These Tips Can Help You Stay Safe While You Play Hockey

Written by Erica Halpern on March 2, 2020

Last updated March 13, 2026

Medically reviewed by Barbara Brehovsky, D. Ch.

Hockey is Canada’s number one sport and has been enjoyed worldwide for over a century!

Not only is hockey extremely fun to play, but it’s also an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise and vigorously works your lower body. Playing hockey increases your heart rate, which improves your body’s ability to build muscle and burn calories.

Hockey is also beneficial for your mental health. Getting vigorous amounts of exercise releases endorphins. This puts you in a better mood and gives you additional energy. Playing hockey can also keep your brain sharp; this is because it can help improve your problem solving and decision-making skills.

However, athletes should know that playing hockey comes with its fair share of risks. Hockey is one of the more aggressive sports; players can potentially experience concussions, lose teeth and break bones.

Hockey players are also prone to several foot and ankle related injuries. Below, we break down the most common foot and ankle injuries that hockey players can experience:

Common Hockey Injuries

Skate or Lace Bite – One of the most common hockey injuries is known as lace bite (also occasionally referred to as skate bite), which occurs when you tie your laces too tight. Lace bite causes players to experience, ankle pain, redness and swelling
Metatarsalgia or toe capsulitis – Caused by repetitive stress during push off
Subungal hematomas (black toenails) and onycholysis (toes lifting) – Caused by the toes hitting the front of the skates.
Ingrown toenails – From tight boots and push off forces
Hallux limitus or rigidus – Caused by limited big toe movement in skates and more pressure with side strides
Lisfranc stress injuries (midfoot) – From forceful lateral push offs
Plantar fasciitis – Players with flat feet or limited ankle dorsiflexion are especially prone to this condition
Anterior ankle impingement – Due to pressure around the front of the ankle and limited ankle dorsiflexion
Achilles tendinopathy – From repetitive forceful plantarflexion
Posterior ankle impingement – Occurs when the back of the ankle becomes painful, often in hockey players who skate with a forward-leaning stance. This injury is typically caused by repetitive pressure or pinching at the back of the ankle, leading to discomfort and stiffness during skating.
Peroneal tendinopathy – From edge glides and lateral loads on the ankle and foot
Posterior tibialis tendinopathy – From continuous overpronation and subluxation of the navicular bone
Retrocalcaneal bursitis – Inflammation of the bursa located at the back of the heel, often caused by rubbing or pressure from the heel counter of a skate or shoe. This irritation can lead to pain along the back of the heel and on the sides of the Achilles tendon, making skating or walking uncomfortable.
Haglund’s deformity – A bony enlargement at the back of the heel that can develop from repeated rubbing and pressure from the heel counter of skates or shoes. This irritation causes pain along the back of the heel and may lead to the formation of a bony spur over time.
Sever’s disease – A common heel condition in children aged 8–14, caused by stress on the growth plate at the back of the heel. It leads to pain and swelling, which often worsens during and after skating or other physical activity.

Hockey Safety Tips

We know that a few potential injuries won’t stop hockey players from doing what they love; that’s why we put together this list of safety tips.

Always Wear a Helmet

Practically every hockey league (both professional and recreational) require players to wear a helmet. This requirement, which was put in place in 1979, is essential for several reasons.

As mentioned earlier, hockey players are prone to head injuries, like concussions. Studies show that concussions account for approximately 2% to 14% of all hockey injuries. Additionally, concussions account for about 15% to 30% of all hockey-related head trauma.

Although concussions are occasionally unavoidable, wearing a high-quality helmet can drastically decrease your risk of experiencing head trauma.

So, why are modern helmets so effective? First of all, modern hockey helmets are made out of high-quality materials like vinyl nitrile and expanded polypropylene foam. These materials are made to disperse and absorb large amounts of impact.

Additionally, modern hockey helmets are form-fitting; they are designed to cup and protect the orbital protuberance (the back of your head).

Are you looking to protect more than just your head? Then you may want to consider buying a helmet with a visor and/or ear guards. These helmets are made to protect the remainder of your face from stray pucks, sticks and skates.

Wear Skates That Have the Right “Fit”

Having the right pair of skates is integral, especially if you want to perform at the best of your ability.

