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December 26, 2024
While corns and plantar warts may look alike at first glance, they differ significantly in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. If you’re unsure about whether you have a corn or a plantar wart, visiting a chiropodist can help you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Whether it’s corn enucleation or wart removal, timely intervention with a podiatrist or chiropodist at a foot clinic will ensure your feet stay healthy and pain-free.
What are Corns?
Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. They typically form on the feet, especially on weight-bearing areas like the tops and sides of toes or the soles. Foot corns are technically a protective response to friction, and an attempt to shield the skin beneath them. The hardened layer is your body’s method of preventing skin ulceration.
There are different types of foot corns, each with its own characteristics. Hard corns are small, round, painful and often found on the top of the toes, caused by pressure or friction. Soft corns, which are usually located between the toes, are white and rubbery due to moisture. Seed corns are tiny, painless and appear on the sole of the foot.
Corns: Causes, Risk Factors and Symptoms
Generally speaking, corns are caused by foot care choices that lead to excessive friction on parts of the foot. They may also be linked to other foot conditions. For example, an abnormal gait pattern due to flat feet or plantar fasciitis can lead to pressure points. This can then cause corn formation in vulnerable areas of your foot. Here are some key risk factors and causes:
Wearing high heels often.
Wearing shoes that are the wrong size.
Wearing uncomfortable shoes.
Not wearing socks with your shoes.
Irregular walking motion / abnormal gait.
Corn Symptoms Include:
Thickened, hardened areas of skin on the toes, sides, or soles of the feet
Rough or waxy texture on the affected area
Localized pain or tenderness, especially when pressure is applied
Yellowish or greyish appearance, sometimes with a central core
Discomfort during walking or wearing tight-fitting shoes
Interference with daily activities in severe cases
What are Plantar Warts?
Plantar warts are localized skin infections caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically types 1, 2, 4, 27, and 57, which target the epidermis—the outermost layer of the skin. Many people worry and assume HPV will lead to cancer, but there are actually over 200 types, many of which do not cause cancer. The strain of HPV can sometimes determine how painful a plantar wart may be. For example, HPV 1 may cause deeper, more painful warts, while HPV 2 causes more superficial ones.
These warts develop on the plantar surface of the foot, which includes the sole and heel, areas that bear significant weight and endure pressure during standing and walking. Unlike some other HPV-related warts, plantar warts are non-cancerous and are confined to the feet, as the virus is adapted to thrive in the thicker, tougher skin found on the soles. Plantar warts can last anywhere from two months to several years, especially if left untreated.
For individuals with a healthy immune system, plantar warts are generally not a significant health concern. However, they can make activities like walking, standing, or running very uncomfortable and painful. The pressure exerted on the wart may cause irritation and discomfort, which causes hardened skin to build up over the wart. The latter is also a big reason people confuse them with corns or calluses.
It’s important to seek treatment as soon as you notice any symptoms: Even if it's not interfering with your daily routine, it is still contagious so you can infect others. In addition, addressing these symptoms promptly with a foot specialist like a chiropodist or podiatrist can prevent further complications.
Plantar Warts: Causes, Risk Factors and Symptoms
Plantar warts are contagious and similar to fungal infections like athlete’s foot in that you can contract them by walking barefoot in public, moist spaces. Here are some more details on what activities or risk factors may lead to plantar warts:
You have a weakened immune system. Many people's immune system can recognize and fight off the HPV virus before warts form. However, people with a poorly functioning immune system are more susceptible as their body is less equipped recognize and fight the HPV virus. People who are immunocompromised may take longer to fight the virus, meaning that that the warts will take longer to treat.
You’re 65 or older, or a child or teenager: Plantar warts can be more common in these age brackets. For children, their immune systems are still developing, and they’re more likely to share communal spaces like gyms and locker rooms. For seniors, the immune system may be compromised.
Environment exposure and being barefoot: Frequenting warm, moist environments like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers increases exposure to HPV. These areas are ideal breeding grounds for the virus, making it easy to contract through bare feet. Walking barefoot on abrasive surfaces, like pool decks or gym mats, can also create micro-injuries that allow HPV to enter.
Skin cracks and abrasions: Any break in the skin, including cracks, blisters, or injuries, can act as an entry point for the virus.
Poor foot hygiene practices: Neglecting foot care, such as not cleaning feet thoroughly or allowing them to remain damp for prolonged periods, can create conditions favourable for infection.
