Itchy Feet: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments

Written by Brittany Stuckless on March 17, 2022

Last updated August 8, 2024

Medically reviewed by Connie Christou, D. Ch.

Itchy feet can affect anyone at any time of the year and cause other issues when we scratch too much. These include redness, a rash, dry skin, irritation, bleeding and cracked skin. Depending on the cause, itchy feet can also come with other confusing symptoms. If you’re wondering “why are my feet itchy?” and what you can do to stop it, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we will go over a handful of conditions that cause itchy feet. Of course, we’ll also discuss the most important thing – treatment!

Dry Skin

Many people don’t realize how much their lifestyle can dry out the skin on their feet. When there’s no clear culprit behind our itchy feet, it can leave us wondering, “why is my toe itchy?” or “why do the tops of my feet itch?” If this sounds like you, it could be a straightforward case of dry skin.

Not drinking enough water, exposing yourself to too much heat or light, or cold air can strip our skin of its natural moisture. You can also experience dry skin if you take too many hot showers and baths without moisturizing your feet.

If you have dry and itchy feet, your skin will flake and crack the more you scratch it. Your skin may also look rough and start to peel or bleed if cracks are deep and irritated.

Many products available at Toronto’s Feet First can help those with severely dry skin. The key is daily moisturizing, and in severe cases, locking in moisture while your feet are still slightly damp after a shower is an excellent treatment method.

There are several products from the trusted brand Gehwol that thoroughly moisturize the feet, including:

Med Lipidro Cream
Fusskraft Hydrolipid Lotion
Medical Salve for Cracked Skin (a specialized product that helps prevent inflammation in cracked skin)

If your dry skin affects your heels, Dermal Therapy can help restore moisture. This product focuses on heel care and contains 25% urea, a critical component of our skin’s moisture restoration system.

Allergies

Annoying allergies can mess with your health in countless ways, and your feet are no exception. Allergic reactions can lead to an itch at the top of the foot, itchy toes and itchy heels. You may have:

Shoe contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction to particular materials or substances used to make footwear. This includes rubbers, dyes, leathers, or glues.
Allergic contact dermatitis: An allergic reaction caused by chemicals found in moisturizers, detergents, soaps, and similar products.

Avoid new products or shoes you suspect may be the reason behind your allergies. Topical antihistamines, like Benedryl, can also help while you determine the cause. It’s also a great idea to inquire with your family doctor about how to get an allergy test!

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot (also known as tinea pedis) is a condition that generally causes dry, itchy toes. It can also target other feet areas, like the soles, tops of the feet, or heels. It can affect anyone, not just athletes! It is contagious and spreads via common spaces like public showers and bathrooms, locker rooms, and swimming pools.

In addition to a persistent itch, athlete’s foot can cause other nagging, painful symptoms like a scaly rash, dry skin, blisters and a burning or stinging sensation in the affected area.

You need a topical antifungal from a chiropodist for athlete’s foot. Gehwol’s Foot & Shoe Deodorant & their Foot Powder can also help your feet stay clean, fresh and dry, avoiding the fungus that loves to thrive in damp spaces.

Since athlete’s foot can be a recurring issue, other lifestyle changes can also go a long way. Start wearing protective footwear in public areas. Another simple trick is skipping communal showers and waiting until you get home after visiting the gym or the pool.

Psoriasis / Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis is a painful skin-related auto-immune disease that affects various body parts, including the feet. Psoriasis causes excessive skin cell build-up, which accumulates and leads to red, bumpy, scaly, itchy patches (also called plaques).

There is also a chronic inflammatory arthritis that causes both joint pain and psoriasis symptoms, called psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis causes swelling in the toes, warm joints, and thickening or detachment of the toenails.

Corticosteroid creams, retinoid creams, gels and ointments are frequently used to treat psoriasis. Since psoriasis (and psoriatic arthritis) are auto-immune diseases, it’s a good idea to consult with a rheumatologist about your treatment options.

Still Not Sure What Causes Your Itchy Feet?

