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April 17, 2023

How to Choose the Right Footwear for Your Job

The proper footwear for your job can make a world of difference.

Footwear that ticks all the boxes – safety, comfort, support, and durability – not only makes your day-to-day more enjoyable, but your feet will also thank you. Here are some simple yet effective tips to follow when choosing the most suitable footwear for your job:

1. Recognize the potential hazards and risks of your job

Workers at a manufacturing factory

First and foremost, footwear should be specific to your job. Various jobs have differing demands, and therefore you should choose accordingly. For example, if you work in construction, you may opt for footwear with toe protection, a higher collar, and slip-resistant soles, as the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety recommends. A mix of protection and grip is critical for outdoor jobs with heavy objects and lifting.

2. Understand the demands of your job on your feet

Nurse wearing a mask and scrubs

Knowing the demands of your job on your feet is equally crucial for choosing the most appropriate footwear. If you work indoors and are on your feet, we recommend looking for well-supported, more lightweight, breathable footwear. For instance, a nurse or teacher may stand or walk for multiple hours daily, adding stress to their feet and legs. Walking or running shoes may be more appropriate for these professions as cushioning, breathability, lighter weight, and support can be beneficial.

Cooks, chefs, barbers, hairdressers, cashiers, and manufacturing employees may also prefer lighter-weight shoes as they are constantly on their feet. Want to know more about how different jobs affect our feet? See our complete guide on how our jobs affect our feet differently.

3. Know your shoe size

Construction worker wearing work boots

Ill-fitting shoes are the leading cause of foot pain and problems: 8 out of 10 shoes fit incorrectly. We recommend verifying your shoe size, as our feet can shrink and swell throughout the day and the year based on the season. Therefore, do a shoe fitting later in the day to accommodate the slightly enlarged size. (And under the same conditions as you would work, for instance, with your work socks.) In addition, your feet may change size due to aging, so we recommend regular sizing checks for accuracy.

Visit a local foot clinic or specialty shoe store for a proper fitting. Here at Feet First Clinic, our chiropodists perform footwear assessments. The chiropodist will examine your feet and gait and make footwear recommendations to match your foot shape, structure, alignment and accommodative needs.

4. Identify your foot type

Teacher standing in front of a classroom full of kids

Knowing your foot type can help you choose the correct footwear for your job. Foot types vary significantly from person to person but generally classify as:

  1. Flat feet: Feet with little to no arch, which causes the arch of the foot to make complete contact with the ground. You may overpronate and require more structured shoes or custom orthotics to correct the biomechanical issue.
  2. Neutral feet: Feet with a moderate arch. Generally, people with a neutral arch don’t require footwear with added stability features.
  3. High arches: Feet with a high arch that makes zero to minimal ground contact. You are more likely to under pronate and require structured shoes or orthotics to correct the pattern.

A chiropodist can help determine your foot type and recommend appropriate footwear.

5. Check the profession’s safety standards

If you work in a profession with specific safety standards, prioritize the information on the shoe’s label or the manufacturer’s website. Specific footwear may need to meet standards to adequately protect you and your feet from the risks and hazards of the job. Certain symbols are also displayed on footwear boxes to let you know which is appropriate for your job.

Need support finding the proper footwear for your job?

We can help. From a thorough footwear assessment to recognizing and treating foot pain, we have your solutions. Visit us at the clinic or book an appointment ahead of time.