Plantar Wart Symptoms Include:
Rough, thick circular patches that have similar colouring and shape to a cauliflower.
Warts that form on the heels, around your toes, or on the ball of the foot.
Other discoloration: brown, pink, yellow or gray.
“Wart seeds” – which look like a small black dot in the wart
Pain, tenderness and general discomfort.
Bleeding.
Both cluster and solitary growth are possible.
Corns and Plantar Warts: Key Differences
While warts and corns can look and feel very similar, the main difference lies what causes them. Corns are caused by the body's response to excessive friction against the skin, whereas plantar warts are caused by strands of the contagious HPV virus.
Here are two additional ways to help distinguish between corns and plantar warts.
Pain type: Plantar warts may cause pain when pinched from the sides, whereas corns are tender when pressure is applied directly to them.
Appearance: Corns have a “waxy” yellowish appearance, whereas plantar warts often have a black dot in the centre. And while difficult to tell, warts go much deeper into the skin than corns.
Location: Corns tend to occur in the non-weight bearing parts of the foot, like between or on top of the toes. Conversely, plantar warts tend to occur on the weight-bearing parts of the foot, like the ball of the foot.
Multiplication and Spreading: Corns are concentrated in pressure-points on the foot and don't typically "spread". Plantar warts, however, can multiply and spread to other parts of the foot if the virus is allowed to grow unchecked.
Corns and Plantar Warts: Treatment and Prevention
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Many services performed by a chiropodist or podiatrist are available at a foot clinic and can target both conditions.
How to Treat Plantar Warts
Plantar wart treatment requires a specialized approach. As they're caused by a virus, they cannot simply be "removed". Rather, depending on the severity of the warts, the frequency of re-exposure to the virus, and the person's immune system, warts can take multiple treatments spanning over several months.
Here are the different treatment options for plantar warts, in order from most conservative to most aggressive:
Salicylic acid, a common over-the-counter treatment, gradually softens the wart and sheds layers of skin. Although it is not painful, it may take longer to see results. For a faster alternative, a chiropodist can prescribe a higher-strength salicylic acid solution to be applied at home with follow-up visits. The chiropodist will then routinely debride the dead skin covering the wart to allow better penetration of the medication.
Cryotherapy, or freezing, is another standard method where liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart to freeze and destroy the wart tissue. This treatment may cause temporary pain and requires multiple sessions, each 2 -3 weeks apart.
Cantharone (canthacur) is an acid applied by a chiropodist that causes a blister to form and the wart to lift off the skin, typically within a few days. Although this treatment is more effective and doesn't take as long as cryotherapy, the resulting blister may be uncomfortable. This is the most common treatment used by chiropodists. It requires multiple treatments, each 2 - 3 weeks apart (though typically not as many as cryotherapy).
Wart needling is a surgical procedure. It involves puncturing the wart multiple times with a sterile needle to trigger the body's immune response. It is a good option for multiple or resistant warts.
Finally, excision involves surgical removal of the wart. It is reserved for stubborn warts that don't respond to other treatments, and has a risk of scarring. It is seldom used.
How to Treat Corns
A chiropodist or podiatrist can treat corns by gently shaving down the thickened skin with sterilized tools. The treatment is effective, safe, typically painless, and will discomfort without risking infection.
Inserts and custom orthotics can also play a significant role in managing and preventing recurrent corns. Custom orthotics are specially designed to provide support and distribute pressure evenly across the foot. This reduces the friction and pressure points that can lead to corns. Over-the-counter insoles and inserts can also provide extra cushioning and improve the fit of shoes, offering relief and preventing further irritation.
Self care can also go a long way. Soaking corns in warm water softens them, making it easier to reduce its size. It's also important to moisturize your feet regularly to make the skin stronger and more flexible, which will reduce its sensitivity to friction and hardened skin buildup. Toe pads or non-medicated patches can also protect corns from further irritation and promote healing.
Lastly, but equally important, you must find the right shoes to wear for each season and choose shoes with a proper fit. This can help prevent the pressure and friction that causes foot corns. A complimentary shoe fitting at a foot clinic can help!
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December 5, 2024
Seasonal changes can significantly impact diabetic foot health. In the summer, heat and sweating can create challenges, while cold temperatures and wet weather during the winter present other risks. That's why diabetic winter foot care is so important. Today we'll talk about:
You'll learn all about:
The connection between diabetes and foot health
The importance of diabetic foot care in the winter
Our Foot Specialists' top tips for diabetic winter foot care
The Connection Between Diabetes and Foot Health
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Approximately 800 million adults worldwide have diabetes. It isn’t often immediately recognized as a foot condition on its own, but a serious issue called diabetic foot (a broad term encompassing a wide range of problems) can occur. As a result, foot care should be a top health priority for people with diabetes.
