How To Choose Winter Boots

September 21, 2020

Winter is approaching, fast. For better or for worse, cooler temperatures and shorter days are on the horizon. Winter doesn’t have to be a season of dread. Proper preparation starts with your feet. Investing in proper winter boots for harsh conditions is essential for a healthy body.

Here in Canada, there’s no shortage of harsh winter weather. Your footwear should do it all: protect against the cold, be waterproof, yet be stylish. Above all else, your winter boots should be comfortable. After all, you’ll be wearing your boots for 3-4 months, sometimes for hours on end. We’re here to make your life easier. That’s why we’ve put together this complete winter boot guide. Below you’ll find how to recognize the signs of needing new winter boots, how to choose the right pair, and what’s actually available.

Signs You Need New Winter Boots

There are a number of signs to look for when considering whether you should buy new winter boots. To start, if you develop any sort of foot pain or condition like blisters, calluses, or aggravated bunions, consider new boots.

Beyond the immediate discomfort, look for signs of muscle soreness or fatigue. These may be signs that your body is compensating for improper footwear, and may lead to problems down the road. Look for these signs that you need new winter boots:

Experience Blisters and calluses often.
Develop foot pain.
Trip or slip more often.
Have sore muscles after walking in your shoes.
Visual wear and tear on the boots itself.
Holes in the sole.

If you experience any of these conditions or problems, book an appointment with one of our licensed chiropodists for a thorough assessment.

Tips for Buying Winter Boots

There are many variables to consider when buying winter boots. After all, you’ll likely want to mix fashion and function. Follow these tried and true tips for choosing the right winter boot for your feet.

Arch support: Choose a boot with proper arch cushioning and support to prevent conditions like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and Morton’s neuroma.
Avoid high heels: High heels can put strain on your hips and feet, as well as be unstable given winter footing conditions.
Tread: depending on the climate and your needs, certain treads are more suitable for uneven grounds, more rugged footing, or for walking flat
Waterproof: keeping moisture away from your feet is essential in winter. Dark and moist places are a ground for athlete’s foot, blisters, and frostbite.
Fit: Be sure your boots have plenty of toe space, especially if you wear thicker socks in the winter or suffer from a foot condition like Bunions, Hallux Rigidus, or hallux limitus.
Buying: Did you know our feet are larger in the second half of the day? Our body retains water and our feet expand slightly. Trying shoes on at the end of the day accommodates for sizing.
Cost: This is the elephant in the room. Choose a boot that’s within your price range. However, consider winter boots an investment. These boots could last you multiple years depending on the quality of the product.
Warmth: If you live in an extreme cold climate, find boots with proper insulation to avoid frostbite.

OK, But What’s Available?

Our clinic take a preventative approach to foot care in which the patient is empowered to be an active participant in his or her treatment. Our on-site shoe store provides patients with therapeutic tools and resources including orthopaedic footwear, insoles, medical devices, and over-the-counter solutions.

We carry a selection of top winter boots from the following:

Below you’ll find a few of our favourites from Sorel, MEPHISTO, Clarks, and Ara. These brands are a mix of fashion and function. Sorel are more rugged and tougher in Canadian winter while MEPHISTO are more stylish and better for everyday occasions.

Sorel Caribou Boot

MEPHISTO Agatha

Clarks Batcombe Alp Gore-Tex

Ara Aubrey Boot

Visit the clinic to get a feel for each boot and to try on a pair. The clinic is open six days a week including on Saturday to accommodate your schedule.

Avoid The Winter Blues—Visit Feet First Clinic For Your Winter Boots Needs

If you’re looking for tips on how to prepare for winter, book an appointment with one of our Licensed Chiropodists for a thorough assessment or visit the clinic to browse our wide range of footwear options.

From leading brands to Shoe Fitting to Custom Foot Orthotics, we’re your one-stop shop for your footwear needs. Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!

