Athlete's Foot
Athlete’s foot, also known as tinea pedis, is a fungal infection of the skin of the feet. The fungus that causes athlete’s foot lives and thrives in warm, moist environments such as public swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers. This fungus can infect the feet through a cut or crack in the skin. Athlete’s foot is also highly contagious, and the fungus can spread from person to person through sharing personal items such as shoes, socks, or towels.
The symptoms of athlete’s foot include itching, stinging, or burning between your toes or on the soles of your feet, itchy foot blisters, and dry, cracked, or peeling skin on the feet. The infection can also spread to your toenails, leading to discoloration, thickening, and crumbling.
Through a physical examination, athlete’s foot can be diagnosed by your chiropodist based on its symptoms. Sometimes, a skin test may be ordered to confirm the diagnosis. Athlete’s foot can be treated with both oral and topical over-the-counter or prescription medications. You can prevent a fungal infection by maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing shoes when walking in public areas, avoiding sharing personal items with others, and keeping your feet clean and dry.
Foot Pain Caused by Weightlifting
Weightlifting can lead to foot pain when exercises like squats, lunges, or deadlifts place repeated stress on the feet. Heavy resistance, poor lifting technique, and lack of recovery time can cause such overuse injuries as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, or muscle strains. People with flat or high arches may be more likely to develop foot problems, especially if they wear shoes that are too tight or lack proper support. Previous foot or ankle injuries, poor flexibility, and high training volume can also increase the risk. Continuing to train through pain may worsen injuries and delay healing. A chiropodist can help by assessing your foot alignment and gait, offering footwear recommendations, and providing custom orthotics if needed. If you experience foot or ankle pain after lifting weights, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.
Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, 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 Injuries Among Athletes:
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Ankle strains or sprains
- Plantar fasciitis
- Fractures
- Turf toe
- Joint dislocations
- Sever’s disease
- Morton’s neuroma
Symptoms
Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle.
Diagnosis
Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries
Participating in sports is great for maintaining your health and fitness, but can sometimes result in injuries to your feet or ankles. Common sports-related foot and ankle injuries include Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains, stress fractures, turf toe, and plantar fasciitis.
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury in which the Achilles tendon located at the back of your ankle becomes inflamed due to overuse or biomechanical issues with the feet. Symptoms of Achilles tendonitis include pain in the lower calf, swelling, stiffness, redness, warmth, and reduced strength and range of motion.
Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle are overstretched or torn. Depending on the severity of the injury, you may experience symptoms such as localized pain, swelling, and bruising at the site of the sprain, a limited ability to move the affected ankle, and difficulty walking.
Stress fractures are fine cracks that occur in the bones when they can’t bear the load placed on them. These fractures often occur in the foot bones and get worse over time if they are not promptly diagnosed and treated. Symptoms of stress fractures in the feet include tenderness, deep and dull or sharp and localized pain, weakness, swelling, and bruising.
Turf toe is a sprain of the largest joint in the big toe. It can cause symptoms such as pain, swelling, or tenderness that vary in intensity depending on the severity of the injury.
Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. This condition usually causes stabbing heel pains, arch pain, and pain when taking your first steps after a long period of rest.
If you have injured your feet or ankles while playing sports, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist who can diagnose and treat your condition and get you back on your feet.
We Can Treat Your Foot or Ankle Pain
Foot or ankle pain can negatively affect your day-to-day life and can occur due to several different conditions. Pain can also be an indicator of a more serious underlying condition, which is why you should seek professional help as soon as you notice any abnormalities in your feet.
Understanding Foot Pain and What You Can Do About It
Foot pain can affect anyone, whether you are an athlete, spend long hours on your feet, or simply wear unsupportive shoes. It can show up in many forms, from sharp heel pain and aching arches to sore toes and ball-of-foot discomfort. Sometimes, the pain is temporary, but if it persists, it can start to limit your daily activities. Many factors contribute to foot pain, including plantar fasciitis, bunions, arthritis, tendonitis, and stress fractures. Wearing poor footwear, biomechanical issues, and overuse are often underlying causes. The good news is that most foot pain can be managed with early diagnosis and treatment. Rest, supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and targeted exercises are some of the options that can make a big difference. If you are living with persistent foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an accurate diagnosis and a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot 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.