Reduced Blood Flow
People with Diabetes are at risk of developing neuropathy. There are four types, with peripheral symmetric neuropathy (which affects the feet and hands) being the most relevant for diabetes patients.
This condition develops when elevated glucose levels lead to a series of metabolic and vascular changes that impair nerve function. Over time, excess glucose triggers oxidative stress and inflammation, damaging the small blood vessels (microvasculature) that supply the nerves. Without adequate blood flow, nerves are deprived of oxygen and essential nutrients, resulting in their gradual deterioration.
Reduced Sensation
This damage primarily affects sensory nerves, which are responsible for transmitting pain, temperature, and pressure signals to the brain. This progressive loss of sensation makes it difficult for individuals to detect injuries or changes in their feet, such as cuts, blisters, or pressure points. These minor skin issues can turn to diabetic ulcers (open sores or wounds) when ignored.
Reduced Immune Function
Diabetes can also contribute to ulcer formation due to its impact on the immune system. High blood sugar levels over time impair the function of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections and promoting wound healing. When blood glucose levels are consistently elevated, it reduces the ability of these immune cells to properly respond to bacteria or other pathogens. This makes it more difficult for the body to prevent wounds that may develop on the feet - including minor cuts, blisters, pressure sores or even calluses - from getting infected. As a result, these small injuries are more likely to become infected, and ultimately lead to diabetic ulcers.
The impaired immune function, combined with poor circulation and reduced sensation, creates a perfect environment for these infections and ulcers to progress, further delaying healing and increasing the risk of severe complications, such as deep tissue infections or gangrene.
Why is Diabetic Foot Care Important in the Winter?
Cold and wet weather can impact everyone's feet, but winter can have a more severe effect on people with diabetes.
Cold Weather and Diabetes: Risk Factors
Low temperatures: Cold air can reduce circulation by constricting blood vessels, particularly in the lower extremities, making it even more difficult for already-compromised vessels to supply the feet with sufficient oxygen and nutrients. This further impairs the body’s ability to heal wounds.
Wet conditions: Snow, rain and sleet getting into your shoes and socks is a recipe for disaster for diabetics. You can develop blisters, sores and infections (which are all ulcer risks) when you let moisture build for too long.
Dry skin: On the other hand, it is also not ideal for your skin to be too dry. By nature, cold air is very dry. Indoor heating makes the air even dryer by extracting humidity. The lack of moisture in the air dries out the skin - including the skin on our feet. This makes calluses form faster and can lead to issues like cracked heels. And since diabetes impairs the body's ability to heal dry skin and cracked heels, the cracks can easily split open, get infected and turn into a diabetic ulcer.
Winter Foot Care for Diabetics
Podiatrists and chiropodists strongly advise individuals with diabetes to take extra care of their feet during the winter months due to the increased risks posed by the elements. If you have diabetes, keep reading to learn the best tips for winter foot care - all recommended by the foot specialists at our Toronto foot clinic.
Practice Skin Care
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Moisturizing your feet regularly is one of the most important steps to combat dry, cracked skin. However, our foot specialists also caution against using harsh creams full of chemicals and fragrances - especially if you have diabetes. Opt for medically respected products with natural ingredients, like Gehwol’s Lipidro and Dermal Therapy Heel Care, that replenish the natural amount of moisture in the skin while also healing cracks.
Only moisturize your feet after thoroughly cleaning and drying. Check out this ultimate guide to moisturizing your feet to master four easy steps. While you're at it, check out the best foot hygiene routine.
Perform Foot Stretches and Exercises
Movement is one of the most effective ways to manage diabetic foot concerns and counteract the impact of cold weather on blood flow. Low-impact cardio exercises such as swimming and walking can assist people in managing blood flow and sensation loss, respectively. Removing the elements of competition and high strain exertion found in other sports, and focusing solely on safety and motion, is a great way to encourage activity.
There are also targeted, low-impact and easy-to-perform foot stretches and exercises designed for people with diabetes. The goal is to stimulate blood circulation as much as possible while still considering any physical limitations. Below are three light exercises you can try from home, and while they may be hard to perform at first, practice makes perfect!
Toe Curls: Sit with your back straight, feet planted, and use a towel to scrunch your toes and pull it toward you, repeating five times per foot.