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January 12, 2023

10 Indicators of Great Running Shoes

How do we know if our running shoes are high quality? What's more, what should we look for when hunting for new shoes? It can be easy to simply look for the cheapest pair and call it a day. But before you know it those low-quality running shoes will start to wear down, which puts you at risk of sustaining an injury or developing a chronic foot condition. Luckily, we've compiled a list of essential features that make a great running shoe! 10 Indicators of Great Running Shoes Shock absorption Cushioning Breathability Support for your foot type Weight Flexibility Traction Durability Waterproof Bonus Features Shock Absorption This is a fancy term for how high-quality athletic shoes withstand impact with the ground. Shock absorbers are frequently mentioned when people discuss vehicles and are described as any device that smoothens or dampens shock impulses. Shock absorption in your shoes should help your muscles like a car's shock absorbers protect its parts. The National Library of Medicine notes that sufficient shock absorption is required during the landing phase of running or jumping to protect joints and muscles from impact damage. When looking for new shoes, you should check the level of shock absorption. One of the best shock absorption technologies includes ASICS GEL cushioning, located in their running shoes' forefoot or rearfoot (or both). The GEL compound absorbs the shock from the ground, and its foam midsoles offer a solid rebound. Saucony is another example and uses EVA foam and their Super Rebound Compound (SRC) to provide durable shock absorption in the heel crashpad. Cushioning Running shoes for women and men will require a solid amount of cushioning. This will help runners avoid common athletic injuries like Achilles tendonitis, muscle strain and stress fractures and also provide general comfort by combating the onset of foot pain and keeping you on your feet for long-distance runs. Cushioned running shoes are also beneficial for athletes still recovering from an injury and will provide support and comfort as the foot muscles get back to optimal condition. ASICS Gel Technology Footwear Breathability Wearing running shoes with breathable mesh uppers can work wonders for your foot health. After all, when we exercise, our feet start to sweat, so your new shoes should have a way to ventilate and promote a healthy foot environment. Furthermore, a lack of ventilation can put you at risk of developing athlete's foot or fungal toenails. Some of the best running shoes for breathability include the Saucony Ride and the Saucony Endorphin. The generously pored mesh and thin fabric help your shoes circulate air and keep the shoe's interior well-ventilated. Support and Foot Type If you're wondering if a running shoe is worth investing in, check to see if it advertises its support type. In other words, check if it's a stability, neutral or motion control running shoe. Generic running and walking shoes often cannot accommodate your specific gait and foot type, but high-quality shoes can. Here is how to know what type of shoe you will need: Stability shoes are for people with flat feet who overpronate (the arch collapses upon weight bearing). These shoes may help prevent complications associated with a low arch, like plantar fasciitis. More specifically, they offer extra support on the shoe's inner sole, called a medial post. Motion control shoes are for runners with more severe overpronation and are essentially stability shoes taken up a notch. In addition to medial support, they offer a stiff heel, firm cushioning and a more rigid midsole. Neutral shoes do not contain bonus support features in the midsole. They are typically for "normal" pronators or people with a normal arch. People with high arches can also wear neutral shoes as they don't need bonus motion control and stability features. Weight You don't want to feel like your shoes are weighing you down while running. You want your feet to feel as light as a feather and to notice a "spring" in your step. When your shoes are lighter, you can run for longer periods. This is because you're using less energy to lift your foot off the ground, which protects you from fatigue. Lightweight shoes can also improve your form during exercise. It's all about making your experience as effortless as possible. To address the need for lightweight running shoes, top brands have mastered the art of using light materials and breathable membranes, without compromising on supportive features. Flexibility Flexibility refers to how much you can bend or twist your shoes. A running shoe can have either a stiff midsole or a flexible midsole, and a clear sign of a good running shoe is knowing its level of flexibility. Flexible shoes are great for longer runs and comfort enhancement, and they will always be neutral and not include stability features. Flexible shoes are also better for terrain running and are more lightweight. Stiff shoes will feature stability enhancements and are great for motion control and improving your running performance. Traction Sometimes when we go for runs we don't always have the luxury of smooth, dry pavement or a treadmill. It may start raining, or you may even enjoy taking your runs to some of Toronto's most beloved trails. The part of the running shoe responsible for traction is the outsole (bottom of the shoe), which are usually made with rubber. Think of them as similar to a car's tires, protecting you from slips and falls, but also contributing to the smoothness of the "ride." A running shoe should have a strong grip of the pavement and other terrain types. A lot of winter running shoes are made with enhanced traction via a rigid rubber outsole and durable lugs. The Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX from ASICS and the Saucony Peregrine ICE are examples of running shoes with the best traction. Durability For your running shoes to last a long time, they must be durable. Furthermore, the lifespan of a shoe depends on the sum of its parts and the quality levels of the following: Upper: The mesh and synthetic overlays must be relatively flexible but maintain a thickness level that extends their lifespan. If the upper of a running shoe is thin, there should be less friction between materials to boost durability. Midsole: The density of the midsole, as well as its firmness, will determine how durable a shoe is. EVA foam, for example, has a high level of resistance, making it a durable material. Outsole: A weak outsole will ruin your shoes and running experience as it is the point of contact between you and the ground. Generally, the harder the rubber used for the outsole, the more durable it is. Waterproof Like breathability and traction features, a waterproof running shoe is critical for rainy weather, moisture control and winter running. When you stay dry and comfortable, your feet are also protected from rubbing and abrasion, which can lead to blisters. You can try running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric for optimal waterproof protection. This membrane consists of a microporous structure that renders fabrics waterproof. Specifically, the microscopic pores are much smaller than water particles, meaning they cannot penetrate the fabric. Some running shoes made with GORE-TEX fabric include the ASICS GT-2000 GTX and the ASICS Cumulus GTX. Bonus Features Here are some extra signs of great running shoes you can look out for: Reflector accents: These will keep you noticeable and safe while running in the dark. Removable footbeds: For athletes with consistent foot pain, custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles may be necessary for long runs. You can look for running shoes with footbeds that you can remove and replace with your medical device of choice. Shoe width: Runners with wide feet should look for shoes with varying width options. Photo by Philip Ackermann from Pexels

