5 Causes & Solutions for Top of Foot Pain

Written by Erica Halpern on January 3, 2023

The top of your foot is one of the most common areas to experience everyday foot pain. The muscles and tendons within the top side of your foot play a critical part in how you move. The top of the foot can be easily overworked and damaged, leading to various foot conditions.

Some symptoms and top-of-foot conditions are short-lived. Other top-of-foot symptoms can signal an underlying condition elsewhere in your foot or leg.

This article teaches about five potential causes (and solutions) for top-of-foot pain.

Cause 1: Foot Sprain

A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in your foot stretch beyond their limit and become damaged. Foot sprains can vary in location. An ankle sprain is likely to be more of a forefoot sprain. A midfoot sprain is more likely to affect the front half of your foot.

Cause: Acute trauma causes foot sprain. Acute trauma refers to a one-time impact of an incident where you put your foot in an awkward or uncomfortable position. Your tendons are stretched beyond their limit and lose some elasticity. Your tendons may develop micro tears or more serious strains. More severe forms of acute trauma can result in a stress fracture or a hairline break of the bone.

Solution: Foot sprains require rest and recovery to heal. Rest allows your tendons to repair themselves and regain their elasticity. Ice and elevating your legs above your body can help promote healing and may quicken the recovery process. If the injury persists, or you have difficulty moving, you should visit your family doctor.

Taping can also act as an additional support system. A chiropodist can skillfully tape your feet. Taping works by providing additional support and “locking” your feet to avoid re-aggravating the injury.

Cause 2: Tendonitis

Inflammation of the tendons in the foot can cause top-of-foot pain. Damage to the tendons is known as tendonitis.

Cause: Extensor tendonitis can cause pain in the top of the foot. The extensor tendons are the tendons that run along the topside of your foot. The tendons help you straighten your feet and lift your toes. The extensor tendons play a critical role when running or walking. Chronic damage through overuse injuries can cause extensor tendonitis. Too much walking or running, or even too much of a weight-intensive activity too soon after any injury can cause extensor tendonitis.

Solution: The best course of action for tendonitis is rest. Specifically, you want to avoid the source activity that causes aggravation. If the pain is intense, you can also take over-the-counter medications and visit your family doctor. They may refer you to a massage or physiotherapist. If the tendonitis persists or is disrupting your mobility, you should visit your family doctor.

Cause 3: Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is a contagious fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, sounds like it only affects sporty folks, it can affect anyone. Although not life-threatening, it’s contagious and can be painful if left untreated.

Cause: A fungus called dermatophytes causes athlete’s foot. The fungus inhabits, grows, and survives off the outer layer of the skin. By extension, the fungus can also spread to other parts of the body and people, either directly or indirectly.

You can catch athlete’s foot anywhere where fungus thrives. Fungi love warm, moist environments, such as communal showers, locker rooms and the decks around public swimming pools.

Solution: Over-the-counter topical antifungals are the most common remedy for mild cases of athlete’s foot in the early stages. However, fungal infections are notoriously persistent and stubborn. If your Athlete’s foot persists, you should see a chiropodist, who can treat the skin on your feet and prescribe prescription anti-fungal creams. Our Toronto foot clinic also sells foot deodorants, including an antifungal foot spray, which are great for prevention and supplementing your athlete’s foot treatment.

While treating your athlete’s foot infection, it’s essential to do the following:

Clean your socks and linens with bleach or hot water. The fungus can spread from your feet to these surfaces and re-infect you if not cleaned between uses.
Clean any surfaces that your bare feet come into contact with
Wash your feet once or more a day
Ensure your feet are thoroughly dry after bathing or washing.
Wear flip-flops or shoes in any place where you think you could catch athlete’s foot

Cause 4: Bone bruise

Damage to the bone itself can be painful and cause top-of-foot pain. There are varying degrees of bone damage, ranging from bruises to fractures.

Cause: A bone bruise is an acute injury, less severe than a fracture. Bone bruises typically stem from a one-time event that causes damage to the foot. Dropping an object, rolling your ankle, or stubbing your foot on an object can cause damage to the bone itself. You may notice bruising (reddish/blueish) on the skin. When in doubt, an X-ray can determine the severity of a bone bruise.

Solution: Treatment for a bone bruise includes the following:

Rest
Icing
Elevating your leg so it’s above your heart (to promote blood flow and reduce swelling)
Taking anti-inflammatories or over-the-counter medications if the pain is intense

Cause 5: Peroneal nerve injury

Nerve damage can cause top-of-foot pain. The general term for nerve damage is known as peripheral neuropathy. When nerves are damaged, signals between your muscles and brain are disrupted, causing numbness, pain, and complete loss of sensation.