Figure Eights: Lift one foot while keeping the heel on the floor, move your foot in a "figure eight" motion, repeating five to 10 times per foot in each direction.
Single Leg Lifts: Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, hands on hips, and lift your left foot straight out in front, keeping your leg straight and foot flexed, repeating five times per foot.
To learn more about these exercises, check out the best stretches and exercises for diabetes.
Practice Moisture Control
Keep your feet reasonably dry as much as possible. This may mean changing your socks and shoes several times per day, and thoroughly drying your feet with a towel intermittently. While this can be annoying and easy to forget during the busy winter season, it’s important to stay on top of this with snow, sleet and rain posing an extra risk.
It’s important to not go overboard with too much direct heat penetrating your feet. While cozying up by the fire is safe on occasion, excessive heat can cause even more damage to the nerves. This is due to reduced sensation in diabetic individuals, which makes it harder to notice high heat and burns.
Below are the best ways to manage excessive moisture during the winter:
Wear moisture-wicking socks.
Change socks regularly, especially if they get wet.
Use foot powders and deodorants.
Choose breathable, well-ventilated shoes.
Choose shoes made with waterproof fabrics, like GORE-TEX. This fabric uses a membrane with pores small enough to block water but large enough to allow sweat vapor to escape. This creates a waterproof yet breathable barrier, keeping feet dry and comfortable.
Dry feet thoroughly with a towel after washing, especially between toes.
Avoid tight shoes that trap moisture.
Consider insoles with moisture-absorbing qualities.
Keep feet clean and dry before bed.
Perform Foot Inspections
At-home foot inspections are a good diabetic foot care measure in the winter (and in general) because they help identify potential issues like cuts, blisters, or signs of infection early, when they're easier to treat.
Check for cuts, blisters, or sores: Examine the entire surface of your feet for any visible signs of injury and skin perforation.
Look for changes in skin color or temperature: Check for any redness, swelling, or areas that feel unusually warm or cold.
Check your toenails and between toes: Look for ingrown toenails, cracked toenails and fungal infections,
Try Diabetic Socks
Compression stockings are a great way to enhance blood flow to the legs and feet, but they are not recommended for people with diabetes since they can do the opposite and restrict blood flow too much in the arteries. Instead, ask a podiatrist or chiropodist about diabetic socks and if they might work for you. They have several benefits, which are especially useful in the winter, including:
Antimicrobial treatment which prevents bacterial and fungal growth.
Slightly cushioned footbed for extra comfort and protection.
Loose, non-binding top band which rests comfortably around the ankles or calves, allowing more circulation.
Moisture-wicking and stretchy material.
Smooth toe area to prevent blisters and other skin irritation.
Choose the Right Footwear
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For diabetes patients, wearing proper footwear in the winter is essential for maintaining foot health.
Orthopedic shoes are an excellent choice, as they offer extra cushioning, arch support, depth, elasticity, adjustable straps and ample room to reduce pressure points and prevent blisters or sores.
High-quality winter footwear can also be effective, provided it offers warmth, water resistance, and moisture control properties to keep feet dry and comfortable. Here is what you should pay attention to:
Waterproof materials: As you already know, materials like GORE-TEX help maintain dryness by utilizing a membrane with microscopic pores. These pores are small enough to block water molecules, but large enough to allow vapor from sweat to escape. This technology effectively prevents external moisture, like snow or rain, from penetrating the footwear, keeping feet dry. The breathability of GORE-TEX also ensures that perspiration from the feet can escape, which prevents a buildup of moisture inside the shoe. This combination of waterproofing and breathability is essential for preventing cold and damp feet
Adequate insulation: This is crucial for maintaining warmth in winter footwear as insulation helps lock in warm air and retain body heat. Look for insulated winter shoes and boots that also let you maintain moisture control. And remember to let your feet air out after sweating in your boots all day to avoid excessive dampness.
Non-slip soles: For better traction on icy or slippery surfaces to avoid falls.
Cushioning and arch support: To provide comfort and reduce strain on the feet, especially when walking for extended periods.
Roomy toe box: To avoid friction and pressure on the toes, preventing blisters or sores.
Breathable lining: To allow moisture to escape and keep feet dry, reducing the risk of infections.
Adjustable closures: To ensure a secure fit without restricting circulation, particularly important for those with swelling or neuropathy.
In addition, custom orthotics can provide personalized support, improving foot alignment and alleviating pressure, further reducing the risk of diabetic foot complications.