Are you new to the sport? Then you may not know that buying a pair of skates is quite different from picking out a pair of shoes.

Here are several key differences that you need to keep in mind:

Size: The first thing you need to consider is the size. While looking for new skates, you need to remember that hockey skates have a different sizing system than traditional walking shoes. You should generally look for hockey skates that are one to one and a half sizes smaller than your everyday footwear. Are you buying skates for your child? Then you may want to get a pair that has a little bit of wiggle room. This way, if your child has a growth spurt, you won’t have to replace their skates instantly.
Tightness: While playing hockey, athletes want their ankles to feel stable and secure. Wearing loose-fitting skates strains your ankles and can increase the risk of sprained or broken bones. Before hitting the ice, make sure that neither of your laces are untied. This will not only help you feel secure, but it will also lower the chances of you accidentally tripping. For extra security, you may want to wear a pair of thick socks. This will help keep your feet warm and fill in any additional space in the skates.
Heel Movement: Can you lift or shift your heels in your current pair of skates? When your skates fit properly, you shouldn’t be able to move your heels at all. Instead, they should feel snug and continuously in one position. Wearing skates that don’t fit properly can cause your heels to shift in place. This can make your skin feel rough and potentially lead to painful blisters on the sides of your feet.

Stay Hydrated

During the sweltering summer heat, athletes are constantly reminded to drink as much water as possible — however, if you’re playing sports in the winter, like hockey, you still need to drink a sufficient amount of fluids.

Drinking water is incredibly beneficial for athletes, as staying hydrated can:

Improve your joint and muscle health
Regulate your body temperature
Prevent and lessen the severity of muscle cramps

Failing to drink enough water can lead to dehydration; this happens when your body uses more fluids than it’s receiving. When this happens, your body slowly begins to shut down, and in some severe cases, dehydration can lead to short-term hospitalization.

It can be challenging to pinpoint exactly when you (or one of your teammates) are feeling dehydrated, as other common issues share many of the symptoms.

If you don’t know what to look for, then keep an eye out for the following signs:

Dizzy/light-headed feeling
Dry mouth
Upset stomach
Elevated heart rate

To be safe, you should aim to drink at least 8 oz of water before playing. During the game, you should try to consume anywhere from 7 oz to 10 oz. Finally, you should have no less than 8 oz of water after the game is finished. This may seem like a lot of fluid, but your body will appreciate it.

Wear Compression Stockings

These garments are designed to apply therapeutic pressure to your feet and ankles.

Wearing compression stockings can help improve the circulation in your lower body and decreases fluid retention. Fluid retention (also referred to as water retention and edema) generally stems from prolonged periods of sitting and/or standing. This condition causes extremities, likes your feet, to swell up and feel uncomfortable.

Additionally, compression stockings are a cost-effective tool for reducing and managing blood clots. After experiencing a blood clot, some patients are advised to wear compression stockings for as long as two years.

So, why are compression stockings so vital for hockey players? In short, compression stockings can improve your athletic performance. This is because compression stockings can:

Increase your endurance
Minimize muscle strain
Improve your balance and stability
Lower the risk of shins splits and other forms of soft tissue damage

Additionally, if you wear compression stockings while doing your daily feet exercises, you can drastically decrease your recovery time (for lower-body injuries) — this means you can spend less time on the couch and more time on the ice.

If you’re a female hockey player, you most likely want something that fits your body. That’s why many companies produce compression stockings for women as well as men. This makes them an accessible tool for both genders.

With all of this in mind, it’s clear why athletes should always wear a pair of compression stockings underneath their uniforms.

Wear Supportive Insoles

Hockey skates often restrict the natural movement and flexibility of the foot and typically don’t provide enough support, which can make players more prone to the injuries discussed above. One way to reduce this risk is by wearing supportive insoles designed specifically for skates. Many players opt for custom orthotics to get personalized support that helps prevent and manage foot pain. You can get custom orthotics specifically constructed and designed for your favourite hockey skates. Over-the-counter hockey insoles can also provide added cushioning and stability. Some brands even make insoles specifically tailored for the unique fit of hockey skates.

Dealing with Hockey Foot Injuries

Are you a hockey player looking to prevent or manage foot injuries? Whether it’s ingrown toenails or custom skate orthotics, we can help! Book an appointment today with one of our licensed chiropodists and keep your feet in top shape for every game.

