6 Simple Foot Care Routines for Better Healthier Feet

Written by Bianca Charles on April 25, 2019

Last updated February 7, 2026

Medically reviewed by Christianne Gregorio, D. Ch.

Feet are probably the most neglected part of the human body. Think about it: how many times have you thought about your feet? Have you really considered how important your feet are when they are working so hard to support your body and take you wherever you need to go? Follow the following simple foot care routines to ensure your feet are in check and given the love they deserve.

Keep your feet clean and dry

Practice good hygiene by washing your feet daily and drying well in between the toes. Damp feet can increase the risk of fungal infections. If your feet sweat a lot, wear moisture wicking socks and breathable shoes.

Moisturizing

Just as it is not good to have overly moist feet, you don’t want to have overly dry feet as well. Your skin is your body’s first and greatest defence against external aggressors, so you want to make sure you’re keeping it in its optimal condition. A good foot care routine includes applying moisturizer daily. This will help the skin maintain its integrity and protective barrier. Moisturizing reinforces the skin’s elasticity, which allows it to adjust to and combat the pressures and stresses caused by walking or running.

Proper Nail Cutting

Your toenails grow about 1 mm in length per month and should be trimmed periodically to reduce the risk of damage and trauma. When cutting your toenails, make sure to cut straight across (you can smooth the corners with a file) and not too short to reduce the risk of ingrown toenails. If you have a difficult time reaching your toenails, have vision problems, or have diabetes, book an appointment with a Registered Chiropodist, who can help with regular nail care.

Proper Footwear

Your footwear choices have a huge impact on your overall foot health. When purchasing shoes, always consider the activity for which you intend to use them to reduce risk of injury. Shoes are typically made with a certain purpose in mind. In addition, try to limit the use of high heels, ballet flats, flip flops, and other shoes that do not offer any support or cushioning. Finally, always buy your shoes according to your foot shape and size. Don’t try to fit a wide foot into a narrow, pointed shoe.

Regular Self Examination

Examine your feet regularly. Check for any changes in the nail, skin (don’t forget in between the toes!), and overall structure of your foot. Look for things like changes in colour, consistency, shape of the nail; thickened, peeling, irritated, itchy skin; flattened arches, splaying of the toes, bunions, digital deformities, etc. In general, the sooner you address an issue, the better the overall outcome.

Periodic visits to a Chiropodist

The final step to a good foot care routine is to include a registered chiropodist in your health care team. A Registered Chiropodist is a primary health care professional who specializes in the assessment, management, and prevention of dysfunctions, disorders, and diseases of the foot. Book an appointment with a Chiropodist if you notice any changes to your feet, want to get a general foot assessment, or wish to maintain optimal foot health.

Let us be a part of your foot care routine!

Routine medical pedicures with a chiropodist can do wonders for your foot health. Book your appointment online today!

About Author: Bianca Charles

With 15 years of dedicated experience in podiatry, Bianca Carter offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise at Feet First Clinic. Throughout her career, Bianca has worked closely with leading chiropodists, continually deepening her understanding of all aspects of foot care.