Causes
There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including:
- Plantar fasciitis
- Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes
- Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet
- Arthritis
- Flat feet
- Ingrown toenails
Symptoms
The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you.
Common types of foot pain include:
- Heel pain
- Arch pain
- Toe pain
- Ball of foot pain
- Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality
- Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation
Diagnosis
A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses.
Treatment
Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Foot Pain
Foot pain is a common symptom of a large variety of injuries and medical conditions. A diagnosis can be narrowed down by describing the locations and type of pain that you are experiencing.
Pain in the heel is often caused by plantar fasciitis, an inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis usually causes stabbing heel pains and the pain is at its worst upon arising in the morning or when taking your first steps after a long period of rest. Heel pain can also be caused by heel spurs, bruises on the fat pad of the heel, or heel fractures.
Pain in the ball of the foot can be caused by Morton’s neuroma, in which the tissue of the nerves between the bases of the toes become thickened, causing tingling and numbness. Other causes of pain in the ball of the foot include metatarsalgia or sesamoiditis.
Pain in the arch of the foot can be caused by plantar fasciitis or having flat feet or fallen arches. Pain in the toes can be caused by many conditions, including gout, bunions, hammertoes, ingrown toenails, toe sprains or fractures, arthritis, and corns.
To find out what is causing your foot pain, it is recommended that you consult with a chiropodist, who can diagnose your condition and offer the appropriate treatments.
How Pregnancy Affects the Feet
Pregnancy brings significant changes to a woman's body, including their feet. Many people experience swelling, known as edema, due to increased fluid retention, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty wearing shoes. Hormonal changes, particularly the increase in relaxin and progesterone, cause ligaments to become more flexible, potentially reducing arch support. This, combined with weight gain, may lead to foot pain, muscle strain, and even a lasting increase in foot size. Changes in posture and balance can also alter the way a person walks, sometimes resulting in a waddling gait. Additionally, swelling and increased pressure on the feet can contribute to ingrown toenails, which may become infected, if left untreated. A chiropodist can help manage these changes by assessing foot structure, recommending appropriate footwear, and providing treatment for painful conditions, such as ingrown toenails or arch strain. If you are experiencing foot problems during pregnancy, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.
Pregnancy can affect your feet in many ways, often causing pain or discomfort, as well as reduced mobility. If you are pregnant and experience foot 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.
During pregnancy, your belly isn’t the only part of your body swelling. The whole body may experience swelling, especially in the feet and ankles. Since they carry the weight of both your body and the baby’s, caring for your feet during pregnancy is very important.
Common Foot Conditions During Pregnancy
Various foot conditions can develop during the course of a pregnancy, including:
- Swelling of the feet and ankles
- Fallen arches, leading to acquired flat feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Aching, sore feet
- Changes in the toenails
Caring for the Feet During Pregnancy
Some things that you can do to help maintain the health of your feet during pregnancy include:
- Wearing comfortable shoes
- Resting and elevating your feet
- Icing sore areas, such as the arch
- Keeping your toenails trimmed
- Soaking and massaging the feet
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Pregnancy and Foot Health
Many changes can happen in every part of your body during pregnancy — and the feet are no exception. Common foot conditions that pregnant women face include swollen feet, fallen arches, and plantar fasciitis.
An increase in the volume of blood and fluids in your body, coupled with an increase in overall fluid retention due to hormones, can lead to swelling in the feet. This is especially common during the third trimester. You may be able to reduce swelling by drinking plenty of water, reducing caffeine intake, resting your feet frequently, and sitting with your legs uncrossed to promote circulation.