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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March 26, 2026

What to Expect in a Foot Treatment: A Sneak Peek of Your First Visit at a Foot Clinic

You’re having some problems with your feet. Maybe it’s a painful ingrown toenail or heel pain or even a stubborn wart that won’t go away, and you made an appointment with a Registered Chiropodist at your local foot clinic. The appointment is approaching and you’re feeling a little anxious because of the unknown, unfamiliar territory you will be encountering. What will happen? What do I have to bring? Will it be uncomfortable? Here is a quick read on what to expect at your first appointment at a foot clinic to help you calm those nerves. Before Your Appointment Before your visit, we recommend checking your insurance coverage. Chiropody visits are covered under most insurance plans with extended health benefits, and knowing what your covered for ahead of time will ensure a smooth process. In addition to checking your visit coverage, it's a good idea to also check your coverage for orthopaedic devices in case any are recommended. You'll also be sent an online intake form to fill out before your appointment. Completing the intake form before your appointment will make check-in faster on the day of your appointment. If you're unable to complete the intake form before your appointment, we recommend arriving 10 minutes early to leave enough time for filling out the form at the clinic. For your intake form, you will provide a list of your medications, note any allergies you may have, and document any relevant medical history. Providing as much detail as possible to your health care provider will help build a complete picture, so they can make an informed diagnosis and come up with the best treatment plan. At Your Appointment Once you arrive to your initial appointment, you will likely be greeted by the receptionist and checked in. You will then be escorted to a treatment room where a chiropodist will ask you to remove your shoes and socks and voice your concerns with your feet. After this, the chiropodist will take a look at your feet and carry out the necessary assessments to determine a differential diagnoses. Depending on the reason for your visit, the chiropodist will check for the following: Circulation or blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes to or concerns with the skin and toenails (if your visit is for foot care) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, flat feet, etc) - if your visit is for foot pain. After the assessment, the chiropodist will explain his or her findings and propose a treatment plan. Treatment will only commence with your consent. In general, treatment is usually painless. In fact, more often than not, if you enter the appointment with pain or discomfort, you will leave relieved of that pain. Finally, although it may seem unusual to you to have someone look at or touch your feet, know that it is second nature to the Chiropodist. Your chiropodist would have seen numerous amounts of feet, all of different shapes, colours, and sizes, and encountered a variety of foot concerns. So don’t be embarrassed, and don’t be afraid to receive the care you need. After Your Appointment After your appointment, the receptionist will book your next visit and cash you out. You may also wish to purchase any recommended foot products or devices to help maintain your feet between visits. This can range from footwear, to foot cream, to toe devices. Whatever you need, our staff can help you find the right product for you that aligns with the chiropodist's recommendations. After that, it's then important to follow through on the chiropodist's recommended treatment plan. Whether it's stretches, moisturizing daily, or wearing the right shoes, taking care of your feet between appointments is super important to keeping your feet healthy. And that's it! We look forward to seeing you again soon!

February 19, 2026

Which Superfeet Insole Is Right For Me?