Visit a Foot Specialist
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Our top tip for managing diabetic feet in winter? Book an appointment with a foot care provider, like a podiatrist or chiropodist, at a foot clinic.
At Feet First Clinic, our chiropodists are trained to:
Offer comprehensive education on how cold weather can affect diabetic feet.
Provide skin and nail care.
Provide wound care.
Offer custom orthotics services: assessments, casting, fittings and follow-up guidance.
Thoroughly inspect your feet and pinpoint potential issues (this can be difficult to fully achieve at home, since diabetes also affects eyesight).
Help you understand what winter boots or shoes you should wear, which you can then browse for at our store. A member of our staff can guide you through our options with a complimentary shoe fitting.
Discuss the benefits of products like diabetic socks, orthopedic slippers, moisturizers, and more, which you can then purchase at our store.
Contact our Toronto foot clinic to learn how a foot assessment can be your first step toward healthier, happier feet this winter!
November 30, 2024
Holiday shopping can feel like a daunting ordeal that takes away from all the fun. Your list is long, and you don't have ideas for some people - which is okay! But it doesn't have to cause so much stress. We've got you covered with our guide to the best foot care holiday gifts!
When you're stuck on what gift to get for your grandparents, friends, and other relatives, medical gifts may inspire you more than you realize. The health and wellness industry is known for producing excellent products, opening your mind to many gift options.
Gifts that promote foot health can help those with debilitating foot issues. But they can also help prevent foot conditions before they develop. And they're simply fun to use. We're talking foot creams, scrubs, and other luxurious products fit for a spa session!
The gifts we'll discuss today focus on both skincare and foot pain; they shine on their own and work well as stocking stuffers. But the best way to gift products from a foot care clinic is by compiling a foot care gift set! It's fun to try more than one product, and it gives loved ones the tools for a great self-care day. Let's take a look at our top picks!
Foot Care and Medical Gifts: Gift Guide 2024
Below is a general overview of our top foot care holiday gifts. But don't worry, we'll cover all the details.
Foot Exfoliators
Foot Creams & Moisturizers
Superfeet Insoles
Feet First Clinic Gift Certificates
Foot Exfoliators
Foot Scrubs & Foot Baths
Products like Gehwol's Herbal Bath are affordable medical gifts to raise your loved ones' foot care game to the next level. They're suitable for people of all ages and help exfoliate and soothe dry skin. Exfoliation prevents itchy, flaky dead skin from building up while simultaneously unclogging your pores. Exfoliating your feet weekly will help prevent and treat any callus buildup and cracked heels, while keeping your feet soft and moisturized.
But foot baths do even more for the body than you may realize. First, foot bath products combined with hot water help promote healthy blood flow, which can relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, etc. They can also warm your overall body temperature, which alleviates muscle tension, reduces stress, and may help prevent sickness or fight flu symptoms by strengthening your natural immunity (perfect for the winter!).
Helpful tip: It's best to start a spa session by bathing your feet, as it leaves a clean base for exfoliation and moisturizing by washing away bacteria and dirt.
Foot Files
Feet First Clinic's foot files are another great way to exfoliate your feet! You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in the Gehwol Herbal Foot Bath and some foot cream for the perfect foot care selection!).
But why do we need them?
Foot files remove hard, scaly dead skin from the bottom of the foot, making them feel silky smooth. Our foot files also have a smoothing side to buff and soften the skin. This allows you to customize and control where and how much skin you remove when exfoliating your feet (unlike the foot peels you see online). The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts.
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Foot Creams & Moisturizers
Gehwol Foot Creams
To restore the skin's natural barrier functions, you should always moisturize after soaking and exfoliating. Gehwol's Soft Feet Cream, Universal Foot Cream, and Med Lipidro Cream are just a few examples of medicinal moisturizers that work wonders. So why not gift them to someone you love? They'll get to enjoy smooth skin and fewer cracks and calluses.
If your loved one already has severely painful cracked heels, try gifting them Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care instead.
Dermal Therapy Heel Care
Hopefully, it's becoming clear that medical gifts can be more valuable than gifts that sit around collecting dust. And Dermal Therapy Heel Care is one of the best foot care holiday gifts around.
Cracked heels have the potential to burden everyone, from your best friend to your grandmother - dry skin doesn't discriminate! Severely cracked heels can make walking almost unbearable and cause swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. So if you're catching wind that someone you love is suffering, why not brighten their holidays by gifting them some relief?
