brittle, and harder to trim. Circulatory problems may lead to swelling, which can affect mobility. A chiropodist can assess these age-related foot changes, provide guidance on supportive footwear, and manage skin and nail conditions. If you are a senior experiencing foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist to help improve and maintain your foot health.
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 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.
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 Scarborough, ON .