Sometimes our shoes need that extra layer of comfort and resiliency to protect us from foot pain. For those already experiencing foot pain, you should take the time to invest in proper foot care right away. You may think Custom Orthotics are the only way to go, which can be true at times. That being said, Superfeet insoles are another option that can help with a wide range of Foot conditions. With this in mind, Feet First Clinic is proud to offer Superfeet insoles, which provide comfort and stability to anyone who needs them. Superfeet offers a wide array of insoles that all provide relief and support. Not only suitable for foot pain, high-quality insoles have also been credited with helping conditions like back pain. They're also favourable for those with flat feet or a high arch. Some are more tailored for different needs and activities, some for different shoes. The Superfeet insole you choose will ultimately depend on your needs and the shoes you wear them with (which is why you should always try them with the shoes you want to wear them with before purchasing). Superfeet Insoles: Classic Features Superfeet insoles are made with high-quality materials and features that support foot health, including: High-density foam: One of the best materials for insoles, it offers a firm foundation, comfort and sufficient shock absorption. Heel cup: This can help stabilize the foot for those who need it. It also helps properly align the foot. Odour control: Some Superfeet insoles feature an odour-control coating that helps prevent bacteria growth and keeps the insoles smelling fresh. Contoured shape: All Superfeet insoles come with a shape that accommodates various foot types. How to Choose Over-the-Counter Insoles When shopping for over-the-counter insoles, it's important to consider the following: Arch Height: High, medium, or low/flat Primary Use: Running, walking, work boots, slim footwear, or all-day casual use Cushion vs. Support: Do you want plush softness, firm structure, or a balance? Shoe Fit: Roomy vs. snug-fitting shoes Available Superfeet Options We'll discuss the following Superfeet insoles with the hope that you can find the right one for you: All-Purpose Support High Arch (formerly Green) All-Purpose Support Medium Arch (formerly Blue) All-Purpose Support Low Arch (formerly Black) All-Purpose Women's High Impact Support (formerly Berry) All-Purpose High Impact Support (formerly Orange) All-Purpose Memory Foam Support (formerly Copper) Carbon Run Cushion High Arch Work Cushion Work Slim-Fit Cushion Best Insoles for High Arches All-Purpose Support High Arch (Green) Choosing insoles with high arches can seem like a lost cause, but Superfeet Green is great for this foot type. In fact, Superfeet Green is Superfeet’s flagship product, and its most popular. One of the reasons why is its high arch support, which differentiates it from the Blue and Orange insoles. This high arch support helps alleviate foot, ankle, back, and knee pain by properly distributing pressure along the foot. Superfeet Green also provides the most support and stability among all Superfeet’s insoles. It's beneficial for a variety of other foot conditions too, such as plantar fasciitis and even flat feet (albeit with a break-in period). If you have high arches, but need extra cushioning and flexibility, you may also want to consider the Run Cushion High Arch or Work Cushion: Run Cushion High Arch This insole has all the supportive features of the Green, but with extra cushioning and flexibility. It's a great option for people who love the support of Green, but not the firmness. It's also great for sports and high-impact activities. Work Cushion This insole is designed especially for safety shoes and safety boots, but they go great with all footwear. They're designed for people who are on their feet all day and feature extra cushioning and shock absorption in the weight bearing parts of the foot (under the ball of the foot and the heel). It also has extra support around the heel, which makes it great for people who overpronate and need extra stability in their shoes. All Purpose Memory Foam Support (formerly Copper) Cushioning is one of the most important features to look for in an insole if you have high arches. That's because less of your foot contacts the ground, which concentrates more shock and force onto a smaller area. This means your feet can't properly absorb shock when you move. Cushioning provides that shock absorption for you. While the arch profile on the Copper insole is lower than the others listed above, it has abundant memory foam cushioning to soften each step you take. Thin Insoles - Dress/Slim Fitting Shoes Black The Superfeet Black insole is thinner, which makes it very adaptable. It fits snugly inside a wide range of footwear types, provides shock absorption and has an odour-control coating. Carbon The Superfeet Carbon insole is designed specifically for those interested in optimal performance enhancement. While still being lightweight, the Superfeet Carbon insole stands out with its "carbon fibre-reinforced stabilizer cap with a durable, ultralight foam layer." Superfeet notes that the Carbon insole is especially suitable for running shoes and cleats. The trademark Superfeet features, such as foam cushioning, the resilient shape and the heel cup, are also present. It's super-thin profile also makes it perfect for dress shoes and shoes that don't have removable insoles. Best Insoles for Flat Feet All Purpose Support Medium Arch (formerly Blue) Some of the best insoles for flat feet are Superfeet’s Blue inserts. The deep heel cups stabilizes the flat foot and prevents it from rolling inward, also known as overpronation. Individuals with this foot type often experience plantar fasciitis over time, and wearing Superfeet Blue can be preventative and, according to Mayo Clinic, reduce symptoms like foot pain. Superfeet Blue also hasa medium arch shape. This allows you to get the arch support you need, without being too aggressive and putting too much pressure along the arch. It’s also important to note that despite their thin appearance, Superfeet Blues are firm and highly durable. The thinness lets you use them in various footwear, making them one of the most popular over-the-counter insoles and a great option if the insoles with higher arch support (i.e.: Green, Run Cushion High Arch) don't fit into your shoes. All Purpose Women's High Impact Support (formerly Berry) If you like the arch and support of blue, but want a little extra cushioning, Berry could be a great option. The Berry is designed to accommodate the female foot, which characteristically has a slimmer heel. The arch length is also catered to support women. If you're a busy woman who spends long hours on her feet, whether it be for work or physical activity, this may be the insole for you. Superfeet Berry also comes with foam cushioning, allowing all of your footwear to feel exceptionally comfortable and preventing foot pain. The odour-control coating also fights bacteria from causing unpleasant foot odour. Lastly, like any good insole, the Superfeet Berry provides excellent shock absorption while running, with extra padding underneath the metatarsal (forefoot) area. Insoles for Normal Arches / High-Impact Activities: Superfeet Orange Superfeet Orange is a good choice for people with a normal to slightly pronounced arch. However, whether its brisk walking or playing sports, Superfeet Orange is great for physically active individuals. The heel cup perfectly cradles the foot during exercise, providing maximum control and optimal positioning of the soft tissue beneath the heel. Superfeet Orange also stands out with its extra high-impact foam on the forefoot, where the ball of the foot generally withstands the most pressure. It’s important to note that many Superfeet varieties complement a normal arch. Furthermore, flatter and more pronounced arches may also be able to mix and match different insole types. These are simply some of our best sellers. To learn about the various types of Superfeet insoles, click here.