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September 14, 2020
What Ageing Does To Our Feet
Ageing Feet: Common Conditions Ageing is inevitable. Foot problems aren't. Understandably, as we age, our bodies are no longer what they once were. This includes ageing feet. After all, we put our bodies under immense wear and tear over the years. Ageing feet are prone to a number of conditions. In fact, many older adults are prone to certain foot conditions they've never experienced before. As we age, prevention is key. Treatment and recovery can be more difficult as the body ages. Learn about the various foot conditions that may affect the older population. Fat Pad Atrophy Fat Pad Atrophy is the thinning of the pad that protects the underlying structures of your feet, such as neurovascular tissues, ligaments and tendons. This is the "cushioning" of your feet. The fat pad protects your feet in everyday activity. Over time, this 1-2 cm pad begins to wear down as you age. According to the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association, by the age of 50, people lose half of the fat pad. Treatment includes custom foot orthotics, and orthopaedic footwear, both of which are sold in-store at Feet First Clinic. Morton’s Neuroma Morton's Neuroma is foot condition in the ball of your foot. It occurs most commonly in the area between your third and fourth toes. Morton's neuroma can feel like you're walking on a pebble and worsens with tight footwear and high heels. Neuroma is more common in females and inactive individuals, usually aged 15-50. Cracked Heels When the skin on the bottom of your heels becomes overly dry, it can split and crack. This condition is known as Cracked Heels. These fissures can be painful and bleed. If they persist, your heels can become infected. Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation of the tissue (plantar fascia) along the bottom of your foot between your heel bone and toes. This condition of the arch is most commonly associated with overuse. Pain is gradual, but can be sharp upon first steps after prolonged rest—like when waking up. Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is a common condition for adults over 70. This  degenerative joint disease is the most common form of arthritis. Breakdown of cartilage and formation of osteophyte (bony outgrowth) are common symptoms. Risk factors include: Gender: women are more likely than men to suffer from OA, especially in the hands and knees. Joint injury: prior trauma can alter joint alignment and cause more overuse in certain areas. Obesity: increased weight will increase load on the joints, causing earlier onset of osteoarthritis. Biomechanics: deviations in foot and knee joints can cause excess wear on certain joint areas. Bone Spurs Bone spurs are bone outgrowths caused by osteoarthritis. Often, bone spurs develop at joints, and where bones meet. The most common place for bone spurs is in the foot. Conditions include hallux rigidus and heel spurs. Hallux Rigidus Osteophyte on top of the left metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) due to hallux rigidus. Hallux rigidus is the medical term for stiff big toe. Hallux rigidus is a stiff first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) characterized by a bone spur on the big toe. This condition develops over time due to osteoarthritis and progressively worsens. Since it's a wear-and-tear condition, ageing feet are particularly prone. Custom foot orthotics and stiff shoes with a rocker midsole can help prevent and limit the onset of hallux rigidus. Otherwise, surgery may be your best option. Heel Spurs are a bony growth from the underside of the heel bone that forms due to repetitive muscular and ligament strain. Common activities include: walking, running, and jumping. Heel spurs are managed by rest, exercise, custom foot orthotics, supportive footwear, a night splint, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, and cortisone injections. Bunions Hallux valgus, bunion in foot on white background One in three people older than 18 have bunions making it one of the most common foot conditions. Bunions are bony protrusions along the edge of the big toe. At the site of the MTPJ, which bears up to 60% of our body weight, bones are particularly susceptible to shifting. Herein lies the start of a bunion. The bones of the big toe and foot can deviate from proper alignment and create the angular protrusion that juts out from the base of the big toe. Studies show that bunion deformity occurs more frequently in women and older individuals. Ingrown Toenails An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of the toenail curls down and pierces the flesh of the toe as the nail grows. Older adults are prone to ingrown toenails because of curved or thick nails. Thick and curved nails make ingrown toenails more prevalent. Causes include: Cutting your toenail too short or rounding the edge of the nail Wearing shoes or socks that don't fit well can also cause an ingrown toenail Tight shoes Have an ingrown toenail? Visit Feet First Clinic for a proper diagnosis and treatment. Flat Feet Flat feet occur when your arch collapses, and can be a sign of ageing feet. Adults may get flat feet because of an injury, obesity, diabetes or high blood pressure. Over time, the tendons supporting your arch weaken, and your feet flatten. Orthotics, physical therapy, braces, and surgery help. Gout Middle-aged men's ageing feet are most susceptible to gout, a common and complex form of arthritis. Gout is due to a condition known as