Toe Pain
The toes are hard at work every time you stand, walk, run, hop, skip, or jump. They help to push the foot off the ground and to keep you balanced. When a toe is in pain it can negatively impact your normal daily activities. Among the numerous causes for toe pain, the chief one is trauma, such as stubbing a toe or dropping something heavy on it. This often causes severe bruising and affects your ability to bear weight. Other common causes of toe pain are bunions, hammertoes, nerve damage, and toenail problems. In addition, toe pain can be caused by gout (a type of arthritis), rheumatoid arthritis, sprains, or warts. Further causes include toenail infections, ingrown toenails, and athlete’s foot infections. Treatment by a chiropodist varies according to the underlying cause of the pain. In case of a broken or severely bruised toe, the remedy is usually to brace or splint the toe. Certain medications can be prescribed to relieve pain and injections may be administered. X-rays and imaging tests may be performed to determine the cause and severity of the toe pain. Custom orthotics may also be prescribed and fitted to counteract toe deformities or other problems. If your toe pain continues or worsens, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for an exam, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment options.
Risk Factors for Gout
Gout is a painful form of inflammatory arthritis that often begins in the feet, especially the big toe. Several factors can increase the likelihood of developing gout. A diet rich in red meat, shellfish, and sugary beverages contributes to elevated uric acid levels, a key trigger for gout. Being overweight places additional stress on joints and also interferes with the body's ability to eliminate uric acid. Genetics play a significant role, as some individuals inherit a tendency to produce or retain excess uric acid. If you have a family history of gout or notice recurring foot pain, especially at night, it is strongly suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can help you to manage this painful condition.
Gout is a painful form of arthritis that can affect anyone. 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 Gout?
Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, redness, and tenderness in the joints. This type of arthritis is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid crystallizes in a joint, often the joint of the big toe, it can bring about a gout attack.
Symptoms
Symptoms of gout include:
- Sudden and severe pain
- Swelling
- Redness
- Warmth
- Joint stiffness
- Joint deformity
Diagnosis
A chiropodist will ask questions about your personal and family medical history, followed by an examination of the affected joint. Laboratory tests and x-rays are sometimes ordered to determine if the inflammation is caused by something other than gout. A sample of fluid taken from your joint can show whether it contains uric acid.
Treatment
Prescription medications or injections are used to treat the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Patients with chronic gout can also use behavioral modifications such as diet, exercise, and decreased intake of alcohol to help minimize the frequency of gout attacks. Foods and beverages that are high in purines should be avoided since purines are converted in the body to uric acid. If left untreated, this painful condition can leave your joint permanently damaged and swollen.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that can affect the foot. Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid in the bloodstream. When uric acid levels become excessive, this substance can create crystals in the joints, causing severe pain, intense swelling, redness, and warmth. Typically this occurs in the big toe joint.
You may be at an increased risk of developing gout if you are a middle-aged man or postmenopausal woman, have family members who have had gout, drink alcohol, take certain medications, or have a medical condition like high blood pressure, kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes, or sleep apnea. Gout may also be more likely to develop if you consume a diet high in sugars or purines, a substance that turns into uric acid when it breaks down. Foods high in purines include organ meats, red meat, oily fish, certain vegetables, beans, and mushrooms.
Gout that is left untreated can become chronic and lead to arthritis. Gout can be treated by a chiropodist. Treatment options may include taking medications to relieve pain and prevent future gout attacks, modifying your diet, and reducing alcohol intake. For more information about gout, please consult with a chiropodist.
Plantar Warts Can Be Treated!
Plantar warts are small growths that develop on parts of the feet that bear weight. They're typically found on the bottom of the foot. Don't live with plantar warts, and call us today!
How Psoriasis Can Affect the Feet
Psoriasis can affect the feet by causing red, scaly, or cracked patches of skin that may become painful or itchy. In some cases, a condition termed palmoplantar pustular psoriasis can cause small pus-filled blisters on the soles. Unlike athlete’s foot, which is caused by a fungus and is contagious, psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that does not spread between people. However, because both can look similar, especially between the toes or on the soles, a proper diagnosis by a chiropodist is important. Psoriasis on the feet may be triggered by stress, skin injuries, weather changes, or certain medications. Nail changes and joint stiffness can also occur. Although there is no cure, treatment includes topical medications, light therapy, or oral medication for more severe cases. Managing foot psoriasis may take time and can require a number of treatment approaches. If you have symptoms of foot psoriasis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for expert advice.
Systemic diseases are medical problems that affect the entire body. Many systemic diseases can bring about foot and ankle problems. If you have a systemic disease that affects your lower limbs, 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.
Which systemic diseases can affect the feet?
- Peripheral artery disease - Causes inadequate blood flow to the lower limbs
- Peripheral neuropathy - Nerve damage in the nerves that supply the feet and ankles
- Diabetes - Can cause nerve damage, poor circulation, and a weakened immune system that can lead to the formation of poorly healing wounds on the feet
- Arthritis - A disease of the joints that damages joint lining, it often affects the small joints of the feet and the ankle joints
- Gout - A build up of uric acid in the bloodstream that forms crystals that can lodge in the joints
How can a chiropodist help?