January 9, 2023

Red Toes: Should You Worry?

There can be a range of discolouration in your toes. The most common is a pinkish/red hue - a sign of red toes. Red toes may result from cold temperatures, toe injury, infection, or potential medical conditions. Red toe onset may be immediate, or red toe onset may be progressive. The redness often resolves itself, but it may sometimes present symptoms of underlying medical conditions. Learn more about red toes and potential risks in our article below! Why are my toes red and itchy? Several causes result in redness in your toes. Red toes result from inflammation, injury, temperature, skin irritation, and infection. Varying degrees of redness may indicate the severity of damage to the toes. In some cases, redness may subside independently, while others may require medical attention. What medical conditions cause red toes? There are a variety of medical conditions that induce red toes. Red toe causes range from skin conditions to musculoskeletal damage to infection. Below, we've categorized medical conditions that cause red toes by severity. Note that all medical conditions can have varying degrees of severity, so use this list as a reference, not a diagnosis. Lower severity Low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are short-term causes and often subside independently. Proper attention and care are required to prevent additional damage. However, low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are more surface-level and less cause for concern. Blisters A blister is a small fluid-filled bubble that forms just under the outer layer of the skin. The fluid (usually a serum, rarely blood) is a natural cushion to protect the tissue underneath from friction and irritation. Fortunately, blisters often heal on their own once the source of friction is eliminated. As tempting as it may be, avoid popping the blister and allow it to heal naturally. Frostnip Frostnip is a mild, non-severe cold injury to the skin and tissue. As such, frostnip doesn't cause permanent damage. You can treat frostnip with basic first aid. Above all else, you should try to escape the cold as quickly as possible. Possible complications include infection and temporary nerve damage, which are rare if caught at the frostnip stage. Stubbed toe A stubbed toe occurs any time you jam your toe against another object. A stubbed toe is a trauma injury. The injury results from a one-time accident. Depending on the severity, damage to the toe may cause swelling and inflammation, muscle injury, and even bone fractures. Contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash triggered by an allergic reaction. The skin's response to an irritant causes inflammation, followed by a rash. Contact dermatitis isn't contagious nor life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Soaps, plants, detergents, or jewelry have the potential to cause an allergic reaction. One can treat and prevent contact dermatitis by identifying and removing environmental allergens. A doctor can also prescribe topical medications to help treat flare-ups. Athlete's foot Fungal skin infections are a common culprit of red toes. Athlete's foot is one such common fungal skin. Athlete's foot is a prevalent cause of the redness. The toe fungus is not life-threatening, but it is contagious and may spread elsewhere on your body or even to other people. It can also cause foot pain and difficulty walking if left untreated. Nail infection Paronychia is an infection of your nail folds typically caused by bacteria or a fungus and can cause toe pain and swelling, which causes redness and the appearance of red toes. Ingrown toenail An ingrown toenail is a nail condition that targets the toes, mainly the big toe. As the name applies, it occurs when the sides or edges of the toenail grow into the skin. As the nail pierces the skin, it can cause bleeding, redness and pain. If left untreated, the ingrown toenail can get infected. Moderate severity Moderate-severity causes of red toes are more severe and may be longer-lasting. Symptoms and recovery time may vary, and pain and discomfort may be more intense and significant. You may require medical assistance to determine the diagnosis and treatment