Learn more about Bianca Charles

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February 5, 2026

Top 5 Common Foot Care Mistakes

If you are like most people, you want your feet to stay healthy and pain free. However, even with the best intentions, many people unknowingly develop habits that can damage their feet over time. From improper nail trimming to walking barefoot in public spaces, foot care mistakes are more common than you might think. The good news is that most of these issues can be prevented with proper education and routine care. Below, our team of experienced chiropodists at Feet First Clinic outlines the top five most common foot care mistakes and how to avoid them. We specialize in preventive foot care and the treatment of both common and complex conditions, offering services such as routine care, assessments, and custom orthotics. 1. Cutting Your Toenails Incorrectly Toenail trimming may seem simple, but doing it improperly can lead to painful ingrown toenails and infections. Cutting nails too short, rounding the edges, or cutting into the cuticle increases the risk of the nail growing into the surrounding skin. To reduce this risk, soften your nails by soaking them in warm water before trimming. Always cut straight across and avoid cutting too close to the skin. If you develop a painful or infected ingrown toenail, it is important to seek professional care promptly. Another common mistake when it comes to ingrown toenails: trying to treat them yourself or at a salon. Some of the worst ingrown toenails we've seen at the clinic are due to botched DIY attempts. If your toenail is ingrown, especially if it's irritated, it's recommended that you book an appointment immediately with a chiropodist; they're trained to treat ingrown toenails properly and prevent them from getting worse. A chiropodist will also trim your toenails so that they grow back properly and straight. 2. Walking Barefoot in Damp Areas Many people walk barefoot in public locker rooms and showers. Although this may not seem like a huge issue to some people, doing this can seriously harm your feet. It's recommended to wear some sort of protective footwear while you’re walking in moist areas. Some examples of reliable footwear include: Sandals Flip-flops (just for those public spaces) Water shoes Shower shoes Doing this is important for preventing issues like toenail fungus. This will cause your nails to become yellow, thick and foul-smelling; they may even fall off! Men tend to have a higher chance of developing foot fungus, along with elderly people and individuals that suffer from athlete’s foot. Once fungus gets underneath the toenail, it becomes very difficult to treat; at-home treatment is typically ineffective. This is because the toenail blocks anti-fungal medication from penetrating and reaching the fungus. That's why it's important to see a chiropodist at the first sign of toenail fungus. They can debride the toenail to make it easier for anti-fungal medication to penetrate to the fungus living in the nailbed. Walking barefoot in public places can also cause warts. Warts are a contagious virus that spreads when bare skin comes into contact with an infected surface. The wart-causing virus especially thrives in warm, damp places, like locker room floors and the puddles on pool decks. Left untreated, warts can multiply and spread to other people. Sometimes you can treat warts in the early stages with over-the-counter treatments. However, if those are ineffective, it's recommended to see a chiropodist to eradicate your warts once and for all. Unlike family doctors and dermatologists, chiropodists can debride the dead skin and callus that forms over the wart, which helps the treatment penetrate through the wart tissue and treat the warts faster. 3. Ignoring Early Signs of Foot Problems Many people dismiss early symptoms such as redness, thickened nails, calluses, or mild discomfort. Unfortunately, delaying treatment often allows minor issues to develop into more serious foot conditions. Addressing concerns early can prevent pain, reduce complications, and keep your feet healthy long term. 4. Wearing Poorly Fitting Footwear Did you know that between 63% to 72% of the population are wearing shoes that don't fit correctly? Shoes that are too tight, too loose, or lacking proper support can contribute to problems such as blisters, corns, bunions, and heel pain. While style may be important, proper fit and support should always be the priority. Well fitted footwear helps support proper foot function and reduces strain on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. It's also important to make sure your shoes accommodate your foot type and gait pattern. If you don't know your foot type, you can get a biomechanical assessment with a chiropodist to find out. 5. Skipping Preventive Foot Care Many people only think about foot care when pain develops. Regular foot assessments, proper hygiene, and preventive treatment are essential for maintaining healthy feet, especially for individuals with diabetes or circulation concerns. Routine visits to a chiropodist can help identify potential problems early and keep your feet comfortable and functional. Something as simple as a medical pedicure can go a long way.

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!

November 27, 2025

Top 5 Ways to Take Care of Your Feet

Your feet are essential to your mobility and independence, yet they’re commonly overlooked in everyday health routines. Proper foot care is about more than aesthetics; it helps prevent discomfort, reduce the risk of injury, and support your overall well-being. At Feet First Clinic in Toronto, our chiropodists treat everything from nail and skin concerns to pain and mobility issues. Here are the top five ways to take care of your feet to keep them healthy and strong all year round. 1. Keep Your Feet Clean and Dry Healthy feet start with good hygiene. Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, and don’t forget to clean between the toes. After washing, dry your feet thoroughly (especially between the toes) to help prevent fungal infections like athlete’s foot. If your feet tend to sweat a lot, moisture-wicking socks or antibacterial foot deodorant powder can help keep them dry and fresh. 2. Moisturize to Prevent Cracked Heels and Dry Skin Dry, flaky, or cracked skin on the feet can be uncomfortable and, if left untreated, may lead to infection. Applying a foot cream or urea-based moisturizer daily helps lock in moisture and keeps the skin soft and supple. Focus on the heels and soles, but avoid putting lotion between the toes as excess moisture there can increase the risk of fungal infections. If you have thick, rough skin or painful calluses, a chiropodist at Feet First Clinic can safely debride (shave down) the skin and recommend medical-grade moisturizers to help prevent recurrence. 3. Trim Your Toenails Properly Toenail care is more important than it might seem. Cutting nails too short or rounding the corners can cause ingrown toenails, which are painful and can become infected. Trim your nails straight across and gently file any sharp edges. If your nails are thick, discoloured, or difficult to trim, don’t force it. Our chiropodists have specialized tools to safely and comfortably trim thick toenails, and we can check for signs of fungal infections or other nail concerns. Feet First Tip: The best time to trim your toenails is after a shower when they’re softer and easier to cut. 4. Choose Proper Footwear Your shoes play a huge role in your foot health. Wearing shoes that are too tight, narrow, or unsupportive can lead to corns, calluses, bunions, or heel pain. When buying new shoes, make sure: There’s about a finger’s width of space between your longest toe and the front of the shoe. The heel fits snugly without rubbing or pressure. You can wiggle your toes freely. If you have foot pain, flat feet, or high arches, custom orthotics may be a game-changer. At Feet First Clinic, our chiropodists assess your gait and foot structure to design orthotics that support your body from the ground up. 5. Schedule Regular Foot Checkups Even if your feet feel fine, regular checkups can help prevent problems before they start. Chiropodists are trained to detect and treat a wide range of foot and nail conditions, including: Ingrown and fungal toenails Corns, calluses, and cracked heels Plantar fasciitis and heel pain Diabetic foot complications At Feet First Clinic, we believe prevention is the best medicine. Routine foot care helps maintain comfort, mobility, and confidence — especially as we age or if we spend long hours on our feet. Feet First Tip: If you notice pain, swelling, or changes in your toenails or skin that don’t go away, it’s time to book an appointment. Small issues can quickly become big problems if ignored.

