All About Corns

Written by Bianca Charles on November 9, 2021

Last updated March 7, 2024

Do you have pain on the top of your foot accompanied by a small, hard lump? Or perhaps you notice the same feeling on or in between your toes, but the lump is softer? You think to yourself it could be a plantar wart or a foot callus, or perhaps a foot condition you never even heard of before. In fact, there is another condition that may be the culprit: foot corns.

Corns are little nuisances that have some similarities to calluses and warts. They are generally caused by friction, pressure and your shoes rubbing against vulnerable areas of your feet. Corns are typically painful and, depending on the type, hard or rubbery. Let’s learn as much as we can about corns, including what causes them, the different types of corns, and how to treat them!

What Are Corns?

A corn is an area of round and painful skin with a thick hardened centre (called the “core”) and an inflamed surrounding area. They may feel hard, rubbery or soft, depending on the type. Their small, circular appearance and hardened feel resemble pieces of corn, hence the name. That said, the medical term for a foot corn is a heloma, or a “focal intractable plantar hyperkeratosis,” according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information.

Corns tend to affect areas of the foot with thinner skin, differing from many other foot conditions that affect the areas of the foot that bear the most weight. Since a corn is technically a callosity, many people may confuse one with a callus.

What Is The Difference Between a Foot Corn And a Foot Callus?

General knowledge about corns is always useful, especially if you suspect you have one. One thing to note is the main differences between a foot corn and the slightly similar foot callus. Mayo Clinic notes the following key differences between the two:

Corns are smaller and have a defined hardened centre.
Corns can be painful, while calluses generally are not.
The shape of calluses can vary, and they are more “spread out.” Corns are always a rounder shape.

Types of Corns

There are three types of corns: hard corns, soft corns and seed corns.

Hard corns are – as you may have guessed – harder and thicker than the other types. Hard corns are generally what first comes to mind when we think of foot corns, and have the yellowish/beige colour you might expect from a corn. Hard corns form on the top or side of the toes, which are both areas with more bone pressure against the skin. A large area of thick skin usually surrounds a hard corn.

Soft corns are more “squishy” than hard corns and have a whiteish/grey tint. These corns are commonly found between the toes and have a rubbery texture. According to HealthLink BC, soft corns may form when “sweat is trapped where the corn develops.” Because they are softer, one may confuse a soft corn with a blister. However, they are very different: Blisters are filled with fluid, whereas soft corns are not.

Lastly, there are seed corns. Seed corns are tiny and located on the bottom of the foot, often on the soles. It’s important not to confuse a seed corn with a plantar wart. One way to tell the difference between a corn and a wart is by noting any size changes. Seed corns typically remain tiny, while plantar warts can become larger. Furthermore, plantar warts sometimes have black or brown dots inside them, or “wart seeds.”

What Causes Corns?

Like calluses, the main offenders behind corns are friction and pressure. That is why they tend to develop in areas on the foot that are vulnerable to friction and pressure. Hard corns develop when friction and pressure damages the outer layer of the skin. The body tries to protect the area beneath the damaged skin by forming a hard surface. Numerous factors can contribute to the development of foot corns. These include:

Wearing shoes that are ill-fitting and frequently rub against your feet. Examples include tight running shoes and high heels. Specifically, shoes that are too narrow can cause friction against areas that are more vulnerable to foot corns. This includes the top of your feet and the top and side of your toes.
Wearing shoes without socks. This leads to excessive friction between your skin and your shoes. High-quality socks can protect your feet from excessive friction.
Having a pre-existing foot condition that alters the normal alignment of the bones in your feet, such as hammertoes or bunions.
Spending too much time barefoot.
Your gait may contribute to corn development if you place excessive pressure on the edges of your feet when you walk.
Playing sports without proper footwear.
Wearing ill-fitting or non-protective socks.

How Can You Prevent And Treat Corns?

Luckily, foot corns are very easy to treat. Sometimes they may go away on their own, but if your corn is disruptive and causing you pain, a visit with a Toronto foot specialist should clear the problem right up. Chiropodists can safely remove corns by shaving them down with sterilized tools (do not try this at home!). A chiropodist can also ensure aftercare by applying moisturizer and ointment to the affected area. The treatment is painless and should provide immediate relief. Corns can come back, so follow-up treatments may sometimes be needed.

To help prevent your corns from coming back – or prevent them altogether – we strongly recommend ditching shoes that are too narrow or constricting. In order to reduce friction, all your shoes should provide enough room in the toe box and accommodate your foot width. This will also help you recover faster from the corns you currently have. The knowledgeable staff at Feet First Clinic can help you find quality shoes that fit properly so your feet won’t be plagued by corns – a service that sets Feet First Clinic apart from the rest! Be sure to check out our footwear product catalogue for ideas for your next pair of comfy shoes!