method(s). Gout Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by heightened uric acid in the blood. Elevated uric acid levels lead to the formation of crystal deposits in the joint. The joint then becomes red, hot, swollen, and painful. The initial attack of this condition is usually sudden, with symptoms lasting for about a week. The most common joint it affects is the joint that connects your big toe to the rest of the foot. If left untreated, gout attacks may reoccur, increase in severity and lead to enduring joint damage. Frostbite (superficial) Superficial frostbite is a stage more severe than frostnip. Cold temperatures damage the skin and the underlying tissues in your toes. Blisters form 24-36 hours after rewarming, and you may experience pain and discomfort for several days. Higher severity More serious medical conditions that cause red toes may be chronic or permanent. These conditions can be irreversible and limit the motor function of your toes. Surgery may be a last-resort treatment option in severe cases. Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis ("RA") is an auto-immune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation. RA causes periodic flare-ups of joint pain, stiffness and swelling, eventually making movement difficult. Although there is no cure, you can manage the condition with proactive and diligent treatment focusing on your overall health and well-being. Diabetes Diabetes can cause a chain reaction in your body that hinders circulation to the feet and toes. People with diabetes may experience two conditions that cause red toes: peripheral vascular disease and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Nerve damage and reduced circulation can cause an itchy or numbing pain in the toes. Diabetes can also hinder the body's ability to fight less severe conditions due to reduced immune response and blood circulation. Frostbite (deep) Deep frostbite is the most severe form of cold damage to the skin. Your skin or tissue may turn red and black and die altogether. You may sometimes lose muscle function and require surgery to remove part of the toe. Bunions A bunion is a foot condition of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Bunions occur when the big toe misaligns. The shift in bone structure causes what appears to be a bony outgrowth. The outgrowth is simply the angling of your toes. The damage to the joint causes pain and redness, and the increased volume of your toes can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Without proper footwear or orthotics, you can further aggravate your bunions. Bunions are irreversible and have no "cure" other than surgery. However, physical therapy and accommodations, like orthotics and proper footwear, improve quality of life. How can I prevent my toes from turning red? Treatment and prevention for red toes depend on the severity of the underlying medical condition. Generally, low-severity medical or skin conditions are treated simply through rest and recovery. For low-severity conditions, the goal should be to focus on "How do I prevent this from getting worse?"; whereas for high-severity needs, much of the damage has been done and is irreversible. For more severe red toe conditions, the focus is more geared towards improving quality of life and implementing tools to improve mobility, like custom foot orthotics or orthopedic footwear. We've created a treatment guideline below: Low severity. Low-grade medical or skin red toe conditions are treatable, often at home. Treatment methods include topical creams or prescription medication, rest, recovery, taping, or changing footwear. Further prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene. Moderate severity. Moderate severity medical or skin red toe conditions are a mix of prevention and treatment. A proper diagnosis is often required, followed by a treatment plan. Rest and recovery may be part of the treatment plan, but the recovery may be longer (weeks, not days). Like low-severity causes, prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene. Higher severity. Severe medical or skin red toe conditions are often irreversible and have no cure. Treatment methods focus on improving motor function, mobility, and well-being through orthopedic tools and physical therapy.