Cause: Injury to the peroneal nerve, known as peroneal nerve dysfunction, can cause top-of-foot pain. The peroneal nerve is outside our lower leg and just below the knee.

For example, you may experience temporary numbness in your feet from peroneal nerve compression. Have your legs crossed, and your feet and toes go numb? Peroneal nerve compression causes the numbing and tingling sensation.

There are several symptoms of peroneal nerve dysfunction. Signs can include:

Foot drop
Pain, weakness, or numbness on the top of the foot
Inability to move the toes up and down
Reduced mobility in the foot
Abnormal knee lift to compensate for reduced motor function

Solution: You should visit your family doctor at the first sign of any nerve-related symptoms. They will conduct the necessary diagnostic investigations and refer you to the appropriate doctors. There are both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for peroneal nerve injury.

Non-invasive treatments include orthotics, which can correct your gait and better distribute pressure within your feet. Additionally, physical therapy and foot-strengthening exercises to fortify the muscles in your feet can help improve mobility. If you have foot drop, an ankle-foot orthotic may be recommended.

You may require surgical treatment for more severe cases, including decompression surgery or nerve repair.

Other causes of top-of-foot pain

Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve inside one of the tunnels within your ankle compresses. Specifically, the posterior tibial nerve (within the tarsal tunnel) is compressed from injury, flat feet, or fallen arches.
Bone spurs: Hallux rigidus, or arthritis of the big toe joint can cause bone spurs, which can lead to pain on the top of the foot. The bony outgrowths can put pressure on your foot or toe when wearing shoes and cause pain when lifting your toes due to the deteriorated joint.
Ganglions: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled bumps on the tendons or joints in the feet. The cyst itself doesn’t cause pain, but if large enough, it can add pressure to the nerves in the same vicinity.

Your Solutions Live Here!

All under one roof! Our team is trained to handle any and all your foot health concerns. Call us at 416-769-3338 or book your assessment below today!

About Author: Erica Halpern

Erica is the operations manager at Feet First Clinic. Since 2021, she has been writing, researching and editing website and social media content. She also oversees Feet First Clinic’s daily and strategic operations to ensure the best possible experience for our clients. Her goal is to ensure patients are equipped with the knowledge and solutions they need to help with their pain.

Learn more about Erica Halpern

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November 21, 2024

Why Do Older Women Get Bunions?

