Open
November 30, 2024
Holiday shopping can feel like a daunting ordeal that takes away from all the fun. Your list is long, and you don't have ideas for some people - which is okay! But it doesn't have to cause so much stress. We've got you covered with our guide to the best foot care holiday gifts!
When you're stuck on what gift to get for your grandparents, friends, and other relatives, medical gifts may inspire you more than you realize. The health and wellness industry is known for producing excellent products, opening your mind to many gift options.
Gifts that promote foot health can help those with debilitating foot issues. But they can also help prevent foot conditions before they develop. And they're simply fun to use. We're talking foot creams, scrubs, and other luxurious products fit for a spa session!
The gifts we'll discuss today focus on both skincare and foot pain; they shine on their own and work well as stocking stuffers. But the best way to gift products from a foot care clinic is by compiling a foot care gift set! It's fun to try more than one product, and it gives loved ones the tools for a great self-care day. Let's take a look at our top picks!
Foot Care and Medical Gifts: Gift Guide 2024
Below is a general overview of our top foot care holiday gifts. But don't worry, we'll cover all the details.
Foot Exfoliators
Foot Creams & Moisturizers
Superfeet Insoles
Feet First Clinic Gift Certificates
Foot Exfoliators
Foot Scrubs & Foot Baths
Products like Gehwol's Herbal Bath are affordable medical gifts to raise your loved ones' foot care game to the next level. They're suitable for people of all ages and help exfoliate and soothe dry skin. Exfoliation prevents itchy, flaky dead skin from building up while simultaneously unclogging your pores. Exfoliating your feet weekly will help prevent and treat any callus buildup and cracked heels, while keeping your feet soft and moisturized.
But foot baths do even more for the body than you may realize. First, foot bath products combined with hot water help promote healthy blood flow, which can relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, etc. They can also warm your overall body temperature, which alleviates muscle tension, reduces stress, and may help prevent sickness or fight flu symptoms by strengthening your natural immunity (perfect for the winter!).
Helpful tip: It's best to start a spa session by bathing your feet, as it leaves a clean base for exfoliation and moisturizing by washing away bacteria and dirt.
Foot Files
Feet First Clinic's foot files are another great way to exfoliate your feet! You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in the Gehwol Herbal Foot Bath and some foot cream for the perfect foot care selection!).
But why do we need them?
Foot files remove hard, scaly dead skin from the bottom of the foot, making them feel silky smooth. Our foot files also have a smoothing side to buff and soften the skin. This allows you to customize and control where and how much skin you remove when exfoliating your feet (unlike the foot peels you see online). The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_)
Foot Creams & Moisturizers
Gehwol Foot Creams
To restore the skin's natural barrier functions, you should always moisturize after soaking and exfoliating. Gehwol's Soft Feet Cream, Universal Foot Cream, and Med Lipidro Cream are just a few examples of medicinal moisturizers that work wonders. So why not gift them to someone you love? They'll get to enjoy smooth skin and fewer cracks and calluses.
If your loved one already has severely painful cracked heels, try gifting them Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care instead.
Dermal Therapy Heel Care
Hopefully, it's becoming clear that medical gifts can be more valuable than gifts that sit around collecting dust. And Dermal Therapy Heel Care is one of the best foot care holiday gifts around.
Cracked heels have the potential to burden everyone, from your best friend to your grandmother - dry skin doesn't discriminate! Severely cracked heels can make walking almost unbearable and cause swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. So if you're catching wind that someone you love is suffering, why not brighten their holidays by gifting them some relief?
Dermal Therapy helps skin cells deep below the surface absorb and lock in moisture, which fights cracked heels. It has the highest urea concentration (25%) of all the foot creams we carry. Urea is important because it works into the deeper layers of the skin to help skin both absorb and retain moisture. To top it off, dermal therapy is a moisturizer and exfoliator that removes dead cells, revealing fresh, young skin.
Superfeet Insoles
As far as medical gifts for healthy feet go, Superfeet insoles are a wonderful route to take. The general use of their most popular colour, green, is to provide extra support for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other types of foot pain. And for those who want the same arch support as the flagship Superfeet Green, but with more cushioning and flexibility, you can get the Superfeet Run Cushion High Arch insoles - a new favourite and best seller at our Toronto foot clinic!
But if you have a loved one with more specific needs, worry not!
Superfeet produces several insoles with colours that indicate how they stand out. For example, Superfeet Berry is made specifically for women and comes with a slimmer heel and an arch length to fit the proportions of the female foot. And Superfeet Black is a versatile, low-profile option for people with flat feet. And that’s just the beginning!
October 28, 2024
Taking care of your feet during winter might require a little extra effort, but it’s essential for preventing discomfort and long-term issues. The cold weather can impact your feet in its own unique ways, just like hot weather can. Whether you’re dealing with dry, cracked skin or trying to avoid slippery conditions, being mindful of your foot health will keep you a step ahead of the cold.