Dermal Therapy helps skin cells deep below the surface absorb and lock in moisture, which fights cracked heels. It has the highest urea concentration (25%) of all the foot creams we carry. Urea is important because it works into the deeper layers of the skin to help skin both absorb and retain moisture. To top it off, dermal therapy is a moisturizer and exfoliator that removes dead cells, revealing fresh, young skin.
Superfeet Insoles
As far as medical gifts for healthy feet go, Superfeet insoles are a wonderful route to take. The general use of their most popular colour, green, is to provide extra support for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other types of foot pain. And for those who want the same arch support as the flagship Superfeet Green, but with more cushioning and flexibility, you can get the Superfeet Run Cushion High Arch insoles - a new favourite and best seller at our Toronto foot clinic!
But if you have a loved one with more specific needs, worry not!
Superfeet produces several insoles with colours that indicate how they stand out. For example, Superfeet Berry is made specifically for women and comes with a slimmer heel and an arch length to fit the proportions of the female foot. And Superfeet Black is a versatile, low-profile option for people with flat feet. And that’s just the beginning!
October 28, 2024
Taking care of your feet during winter might require a little extra effort, but it’s essential for preventing discomfort and long-term issues. The cold weather can impact your feet in its own unique ways, just like hot weather can. Whether you’re dealing with dry, cracked skin or trying to avoid slippery conditions, being mindful of your foot health will keep you a step ahead of the cold.
5 Ways Cold and Wet Weather Can Impact Your Feet
Dry, cracked skin
Skin conditions
Reduced circulation
Stiffness and joint pain
Winter-related foot conditions
1. Dry, Cracked Skin
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One of the first things you may notice during the winter is dry, cracked skin on your feet, especially your heels.
The chilly air and low humidity can quickly sap the moisture from your skin, leaving your feet feeling rough and sore. Heating indoors doesn’t help either, as it dries out the air, exacerbating the issue.
This is where cold weather foot care enters the picture! Since cracked skin can cause pain and even bleed, it becomes essential to protect your feet. This dryness isn’t just unsightly—if the cracks open up, it creates an easy pathway for infections. This can lead to debilitating pain and bleeding that makes walking difficult.
Regular moisturizing with a medical-grade foot cream is a straightforward way to combat dry feet and cracked heels. Look for products that contains a high urea concentration, which will help your skin replenish and retain lost moisture. It's important to use a foot cream instead of a regular moisturizer for your feet because the skin on your feet is thicker than the skin elsewhere on our body. Therefore, a regular body or facial moisturizer won't cut it - especially during the dry, colder months.
While you're at it, take your hydration to the next level by always remembering to drink your eight glasses of water per day. This advice still holds up today!
2. Reduced Circulation
Cold weather can mess with your blood flow, which can pose a problematic obstacle for foot health. When temperatures drop, blood vessels constrict to preserve heat, meaning less blood flows to your extremities. This is called vasoconstriction.
As a result, your feet may feel cold, numb, or even tingly. Poor circulation can also lead to prolonged healing times for cuts or blisters. This is concerning for diabetes patients with neuropathy who are already struggling with wound healing issues. That's why cold weather diabetic foot care should always include steps to monitor and improve blood flow— including daily foot inspections and easy foot exercises.
Wearing thermal socks and ensuring your feet are properly insulated can help combat the impact of reduced circulation. Just make sure your thermal socks fit comfortably with your fall and winter footwear: if your shoes or boots are too tight, it will reduce circulation and make your feet more susceptible to cold-weather complications (more on that below).
If you experience slippery conditions during winter, circulation issues can also increase your risk of falling or slipping. When your feet are numb, it’s harder to get a good sense of balance, so be cautious and wear shoes with good grip for FALL prevention.
Moving around can also help keep your blood flowing. So, if you’re out and about, take small breaks to wiggle your toes and stretch to maintain circulation. There are even targeted foot exercises you can try to help trigger healthy blood flow. In fact, you should do these more often in the winter than the summer.
3. Skin Conditions
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It might seem strange to consider blisters a winter problem, but they can definitely crop up due to cold weather foot care challenges.
Wearing heavy boots and thick socks can cause friction, leading to blisters on your heels or toes. This is why it’s extremely important for boots to fit snugly, but not be too tight. So if the socks you like to wear in the winter are causing your boots to constrict your feet, they don’t fit!