Bunions can target anyone, but they are more common in older women due to factors like foot anatomy and footwear choices. Luckily, there are ways you can prevent and manage bunions to the best of your ability, especially if you work with a chiropodist or podiatrist. Let’s explore everything there is to know about bunions, including the reasons why older women are more at risk for developing bunions. This article will answer: What are bunions? Who's at risk? Why are older women at risk? How do you treat bunions? How do you prevent bunions? Do I need bunion surgery? What Are Bunions? Bunions are toe deformities in which the big toe shifts towards the second toe at an angle. This causes the joint at the base of the big toe (the first metatarsophalangeal joint, or MTP joint) to protrude outwards, forming a bump that can become swollen, tender, and uncomfortable. The MTP joint bears a lot of pressure while walking or standing, which can worsen the bunion over time. As the condition progresses, people with bunions often experience pain and difficulty wearing certain shoes. Another related condition common in older women is hallux rigidus, where arthritis or stiffness affects the big toe joint, limiting its movement. Hallux rigidus may not cause the same protrusion as bunions, but it can still lead to pain and difficulty moving the toe. Many people may think that hallux rigidus is the same as a bunion, but they are different - the scientific term for bunions is hallux valgus. Causes of Bunions: Who's at Risk? Bunions are caused by excessive prolonged stress on the MTP joint at the base of the big toe. Therefore, anything that increases pressure on the big toe can cause or contribute to bunions. While bunions aren't typically caused by one thing alone, there are several risk factors that contribute to the likelihood of developing bunions. All these risk factors either weaken or cause extra strain on the MTP joint. These include: Age: Bunions can start to form as young as 30, but they are commonly associated with seniors and become more debilitating and noticeable with age. Some studies suggest 1 in 3 people over the age of 65 have a pronounced bunion, many of them being women. Genetics: Bunions are partly genetic because foot shape and structure, often inherited traits, can increase the risk of developing them. People with certain foot shapes—particularly flat feet—are more prone to bunions because this structure creates imbalanced pressure on the big toe joint. Wearing ill-fitting footwear: Frequently wearing narrow, tight, or high-heeled shoes that squeeze the toes can push the big toe inward, contributing to bunion formation. Pointed, unstready high-heeled shoes with very thin heels (like stilettos) are extra risky. Having Rheumatoid arthritis: Conditions that affect joint health and increase inflammation, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can lead to bunion formation. Previous foot injuries: Tendon tears, or having broken a bone in the past, can increase risk. Why are Older Women at Risk? Senior women are more likely than other groups to experience painful bunions for a handful of reasons: Older people are more susceptible to joint-wear-and-tear and other foot conditions like osteoarthritis (which is caused by wear-and-tear on the joints, and is commonly associated with age). And pre-existing joint issues make you more prone to bunions. Many older women have a history of wearing ill-fitting shoes with cramped toe boxes and unsteady high heels for decades. Tight shoes and high heels put extra strain and pressure on the MTP joint. The collective effects of this pressure accumulate over time and, compounded with other age-related risk factors, can accelerate, contribute to or exacerbate the formation of bunions. Women may have weaker connective tissue in their feet. This will reduce the big toe's ability to withstand the force and pressure of our movement. Bunions can worsen during menopause due to hormonal changes loosening ligaments and flattening the feet, making them more vulnerable. This can also happen during pregnancy and have long-lasting effects on the feet. Menopause can also affect bone density, which can accelerate joint degeneration, weaken joints, and therefore aggravate bunions. Bunions in Older Women: Treatment If you’re a woman (or anyone!) struggling with bunion pain, visiting a foot specialist, like a chiropodist or podiatrist, at your local foot clinic can help. There are many solutions available that target the foot pain and mobility issues associated with bunions, while decreasing pressure on the big toe joint. While bunions cannot be reversed (without surgery), by strengthening your feet and reducing pressure on the big toe, you can manage the bunion growth so that it doesn't get worse. Bunion Exercises and Stretches https://www.youtube.com/shorts/H3SogJ8FIas A chiropodist or podiatrist may suggest some bunion exercises and stretches. These are great for both prevention and treatment, mostly target the toes, are easy to memorize, and accommodate seniors. The exercises may feel awkward at first, but you’ll get used to them in no time. Here are five easy-to-learn exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine to help manage bunion discomfort: Toe Circles Grip your big toe and move it in circular motions to maintain joint mobility. Do 10 circles in each direction per foot. Toe Stretches Use your fingers to press your big toe down and hold for 30 seconds, then stretch it in the opposite direction for another 30 seconds. Repeat 5 times on each foot. Towel Grip and Pull Place a towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch and pull it toward you. This helps strengthen the small muscles in your feet. Toe Curls and Spreads Curl your toes down tightly, hold for a few seconds, then spread them wide. Repeat this motion 10 times per foot to improve flexibility and strength. Toe Resistance Exercises