Bug bites: You may just have an annoying, yet harmless, bug bite!
Scabies: Likely one of the worst-case scenarios for itchy feet, it’s important to ensure scabies isn’t the cause. Scabies is a skin condition caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, a microscopic mite that actually burrows into your skin! With scabies, the itch in your feet will be intense and feel worse at night. There may also be bumps that form a “path” on the skin.
Diabetes: A common symptom of diabetic neuropathy (damaged nerve fibers that result from uncontrolled blood sugar) is extremely dry skin, leading to itchy feet.
Thyroid problems: If your itch seems inexplicable, you may have an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. This condition can lead to itchiness on the feet and many other areas of the body.

Say Goodbye to Itchy Feet!

You shouldn’t have to experience the burden of itchy feet any longer! Regardless of the culprit, Toronto’s Feet First Clinic can provide solutions. Our highly-skilled chiropodists and friendly foot staff are waiting to hear from you.

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Memorial University of Newfoundland. With a diverse background in journalism and marketing, she got her start as a freelance content writer. She currently works as a Marketing Assistant at Real Food for Real Kids in addition to her role as a writer at Feet First Clinic. Previously, Brittany has been a journalist for the Ontario Learning Development Foundation and Immigrant Muse magazine, and an Administrative and Marketing Assistant at Evolve Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. Originally from Newfoundland, she has lived in Toronto since 2014.

Learn more about Brittany Stuckless

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May 23, 2024

Cooling Foot Treatments for Summer

One thing many of us forget about until it hits is the annoyance of having hot feet in the summer. The blazing sun, your enclosed running shoes, and spending hours outside can really crank up the heat on your feet, making them feel downright uncomfortable. That's where summer foot care comes in handy. You'll definitely want some cooling foot treatments ready for when your feet get hot, and luckily, we’ve got you covered. Best Summer Foot Care Cooling Foot Treatments Foot Soaks Foot Creams Foot Gels / Aloe Vera Cold Towel Wraps Ice Packs Foot Ice Pack Wrap Foot Massagers Cold Water Soaks Foot Soaks On a hot summer day, refreshing foot soaks are always the way to go! Prepare your foot bath with relaxing lukewarm water (hot water can be damaging to the skin, and your feet are too warm for that anyway!) and add your foot soak product of choice for added benefits. Try Gehwol’s Herbal Foot Bath for the most well-rounded experience! This will also soothe tired, aching feet. Foot Gels / Aloe Vera Gels may also be exactly what your stifled feet need. You can try gels with aloe vera, which is naturally hydrating due to its high water content. Aloe vera also evaporates quickly when applied to the skin, providing fast relief. Cold Towel Wraps Sometimes you have exactly what you need waiting for you at home! To cool down, soak a towel in cold water, wring it out, and wrap it around your feet. This method is simple and can be very refreshing. Foot Creams One of the best foot pampering tips is moisturizing your feet with high-quality creams. Not only do these products protect against dry skin, foot odour, calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more, but the cream also has a pleasant cooling effect. Look for creams with eucalyptus or menthol, which both have added cooling and soothing capabilities. Gehwol’s Extra Universal Foot Cream contains those two additional ingredients. Ice Packs Ice packs aren’t just for pain relief! You can use a cold ice pack, gel pack, or frozen water bottle to cool your feet during the hot summer days and nights. Wrap these items in a towel first to avoid making a mess! Foot Ice Pack Wrap These are essentially ice packs that cover your whole foot and have the appearance of a shoe, slipper or ankle brace. They may work for cooling hot feet, but also treating painful foot conditions. Foot Massagers Some electric foot massagers come with a cooling option that can help relax and cool your feet simultaneously. To get the same effect, you can use a small fan and position it so it faces your feet! Cold Water Soak Foot baths are generally used with warm to lukewarm water, but combining cold water with Epsom salt or your favourite foot soak product in a basin can have a more cooling effect than warm water, the latter of which is better suited for boosting blood circulation and pain management.