Other treatment and prevention options include toe protection products, which pad the parts of your foot most vulnerable to corns. A good foot care regime will also go a long way towards preventing corns, as well as calluses and many other common foot conditions: Soaking your feet in warm water and using a foot file helps remove excess dead skin, while moisturizing daily helps strengthen the resiliency of the skin on your feet.

Do You Need A Foot Clinic? Feet First Is Here!

Our Bloor West Foot Clinic would love to help you achieve optimal foot health. Our amazingly skilled chiropodists and friendly staff have the knowledge and tools to keep your feet happy and healthy. Don’t forget to give us a call to ask any questions you may have or to set up an appointment!

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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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 21, 2024

The Best Footwear for Healthy Feet: What to Look for in Shoes

Selecting the best footwear for foot health is an often overlooked part of self care. The right shoes not only get your feet from point A to B, but can also prevent various types of foot pain, like arch pain or heel pain. Better yet, solid shoe choices can shield your feet from some of the most frustrating chronic foot conditions. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the key features to look for in supportive shoes and why these elements matter for healthy feet. Arch Support Arch support is key for foot pain prevention and daily comfort. This feature helps position the foot in a healthy arch alignment so it can support your body weight more evenly. Studies show this is extra helpful for people with flat feet and high arches— essentially creating the normal arch they need. Lack of proper arch support can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Arch support in shoes typically looks like a raised, curved section along the inner part of the insole. Shock Absorption Shock absorption is a must-have for athletes, long walk lovers, or those who work on their feet, like servers or construction workers. It's essentially cushioning that keeps the harsh effects of the pavement, floor, trails and more from damaging your joints. This is especially important for people with conditions like arthritis or heel spurs. Supportive shoes with adequate shock absorption use materials like EVA foam or cork to cushion the foot, thereby minimizing strain on the feet, ankles, knees, and lower back. Click here to learn more about it! Grip Is fall prevention important to you? If yes, make sure you buy non-slip shoes or shoes with a solid-grip outsole. A firm grip is vital for healthy feet because it reduces the risk of sprains or fractures. It should work on various surfaces, from slick sidewalks to gravel paths. Older people with balance issues should ensure their shoes have this crucial feature. Waterproofing and Breathable Materials Waterproof shoes (such as shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric) keep your feet dry in wet conditions, reducing the risk of fungal infections and blisters. Likewise, breathable fabrics with perforation in the shoe’s upper promotes air circulation, which is a top-priority feature for many athletes at the gym. That said, choosing the right materials can make a significant difference in comfort and hygiene for everyone, not just athletes. Removable Footbeds It may seem counterintuitive to buy a shoe that has something you don’t need, but hear us out! The best footwear for foot health typically have them! Shoes with removable footbeds offer customization options for those who need orthotics or insoles from brands like Superfeet. From pregnancy to diabetes, many conditions require this shoe perk. This feature may also make it easier to keep your shoes clean, or even extend their lifespan since you aren’t using its original footbed as often.

October 14, 2024

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

There are many at-home and natural remedies for foot pain that work, but there’s no denying the importance of foot exams with a top Toronto chiropodist. Some conditions require foot check-ups throughout the year and your foot clinic visits can make a big difference in not only your comfort levels, but your long-term health. Let’s take at what you can expect at a foot clinic appointment and why you should get your check-ups. What You Can Expect at a Foot Clinic This depends on if you’re visiting your foot clinic for the first time or are following up with a specific service, such as a custom orthotic casting and fitting or a medical pedicure. At Toronto’s Feet First Clinic, your first foot check-up—an initial foot assessment—helps determine your unique needs. It’s your chance to discuss any concerns so your chiropodist can tailor the care to what matters most to you. Many people schedule one if they have persistent foot pain, but you may also do it for diagnostic purposes, footwear recommendations and more. Why Schedule Regular Foot Check-ups? Regular foot care is mandatory if you have diabetes. Studies show that neglecting your feet and failing to visit your foot specialist may lead to infections, ulceration and limb loss. While they sound extreme and scary, chiropody services can help you prevent these problems. Chiropodist visits for diabetes include full examinations (particularly to assess for neuropathy), nail and skin care, wound debridement, and more. Some experts recommend coming in every 4-6 months, but this may be more or less, depending on your condition. Foot check-ups are also a must for anyone with arthritis, circulatory issues, a history of strain injuries like plantar fasciitis, chronic fungal infections, to name a few. They’re especially important as we get older. But really, anyone can benefit from a little foot TLC—whether you're on your feet all day or just looking to prevent future problems, regular check-ups help keep your feet healthy, pain-free, and ready to go wherever life takes you! An annual foot assessment is also a great preventative form of self care, like a wellness check for your feet. You don’t have to wait until you notice symptoms — assessments can catch early signs of the most common foot issues before they become painful.

October 10, 2024

Common Fall Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

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

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The Best Footwear for Healthy Feet: What to Look for in Shoes

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

Common Fall Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

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