View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Use your fingers to apply light pressure against your big toe in various directions, pressing up, down, and sideways. Hold each for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times on each foot. You can also wrap a resistance band around your big toes and then spread your feet apart while keeping your heels planted, as shown in the video above. Other bunion treatment options provided by a foot specialist include: Footwear recommendations: We'll get more into this later, but opt for shoes with a wide toe box that give your toes enough room. You should also look for features like cushioned insoles and good arch support to reduce pressure on the bunion. Custom orthotics: A foot specialist will assess your feet and design custom orthotic insoles tailored to your feet. Orthotics work by reducing pressure and force on the big toe joint, which will then reduce bunion pain and help prevent the bunion from getting worse. Custom orthotics for bunions provide support and help realign the foot, redistributing pressure away from the bunion. You can then put the orthotics into your footwear and go about your daily activities with less pressure on the big toe. Shockwave therapy: This treatment uses powerful acoustic pulses to reduce pain in the affected area by increasing blood flow and triggering a process that helps the body heal injured tissue. While shockwave therapy doesn't target the bunion itself, it helps with the tight muscles and ligaments around the bunion, which reduces pain and pressure on the joint. Bunion devices: These devices help realign the toes to varying degrees. Silicone toe separators are great for when you're walking around at home, whereas ultra-thin bunion aligners fit comfortably in most footwear and are great for athletic people. For more significant correction, rigid bunion splints help stabilize the joint. Therapeutic taping: A foot specialist can apply therapeutic tape to provide support, reduce pain, and help correct the alignment of the bunion, allowing for better mobility. Shoe stretching: If your shoes are too tight, professional shoe stretching can help relieve pressure on the bunion, making footwear more comfortable. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8g43ZWreZ1g Best Bunion Prevention Tips There isn’t much you can do about your genetics or age, but you can be mindful about other lifestyle factors to manage bunion formation. Wearing the Right Footwear The best preventative measure you can take to try and avoid bunions is wearing the right shoes for your feet. You should be especially vigilant about finding shoes that are wide enough for your toes to rest comfortably and wiggle without crowding and overlapping. Ideally, your shoes need between ⅜” to ½” of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe. You can try an at-home test to see how wide your feet really are before visiting your Toronto foot clinic for a shoe fitting that will help you find the perfect fit. Toe space is the biggest factor for bunion prevention, but there are many other things to consider when finding the right shoes. Check out the best footwear for healthy feet to learn what else you should look out for. Try to avoid high heels, only wearing them for special occasions. Even then, opt for healthy heel options. Heels shouldn’t be too high or too thin—look for a block, shorter heel or wedges instead. Your shoes also shouldn’t be severely pointed and squish your toes together. Additional Bunion Prevention Tips: Regular exercise and a good fitness regimen will help keep your muscles strong. Strong muscles reduce strain on the joints, which will then make you less susceptible to joint degeneration and wear-and-tear as you age. In addition, a healthy conditioned lower body and core helps with alignment and weight-bearing, meaning your big toe won't need to work as hard when you move around. Since having a previous injury can be a risk factor, practice healthy foot injury prevention and FALL prevention. If you notice early signs of bunion formation, such as redness or swelling around the big toe joint, consult a foot specialist promptly. You should also consult a foot specialist if you have any family members with bunions, notice any issues with your alignment, have flat feet, or any other biomechanical concerns, as faulty biomechanics increase strain on the big toe joint. Excess weight can put additional pressure on your feet, increasing the risk of bunion development. Maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce this strain. Do I Need Bunion Surgery? Bunion surgery, or bunionectomies, are invasive procedures that require local anesthesia, incisions, bone realignment and sometimes bone removal. While they can be immensely helpful, many folks want to avoid surgery, if possible, for these reasons: Recovery time, which can take around six weeks. A fear of complications (although they’re incredibly rare) Cost. Bunionectomies are much more expensive than other treatments. They don't address the underlying issues that caused the bunion to form in the first place Seniors may be more likely to seek a bunionectomy after living with bunions for a longer period than young people, and trying other non-invasive treatment options with a podiatrist or chiropodist first. That said, these days there are more non-surgical treatment options than ever before and your chances of needing a surgery are still somewhat low. Surgeries are typically only recommended for older women or any individual who experiences significant pain or functional limitations; surgeries are not usually performed solely for cosmetic reasons. Visit your local Toronto foot clinic to address bunions before seeking surgery. You’ll start with a full foot assessment to determine the severity of your condition and your foot specialist will form a treatment plan with you. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XZUfVhny5pY