September 12, 2022

The 5 Most Common Causes of Cold and Sweaty Feet

We've all heard the term cold feet to describe last-minute nerves. But cold and sweaty feet are a whole different ballgame. Cold and sweaty feet can signal a common problem you can work on. Alternatively, it may indicate a more troubling medical condition that needs your attention. The most important thing to do is visit your family doctor or foot specialist when the problem becomes recurring. Let's take a look at some causes of cold and sweaty feet and what you can do about them. 5 Common Causes of Cold and Sweaty Feet Hyperhidrosis Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Menopause Overactive thyroid Raynaud's disease Hyperhidrosis This is essentially a term for excessive sweating, which can simultaneously cause cold feet. Many people clue into this condition if they experience sweaty feet without exercising or being in the heat. The Mayo Clinic state that Primary focal (essential) hyperhidrosis is the most common form and isn't a sign of an underlying medical condition. It occurs when the nerves in your body send too many signals to sweat glands. While embarrassing at times, it is certainly manageable. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is always associated with another medical condition. Treatment Foot deodorants, creams and sprays. Antidepressants can lower triggers like stress and anxiety, which cause you to sweat more. Nerve-blocking medications Surgery Daily foot hygiene practices: keeping feet clean and dry, regularly changing socks, etc. Airing out your feet. Breathable footwear. Moisture-wicking and natural material socks. Regular foot assessments to check for conditions that thrive in moist environments, like athlete's foot. https://youtu.be/AlGson4tuYk?si=1M7H4jHFytugyVhB Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) PAD is a serious condition that affects the body's lower extremities. Due to fatty plaque buildup, the blood vessels that transport between the heart and the legs may become severely narrowed or blocked. It usually happens initially within the small blood vessels of the feet. Risk factors may include diabetes, being over 60 years of age and having high blood pressure and cholesterol. Treatment Sometimes the family doctor can prescribe medications called statins, which manage cholesterol and can be preventative. Blood pressure medications. Medications that increase blood flow in the legs. Treating the underlying condition that could be causing the PAD Stop smoking Living a heart-healthy lifestyle, including a healthy diet and regular exercise. Menopause One of the most common culprits of cold and sweaty feet in older women is menopause. Due to hormonal imbalances, blood vessels expand and increase the level of blood flow in the body during this point in a woman's life, triggering night sweats. But hormonal changes can also slow blood circulation, quickly affecting the feet. Cold, sweaty feet can also contribute to insomnia in menopausal women. Treatment Estrogen therapy Antidepressants Eating a healthy diet that is low in sugar and salt. Low-intensity exercise. Monitoring stress levels. Getting enough vitamin D. Regular foot assessments to check for other symptoms, like foot swelling. Overactive Thyroid A thyroid disorder can cause plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat) while also deregulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid also messes with our blood circulation, giving the feet and skin only a quarter of the blood supply they usually need. You should inquire with your family doctor about a thyroid condition if your feet are always cold and you've ruled out other causes. Treatment Medications Surgical intervention. The thyroid gland, courtesy of the National Cancer Institute Raynaud's Disease Raynaud's disease causes both cold hands and feet, as well as numb toes. Furthermore, Raynaud's can occur in its primary form or as an accompaniment to another disease, like lupus or Rheumatoid arthritis. Like many other cold feet causes, it decreases blood flow in certain body parts. This is due to blood vessels spasming in the affected areas- usually in response to the cold. Treatment Reducing the spasming of the blood vessels and knowing your triggers. If your trigger is cold then wearing warmer insulating socks/ gloves before the cooler weather has been found to be helpful Calcium channel blockers can open the small blood vessels in the feet. Wearing socks indoors. Vasodilators, which relax blood vessels. Severe cases may require surgery. Additional Causes of Cold and Sweaty Feet Anxiety disorders: Known to cause hyperhidrosis, severe stress and panic disorders can make you feel clammy and uncomfortable. Exercise: An obvious cause of sweaty feet is regular physical activity. It's essential to keep on top of routine foot care if fitness is causing your sweaty feet. Wearing small shoes: Sometimes sweat can't evaporate if our shoes don't fit properly. Neuropathy: Nerve damage, common in diabetes patients, is known to cause excessive sweating and can disrupt regular body temperature