January 22, 2026

Different Stages of a Bunion

A bunion, medically known as hallux abducto valgus, is an angular bony protrusion that forms at the base of the joint that connects your big toe to your foot. This joint, called the first metatarsophalangeal joint (or MTP joint for short), is a critical junction of bones, tendons, and ligaments that bear much of our weight when we’re on our feet. With bunions, the joint deviates its proper alignment, which causes the big toe to slowly and gradually turns towards the smaller toes. This foot deformity occurs in about 10-30% of the population, affecting twice as many females as males. Bunions are caused or contributed to by wearing poor-fitting shoes, faulty foot mechanics, muscle imbalances, lax ligaments, inflammatory arthritic conditions, and genetics. Bunions can be asymptomatic, although some people may experience pain, redness, and swelling at the joint, especially with tight footwear and extended periods of standing or walking. Symptoms may lessen with rest, biomechanical correction, and improved footwear choices. Unfortunately, a bunion is a progressive deformity and is irreversible without surgical intervention. This means they will slowly get worse over time. However, addressing underlying biomechanical factors may help slow its progression and reduce symptoms. Stages of Bunions Bunions are categorized in stages to determine the severity of the deformity. Without treatment, there is a greater risk a bunion will progress from one stage to the next. Stage 1 Visually, a bunion at this stage is considered mild. There may be a small “bump” at the side of the 1st MTP joint and the big toe will be slightly turned towards the second toe, although not touching it. Stage 2 The big toe further deviates from the MTP joint. At this stage, the first toe may be touching the second toe beside it. Stage 3 At this stage, the base of the first toe develops a bone spur. This makes the bony protrusion more significant. The first toe also starts to rotate on its axis away from the mid-line of the body. Stage 4 At stage 4, the first MTP joint has dislocated and the first toe will cross over or under toe. At this stage, the second toe will also present with a hammer toe deformity. Managing Bunions Although the only way to reverse a bunion is by surgery, it is only recommended if symptoms are not manageable by conservative measures and if function is severely compromised. Regardless of whether or not surgery is done, non-surgical treatment must be done, otherwise the bunion will reoccur. Conservative treatments help to slow down the progression of a bunion as well as manage pain. It includes custom foot orthotics, splints, bunions guards, toe separators, and foot exercises. Talk to your Chiropodist about the stage of your bunions and which conservative treatment options would be best for you!