November 14, 2024

3 Tips to Prevent Winter Foot Injuries

Foot injuries can increase in cold weather, so it’s important to learn how to minimize your risk, practice fall prevention, and navigate slippery conditions. Not only that, but cold weather can cause muscle stiffness to worsen, making your feet more vulnerable than they were during the warmer months. Today we’ll talk about 3 safety tips—recommended by the foot specialists at our Toronto foot clinic—to prevent winter foot injuries. 3 Tips to Prevent Winter Foot Injuries Wear The Right Shoes Try Warm Ups and Foot Exercises Wear Supportive Insoles 1. Wear The Right Shoes The wrong winter boots can lead to numerous foot injuries. While fashion may be your top priority, you shouldn’t sacrifice protective and supportive features just for looks (plus, you can find fashionable and comfortable shoes at our Toronto foot clinic). Winter footwear should have good shock absorption and be made with waterproof materials. Avoid pointed toes and high heels in the winter—these features are a recipe for slips and falls! Stability And Motion Control Shoes Did you know there are different foot types, and your foot type can determine what shoes you should wear? For example, people with flat feet need extra stability or motion control features built into their shoes to help correct varying degrees of overpronation (when the ankle rolls inward during movement). A foot specialist, like a podiatrist or chiropodist, can assess your feet and tell you what type shoes you should be wearing: Stability Shoes Purpose: Stability shoes are aimed at those with mild to moderate overpronation (the inward rolling of the foot when walking or running). Features: These shoes typically have a supportive structure and posting around the arch and midsole to help guide the foot through a natural gait cycle and promote natural foot motion. Motion Control Shoes Purpose: These are designed for people with severe overpronation, providing maximum support to prevent excessive inward rolling of the foot. Features: Motion control shoes are more rigid and structured than stability shoes, with reinforced areas in the midsole. How does this link back to winter foot safety? If you have flat feet, especially if you’re a senior, and your feet overpronate, your hips, knees and ankles can weaken and become more painful and vulnerable due to years of walking with an abnormal gait. If you don’t have strong feet and joints, icy conditions become that much more threatening. Both stability and motion control shoes can help prevent winter foot injuries by providing extra support and control in conditions where icy, wet, or uneven surfaces make slips and strains more likely. Keep in mind these should also have solid traction performance! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TnDaLrqYTac Traction Performance High traction performance in shoes (thick, rubber soles with grooves) is essential for winter injury prevention. It prevents slips and falls, which are especially common on icy or wet surfaces. Without reliable traction, even the smallest patch of ice can turn into a serious hazard, causing the foot to slide out from under the body and throwing balance off entirely. This can lead to falls, which are a primary cause of winter injuries, including sprains, fractures, and ligament tears in the foot, ankle, or knee. Good traction provides a stable, controlled grip on unpredictable surfaces, allowing each step to connect firmly with the ground. This stability reduces the risk of unexpected slips and ensures that the foot can maintain contact without sliding, even on slippery patches. People who enjoy running during the winter months should particularly focus on finding running shoes with traction. Many brands, like Saucony or ASICS, design shoes for this purpose. You can also add on ice cleats or cramp-ons to your footwear for extra grip when running on icy surfaces. When looking for traction performance, keep in mind that no shoes are built for traction on ice (although some may fare better than others). Only ice cleats or cramp-ons will provide proper grip on ice. 2. Try Warm-ups And Foot Exercises Before going for a run, warm up your feet and lower extremities with a nice, healthy stretch or foot exercise. This will prepare your feet for pounding the pavement (or snow) and give them an added layer of strength and protection. Runners should be doing this year round as part of their foot care routine, not just during the winter! These routines are not just for runners! Quite the opposite, in fact; they help people with mobility constraints and inflamed, weakened and damaged muscles/joints just as much as they do athletes. People with arthritis in the feet, plantar fasciitis and other conditions can help reduce their risk of winter injuries by strengthening their feet. For example, arthritis can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion, making it challenging to maintain balance on slippery or uneven surfaces. On the other hand, plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot. The discomfort may lead to altered walking mechanics, such