January 5, 2023

Best Medical Shoes 2023

What comes to mind when we think of the best "medical shoes?" Would they be shoes for doctors? Or shoes someone wears to overcome an injury? While both may technically be true, a medical shoe is simply a shoe that supports and accommodates the structure of your foot, which is a means of treating foot ailments. In other words, they go above and beyond what standard footwear can provide. The best medical shoes are more widely available than some people may think. Countless shoe brands focus on constructing the best shoe for your foot health. But it can be tough to know what shoe you need to address your unique foot concerns. Let's assess the best medical shoes of 2023 to better understand what footwear you may be missing out on! Best Medical Shoes 2023 Saucony Integrity Walker ASICS Gel-Nimbus APEX Lace Walker Anodyne Sport Double Depth ASICS Gel-Keyano Saucony Integrity Walker The reasons the Saucony Integrity Walker shines amongst footwear choices are twofold. This shoe can help with foot pain relief for everyday Torontonians, but it's also a great choice for nurses, doctors, and working students who spend Mondays to Fridays (and sometimes the weekends!) standing all day. Part of what makes this one of the best medical shoes is its ability to accommodate wide feet, and you can select options based on your foot width. You can choose from wide, extra wide, regular or narrow to ensure the perfect fit. This neutral walker also offers responsive cushioning for people who need to walk or stand for long days. Furthermore, the PWRRUN midsole gives the shoe a light and bouncy feel, as opposed to a clunkier shoe which can weigh you down. Lastly, this shoe has the stamp of approval from The American Podiatric Medical Association. Not all shoes come with the honour of being recognized as a highly beneficial product for maintaining foot health - so that's a plus! Saucony Integrity Walker ASICS Gel-Nimbus The Gel-Nimbus is a great medical shoe for neutral walkers or those with high arches who slightly underpronate. If you have a higher arch, this shoe can prevent and help you manage ankle strain, shin splints and plantar fasciitis. The newest version of the Nimbus is about 10% lighter than its predecessor, which keeps your steps light and springy. In terms of being a top-notch medical shoe, its advanced impact protection stands out and helps you land your steps without triggering muscle strain. This is thanks to ASICS' highly developed rearfoot and forefoot GEL® technology. Lastly, the FLYTEFOAM™ and FF BLAST+™ cushioning work together to protect your joints by creating a softer landing, more responsive toe-off, and lightweight impact absorption. After all, cushioning is more than just "padding"; Insufficient cushioning can make your feet too tired to continue throughout the day. ASICS Gel Nimbus APEX Lace Walker The APEX Lace Walker is an orthopedic shoe and a godsend for anyone with flat feet. This type of foot structure can cause you to overpronate while walking. Likewise, neglecting to buy the proper footwear for flat feet can put you at risk of developing bunions, bone spurs, and arthritis. The external heel counter in the APEX walker extends around the heel to the foot's arch. Then it works with the internal heel counter to provide excellent motion control and promote neutral steps. This gives people with flat feet a higher chance of successful and comfortable walking. If that isn't enough to make it one of the best medical shoes, doctors recommend the APEX Lace Walker for anyone who needs stability control and extra comfort. Apex Lace Walker Anodyne Sport Double Depth Anodyne makes shoes for people with diabetes, propelling them to superstar status in our discussion of the best medical shoes. Furthermore, this company's careful construction and focus on health makes Anodyne shoes an appropriate choice for those with other foot problems, not just diabetes. The Anodyne Sport Double Depth shoe comes with width options, but where it truly shines is in its depth. This gives even more room to accommodate those with debilitating foot conditions than other Anodyne options. Hailed as perfect for those with "difficult" feet, anyone with extremely swollen feet or who need to insert their custom orthotics into their shoes can use them. Furthermore, those with bunions and hammertoes should consider investing in the Anodyne Sport Double Depth, as those conditions are known for requiring extra depth in the toe box. Anodyne Double Depth Shoe ASICS Gel-Kayano While the Gel-Nimbus is designed for those with high arches who underpronate, the Gel-Keyano is great for people with low arches who overpronate. This shoe helps with rearfoot support by offering a low-profile external heel counter. The LITETRUSS™ stability feature in the midsole keeps your feet from rolling too far inward, which is the typical experience of overpronators. This is highly beneficial as overpronators are more at risk of putting strain on their muscles, tendons and ligaments, which makes them more injury-prone. Other features include the Rearfoot GEL® technology cushioning, which gives your shoes much needed shock absorption, and the OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner takes comfort to new levels. ASICS Gel Keyano