November 7, 2024

6 Myths About Foot Odor

Foot odor is a frustrating problem; it goes to show that non-painful foot conditions can be as life altering as painful ones. There are many foot odour myths floating around the internet. In this article, we'll break down some of the most common foot odour myths, and give you the facts about foot odour causes and how to prevent it. 6 Myths About Foot Odour: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition All Foot Odour Smells the Same Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour If You Have Foot Odour, you Aren’t Showering or Bathing Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Myth 1: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot odour, also known as bromodosis, is the unpleasant smell that comes from the feet due to a combination of sweat and bacteria. The feet have numerous sweat glands, which produce moisture to regulate temperature and prevent skin from drying out. Plantar hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessively sweaty feet. Sweat is a major contributor to foot odour and provides the moisture needed for it to thrive, however, other factors are also at play. The Main Causes of Foot Odour General bacterial buildup and everyday life! (wearing shoes all day long, etc). Fungal infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot can lead to odour as fungi produce waste products during growth. Diet: Certain foods, like garlic and onions, can affect sweat composition and lead to a noticeable foot odour. Health conditions: Conditions other than plantar hyperhidrosis can cause foot odour, including diabetes, particularly when ulcers and wounds omit a strong smell. Other conditions include thyroid disorders (they may cause excessive sweating) or kidney and liver issues. Footwear material: Shoes made from non-breathable materials trap even normal sweat production, increasing moisture and bacterial growth. Preventing foot odour often means choosing breathable, waterproof shoes. Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can contribute to foot odour. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1aaNATnXvWw Foot Odour Myth # 2: Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition It’s true that one of the causes of foot odour can be an underlying health condition, but that doesn't mean it's serious. The most common cause of foot odour is a general build up of sweat and bacteria that you can tackle yourself. Foot odour is often caused by everyday factors like wearing shoes made from non-breathable materials or not changing socks frequently enough. In most cases, simple steps like improving hygiene, airing out shoes, or using foot deodorants (sprays, powders or creams) can help control the smell. While it's important to be mindful of persistent odour or other accompanying symptoms, the vast majority of foot odour issues are easily managed with at-home care and do not indicate a serious health condition. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aFdZ042koME Foot Odour Myth # 3: All Foot Odour Smells the Same Foot odour can vary significantly based on several factors, including the underlying cause, personal hygiene, diet, and the type of bacteria or fungi present. For example, open wounds and sores will smell different than smelly, sweaty shoes. Here are some common smells: Sour: Often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, resulting in lactic acid production. Musty: May be associated with fungal infections or warm, moist environments. Vinegar-like: Often linked to sweat and potentially neglectful hygiene. Ammonia: May indicate dehydration or a dietary imbalance. Rotten: This odour can be a sign of a more serious infection. Foot Odour Myth 4: Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour While going barefoot might seem like a good idea for reducing foot odour, it can actually have the opposite effect in some cases. While it’s always good to air out your feet, going barefoot outside exposes your feet to various surfaces that may harbour bacteria and fungi. Walking on dirty or damp surfaces can lead to the accumulation of these microorganisms, potentially worsening foot odour. In fact, foot fungus (one of the most common causes of foot odour) is often caused by walking barefoot in public places. Additionally, sweat can still pool in the crevices of your feet without socks and shoes, allowing bacteria to thrive. Instead of eliminating odour, going barefoot may introduce new sources of smell. Wearing breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks and changing them regularly is a much better idea. Myth 5: If You Have Foot Odour, You Aren’t Showering or Bathing This is completely untrue since foot odour is often linked to other conditions like plantar hyperhidrosis and fungal infections. Therefore, foot odour is is a symptom rather than a cause. It also often develops throughout the day, so you can shower every morning and still experience smelly feet when you get home at night. That said, you should pay more attention to foot-specific hygiene and clean your feet frequently. Check out this blog article on foot hygiene tips to learn what to do. Myth 6: Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Foot odour is commonly associated with hot weather, but it can occur year-round, regardless of the temperature. While warm conditions can exacerbate sweating and create a breeding ground for bacteria, factors such as personal hygiene, footwear choice, and lifestyle also play significant roles in foot odour. For example, wearing insulated shoes in fall or winter weather can trap moisture and heat, leading to odour even when temperatures are low. Additionally, individuals who sweat excessively—regardless of the season—are more likely to experience foot odour. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain proper foot care and hygiene practices throughout the year to prevent odour, not just during the warmer months.