And if your feet are already dry, cracked, or dealing with reduced circulation, they’re even more susceptible to developing painful blisters. Combat this by ensuring your boots and sock combo always fit perfectly together, and opt for moisture wicking socks to go the extra mile.
Another common winter foot problem is athlete's foot. Though often associated with the hot summer months and public swimming pools, athlete's foot is no stranger to winter either. Athlete's foot thrives in wet, damp areas, so instead of crowded public summer pools, fungal infections change their habitat to the wet-from-the-snow environment inside your boots. And keep in mind, you can get athlete’s foot simply by coming into contact with someone who already has it.
When you’re tackling wet feet, whether it’s from snow or rain, you need to dry them thoroughly before putting on warm socks. Athlete’s foot loves moist environments, so making sure your feet are dry is key. If you start to notice itchy or peeling skin between your toes, it’s a sign that athlete's foot might be setting in. Treat it promptly with your Toronto chiropodist, who can provide the right antifungal products. Make sure you also keep your feet clean and dry and avoid sharing shoes and socks to protect your feet from a future infection.
4. Stiffness and Joint Pain
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Cold weather tightens your muscles, which in turn can lead to stiff joints. This discomfort can be particularly noticeable if you already have arthritis or any other joint-related issues. Without the right cold weather foot care, your feet can end up feeling stiff, which can affect your overall mobility. To help counteract this, regular stretching and low-impact exercises, such as foot rotations, can keep your joints limber.
This season also requires some extra attention to footwear. Choose shoes with ample support to keep your feet cushioned against the impact of walking on hard, cold surfaces. Slippery conditions can further aggravate joint pain because your body works overtime to stay balanced, putting extra pressure on your feet. Adding orthotics or insoles that provide added arch support can also reduce some of this strain and make your steps feel more cushioned and less jarring.
5. Winter Related Foot Conditions
Winter brings its own set of unique foot problems, including chilblains, frostbite, and Raynaud’s disease, all of which can make cold weather foot care a bit trickier.
Chilblains occur when your feet are exposed to cold, damp environments, causing painful, itchy red patches. This is particularly common in teenagers, or people who quickly reheat their feet after being in the cold, so it’s best to warm up slowly.
Frostbite is another concern in extreme cold, as it can severely damage your skin and tissues. Frostbite can occur more quickly than you might expect, especially if you don't protect your feet from the weather. Signs of frostbite include numbness, skin discolouration, and a hard, waxy texture. If you think you may be experiencing frostbite, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately. To prevent frostbite, be sure to layer up and wear weatherproof boots that keep your feet dry and warm.
Lastly, Raynaud’s disease can be exacerbated by cold weather. People with Raynaud’s experience an exaggerated response to cold, which restricts blood flow to the toes, leading to reduced circulation and making your feet even more vulnerable. Keeping your feet constantly warm and avoiding sudden temperature changes can help manage Raynaud’s symptoms, but if you experience persistent pain or numbness, you should consult a healthcare provider.
October 14, 2024
There are many at-home and natural remedies for foot pain that work, but there’s no denying the importance of foot exams with a top Toronto chiropodist. Some conditions require foot check-ups throughout the year and your foot clinic visits can make a big difference in not only your comfort levels, but your long-term health. Let’s take at what you can expect at a foot clinic appointment and why you should get your check-ups.
What You Can Expect at a Foot Clinic
This depends on if you’re visiting your foot clinic for the first time or are following up with a specific service, such as a custom orthotic casting and fitting or a medical pedicure.
At Toronto’s Feet First Clinic, your first foot check-up—an initial foot assessment—helps determine your unique needs. It’s your chance to discuss any concerns so your chiropodist can tailor the care to what matters most to you. Many people schedule one if they have persistent foot pain, but you may also do it for diagnostic purposes, footwear recommendations and more.
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Why Schedule Regular Foot Check-ups?
Regular foot care is mandatory if you have diabetes. Studies show that neglecting your feet and failing to visit your foot specialist may lead to infections, ulceration and limb loss. While they sound extreme and scary, chiropody services can help you prevent these problems.
Chiropodist visits for diabetes include full examinations (particularly to assess for neuropathy), nail and skin care, wound debridement, and more. Some experts recommend coming in every 4-6 months, but this may be more or less, depending on your condition.
Foot check-ups are also a must for anyone with:
Arthritis,
Diabetes
Circulatory issues,
A history of strain injuries like plantar fasciitis,
Chronic fungal infections, to name a few.