January 3, 2023

5 Causes & Solutions for Top of Foot Pain

The top of your foot is one of the most common areas to experience everyday foot pain. The muscles and tendons within the top side of your foot play a critical part in how you move. The top of the foot can be easily overworked and damaged, leading to various foot conditions. Some symptoms and top-of-foot conditions are short-lived. Other top-of-foot symptoms can signal an underlying condition elsewhere in your foot or leg. This article teaches about five potential causes (and solutions) for top-of-foot pain. Cause 1: Foot Sprain A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in your foot stretch beyond their limit and become damaged. Foot sprains can vary in location. An ankle sprain is likely to be more of a forefoot sprain. A midfoot sprain is more likely to affect the front half of your foot. Cause: Acute trauma causes foot sprain. Acute trauma refers to a one-time impact of an incident where you put your foot in an awkward or uncomfortable position. Your tendons are stretched beyond their limit and lose some elasticity. Your tendons may develop micro tears or more serious strains. More severe forms of acute trauma can result in a stress fracture or a hairline break of the bone. Solution: Foot sprains require rest and recovery to heal. Rest allows your tendons to repair themselves and regain their elasticity. Ice and elevating your legs above your body can help promote healing and may quicken the recovery process. If the injury persists, or you have difficulty moving, you should visit your family doctor. Taping can also act as an additional support system. A chiropodist can skillfully tape your feet. Taping works by providing additional support and "locking" your feet to avoid re-aggravating the injury. Cause 2: Tendonitis Inflammation of the tendons in the foot can cause top-of-foot pain. Damage to the tendons is known as tendonitis. Cause: Extensor tendonitis can cause pain in the top of the foot. The extensor tendons are the tendons that run along the topside of your foot. The tendons help you straighten your feet and lift your toes. The extensor tendons play a critical role when running or walking. Chronic damage through overuse injuries can cause extensor tendonitis. Too much walking or running, or even too much of a weight-intensive activity too soon after any injury can cause extensor tendonitis. Solution: The best course of action for tendonitis is rest. Specifically, you want to avoid the source activity that causes aggravation. If the pain is intense, you can also take over-the-counter medications and visit your family doctor. They may refer you to a massage or physiotherapist. If the tendonitis persists or is disrupting your mobility, you should visit your family doctor. Cause 3: Athlete's Foot Athlete's foot is a contagious fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, sounds like it only affects sporty folks, it can affect anyone. Although not life-threatening, it's contagious and can be painful if left untreated. Cause: A fungus called dermatophytes causes athlete's foot. The fungus inhabits, grows, and survives off the outer layer of the skin. By extension, the fungus can also spread to other parts of the body and people, either directly or indirectly. You can catch athlete's foot anywhere where fungus thrives. Fungi love warm, moist environments, such as communal showers, locker rooms and the decks around public swimming pools. Solution: Over-the-counter topical antifungals are the most common remedy for mild cases of athlete's foot in the early stages. However, fungal infections are notoriously persistent and stubborn. If your Athlete's foot persists, you should see a chiropodist, who can treat the skin on your feet and prescribe prescription anti-fungal creams. Our Toronto foot clinic also sells foot deodorants, including an antifungal foot spray, which are great for prevention and supplementing your athlete's foot treatment. While treating your athlete's foot infection, it's essential to do the following: Clean your socks and linens with bleach or hot water. The fungus can spread from your feet to these surfaces and re-infect you if not cleaned between uses. Clean any surfaces that your bare feet come into contact with Wash your feet once or more a day Ensure your feet are thoroughly dry after bathing or washing. Wear flip-flops or shoes in any place where you think you could catch athlete's foot Cause 4: Bone bruise Damage to the bone itself can be painful and cause top-of-foot pain. There are varying degrees of bone damage, ranging from bruises to fractures. Cause: A bone bruise is an acute injury, less severe than a fracture. Bone bruises typically stem from a one-time event that causes damage to the foot. Dropping an object, rolling your ankle, or stubbing your foot on an object can cause damage to the bone itself. You may notice bruising (reddish/blueish) on the skin. When in doubt, an X-ray can determine the severity of a bone bruise. Solution: Treatment for a bone bruise includes the following: Rest Icing Elevating your leg so it's above your heart (to promote blood flow and reduce swelling) Taking anti-inflammatories or over-the-counter medications if the pain is intense Cause 5: Peroneal nerve injury Nerve damage can cause top-of-foot pain. The general term for nerve damage is known as peripheral neuropathy. When nerves are damaged, signals between your muscles and brain are disrupted, causing numbness, pain, and complete loss of sensation. Cause: Injury to the peroneal nerve, known as peroneal nerve dysfunction, can cause top-of-foot pain. The peroneal nerve is outside our lower leg and just below the knee. For example, you may experience temporary numbness in your feet from peroneal nerve compression. Have your legs crossed, and your feet and toes go numb? Peroneal nerve compression causes the numbing and tingling sensation. There are several symptoms of peroneal nerve dysfunction. Signs can include: Foot drop Pain, weakness, or numbness on the top of the foot Inability to move the toes up and down Reduced mobility in the foot Abnormal knee lift to compensate for reduced motor function Solution: You should visit your family doctor at the first sign of any nerve-related symptoms. They will conduct the necessary diagnostic investigations and refer you to the appropriate doctors. There are both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for peroneal nerve injury. Non-invasive treatments include orthotics, which can correct your gait and better distribute pressure within your feet. Additionally, physical therapy and foot-strengthening exercises to fortify the muscles in your feet can help improve mobility. If you have foot drop, an ankle-foot orthotic may be recommended. You may require surgical treatment for more severe cases, including decompression surgery or nerve repair. Other causes of top-of-foot pain Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve inside one of the tunnels within your ankle compresses. Specifically, the posterior tibial nerve (within the tarsal tunnel) is compressed from injury, flat feet, or fallen arches. Bone spurs: Hallux rigidus, or arthritis of the big toe joint can cause bone spurs, which can lead to pain on the top of the foot. The bony outgrowths can put pressure on your foot or toe when wearing shoes and cause pain when lifting your toes due to the deteriorated joint. Ganglions: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled bumps on the tendons or joints in the feet. The cyst itself doesn't cause pain, but if large enough, it can add pressure to the nerves in the same vicinity.