hyperuricemia, which occurs when there is too much uric acid in the body. Red meat, shellfish, alcohol, and sugary foods all contribute to the build of uric acid. As you age, avoid the aforementioned to limit your chance of gout. Bursitis According to Harvard Medical School, bursitis is most common in people who are overweight, elderly or diabetic. Bursitis is an inflammation of a bursa, and often occurs in the foot. Bursae, which are small sacs of fluid that protect your tendons, bones, and joints, can swell and become painful due to repetitive impact. Fortunately, ice, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen can help. Hammertoe   Hammertoes look like curled toes. (Read: I Have Curled Toes — Is There Something Wrong?) Hammertoe is a toe deformity in which the middle toe joint is abnormally contracted a bent causing the toe to curl downward. This can typically affect one or more toes and can either be fixed or mobile, and the second toe is most often affected. Stress Fractures Stress fractures are a small crack in a bone. Repetitive use, or trauma can cause the bone to break. According to one study, "the incidence of stress injuries in older athletes is noticeably increasing, associated with a more active, older population." Unfortunately, there isn't much you can do with a stress fracture other than to rest, or stay off your feet. However, non-impact exercise like swimming is a way to stay active, but be careful of aggravating the bone. Ageing Feet? We’re Here To Help! As we age, regular foot health check-ups are essential. Be proactive, not reactive. Book an appointment with one of our Licensed Chiropodists for a thorough assessment to determine an appropriate preventative plan, or for treatment. Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!
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November 23, 2023
Why Are My Feet Swollen? Unraveling the Causes and Solutions
Swollen feet (edema) can become a concerning foot health problem if you don’t explore ways to manage them. That said, many folks are left in the dark as to why their feet are swelling in the first place. Knowing the causes of swollen feet is the first step towards treatment, and learning solutions and contacting your chiropodist for help is the second step!  Causes of Swollen Feet Prolonged standing and sitting Pregnancy Weight gain Diabetes Warm weather Aging Image Credit: iStock Prolonged Standing and Sitting When you stand or sit for extended periods, blood can pool in your lower extremities, especially if your veins are not functioning properly. This can lead to fluid retention and swollen feet and ankles.  Pregnancy According to Mayo Clinic, your body retains more fluid during pregnancy and your hormones are thrown out of whack, which both contribute to swollen feet. A growing uterus can also affect your vein and circulation efficiency, causing edema. Image Credit: iStock Weight Gain Weight gain can lead to swollen feet because the additional body weight puts increased pressure on your veins. This pressure can hinder the blood flow back to the heart, causing blood and other fluids to pool in the lower extremities. Diabetes Diabetes can wreak havoc on your feet in many ways. When it comes to swelling, high glucose levels can thicken the arteries, which causes them to lose their elasticity. This impairs blood flow to the feet, causing severe fluid retention.  Warm Weather Sometimes the humidity we experience in the summer or during a vacation can cause mild foot swelling. This is called heat edema. It occurs when high temperatures cause the blood vessels to expand, which rapidly moves body fluid downward towards the feet. Aging Unfortunately, our ability to properly circulate blood throughout our bodies lessens as we age. Like diabetes patients, the arteries can lose their elasticity and efficiency. Other risk factors affecting older people include: age-related hormonal changes, mobility problems that encourage a sedentary lifestyle, and medications that cause side effects like swollen feet. Image Credit: iStock Solutions for Swollen Feet Orthopedic Shoes: Many shoes are designed with foot comfort in mind, but orthopedic shoes take it to new heights. They often come with adjustable closures and other features that accommodate swollen feet and prevent foot pain, like extra depth and wide toe boxes.  Compression Stockings: From pregnant women, to people who stand at work all day, to those who spend a lot of time cooped up in airplanes — compression stockings can help prevent associated foot swelling. Studies show that calf-length compression stockings with a pressure range between 11 and 21 mmHg are the way to go, but this can vary depending on your needs. Please note compression stockings are not recommended for diabetes patients.  Foot Care / Movement: Make sure you get enough movement in your daily life (taking into account disability and mobility troubles, of course!). There are plenty low-impact exercises and stretches that can go a long way for those with a sedentary lifestyle. To fight swelling feet, try exercises that rotate the ankles and move your toes. They may be able to get your muscles pumping and enhance circulation. Light walking can also aid swelling feet.  Diet Changes: Eat nutrient-dense foods low in sugar and salt, and stick to small portions to lose weight. Shedding excess weight can have a direct, positive impact on your swollen feet. Check out the best foods to eat for your foot health. Nude and black compression stockings. Image Credit: iStock
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November 13, 2023