January 8, 2026

Top Tips for Winter Hiking

Hiking is a great form of exercise and a fun way to get outdoors during the colder months of the year. However, if you’re planning on going for a hike, you need to know how to keep your feet warm and safe. Not only will this keep you comfortable during your journey, but it will also minimize the chances of you getting frostbite or another cold-related issue. That is why we are highlighting our top winter hiking tips, with a focus on proper footwear and keeping your feet protected in icy and snowy conditions. Continue reading to learn more about how you can protect your feet while hiking in the winter. Wear Boots That Fit Properly Before going on a hike, you need to assess the quality of your footwear. Preferably, you have a pair of warm boots that you can wear. By wearing boots, you’ll be able to walk in deep snowdrifts without worrying about getting your feet wet. Look for boots that are waterproof and insulated. If your boots are not insulated, be sure to wear them with a wool sock (more on that below). However, it doesn't matter how warm your boots are if they don't fit. Tight-fitting boots will restrict circulation, which will make your feet feel cold no matter what you do. That's why boots should fit properly: When purchasing boots, try them on in-store with a warm, thick sock. When in doubt, it's better to go too big than too small. Wear The Right Pair Of Socks Everybody knows that you should never go on a winter hiking trip without a warm pair of socks. Look for thermal socks with thermoregulating materials like merino wool. Materials will not only keep your feet warm; they're also breathable, meaning you won't need to worry about foot sweat (moisture buildup from foot sweat will make your feet cold). Whatever you do, do not double-layer socks; the increased thickness can make your shoes too tight, which will restrict circulation and make your feet colder. If you have poor circulation or suffer from conditions like Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage caused by diabetes), you may want to wear a pair of compression stockings. Compression stockings are high-quality garments that are made to stimulate the blood flow in your feet and lower body. These garments can help prevent pain in several ways. Some benefits include: Boosting circulation to your lower extremities to help keep them warm Decreased swelling in your ankles and knees Minimizing aching and overall discomfort Reducing leg and foot fatigue If you don’t currently suffer from any of the issues mentioned above, you can still benefit from wearing compression stockings! They can help prevent issues like: Blood clots Varicose veins Complications due to venous disorders Keep Your Feet Dry Keeping your feet dry is just as important as keeping them warm during winter hikes. Moisture from snow, slush, or sweat can quickly lower foot temperature and increase the risk of blisters, irritation, and cold related injuries. Choose waterproof or water resistant boots whenever possible, and consider wearing moisture wicking socks to help pull sweat away from the skin. Packing an extra pair of socks in your backpack is also a smart idea, as changing into a dry pair during or after your hike can significantly improve comfort and help protect your feet from the cold. Wear Shoes with Good Tread Winter can make for slippery conditions. Whether it's slush, snow or ice, it's easy to lose your footing on winter trails. That's why it's important to look for shoes with a good tread and traction. The outsole should be rubber or a high-abrasion rubber compound. Tread depth and tread pattern is also very important. Ideally, the tread depth should be at least 5 mm, and the pattern should have many small shapes. A waterproof hiking shoe or hiking boot usually will do the trick!

December 11, 2025

FootCare 101: What Is A Chiropodist?

Our feet are pretty amazing structures. With over 52 bones, over 250,000 glands and nerves, they're certainly a complex parts of our bodies, and so they deserve a dedicated specialist to keep them in peak condition. How exactly do these specialists work? And why might you need to see one? Read on and find out. What's A Chiropodist? A Chiropodist (pronounced "kerr-op-o-dist") works to support the prevention and management of acute and chronic conditions that affect our feet and lower limbs. Think: skin conditions like warts and calluses, nail conditions like ingrowns or fungus, and musculoskeletal conditions like Plantar Fasciitis and Gout. These are just a few examples of the foot conditions a chiropodist can treat. Click to learn more about other Common Foot Conditions. Is a Chiropodist Different than a Podiatrist? It depends on where you live. ChatGPT said: In Ontario, both chiropodists and podiatrists are regulated foot care professionals, but their training and scope of practice differ slightly. Chiropodists are the most commonly licensed foot specialists in the province and provide comprehensive care including assessments, routine and advanced treatments, custom orthotics, minor procedures, and certain injections. Podiatrists are less common and were grandfathered into practice prior to 1993, when Ontario transitioned to licensing only chiropodists. A podiatrist can perform bone surgeries like bunion or hammertoe corrections, whereas a chiropodist cannot (they can still do other surgeries). Regardless of the title, both professionals are highly qualified to help you manage foot pain and keep you moving comfortably. What Do Chiropodists Check For? When a chiropodist sits down to assesses your feet, they'll be able to spot and treat minor problems right away, like hard skin, Warts, and Ingrown Toenails. For people with diabetes, the chiropodist will check the sensation and circulation in the feet, as well as examine the feet for any potential irregularities or cause for concern. If you have foot pain, a chiropodist can do a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis. They'll check your alignment when you walk, and will then be able to recommend or prescribe solutions including, but not limited to, Orthotics or Insoles, to get the feet working in peak condition. Either way, you'll leave your first visit knowing your feet are being properly cared for. As you can see, foot health isn't just about feet! When feet are in good condition, the whole body can be properly supported. When they're not, you'll likely notice problems elsewhere. Foot health is every bit as much about your legs, hips, and spine as it is about the way your toes look in sandals. Chiropodists are trained to see the bigger picture of your physical health and the role your feet play in it. Even if you don't have foot pain, we urge you to visit a chiropodist. Your feet, after all, are your body's foundation, and having them assessed could save you aches and pains later on. Foot problems affect well over half the population. Don't be one of those people who finds themselves at risk of long-term consequences.