December 22, 2022

Best Holiday Travelling Shoes

Holiday travel can be an exhausting and inconvenient experience, no matter how excited you are. There is often little time to rest. Standing, walking, and waiting for hours at the airport can also do a number on your feet. Moreover, the Canadian winter weather can surprise you and leave you without the right footwear. That's why bringing the right travel shoes for your plans is critical. Now, you don't have to jam-pack your luggage with five pairs of travel shoes. That is just another inconvenience, especially for those who want to avoid checking bags at the airport. But you should assess your winter activities and double-check the weather forecast before selecting a couple of shoe types for your travel bag. And if you invest in some of the shoes in today's blog, your feet will thank you! The Best Travel Shoes 2022 The all-purpose boot The snow boot The running and walking shoe The dressy shoe The hiker All-Purpose Boot: Portofino ID1673 or Portofino MS-105 Everyone needs an all-purpose boot to get from point A to point B, especially during the holidays when your travel time includes a dusting of snow. The depth of snow can soak your feet and make the sidewalks slippery, putting you at risk of a fall. While searching for winter boot travel shoes, you should opt for a brand that offers not only foot support, but also insulation, a solid grip, and waterproofing features. That's where Portofino comes into the picture! They make orthopeadic boots, a feature rarely found in winter footwear that can help with countless foot conditions. Their unisex black boot (ID 1673 on their website) is perfect for a mild snowfall and is lined with genuine sherpa wool that keeps you cozy and warm. They're also waterproof, and the rubber outsole allows for a slip-free walk during the holidays. Moreover, you can remove the footbed if you need to insert custom orthotics or insoles to walk without foot pain. The MS-105 boot from Portofino is another solid all-purpose option, with the main difference being the outside is made with suede, and there are just laces and no zippers. Portofino ID 1673 The Snow Boot: Sorel Tivoli Parc Boot Snow boots differ from all-purpose winter boots, so you may need to alter your travel shoes depending on where you're heading for the holidays. Essentially, a snow boot should take the insulation and waterproofing features of an everyday boot to the next level. And a boot that can handle deep snow is crucial for any Canadian. Furthermore, some provinces encounter much heavier snow than others. So if you're travelling from the west coast to the east, you should prepare for inconvenient weather. A supportive, warm and protective snow boot is also great for doing some last-minute Christmas shopping on a particularly cold day. Sorel is known for its winter footwear, and the Tivoli Parc Boot, with its 200g insulation, is great for cold temperatures that dip as low as -40. The shearling collar and microfleece lining also work together to warm your feet. The moulded rubber outsole keeps you safe from sudden slips, and this boot also features a removable footbed for custom insole accommodation. And lastly, the entirety of the boot's upper (sans the laces) is waterproof, so you can walk easily and confidently, knowing the elements won't slow you down. Mephisto Tivoli Parc Boot The Running and Walking Shoe: ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX Did you know that you can still go for runs during the wintertime? That means you can take your fitness goals with you during the holiday season if you bring the right travel shoes. You should assess your comfort level and conditions, but wet sidewalks and trails with compacted, dense snow are usually no trouble! You should look no further than ASICS for a smooth December running session. If you need a stability or a neutral shoe, you can opt for the Gel-Cumulus for GT-2000 GTX. The GT-2000 GTX is designed for overpronation (low arches and flat feet), and the Gel-Cumulus GTX is designed for neutral gaits and underpronation (high arches). If you aren't sure what type you need, you can read more about shoe stability here! Both shoes are lined with GORE-TEX fabric to keep your feet dry, letting you stay active as long as you'd like. Other notable features include the engineered mesh upper, lightweight cushioning and reflective accents that keep you visible when it's dark outside. ASICS is also always upgrading and fine-tuning its GEL technology, which makes you feel like you're walking (or running) on a cloud. The GT-2000 GTX is similar to the Cumulus but includes LITETRUSS™ technology to improve medial support for stability. ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX The Dressy Shoe: Ara Maggie Sometimes, travel shoes need to be stylish. And while Ara's highly-cushioned waterproof pump may not be the best for snowfall, it's a solid choice for a short journey to a holiday party. Like your ASICS running shoes, the Maggie is made with GORE-TEX membrane, which guarantees dry feet. It also comes with a removable footbed for easy insole insertion. Ara's Maggie is also made with a stretchy fabric, so it's easy to wear with thick fleece tights or leggings. Ara Maggie The Hiker: Mephisto Allrounder Nigata-Tex Winter hikes are underrated, and snow lovers should bring hiking boots for the holidays! Mephisto's Nigata-Tex is great for trudging along the winter trails. That's likely why they claim this boot is great for "rising to everyday challenges." More specifically, it combines the lightweight feel of an ankle boot with the protection and innovation of your winter boots. The ALLRO-TEX technology ensures breathability, which keeps your feet healthy during strenuous activity. The shock absorber in the outsole protects your feet by reducing the harsh impact often felt on hiking trips. Most importantly, they have one of the best grips out of all the shoes in today's blog. This is especially crucial for the unpredictable nature of trails. Mephisto Nigata Tex