Top of Foot Pain: Exercises and Stretches for Relief and Prevention
Stretches for foot pain on the top of the foot can go a long way for people with osteoarthritis, gout, extensor tendinopathy and tendonitis, bunions, problems with the bones of the foot (stress fractures) and more. Exercises for top of the foot pain will target the extensor tendons that run down along the top of foot with many of the stretches focusing on toe movement.  Let’s explore the top exercises and stretches for the prevention of foot pain, and ultimately, foot pain relief! Exercises for Pain on the Top of your Foot Toe Flex and Raise Towel Scrunches Toe Splay Great Toe Extension Stretch Top of the Foot Stretch Photo by FreePik Toe Flex and Raise This exercise works the tibialis anterior, a large muscle on the front of your leg that can have an impact on top of the foot pain. As a bonus, it can help strengthen your ankles and treat plantar fasciitis.  While standing, flex your toes high up towards the sky. Move forward so you are on your tiptoes.  Lower yourself back slowly.  Repeat the movement 15 times. Click here to see a Feet First Clinic demonstration! Towel Scrunches  This exercise, also called toe curls, is all about keeping the top of your feet and toes strong. You’ll need a towel or blanket (or any fabric you can pick up with your toes). Stand up with your feet flat on a piece of material and keep your heels anchored to the floor. You can also sit on a chair as long as you can do the same movements with your feet.  Scrunch your toes while grasping the material, pulling it towards you, almost like you are trying to pick it up with your toes. Make sure your heels stay firmly planted on the floor as you do this. Try the movements 15 times each, or more if you’re comfortable. You can also try two feet at the same time, or alternate.  Click here to see a Feet First Clinic demonstration! Photo by iStock Toe Splay This is one of the top exercises for improved mobility, and also one of the easiest to perform! Sit down on a chair with your back straight and feet resting flat on the floor.  Spread your toes apart (without touching them) and hold the position for five seconds.  Repeat 10 times.  Refer to Healthline for a demonstration of this exercise! Great Toe Extension Stretch This is a great exercise for arthritis, which often plagues the top of the foot with aches and pains.  While sitting on a chair, place the foot experiencing pain on the top of your other knee. If both feet are painful you can alternate.  While firmly holding your heel with one hand, use the other to pull your big toe back towards your ankle.  Wait until you can feel the stretch in the bottom of the foot (don’t worry, it still helps the top of the foot too!).  Repeat two to four times.  Switch feet and repeat.  MyHealth Alberta provides an excellent image reference for this exercise! Top of the Foot Stretch Given its name, this stretch is pretty straight forward in terms of how it can help your top of the foot pain, but it may also help with shin pain. This stretch has different variations but we’ll keep it as simple as possible.  Sit at the very edge of a chair.  Extend one of your feet back with the top of the foot facing the floor and the knee pointing downward.  Gently press the top of the foot and toes against the floor until you feel the stretch working.  Repeat this movement ten times or less if you need and alternate between feet.  Refer to Athletico for a demonstration of this exercise! Photo by iStock
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November 9, 2023
The Benefits of a Foot Bath: Relaxation and Beyond
What’s in a foot bath, really? A combination of comfortably warm water and medicinal ingredients (think herbal oils, camphor, urea, and more) from companies like Gehwol may be the perfect marriage. And not only is enjoying a foot bath one of the most relaxing experiences for your tired feet, but it can also take your foot health to new levels. Let’s explore everything there is to know about foot bath benefits.  Photo credit: iStock Benefits of a Foot Bath Drawing up a foot bath is one of the best relaxation techniques around, but foot baths go beyond calming oneself; they can also address your foot health by fighting pre-existing conditions and preventing their development. Here are some of the top benefits:  Improved circulation and pain management Exfoliation and skin health Swelling and inflammation reduction Photo credit: iStock Improved Circulation and Pain Management  Bath salts and the thermal effects of hot water can boost circulation in your feet, ankles and lower legs. Furthermore, warm water is a vasodilator, meaning it expands the blood vessels, improving circulation and helping your muscles relax - all of which can reduce pain. Some conditions a foot bath can help include plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis.   Exfoliation and Skin Health Not only are foot baths an excellent hygienic practice, but the right foot bath products and bath salts can penetrate the skin, leaving it softer and more hydrated than ever before. Foot baths can also eliminate dead skin cells, remove dirt and bacteria, and reduce foot odour with ingredients like lavender oil. Camphor is also present in a lot of foot soak products, which naturally treats skin irritation.  Swelling and Inflammation Reduction  As we mentioned before, the blood vessels dilate when the feet are immersed in warm water. This allows more oxygen and nutrients to flow through the circulatory system, which reduces inflammation. Some foot soaks can also encourage lymphatic drainage, which helps the body eliminate excess fluids.  Photo credit: iStock