July 10, 2025

What’s the Difference Between an Ankle Foot Orthotic and a Regular Orthotic?

What is an Ankle Foot Orthotic (AFO)? An ankle foot orthotic (AFO) is a medical-grade brace that supports the foot and ankle. It often extends partway up the calf. Unlike regular foot orthotics—which fit inside shoes to support the arch and heel. AFOs offer external stabilization of both the foot and ankle joints. AFOs are commonly made of lightweight plastic or carbon fiber and may be custom-made or prefabricated. They assist walking, correct alignment, reduce pain, and help prevent further injury. Who Needs an AFO? Image from https://braceworks.ca/ and the Washington Post AFO's received mainstream attention a few years ago when NFL quarterback Alex Smith returned to the football field after a catastrophic leg injury. The key to his return: an ankle foot orthotic. Due to a post-surgical infection, the nerve that helps flex the right foot was severed. This meant he couldn't lift his foot. So he got an AFO to help and made a brief comeback (with the help of an extensive rehab team). So who exactly needs an AFO? Since AFOs are heftier than regular orthotics, they're typically recommended for patients with more complex conditions than those addressed by traditional foot orthotics. You might benefit from an AFO brace if you have: Foot drop (difficulty lifting the front of the foot) Cerebral palsy or neuromuscular disorders Stroke-related gait issues Multiple sclerosis (MS) Post-surgical ankle instability Tendon or ligament injuries Severe arthritis affecting ankle mechanics Ankle foot orthotics are most commonly indicated for neuromuscular disorders and foot drop. AFOs v Regular Orthotics: What's the Difference? FeatureRegular OrthoticsAnkle Foot Orthotics (AFOs)ScopeFoot support onlyFoot and ankle supportPlacementInside the shoe (underneath the foot)Worn underneath and around the foot, and around the ankleConditions TreatedArch pain, plantar fasciitis, overpronation, high arches, other biomechanical irregularitiesNeurological and structural gait disorders, severe instabilityCustomizationOften custom-fit or prefabOften custom-molded to leg shapeMobility SupportModerateHigh—can aid in walking and balance While regular orthotics focus on redistributing pressure and correcting foot mechanics inside the shoe, AFOs provide external control for more complex biomechanical or neurological issues. Think of it as the difference between cushioning a sore spot and physically guiding your limb’s motion. How Are AFOs Made and Fitted? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nA_QklH7AWY AFOs are usually prescribed by a foot specialist or chiropodist after a full assessment. The process may include: Biomechanical Assessment Gait analysis Casting or 3D scanning Custom fabrication Fitting and adjustments Some patients may only need short-term use post-injury or surgery, while others may rely on AFOs for long-term mobility support. Final Thoughts If you’ve been told you need more than just arch support or if your walking pattern has changed due to injury or illness, an ankle foot orthotic could be a game-changer. At our clinic, we assess your full biomechanics and work with you to find the right support—whether that’s a custom orthotic, AFO, or a combination of both.

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Protecting Your Body on the Hockey Rink

Common Hockey Injuries

Hockey Safety Tips

Always Wear a Helmet

Wear Skates That Have the Right “Fit”

Stay Hydrated

Wear Compression Stockings

Wear Supportive Insoles

Dealing with Hockey Foot Injuries

About Author: Erica Halpern

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Different Stages of a Bunion

Top Tips for Winter Hiking

FootCare 101: What Is A Chiropodist?

What’s the Difference Between an Ankle Foot Orthotic and a Regular Orthotic?

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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)