December 12, 2022

Medical Gift Guide 2022

This holiday season, let's consider healthcare during our shopping trips. Medical gifts are often on the wish lists of people we love, like our grandparents or even our doctors and medical student friends. They want useful gifts that not only ease foot pain and provide comfort, are also special for folks who like to showcase their foot health knowledge and care about preventing foot conditions. But maybe you don't know where to start as you hunt for a healthy gift. That's where we come into the picture! Feet First Clinic has curated the ultimate medical gift guide with a special focus on foot health. These goodies are affordable and can be stocking stuffers or larger gifts. Useful Medical Gifts for Foot Care and Wellness Here are some great finds in our holiday gift guide: Shoes, shoes, and more shoes Medical compression stockings Orthopedic slippers Therapeutic massage balls Superfeet insoles Foot files Gehwol products Shoes, Shoes, and More Shoes For the loved one who is infamous for buying ill-fitting footwear. Show someone you care by investing in a long-lasting pair of shoes that provide comfort and the right support. Of course, it can be tricky to surprise someone without knowing how a shoe will fit, so you can offer to take your loved one on a shopping trip and treat them to a proper shoe fitting. At the end of the session, they'll leave with a great new pair of runners, winter boots, or another type of shoe they need. To ensure you snag the right shoes to gift someone, consider this trusty shoe-shopping checklist! Medical Compression Stockings For the loved one going through pregnancy or struggling with edema-related(swelling) conditions. There is a lot of misinformation about compression stockings. Some claim that they're only suitable for seniors, they cut off blood circulation, and they're bulky and ugly. But they couldn't be more wrong! Compression stockings are great for young people too! They stimulate blood flow and are super stylish! Compression stockings help pregnant women and those suffering from foot swelling, and they're a great idea for frequent travellers and people who stand all day long at work. They're also great for athletes who need an oxygen boost for their muscles. They're a wonderfully versatile gift. To arrange this type of gifting, instruct your loved one to attend a complimentary fitting and then cover the cost when the stockings arrive. Orthopedic Slippers For the loved one who wants some extra support and coziness at home. Orthopedic slippers are a fun gift that would make almost anybody happy simply because they feel so soft and comforting. As a bonus, they can also increase blood circulation, help with spinal issues and lower back pain, and reduce the risk of sustaining an injury from a fall. You can have some fun shopping for supportive slippers. Some come with furry collars and several colours to choose from. There are also broad selections for both men and women. Check out this blog to learn why these slippers are a great medical gift idea! Therapeutic Massage Balls For the loved one struggling with pain at the bottom of their feet. This tiny ball works wonders and is the perfect stocking stuffer. You can also include them in a foot care gift box if you'd like them to be a part of a major gift! They're an accompaniment to several foot exercises (use them instead of tennis balls), and regularly using them can make a big difference in your loved one's quality of life. Specifically, therapeutic massage balls help loosen tense muscles on the bottom of your feet. You can also use them to help with back and neck pain as they work out knots and boost blood circulation. Superfeet Insoles For the loved one looking for extra support to accommodate their footwear. As far as medical gifts 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. They're also great at ensuring your footwear fits more snugly. 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! Foot Files For the loved one who likes to practice a solid foot care routine. You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in some Gehwol products and a massage ball 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. The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts. Gehwol Products For the loved one who embraces skincare. Gehwol is known for its abundance of high-quality foot creams, sprays and powders. They also make lovely bath foams and revitalizing bath salts for tired, achy feet. You can gift someone one product as a stocking stuffer or try creating a gift bundle with some variety. Here's a great example of a Gehwol gift bundle: Gehwol's Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin Gehwol's Foot and Shoe Deodorant Gehwol's Med Lipidro Cream

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