as favoring one foot over the other, which can compromise stability and increase the risk of falls. Stretches and exercises should target the intrinsic (small, stabilizing muscles located within the foot) and extensor muscles (primarily found in the lower leg), and your ankles. Your routine should include a variety of movements that target as many muscle groups as possible. Here are a few easy, effective stretches and exercises you can start today: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/gOwgyrmU6hM Toe Splays: While seated or standing, spread (or "splay") your toes as wide apart as possible, holding for a few seconds, then releasing. Repeat this 10–15 times per foot. Toe Flex and Raise: Stand with toes planted and lift the heels off the ground. This exercise strengthens the lower leg and foot muscles, improving balance and stability on icy surfaces. Ankle Circles: Sit or stand and slowly rotate each ankle in circles, first clockwise and then counterclockwise. This helps increase ankle mobility and flexibility, which can reduce the risk of sprains. Seated Hamstring Stretch: Sit on a chair, extend one leg straight in front. Lean forward slowly until you feel the stretch in your hamstring. Hold for about 30 seconds. In addition, click here for part 1 and part 2 for the best exercises for arthritis, and here for the best exercises for plantar fasciitis. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AsuUXJYnUmQ The Importance of Balance We all know the direct link between losing your balance and sustaining an injury. We also know that people with disabilities or conditions that impact mobility need to be extra vigilant. With every step, strong balance allows you to react as quickly as possible to unexpected changes in winter terrain and surfaces, which will keep you safe. Here are two simple foot exercises that focus on improving balance: Single-Leg Stands: Stand on one foot for 20–30 seconds, then switch. This exercise builds balance and strengthens the muscles around the ankle, reducing the risk of falls on uneven surfaces. Heel-to-Toe Walk: Walk in a straight line, placing the heel of one foot directly in front of the toes of the other. This exercise improves balance and strengthens stabilizing muscles. 3. Wear Supportive Insoles Winter footwear is typically built for the elements - not for comfort. Therefore, it can be very difficult to find a supportive winter boot that will also protect your feet from winter weather. Fortunately, if you wear a supportive insole with your footwear, you won't need to sacrifice comfort for function. There are two types of supportive insoles you can wear with winter footwear: customer orthotics and over-the-counter insoles. Custom Orthotics Custom orthotics are designed to fit the unique contours of an individual's feet, helping to redistribute pressure and provide the necessary arch support. This is especially beneficial for individuals with flat feet or other conditions. Add winter to the mix, and this becomes even more crucial. By optimizing foot alignment, custom orthotics help maintain stability and balance, allowing individuals to navigate slippery surfaces with greater confidence. Custom orthotics can be made to fit in winter boots or winter running shoes, to keep your foot supported in all scenarios. They can even come in half-lengths to accommodate dress shoes for when you’re leaving the office and heading to your car (slippery sidewalks are everywhere in winter, so you can’t be too careful!). They provide cushioning that absorbs impact and reduces strain on the joints, particularly the ankles and knees, which are crucial during winter activities like walking, shoveling snow, or participating in winter sports. To learn if you can benefit from custom orthotics, you can consult a foot specialist like a chiropodist or a podiatrist. Check out these resources on custom orthotics to learn even more: 5 Ways Orthotics Can Be Customized for Maximum Comfort and Support The Role of Orthotics in Supporting Foot Health and Correcting Alignment Understanding Different Types of Custom Orthotics: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Feet https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IBXAXoUouFY Over-the-Counter Insoles (Superfeet) Over-the-counter insoles, like Superfeet, are also a great option to upgrade your winter footwear. Superfeet insoles have a deep heel cup, pronounced arch and a rigid, durable structure. They come in a variety of arch heights and cushioning levels to accommodate many foot conditions, like high arches, flat feet, plantar fasciitis and more! Whereas custom orthotics are custom-designed to your foot, Superfeet come in standard sizes and designs (each representing a different colour). They therefore can be more economical than custom orthotics. If you're interested in Superfeet insoles, bring your winter shoes to our Toronto foot clinic. You can then try different Superfeet options to see which one works best for you. Different insoles feel different in different shoes, so we strongly recommend trying on your Superfeet with your winter shoes before purchasing them.