During pregnancy, your hormones can cause changes in the structure of your feet. An increase in hormones that relax your ligaments could affect the ligaments in the arches of your feet, causing them to become flat. This condition is known as fallen arches, or acquired flat feet. As the foot flattens, your shoe size may increase and you may need footwear that offers more arch support.
The weight that you gain during pregnancy is carried by your feet. This can put them under extra strain and lead to aches, soreness, or a condition known as plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is caused by an inflammation of the ligament that connects the heel bone to the toes and can lead to heel and arch pain.
If you are pregnant and are experiencing pain or discomfort in your feet, it is recommended that you consult with a chiropodist.
Shoe Fitting Tips for Diabetics
Proper shoe selection and fitting are essential for people with diabetes, as suitable footwear can significantly reduce the risk of foot injuries. Diabetic patients, especially those experiencing neuropathy, or loss of sensation, must pay special attention to shoe fitting to prevent complications like corns, calluses, blisters, or infections, which could lead to more serious issues. When shopping for shoes, do so later in the day when feet are naturally swollen. Measure your feet both seated and standing to check length, width, and depth. The shoe must comfortably accommodate the ball of your foot at its widest point and provide enough toe space without feeling overly tight. Choose footwear made of breathable material with a firm heel, secure fasteners, and good shock absorption. Consulting a chiropodist can ensure your shoes fit properly and offer adequate support. If you need help dealing with diabetic foot care, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist.
Finding the right shoes for you can ensure your comfort and help maintain proper foot health. If you suffer from foot pain and need help finding the right shoes for you, 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.
Tips to Find Great Shoes
Finding shoes that are well-fitting, supportive, and comfortable can be key in maintaining your overall foot health, but can sometimes seem like a monumental task.
Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when shopping for shoes.
- Shop in a brick and mortar store - Your shoe size can change throughout your lifetime. You will be able to try on shoes before you buy them to ensure a proper fit. A salesperson can also provide recommendations on what shoes best serve your specific needs.
- Try shoes on at the end of the day - Your feet swell throughout the day. By trying shoes on in the evening when the feet are at their largest, you ensure a good fit and shoes that are comfortable all day.
- Have your feet measured - Find the right fit by having your feet measured at the shoe store. A salesperson can help by measuring both feet with a Brannock device to determine your true size.
- Opt for comfort and support - Some shoes, such as high heels and flip flops, may look great but can cause damage to the feet over time. Look for shoes that have a low heel, adequate arch support, a wide toe box, and are made of breathable materials.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .
Tips on Finding the Perfect Shoe For You
Wearing the right shoes is important for more reasons than your appearance - it can also benefit the health of your feet. Ill-fitting, unsupportive, and uncomfortable shoes can cause or contribute to many foot problems, including bunions, corns, calluses, and hammertoes. Comfortable, supportive, and properly fitted shoes, on the other hand, can prevent and relieve foot pain.
When shopping for shoes, there are several things to keep in mind. It is best to try on shoes prior to purchasing them. Your feet swell throughout the day and are at their largest in the late afternoon or early evening. It is best to try on shoes at this time to ensure that they will fit your feet throughout the day. Having both feet measured in a shoe store can also help ensure that you get the right size. Your feet grow and change throughout your lifetime, even in adulthood, so your shoe size can change. When you are trying on shoes, be sure to walk around the store in them to see how they fit. If you wear orthotic inserts, bring them with you when you go shopping so you can try them out in the various shoes you try on.
But what kinds of shoes should you look for? It’s best to avoid shoes that have excessively high heels and narrow or pointed toes, which can increase the pressure on your toe joints and cause foot deformities. A wide toe area that allows you to wiggle your toes will likely be more comfortable. Shoes with a soft but rigid back will prevent your heel from slipping while you walk. You should also look for shoes with adequate cushioning that are made with breathable materials.
For more information about how to find the right shoes for you, please consult with a chiropodist.