5 Ways Cold and Wet Weather Can Impact Your Feet
Dry, cracked skin
Skin conditions
Reduced circulation
Stiffness and joint pain
Winter-related foot conditions
1. Dry, Cracked Skin
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 10, 2024
Toronto's summer is behind us and the warm days of sandals won’t return until next year. But fall brings its own charm and many folks are excited for a new chapter. At the same time, you may also be looking to prevent foot issues this fall in as many ways as possible, and luckily, you’ve come to the right place! For top tips on blisters and dry skin prevention, as well as how you can fight some other common fall foot problems, keep reading today’s article!
Cracked Heels
As summer’s humid air is replaced with dryness, the skin on your feet may dehydrate and over time, cracked heels can form.
One of the best fall foot care tips to prevent this is regular moisturizing. Use a nutrient-dense product like Gehwol’s Lipidro Cream, available at Toronto’s Feet First Clinic.
It helps lock in moisture and prevent further damage. Containing high-quality ingredients like avocado oil and urea, this cream helps your skin absorb water into its layers and supplies dry skin with the lipids it needs. Properties like allantoin can also soothe irritation sometimes associated with cracked heels.
Fungal Infections
You may have heard how fungal infections like athlete’s foot are easy to contract during the summertime. Public pools, shared locker rooms and showers, and other communal spaces are all summer hot spots where this foot fungus can breed. But did you know that foot fungi is still a threat in the fall?
It can thrive when people wear closed shoes for longer periods, trapping moisture and warmth. To prevent this, keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable socks, and choose shoes that allow proper ventilation. Shoes should also be waterproof to prevent extra water getting into your shoe’s environment. To find the right pair for fall, visit your local Toronto foot clinic for a shoe fitting.
While you’re at it, learn all about the best foot hygiene here!
Musculoskeletal Foot Conditions
Musculoskeletal foot conditions can flare up as the fall chill starts to bite, making each step feel a little extra uncomfortable.
Cold temperatures cause the tissues in your joints to contract, putting pressure on nerve endings and leading to more foot pain and aggravated osteoarthritis. The cold can also worsen foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and other sources of arch and heel pain.
Get ahead of this issue by wearing boots with solid insulation that traps warmth. Also, keep your feet extra cozy with warm socks — a Toronto chiropodist may even suggest a pair of compression stockings (like Sigvaris' Thermoregulating Wool or Merino Wool compression stockings).
Blisters
Autumn foot health often involves managing painful blisters. As new footwear makes its debut, a tight squeeze can slowly wreak havoc and cause discomfort.
To keep your feet happy and blisters at bay, make sure your shoes fit securely and snugly (but not tight!) to prevent excessive friction rubbing against your skin. Wear your boots with other products like moisture control socks, foot powders, blister bandages and insoles to prevent this frustrating issue.
September 23, 2024
The leaves are starting to change colour and the temperatures are taking a dip! What does that mean for your feet? A lot! Seasonal changes have a big impact on our foot health, which is why it's important to prepare your feet for fall — especially if you have a foot condition. To help you our, we compiled our Toronto foot specialists' top foot care tips for fall to keep your feet comfortable and healthy as you transition into cooler days. From selecting the right footwear to vigilant skin care, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you cozy and supported.
Moisturizing, Skin Care and Protection
We all get thirsty, and the same thing happens to your skin — especially when the summer’s humidity is replaced with colder air that prevents it from retaining moisture.
One of the best ways to prepare your feet for fall is by focusing on hydrating your skin. Moisturizing your feet regularly will help you fight painful issues, like cracked heels. Incorporate a rich foot cream, for instance Gehwol’s Salve for Cracked Skin, if you notice dry cracks in your heels.
For a more preventative approach, moisturize every day to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft, and then exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. This lets the moisturizer penetrate deeply. For instance you could try Soft Feet Cream from Gehwol; it binds moisture to the deepest layers of the skin and strengthens its natural defence. Learn more with our comprehensive moisturizing guide.
https://youtube.com/shorts/JkHzT9z8fiU?si=Ss8SE6Ra--EsmC-9
Fall Shoe Tips and Supportive Fall Footwear
Cold air can exacerbate foot pain by messing with your blood circulation. Healthy shoes can help offset this and make a world of difference.
Look for cozy fall boots, ideal for everyday wear. These include ankle boots with sturdy soles, a solid grip to prevent falls, good arch support, and cushioning. Additionally, consider shoes made from waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex fabric, to protect against the elements. Not only will this help with fall foot comfort, but it will also keep your feet dry and warm as the weather cools down. Damp feet can cause issues like blisters, infections and foot odour.
For those extra cold days, you should wear boots with soft materials, like fleece or shearling, for insulation against the cold. You never know when the snow falls and below-zero temperatures will begin, so having a pair of boots like this ready to wear is always wise.