October 31, 2024

5 Expert Tips to Prevent Foot Pain

Foot pain can disrupt your life and make even simple tasks challenging. Whether you’re dealing with soreness, aching arches, or general fatigue, there are several ways to prevent foot pain. So we asked the chiropodists at our Toronto foot clinic their top tips to prevent foot pain. These expert tips also work for a) preventing full-blown foot conditions that constantly flare up and affect your life; and b) preventing existing foot conditions from getting worse. From daily foot care to choosing the right footwear, these expert tips will help you maintain healthier, happier feet. 5 Expert Tips to Prevent Foot Pain Maintain Daily Foot Care Perform Light Foot Exercises and Stretches Wear the Right Footwear Consider Your Lifestyle See a Foot Specialist 1. Maintain Daily Foot Care Daily foot care plays a critical role in preventing various foot issues and ensuring long-term comfort. Begin with moisturizing your feet regularly. Dry skin on the feet can lead to cracks and calluses, which not only cause pain but can also become a breeding ground for infections. Apply a moisturizing cream or lotion designed specifically for foot care after showering, as this helps lock in moisture and keeps the skin supple. It's important to use a dedicated foot cream - not a body or facial moisturizer - as the skin on our feet is thicker and has unique needs due to the stress and weight of our movement. To get double the results with one action, amp up your at-home foot care routine with a self-performed foot massage when you moisturize. Massaging the soles of your feet and gently stretching each toe helps to release tension and boost blood flow. The arch of the foot is often noted as the “sweet spot” during a foot massage since the arch muscles are some of the hardest working in the human body. Massages can be especially beneficial if you spend long hours on your feet or wear tight shoes (but remember, you need to stop doing the latter!). If you find sore spots, spend a bit more time on those areas to ease discomfort and prevent future pain. Additionally, a soothing foot bath can go a long way in alleviating stress and enhancing your foot health. Warm water (hot water can dry out your skin) with Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation in the feet. For an extra boost, consider adding essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus, which offer calming and antibacterial properties. However, the most bang-for-your-buck can be found in foot bath products come from companies like Gehwol. These contain both essential oils AND medicinal ingredients, and are available at our Toronto foot clinic. 2. Perform Light Foot Exercises and Stretches https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AsuUXJYnUmQ Foot exercises and stretches are incredibly beneficial for keeping your feet limber and reducing stiffness. Incorporating gentle stretches can also help prevent foot injuries and make you less susceptible to other biomechanical conditions. Foot exercises work by maintaining flexibility and strength in the intrinsic and extensor muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Some foot exercises are self-explanatory and very straight-forward, like ankle circles and towel curls. Ankle circles are perfect for improving range of motion; simply rotate each ankle clockwise and counterclockwise. For towel curls, place a towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it toward you. This simple exercise works the muscles on the underside of your feet. For more specific guidance, take a look at these targeted exercises for common foot conditions: Best exercises for plantar fasciitis: These exercises focus on stretching the plantar fascia ligament, which often causes heel pain when inflamed. Best exercises for arthritis part 1 and 2: Aimed at maintaining mobility in the joints, these exercises help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion for individuals with arthritis. Best exercises for diabetes: Diabetic foot exercises promote circulation, which is crucial for managing foot health in individuals with diabetes, as they are more prone to infections and sores. Best exercises for bunions: These exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the big toe, improving alignment and reducing pressure on the bunion. Adding these exercises to your routine can be instrumental in alleviating foot pain and keeping you active. Regularly performing these stretches will not only reduce discomfort but also prevent potential injuries by keeping your feet strong and resilient. 3. Wear The Right Footwear https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xl6cE3oxDuE Many people think foot pain is a normal part of life, and that ill-fitting shoes will not cause harm in the long run. None of this is true! Wearing appropriate footwear is perhaps one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent foot pain. There are 4 things to consider when selecting the right shoes: support, fit, purpose, and condition. Support Your feet bear the weight of your entire body, so providing them with the right support is essential. Shoes with adequate shock absorption help cushion the impact from the pavement, hard floors and ground when you walk or run, which reduces stress on all parts of the foot. Arch support is equally important; It distributes pressure evenly across your feet, minimizing strain on specific areas. Fit Ill-fitting shoes are a major cause of foot pain and can lead to conditions such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and even arthritis. When shoes don’t fit properly, they can restrict movement and force your feet into unnatural positions, creating pressure points and friction. To see if your shoes fit properly: Look for footwear that allows enough room for your toes to wiggle - ideally between ⅜” to ½” of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe. If you're feeling your toes knocking against the front of your shoes, they're too small. Conversely, if you're feeling your shoe moving around and sliding as you walk, they're too big. Loosen the laces if the shoes feel too tight. If that doesn't work, look for a wide-width shoe; do not go up in length to accommodate width (you'll just end up with a long narrow shoe). Always check the toe room when you're standing - not sitting. Our feet splay when we stand, which affects how the shoe fits. Activities Selecting shoes tailored to your specific needs is key. For example, runners should look for high-quality athletic shoes while people who walk or stand for long periods may benefit from shoes that have a removable insole so they can wear custom orthotics at work. Whatever your lifestyle, investing in quality footwear is one of the best foot pain tips anyone can follow. Wear-and-tear Lastly, shoes aren’t meant to last forever, even the best ones. You may need to rotate them based on seasonality, or if you think your foot size may have changed. Either way, rotate your shoes regularly to avoid the wear-and-tear that causes discomfort over time. 4. Consider Your Lifestyle https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Y9kriXz1dL4 Foot health tips only go so far if you don’t understand your lifestyle and its impact on your feet. As previously mentioned, athletes need supportive athletic shoes. These shoes are designed for activities that involve running, jumping, or quick lateral movements. Without proper footwear, athletes risk overuse injuries like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis or stress fractures, which can be both painful and debilitating. Seniors or individuals with mobility concerns, on the other hand, may benefit from orthopaedic footwear. Orthopaedic shoes are designed to support the structure of the foot and can accommodate issues such as arthritis or diabetic neuropathy. These shoes often feature wider toe boxes, extra depth, extra cushioning, and removable insoles to ensure maximum comfort and stability. For seniors, having footwear that reduces the risk of falls is crucial in maintaining independence and mobility. Professionals who spend long hours on their feet, such as nurses, restaurant workers, or flight attendants, may need compression stockings in addition to solid footwear. The opposite is also true: office workers or anyone who works in a sedentary position can also benefit from compression stockings. Compression stockings promote blood circulation, reducing the risk of swelling and fatigue. By combining supportive shoes with compression stockings, these folks can significantly reduce foot pain that comes from standing for hours on end. By aligning your footwear choices with your daily activities, age or general lifestyle, you can not only prevent pain but also enhance your life experiences. If you find that a specific activity or aspect of your lifestyle is causing foot discomfort, consider getting a foot assessment with a chiropodist or podiatrist. At a foot assessment, you'll get expert advice to ensure you're taking the right steps to prevent foot pain. Which leads to our last tip to prevent foot pain: 5. See a Foot Specialist The best way to prevent foot pain is to be proactive. Adding a foot specialist like a chiropodist or podiatrist to your health care team is one of the best ways to do that. A chiropodist can do the following: Routine foot care: This includes medical pedicures, corns, calluses and routine nail care. All of this is done in a safe, sterilized environment so you don't need to worry about infection. A chiropodist will also trim your toenails so they don't become ingrown, and will notice any problems you may not. The best part about seeing a chiropodist for foot care is that they can give you expert advice for taking care of your feet at home. Foot & Biomechanical Assessments: A chiropodist can do a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis to diagnose any potential foot concerns that can lead to pain. For instance, a chiropodist can see if you overpronate or have flat feet. You can then get expert advice to manage it so it doesn't cause problems down the road. A chiropodist can also recommend footwear based on your foot type and gait pattern, as well as any exercises, stretches or devices that can help prevent foot pain.