October 30, 2025

All About Extensor Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Extensor tendonitis is a common foot condition that affects the tendons running along the top of your foot. These tendons connect your muscles to your toes and help lift your toes and foot during walking and other activities. When these tendons become inflamed or irritated, it can lead to pain and difficulty moving your foot comfortably. What Is Extensor Tendonitis? Extensor tendonitis refers to inflammation or irritation of the extensor tendons on the top of the foot. This condition often results from overuse, repetitive strain, or injury. People who are active in sports, wear tight footwear, or have certain foot structures may be more prone to developing extensor tendonitis. Causes of Extensor Tendonitis Overuse: Repetitive activities such as running, jumping, or walking long distances. Improper Footwear: Shoes that are too tight or have insufficient space on the top can compress the tendons. Foot Mechanics: Flat feet, high arches, or gait abnormalities can put extra strain on the tendons. Injury: Trauma or sudden impact to the foot. Underlying Conditions: Arthritis or inflammatory diseases may contribute to tendon irritation. Symptoms of Extensor Tendonitis Pain and tenderness on the top of the foot, especially over the affected tendon. Swelling or redness along the top of the foot. Difficulty lifting the toes or foot. Pain worsens with activity and improves with rest. Occasionally, a burning or tingling sensation. Treatment Options Rest and Activity Modification Avoid activities that aggravate the pain and allow the tendon to heal. Proper Footwear Wear shoes with adequate space in the toe box and good support to reduce pressure on the top of the foot. Ice Therapy Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and pain. Physical Therapy Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve tendon flexibility and foot mechanics. Orthotics Custom orthotics may help correct biomechanical issues that are causing excess strain on the extensor tendon and muscles on top of the foot. Medication Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can reduce pain and inflammation. When to See a Specialist If pain persists beyond a few weeks or worsens, consult a chiropodist or foot specialist for a biomechanical assessment and personalized treatment plan.

September 18, 2025

All About Involuted & Curved Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Toenail health is an important part of overall foot care, yet conditions like involuted toenails often go unnoticed until discomfort arises. If you’ve noticed your toenails curling inward or becoming unusually curved, you might be dealing with an involuted toenail. Understanding this condition can help you manage symptoms and seek proper treatment before complications occur. What Are Involuted Toenails? Involuted toenails, also called curved or pincer nails, occur when the edges of the toenail curl inward toward the skin. This excessive curvature can cause the nail to pinch the nail bed and surrounding skin, leading to discomfort or pain. It also makes them prone to becoming ingrown. Causes of Involuted Toenails Several factors can contribute to the development of involuted toenails, including: Genetics: Some people inherit a tendency toward curved toenails. Improper Footwear: Tight, narrow shoes can exert pressure on the nails, encouraging them to curl. Injury: Trauma to the toe can alter nail growth patterns. Fungal Infections: Nail infections may cause thickening and distortion of the nail plate. Aging: Toenail shape and growth can change with age. Underlying Medical Conditions: Certain diseases like psoriasis or circulatory problems may affect nail health. Symptoms to Watch For Toenails that curve sharply inward, sometimes forming a tube shape. Discomfort or pain along the sides of the toenail. Redness, swelling, or signs of infection around the nail edges. Difficulty trimming nails due to their shape. Formation of calluses or corns near the nail edges. Treatment Options for Involuted Toenails Conservative Care Proper Footwear: Choose shoes with wide toe boxes to reduce pressure. Regular Nail Care: Careful trimming and filing can help manage nail shape. Moisturizing: Keeping nails and surrounding skin hydrated may reduce brittleness. Padding: Using protective pads can cushion the nail and reduce irritation. Medical and Professional Treatments Nail Bracing or OnyFix: Special braces can gently correct nail curvature over time. Debridement: A podiatrist can carefully trim thickened or curved nails. Treatment of Infections: Antifungal medications if infection is present. Surgical Options: In severe cases, part or all of the nail may be removed to relieve pain and prevent recurrence. When to See a Foot Specialist If you experience persistent pain, signs of infection, or difficulty managing your involuted toenails, it’s important to consult a foot care professional. Early intervention can prevent complications such as ingrown nails or infections. You should also see a specialist if you find you're having difficulty trimming your toenails; curved toenails are notoriously difficult to trim.

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6 Simple Foot Care Routines for Better Healthier Feet

Keep your feet clean and dry

Moisturizing

Proper Nail Cutting

Proper Footwear

Regular Self Examination

Periodic visits to a Chiropodist

Let us be a part of your foot care routine!

About Author: Bianca Charles

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Top 5 Common Foot Care Mistakes

Different Stages of a Bunion

Top Tips for Winter Hiking

Top 5 Ways to Take Care of Your Feet

All About Extensor Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

All About Involuted & Curved Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

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