They’re especially important as we get older. But really, anyone can benefit from a little foot TLC—whether you're on your feet all day or just looking to prevent future problems, regular check-ups help keep your feet healthy, pain-free, and ready to go wherever life takes you!
An annual foot assessment is also a great preventative form of self care, like a wellness check for your feet. You don’t have to wait until you notice symptoms — assessments can catch early signs of the most common foot issues before they become painful.
August 19, 2024
Foot care for seniors is a vital aspect of maintaining overall health and mobility. As we age, our feet undergo changes that can lead to various problems, making it essential to prioritize foot health. This article will explore common foot problems in older adults and offer practical foot care tips for the elderly to help maintain mobility and prevent discomfort as much as possible.
Understanding Aging Adults' Foot Health
Aging adults' foot health often deteriorates due to factors such as reduced blood circulation, thinning skin, and the natural wear and tear on joints and muscles. These changes can lead to an increased risk of developing foot issues, which can severely impact mobility and quality of life.
Common Foot Problems in Older Adults
Several common foot problems in older adults can arise as a result of aging:
Plantar Fasciitis
Decades wearing the wrong shoes for your feet = feeling the damage and heel pain when you get older. Seniors are also vulnerable to plantar fasciitis if they have balance and mobility challenges, as these affect the natural gait pattern. In other words, as older adults struggle with movement, they might walk differently, which can put extra stress on their feet and lead to heel pain. Lastly, poor blood circulation means less ability to recover from “micro injuries,” which is essentially what plantar fasciitis is.
Bunions
Bothersome bunions affect seniors more than younger adults. The toes spread out more due to natural aging-related foot changes, placing pressure on the wrong areas. Bunions can also tend to form and worsen gradually over time, meaning seniors will feel their full effects.
Dry Skin
Skin aging doesn't just affect our face; it affects our feet too! As we age, the processes that help our feet stay moisturized, namely the production of natural oils and cell renewal, slow down. This leads to dry, flaky skin on the feet. Dry skin is on the feet is not just a cosmetic concern; it makes the feet more prone to developing many problems like itching, cracked heels, corns and calluses.
Corns and Calluses
Not only does our skin get dryer as we age, it also gets thinner. This makes the feet more prone to developing corns and calluses. Corns and calluses are caused by friction, and are two of the most common skin problems affecting seniors. When the skin thins, the skin forms calluses and corns more quickly in order to protect itself. This issue is compounded for older adults who have been wearing ill-fitting shoes for years
Arthritis
Osteoarthritis (also referred to as degenerative joint disease) is a form of arthritis typically associated with aging. It is caused by cumulative wear-and-tear on the joints. Over time, the protective lining around the joints wears down, resulting in excessive rubbing and grinding between joints.
Foot Care Tips for the Elderly
Foot care for seniors entails a proactive approach. Here are our top tips for maintaining foot health as you age:
Regular Foot Inspections and Hygiene
Our number-one foot care tip for older adults is to get regular medical pedicures with a chiropodist. This is especially helpful for seniors who have difficulty bending or trimming their own toenails. A licensed Toronto chiropodist can properly trim and file your toenails, remove corns and calluses, and address any other common foot problems in older adults. A foot specialist will also inspect and keep an your feet for any signs of redness, swelling, cuts, or sores that could indicate a worsening skin issue. Our Toronto chiropodists will also provide expert foot care advice for your at-home maintenance.
At-Home Foot Care: Moisturizing, Hygiene and Inspections
Foot care for seniors should involve moisturizing daily with a foot cream in order to keep the skin on the feet strong and firm. This will also help reduce callus and corn buildup. At-home foot care for seniors also involves practicing good hygiene, including washing feet daily and keeping your toenails trimmed. This is essential to prevent infections and other complications.
Proper Footwear and Medical Devices
Footwear plays a significant role in senior foot care. Shoes should provide adequate support, have a wide toe box to prevent crowding, and offer cushioning for shock absorption. Orthotic inserts can also be beneficial for those with specific foot conditions or discomfort, especially plantar fasciitis. There are also products like silicone toe separators, bunion aligners, and bunion splints worth trying.
Maintaining Foot Mobility and Stability
Regular exercise and fall prevention strategies can keep the muscles and joints in the feet strong and flexible. Simple exercises like toe stretches, ankle circles, and calf raises can improve circulation and maintain range of motion.
A targeted approach is ideal, and you can memorize foot exercises and stretches designed for your condition or age, such as routines for bunions, arthritis part one and two, plantar fasciitis, and women over 65. Many of these exercises help with more than one condition!