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 17, 2024

6 Foot Exercises to Strengthen and Protect Your Feet

Studies show that 8 weeks of a solid foot health workout can increase intrinsic foot muscle volumes by up to 22.8%. These are the various small muscle groups located entirely within the foot. They play a key role in stabilizing the arch, supporting balance, and enabling precise movements of the toes. Foot exercises can also help maintain extrinsic muscle strength. These are the muscles that connect to the foot, but are located just outside it, mainly in the lower leg, calf and Achilles tendon area. Foot exercises can also work your toes and the bottom of the foot, soothe pain, strengthen your ankles and prevent foot injuries. This article will list some of the best foot pain relief exercises you can incorporate into your daily routine, starting today! Ball Stretch View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Simply rolling your back and forth on a small ball can help with plantar fasciitis, arch pain, bottom of the foot pain, and general foot fatigue. You don’t need a therapeutic massage ball—a tennis, lacrosse or golf ball will work. Sit or stand comfortably and place the ball under your foot. Roll the ball slowly from your heel to your toes, applying gentle pressure for 2-3 minutes. Switch to the other foot. Toe Pulls View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This exercise can help relieve plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and general foot or calf tightness. Sit with your legs extended in front of you and your back straight. Use your hands to gently pull back on your toes, stretching the bottom of your feet and calves. Hold for 20-30 seconds. Release and repeat 2-3 times, focusing on a slow, controlled stretch. (Optional) Incorporate a resistance band by looping it around your feet and pulling back to deepen the stretch. Toe Flex and Raise View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Work out your tibialis anterior, improve toe flexibility and balance and strengthen your feet with this fun exercise. Stand with your feet flat and toes planted firmly on the ground. Lift your heels off the ground, keeping your toes pressed down, then slowly lower your heels back to the floor. Repeat the movement 10-15 times, focusing on control. Ankle Circles View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This stretch helps strengthen your ankles and can improve general mobility. Sit or stand with one foot lifted slightly off the ground. Rotate your ankle slowly in large circles, first clockwise, then counterclockwise. Repeat 10 times in each direction, then switch to the other ankle. Calf Stretch on a Step A great choice for calf strengthening and targeting the extrinsic muscle group, this is a simple stretch that just requires a set of stairs! Stand on a step with your heels hanging off the edge and hold onto a railing or wall for balance. Lower your heels slowly below the step, feeling a stretch in your calves. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then raise your heels back up and repeat 2-3 times. Marble Pick-Ups View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) This exercise can help with your general coordination and improve toe strength and flexibility, which may alleviate discomfort from conditions like bunions and arthritis. There are no time constraints with this one, simply focus on the task at hand. Place small objects (like marbles) on the floor in front of you while seated. Use your toes to pick up each object and drop them into a nearby bowl or container. Repeat with both feet, aiming for 10-15 picks per foot.

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5 Causes & Solutions for Top of Foot Pain

Cause 1: Foot Sprain

Cause 2: Tendonitis

Cause 3: Athlete’s Foot

Cause 4: Bone bruise

Cause 5: Peroneal nerve injury

Other causes of top-of-foot pain

Your Solutions Live Here!

About Author: Erica Halpern

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6 Foot Exercises to Strengthen and Protect Your Feet

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