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October 30, 2023
Orthopedic Shoes in 2023: Benefits, Selection, and Advice
Sometimes your foot health depends on orthopedic shoes. For people with bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, arthritis, and other foot deformities, orthopedic footwear can make the difference between a painful day and a day where you can manage simple activities. Let’s take a look at the benefits of orthopedic shoes, the best practice for selecting orthopedic shoes, and how to use them.  Photo by iStock Benefits of Orthopedic Shoes Orthopedic shoes come with a wide array of qualities that promote foot health and tackle foot conditions. Here are some of the most notable:  Studies show that orthopedic footwear can improve the ability to maintain continuous walking in people with chronic foot and ankle injuries.  Many patients report their foot pain diminished after using orthopedic shoes for 1-2 years.  Orthopedic shoes can help you manage bunions so they don’t get worse and require surgery later.  They can help with proper foot alignment for people with plantar fasciitis and flat feet.  They usually provide extra heel cushioning and arch support.  To accommodate wide feet, orthopedic shoes often come with features like adjustable straps, extra wide toe boxes, and flexible fabric.  Photo by iStock Selecting Orthopedic Shoes Since choosing orthopedic shoes can be difficult, you should schedule a foot assessment with your chiropodist who will then prescribe orthopedic footwear. That said, here are three of the most important tips for finding the right orthopedic shoes for you: Since your foot size can over time, especially with age, you should always triple check that your shoes fit snugly.  Make sure your new shoes are designed to best support your specific concern. For example, shoes with adjustable straps are good for wide bunions.  Consider your lifestyle and daily needs. Search for orthopedic sneakers if you’re trying to be more active, or orthopedic dress shoes if you need something for work.  Ensure any accessories like socks or custom orthotics fit properly with your shoes. Usage of Orthopedic Shoes  You should use orthopedic shoes for activities they are designed for. For instance, if you have orthopedic dress shoes, use them for work and special occasions.  Furthermore, after wearing your shoes for some time, schedule a check up with your chiropodist so they can assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments or recommendations.  Photo by iStock
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October 26, 2023
Stylish and Comfy: Your Ultimate Guide to Wide Shoes for Fall 2023
Do you need wide shoes for fall? If you have bunions, hammertoes or another condition, or you’re getting older or experiencing a life changing event like pregnancy, your feet can change in size and often become wider. That’s why it’s important to measure your feet or attend a proper shoe fitting and update your shoe size — don’t just assume you were the size you were when you were a teen or young adult! Luckily, fall footwear trends are considering people with wide feet and there are several comfortable shoes and fashionable footwear choices available this fall season! Let’s explore your top options. And don't forget to keep reading (you'll find some tips for finding wide shoes at the end!). APEX Sierra Trail Runner For both your adventure and wide shoe needs, the APEX Sierra Trail Runner has men and women covered. It has a high, wide toe box and provides increased stability control for those who overpronate, or in other words, those with flat feet who walk with their arch collapsing downward or inward. Overpronation can put avid hikers at serious risk of sustaining a foot injury. Other features for this shoe include a rubber outsole for traction on slippery surfaces, a breathable open air mesh and leather upper, and 5/16” removable depth in two layers for fitting flexibility.  APEX Sierra Trail Runner for men. Source: APEX Clarks Wave Range AP This wide shoe is designed with weatherproofing materials, making it a waterproof shoe which is highly valuable during the fall months. Like the APEX trail runner, it’s designed for excursions and exploring. It also features smart WaveWalk technology (rocker sole) which uses a heel kicker to ensure smooth forward motions and a concave heel for excellent shock absorption to prevent the impact of the ground from damaging your joints.  Clarks Wave Range for women. Source: Clarks Clarks Wave 2.0 For strolling around the city on brisk fall days, the lightweight yet sturdy and protective Wave 2 gives you the pedestrian power you need. The waterproof dark brown oil leather and textile upper keeps your feet dry and safe from the cold rain, and the removable footbed absorbs impact and shock, but also allows you to replace it with prescribed orthotics. Other notable features include the EVA midsole, and the internal full-grain leather sock that provides extra comfort.  