Chiropodists help people who have systemic disease manage and maintain their foot health in a variety of ways. They can diagnose a multitude of foot and ankle problems, screen for certain systemic conditions, teach patients about proper foot care, and provide information about preventive strategies that patients could employ to avoid complications from their systemic diseases. Chiropodists can also treat foot and ankle problems through medications, foot and ankle exercises, orthotics, and lifestyle recommendations, among many other potential treatments
If you are living with a systemic illness that impacts your foot health, please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Systemic Diseases of the Feet
Systemic diseases affect the entire body, rather than a single organ or body part. When a patient presents with a systemic disease, they may also exhibit foot and ankle symptoms. Some of the most common systemic diseases that affect the feet and ankles include peripheral artery disease (PAD), peripheral neuropathy, diabetes, arthritis, and gout.
Peripheral artery disease is a condition caused by a buildup of plaque in the arteries that supply the lower limbs. This causes the arteries to narrow and harden, thereby reducing blood flow to the feet and ankles. Though often asymptomatic in its early stages, people with PAD can develop symptoms as the disease worsens. These may include pain in the lower limbs, cramping, numbness, tingling, difficulty walking, discoloration, hair loss, and wounds.
Peripheral neuropathy refers to nerve damage in the lower limbs. This condition is often accompanied by diabetes. Symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include numbness, a pins and needles sensation, sharp, throbbing, or burning pain, muscle weakness, and difficulty walking.
Diabetes affects blood sugar. When blood sugar levels in the body are too high, multiple organ systems and biological processes are damaged. Diabetics often develop poor circulation, peripheral neuropathy, and a weakened immune system. Together, these problems can lead to wounds forming on the lower limbs. Because of neuropathy, the wounds may go undetected until they have become serious. Poor circulation means that the wounded tissues do not receive enough nutrients to heal properly, leading to slow and poor healing. Meanwhile, a weakened immune system could make the wound more likely to become infected. Proper wound care is a must for people with diabetes.
Arthritis is a condition characterized by damage to the lining of the joints. There are various different types of arthritis, but the symptoms are similar. Arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, swelling, redness, and inflammation that makes it difficult to retain your mobility.
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by urea crystals lodging themselves in your joints. These crystals aggravate the joint, leading to sudden and intense pain, swelling, and inflammation.
If you are living with a systemic disease that affects your lower limbs, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist.
How to Effectively Use a Cane
Using a cane correctly can improve stability, reduce pressure on an injured leg, and support safer movement. It is important to hold the cane in the hand opposite the weaker leg, which helps balance your weight more effectively. As you walk, move the cane and your weaker leg forward together, then step through with your stronger leg. Take small steps and keep the cane close to your body to avoid strain or imbalance. When climbing stairs, lead with your stronger leg. When going down stairs, lead with your weaker leg and cane. Canes come in various designs, including standard single-point and quad canes with four tips for added support. A properly fitted cane should reach the crease of your wrist when your arm is at your side, allowing a gentle bend at the elbow. A chiropodist can assess your walking pattern, recommend the most appropriate cane, and guide you on safe usage. If you have foot problems and must use a cane for assistance, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice.
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 .
Elderly Foot Care
Like any other part of the body, the feet are vulnerable to wear and tear throughout our lives. As we age, our feet may require more care and attention. Elderly people are especially prone to developing a variety of foot problems, including dry skin, corns, calluses, blisters, ingrown toenails, deformities, arthritis, fungal infections, and plantar warts. Additionally, systemic conditions such as diabetes or poor circulation can have noticeable effects on foot health.
The first step to preventing foot health problems at any age is to establish a good daily foot care routine. Washing the feet with soap and warm water daily, then drying them thoroughly is very important. Applying a moisturizer to the soles of the feet can help prevent dry skin. When trimming the toenails, use nail clippers to trim them straight across. This can prevent painful ingrown toenails. Doing daily foot exercises and stretches can help maintain the strength and flexibility of the feet.
A critical step of the daily foot care routine, especially for those who have systemic conditions like diabetes, is the daily foot inspection. Check your feet each day for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities. By catching and treating any foot problems early, you can prevent infection and other serious complications. A hand mirror can be used to help you see any hard-to-reach areas.
Another important aspect of caring for your feet is wearing the right shoes and socks. Footwear should be comfortable, supportive, flexible, and made of breathable materials. For some people, orthotic inserts can help make shoes more comfortable.
If you have any foot problems, or questions about maintaining the health of your feet, please consult with a chiropodist.
Symptoms and Causes of Corns
Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop on the feet in response to repeated pressure or friction, often caused by wearing ill-fitting shoes or structural changes in the toes. Corns tend to appear over bony areas, such as the tops of the toes, between the toes, or on the sole, and can be either hard or soft depending on their location. Unlike calluses, which are broader and generally painless, corns are usually more defined and may become tender when touched or pressed. People with foot deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes, are more likely to develop corns due to increased rubbing inside shoes. Age-related thinning of the fat pads in the feet can also lead to more friction and corn formation. A chiropodist can remove corns safely and examine any underlying foot issues that contribute to their development. Addressing the source of pressure can help prevent recurrence. If you have pain from corns on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for helpful advice.
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 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 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 Scarborough, ON .
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.