October 28, 2024

5 Ways Cold and Wet Weather Impacts Your Feet

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 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-Sf43woLLE 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 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xZ4RQwPmCzg 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 https://www.youtube.com/shorts/n46k32OZgco 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 24, 2024

How to Prevent Toenail Fungus: Tips from a Foot Specialist

There are two common fungal infections that can target your feet. For your skin, it’s athlete’s foot (tinea pedis), and for your nails, it’s fungal toenail (onychomycosis). Fun fact: Onychomycosis is the name for nail anatomy changes caused by contagious fungus, while dystrophic is the term for any other abnormalities that affect how your nails look or grow. Today’s blog will focus solely on toenail fungus. You’ll learn what it is and how to treat it, as well as some top fungal toenail prevention tips recommended by our Toronto chiropodists. Toenail Fungus Symptoms Sometimes toenail fungus is mild and barely noticeable. But fungal toenail can present more severely if you’re immunocompromised, such as if you have diabetes, or a senior. Keep an eye out for these common symptoms: Drastic changes in the nail’s appearance: it can look much thicker, have a yellowish, brown colour, and be very brittle and prone to cracks, despite thickening. Unpleasant odour coming from the nail: the smell is often reported to be sour or like cheese. The nail starts lifting off the nail bed: this is because debris starts to accumulate and lifts the nail up so it can’t reattach. Pain, swelling and bleeding in severe cases. Toenail Fungus Prevention: Foot Specialist Advice The most important fact to remember about fungal toenail is that it’s contagious. Since fungal infections spread easily in damp, shared spaces like pools, gyms, and shower rooms, the best defense is keeping your feet clean and protected! Here are some top, Toronto-chiropodist-recommended tips to remember: Follow a strict, yet fun and relaxing, foot hygiene routine. It’s a part of self care, after all! Wear breathable footwear. Opt for shoes made from materials that allow airflow to keep your feet dry. Change socks daily. Fresh socks prevent moisture buildup, which fungi love. Avoid going barefoot in public places. Use flip-flops or shower shoes to protect your feet in shared spaces. Keep your toenails trimmed and clean. Regular maintenance helps prevent infections from taking hold. Get a professional medical pedicure if you don’t have time to focus on nail care. How to Treat Toenail Fungus Once fungus has gotten a hold of your nails, it’s time to think about treatment and eradicating the problem. Unfortunately, you can’t do much to treat toenail fungus yourself at home, and you often need a chiropodist’s help. Luckily, treatments are easy to follow and non-invasive. Here’s what a foot specialist can do: Perform nail debridement to remove infected parts of the nail. Use prescription-strength topical antifungal medicine on the nail (it penetrates the actual fungus) Educate you on products you can use going forward to prevent re-infection, like the best moisture-wicking socks, shoes, foot creams, deodorants and more.

October 14, 2024

The Importance of Regular Foot Check-Ups: What to Expect During a Foot Clinic Visit

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. 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, 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.