Lastly, your fall shoes might work even better if you wear them with custom orthotics. Ask your chiropodist if they can help you.
Our Toronto foot clinic is known for our excellent shoe shopping tips, particularly for the fall and winter. We can also provide a complimentary shoe fitting service for when you don’t know where to start with your fall shoe hunting.
Foot Conditions Requiring Extra Care in Fall
If you have arthritis or diabetes, fall foot care is even more important. That's why one of our top fall foot care tips is to pay close attention to your foot health and regularly visit your chiropodist so they can keep an eye on your feet - especially if you have vulnerable feet.
Arthritis sufferers may find that the cold exacerbates joint stiffness and pain. The lower temperatures can cause muscles to tighten, putting additional strain on already sensitive joints.
For people with diabetes, the reduced blood circulation can be extra dangerous and worsen the body’s already compromised healing abilities. Ulcers, infections and even frostbite can be big problems during the chilly months.
https://youtube.com/shorts/1aaNATnXvWw?si=quPmbNd2W84aqJXQ
May 6, 2024
Summertime means storing those winter boots and slipping into your favourite warm-weather footwear. But before you hit the beach or embark on a summer hike, remember that giving your feet the care they deserve is not just essential; it's the key to thoroughly enjoying all your summer adventures — whether at the beach, pool or outside exercising! Your feet are your foundation for summer fun, so let's ensure they're in top shape with proper summer foot care.
Here are some simple yet effective tips to keep your feet happy and healthy during the hot months ahead. These easy-to-follow tips can significantly impact your foot health, giving you the confidence to easily step into summer.
1. Keep your feet and yourself hydrated
Like the rest of your body, your feet need hydration. Ensure you drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration, reducing the risk of dry, cracked skin on your feet. Additionally, apply a hydrating lotion or cream to your feet every day to keep them soft and supple.
2. Choose breathable footwear
Sandals or breathable shoes encourage air circulation and prevent feet from overheating. Avoid plastic or synthetic materials that trap moisture and produce sweaty, smelly feet.
3. Protect your feet from the sun
Apply sunscreen to your feet, particularly when exposed to the sun for extended periods. Like the rest of your body, your feet's skin is susceptible to sunburn. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher before heading outdoors. Consider re-applying every two hours and more regularly if swimming or sweating. See the Canadian Dermatology Association's list of products that adhere to their standards.
4. Keep your feet clean and dry
Summer heat can increase the risk of fungal infections like athlete's foot. To prevent this, wash your feet daily with soap and water. Then, dry thoroughly, especially between the toes. Use a foot powder to absorb moisture, reducing the risk of fungal growth.
5. Trim your toenails (properly)
Untrimmed toenails can lead to discomfort and increase the risk of ingrown toenails, especially during summer activities. Trim your toenails straight across. Avoid cutting them too short, and file any rough edges to keep them smooth. Doing so can help prevent ingrown toenails.
6. Give your feet a break
Summer is the perfect time to kick off your shoes and let your feet breathe. Take a moment to walk barefoot on the soft grass or sand to strengthen your foot muscles improve circulation and reconnect with nature. Just be mindful of your surroundings to avoid any injuries or stepping on sharp objects.
7. Stay active this summer with the proper footwear
Whether going for a hike or a run, wearing the right shoes for the activity is important. Proper footwear provides support and cushioning to reduce the risk of foot pain or injury, so invest in a good pair of athletic shoes that fit well and suit your chosen activity.
8. Treat your feet to a relaxing soak
After a long summer of fun, treat your feet to a soothing foot soak to relax tired muscles and rejuvenate your skin. Fill a bath or basin with warm water. Then, add Epsom salt or a few drops of essential oils (like lavender or peppermint) for an extra touch of luxury.
9. Pay attention to warning signs
If you experience persistent foot pain, swelling, or any worrisome symptoms, don't ignore them. These could be signs of a foot condition or injury requiring medical attention. Consult a chiropodist or healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
10. Practice good foot care year-round
Finally, remember that foot care is not just for summer. Make it a habit to take care of your feet year-round by wearing comfortable, supportive shoes, maintaining good foot hygiene, and promptly addressing foot issues.
By following these tried-and-tested tips for summer foot care, you can keep your feet happy, healthy, and ready for all the season's adventures. These tips have been proven to work, so you can trust that your feet are in good hands. So go ahead, put your best foot forward, and confidently enjoy everything summer has in store!
April 22, 2024
When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen.
As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age.
1. Maintain proper hygiene
Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Have regular bathing/ showering, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup.
2. Moisturize regularly
Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple:
Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. But not between the toes.
Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties.
For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture.
3. Supportive footwear
As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape. Opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning.
4. Consistent exercise
Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practising yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age.
5. Routine and regular check-ups
Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.