Clarks Wave 2.0 for men. Source: Clarks Anodyne No. 55 and No. 56 The Anodyne 55 (for women) and 56 (for men) trail boots keep your feet from feeling fatigued during hiking adventures. They are also intentionally designed to accommodate widening issues like swelling, bunions, hammertoes, and more. Compared to standard shoes, Anodyne trail shoes run half a size to a full size bigger. Other features include a protective toe box and easy-to-use hook and loop closure. Anodyne No. 55. Source: Anodyne Tips for Finding Wide Shoes Get a Shoe Fitting: Get fitted by a professional at a foot clinic. Your feet might not be the same size, and the width can vary too. Sizes also vary from brand-to-brand, so don't just go by measurements. Understand Shoe Sizing: Shoe width is indicated by letters. For instance, "W" may indicate wide, and "N" may indicate narrow for the same shoe style (this may vary so double check). Don't accidentally buy a narrow version of a shoe! Adjustable Features: Look for shoes with adjustable features like straps, laces, or buckles. These allow you to customize the fit according to the width of your feet. Consider Materials: Choose shoes made with soft, flexible materials that can stretch a bit to accommodate wider feet. Visit Your Chiropodist: They can offer personalized advice and might be able to recommend specific shoes.
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October 21, 2023
Runner’s Knee: What Is It?
Runner's knee is a condition that causes pain around the front of the knee, particularly near the kneecap. Don't let the name fool you: runner's knee doesn't just affect runners. Individuals who engage in repetitive knee-bending activities, such as cycling, jumping, or squatting, can experience this form of knee pain. The condition is characterized by discomfort or pain often felt during and after physical activities. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or lacing up your running shoes for the first time, understanding the ins and outs of this common ailment is helpful for preventing and managing its onset. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into runner's knee – its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation techniques – to ensure that you stay pain-free and on your feet. Runner's knee: What is it? Runner's knee, formally known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a condition characterized by pain around the front of the knee. Any activity that repeatedly stresses the knee cap or the areas around the knee cap can aggravate the condition. It is more common in women than men. This is believed to be due to a greater susceptibility to knee misalignment in women. Runner's knee symptoms include: Pain around the knee cap, especially during activities that involve bending the knee, such as running, walking downstairs, or squatting. Pain after prolonged sitting and a stiff feeling in your knee Cracking or popping sensation Swelling and inflammation in and around the patella What cause's runner's knee? Many causes of runner's knee are not specific to the knee, but rather are abnormalities with the surrounding muscles and joints. Because the knee is a hinge joint, it relies on many different parts of the leg to properly perform its job. Common causes of runner's knee are: Misalignment of the patella: Improper tracking of the patella can lead to increased pressure on the joint. Muscle imbalances: Quad, hip, and knee imbalances can lead to biomechanical deficiencies that overexert the knee.  Overuse: Repeated knee bending and straightening during activities can cause excessive stress on the patellofemoral joint, leading to irritation and pain. Poor biomechanics: Issues with how the lower extremities function during movement, such as flat feet or overpronation, can contribute to developing a runner's knee. Inadequate warm-up or stretching: Failing to properly warm up before exercise, or neglecting to stretch, can increase the risk of developing PFPS. Too much, too soon: A sudden increase in activity level, such as increasing mileage or intensity too quickly, can strain the knee joint and lead to a runner's knee. Inadequate footwear: Improper footwear that does not provide adequate cushioning and support can contribute to knee pain. How do I treat runner's knee? There are several ways of treating a runner's knee. First and foremost, understanding the cause(s) will help you get back to being healthier faster. Common treatments include: Rest and ice: Give your knees time to rest, and apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain. Reduce intensity: Reduce or stop the physical activity that could be causing the pain. Alternatively, reduce all activity while you consult a professional to diagnose the exact cause, at which point you can slowly re-introduce physical activity. You can also try low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling to maintain fitness while giving your knees a break. Physical therapy: Physiotherapy, massage therapy, and a strength program can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve biomechanics. Engage in exercises stretching and strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip, and calf muscles. Orthotics and proper footwear: Custom orthotic inserts or appropriate footwear can help correct biomechanical issues contributing to the condition. A shoe fitting and video gait analysis can help reveal any biomechanical deficiencies and provide a helpful guide into choosing the right shoe. Patellar taping: Taping techniques can help reposition the patella and reduce pain during activity. When to see a chiropodist for a runner's knee? If the pain persists despite conservative treatments, consult a healthcare professional like a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.  Addressing the runner's knee early is essential to prevent further complications and ensure a timely recovery.
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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.