October 10, 2024

Common Fall Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

Toronto's summer is behind us and the warm days of sandals won’t return until next year. But fall brings its own charm and many folks are excited for a new chapter. At the same time, you may also be looking to prevent foot issues this fall in as many ways as possible, and luckily, you’ve come to the right place! For top tips on blisters and dry skin prevention, as well as how you can fight some other common fall foot problems, keep reading today’s article! Cracked Heels As summer’s humid air is replaced with dryness, the skin on your feet may dehydrate and over time, cracked heels can form. One of the best fall foot care tips to prevent this is regular moisturizing. Use a nutrient-dense product like Gehwol’s Lipidro Cream, available at Toronto’s Feet First Clinic. It helps lock in moisture and prevent further damage. Containing high-quality ingredients like avocado oil and urea, this cream helps your skin absorb water into its layers and supplies dry skin with the lipids it needs. Properties like allantoin can also soothe irritation sometimes associated with cracked heels. Fungal Infections You may have heard how fungal infections like athlete’s foot are easy to contract during the summertime. Public pools, shared locker rooms and showers, and other communal spaces are all summer hot spots where this foot fungus can breed. But did you know that foot fungi is still a threat in the fall? It can thrive when people wear closed shoes for longer periods, trapping moisture and warmth. To prevent this, keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable socks, and choose shoes that allow proper ventilation. Shoes should also be waterproof to prevent extra water getting into your shoe’s environment. To find the right pair for fall, visit your local Toronto foot clinic for a shoe fitting. While you’re at it, learn all about the best foot hygiene here! Musculoskeletal Foot Conditions Musculoskeletal foot conditions can flare up as the fall chill starts to bite, making each step feel a little extra uncomfortable. Cold temperatures cause the tissues in your joints to contract, putting pressure on nerve endings and leading to more foot pain and aggravated osteoarthritis. The cold can also worsen foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and other sources of arch and heel pain. Get ahead of this issue by wearing boots with solid insulation that traps warmth. Also, keep your feet extra cozy with warm socks — a Toronto chiropodist may even suggest a pair of compression stockings (like Sigvaris' Thermoregulating Wool or Merino Wool compression stockings). Blisters Autumn foot health often involves managing painful blisters. As new footwear makes its debut, a tight squeeze can slowly wreak havoc and cause discomfort. To keep your feet happy and blisters at bay, make sure your shoes fit securely and snugly (but not tight!) to prevent excessive friction rubbing against your skin. Wear your boots with other products like moisture control socks, foot powders, blister bandages and insoles to prevent this frustrating issue.

September 19, 2024

Foot Care for Runners: Preventing Injuries and Maximizing Performance

Whether you're an experienced marathoner or an occasional runner, healthy, happy feet are core to your running success. After all, our feet are the unsung heroes that carry us through kilometres of training and races. Without proper care, our feet and body can only take us so far before we develop aches and injuries. Proactively caring for your feet can help prevent injuries and boost your performance. In this blog post, we dive into our top foot care tips for runners to keep your feet in tip-top shape. Choose the right shoes It all starts with the right pair of running shoes. Everyone's feet are different, so there's no one-size-fits-all. Make sure your shoes fit well—there should be about a finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The best way to find your ideal shoe is to visit a specialty running store (like our Toronto foot clinic!) where they can analyze your gait and recommend a shoe that suits your running style and foot type. Replace your shoes regularly Another one of our top foot care tips for runners is to replace your running shoes when they wear out. Running shoes don't last forever. Generally, they should be replaced every 450-800km. Worn-out shoes lose their shock absorption, grip, and support, which can lead to injuries. Look for signs like flattened soles or uneven tread to know when it's time for a new pair. You may also notice wrinkles among the various areas of cushioning. Incorporate foot-strengthening exercises Strong feet are less prone to injury. Simple exercises like toe curls, heel raises, and foot stretches can help build strength and flexibility. Try using a resistance band to stretch your feet and calves, and don't forget to roll a tennis ball under your foot to relieve tension and keep things limber. You may also find a lacrosse ball effective for a more rigid plantar fascia massage. Pay attention to your running form Sometimes, foot pain can be traced back to improper running form. Ensure you're landing with your feet underneath your hips rather than over-striding, which can put unnecessary stress on your feet. If you're unsure about your form, consider working with a coach or getting a gait analysis to pinpoint any issues. Stretch and foam roll Stretching isn't just for your legs and back; your feet need love, too. Incorporate foot stretches into your routine, focusing on the Achilles tendon, calves, and the bottom of your feet. For example, do a calf stretch by standing on a step and letting your heels drop below the level of the step. Foam rolling can also help, particularly if you're experiencing tightness in your plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Keep your shoes dry Blisters and fungal infections love a moist environment. Make sure your feet are dry before putting on socks and running shoes. Choose moisture-wicking socks designed to remove moisture from your skin to help keep things dry. This can prevent blisters and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Consider using foot powder or antiperspirant if you're prone to sweaty feet. For additional moisture prevention, buy two of the same pairs of running shoes and cycle them in and out. Longer durations between uses allow the cushioning to decompress and give your shoes more time to dry thoroughly. Listen to your body Our final foot care tip for runners is to always listen to your body. If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, don't push through it. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries later. Rest, assess, and seek professional advice if needed. Remember, rest days are just as important as training days. They give your feet and body the time they need to recover and adapt to the stress of running.

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About Author: Brittany Stuckless

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