Custom Orthotics Relieves Pain and Fixes Foot Issues

March 12, 2019

There is an argument to be made for the feet being the ultimate support workers of your body. They keep you upright but they also grant you mobility — to walk, run, jump, or to dance!

Your feet not only support your body and keep you moving, but they also balance your body weight. If we don’t take care of our feet, we can develop serious biomechanical foot problems including supination, over-pronation, or fallen arches — all of which can cause additional strain on your feet and lead to pain elsewhere in the body such as the knees or lower back.

Custom orthotics help to correct foot abnormalities

When some people feel foot pain, they think of it as a comfort issue rather than a medical issue, and many sufferers think that simple drug store insoles will fix the problem. But generic shoes cannot help correct foot abnormalities, and if you suffer from chronic foot pain, custom orthotics from a reputable clinic like Feet First is exactly what you need.

Because custom foot orthotics are designed specifically for you and your unique feet, they provide support where it’s needed and can alleviate or even eliminate pain and correct abnormalities.

Below, our experts have compiled a list of common foot abnormalities and explain how custom orthotics can help fix the issue.

Metatarsalgia

People who suffer from Metatarsalgia complain of pain at the balls of their feet. This condition is seen under the 2^nd, 3^rd, and 4^th metatarsal bones. Abnormal pronation or a general collapse of the arch can cause excessive bone rotation which leads to foot pain.

To start your journey toward recovery, drop into our Toronto foot care clinic to learn how custom orthotics can help reduce the pronation and put a stop to the friction caused by the metatarsal bone rotation — relieving pain and increasing your well-being.

Achilles Tendonitis

The Achilles tendon is named for the Greek warrior whose only weakness was the exposed heel of his foot which his mother Thetis held when she dipped him into the river Styx. She believed this would make Achilles impervious to any pain — but clearly, she had not tried to walk to the town of Marathon in flat sandals!

Achilles Tendonitis develops over time after the tendon becomes inflamed and swollen — which can be further agitated by improperly-fitted orthotics, bad form when exercising, overuse, or the onset of arthritis.

You should book an appointment with our chiropodists if you’re experiencing:

Stabbing pain or stiffness along the tendon when you wake up in the morning
Pain along the back of the heel that usually worsens with activity
Extreme pain the day after you exercise
A thickening of the tendon

Custom orthotics can relieve and even reverse the pain caused by Achilles Tendonitis, as heel lifts and custom shoes with a softer backing can help reduce pain and irritation of the tendon.

Plantar Fasciitis

People suffering from this condition complain of pain in and around their heel bones. Plantar Fasciitis is caused by the breakdown and tearing of the fascial soft tissue — which is generally caused by a constant tug of the heel bone at the attachment site. The issue is often exacerbated by walking for long stretches in unsupported footwear.

Custom foot orthotics can reduce and even stop the stretching of the lower arch, allowing the soft tissue damage to heal over time. If you’d like to learn more about how custom orthotics for plantar fasciitis can help you, stop by Feet First for more information.

Find relief for the above issues at our foot clinic in downtown Toronto where we offer interim treatment and schedule a follow-up issue-specific session so that you get the care you need. We also offer video gait analysis that uses 3D cameras to see the issues in slow motion, allowing us to better find a solution tailored to your needs and wants.

At Feet First, we care about your feet. Come in for an 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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December 4, 2023

Stay Comfortable this Winter: Cold Weather Footwear Guide

Winter's chill may be invigorating but can also send shivers down your spine. It's therefore a top priority to keep your feet warm and cozy. As the temperature drops and the snowflakes fall, the choice of footwear becomes a crucial component of staying comfortable in the cold. But don't worry, you don't have to sacrifice style for warmth. In this comprehensive cold-weather footwear guide, we walk you through the best choices for winter footwear, from boots to socks so that you can embrace the season's beauty without a second thought about frozen toes. Say goodbye to chilly discomfort and hello to a cozy, fashionable winter. What makes winter footwear unique? Before we dive into the world of winter boots and socks, it's essential to recognize why proper cold-weather footwear matters. Winter footwear typically includes many, if not all, of the following features. Warmth Winter footwear is warmer than any other seasonal footwear. Cold feet can be not only uncomfortable but also potentially dangerous. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures increases the risk of frostbite, so keeping your feet warm is essential for overall well-being. Traction Winter footwear boasts better traction than other footwear. December to March months often come with slippery sidewalks and icy roads. The proper footwear offers the traction needed to prevent slips and falls, reducing the risk of injury. Protection Winter shoes protect your feet from the elements, including cold, wet, and snow. The boot's protective layer keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Comfort Cold weather can bring added stress to your feet, so comfortable footwear with proper cushioning and insulation is crucial for a pleasant winter experience. Due to being heavier and rigid, expect winter footwear to feel more rugged than your spring, summer, and fall footwear. How to choose your perfect winter footwear Your perfect winter boot or footwear exists. It's just a matter of finding your match. Consider the following when deciding between boots this winter. Winter features: Invest in high-quality winter boots designed to keep your feet warm and dry. Look for boots with insulation, waterproof materials, and slip-resistant soles. Socks: What you wear on your feet is a crucial component of the whole winter footwear package. Choose moisture-wicking, insulating socks to keep your feet warm and dry. Wool socks are an excellent choice for winter as they provide insulation while wicking moisture away from your feet. Sizing: Ensure your winter boots have extra room for thicker socks. A snug fit can reduce warmth, so select boots that allow for additional sock layers. Proper Lacing: Ensure your boots are laced or fastened correctly. Properly laced boots provide better support and warmth by preventing cold air from entering. Waterproofing: Apply a waterproof spray or conditioner to your boots. Waterproofing adds a layer of protection and helps prolong the life of your boots or shoes. Reapply this treatment periodically throughout the winter. Traction Aids: For particularly icy conditions, consider adding traction aids or slip-on ice cleats to your boots for improved grip and safety. Fashion and Style: You don't have to sacrifice style for warmth. Many winter boots come in fashionable designs that keep you cozy and on-trend. Our top picks: Comfortable footwear for Toronto winters Now, for what boot to pick? Below, you'll find our top picks for winter footwear, all available at our Bloor Street West location in Toronto. Sorel IV Tivoli Parc Boot WP The Sorel IV Parc Boot WP, renowned for its exceptional cold-weather performance, is a quintessential winter boot designed to keep your feet warm and dry in the harshest conditions. Its waterproof synthetic upper and seam-sealed construction protects against wet and slush environments, while the removable felt liner ensures remarkable insulation even in frigid temperatures. These boots are temperature-rated to withstand extreme cold, and their rugged outsole with a multidirectional lug pattern offers exceptional traction on icy terrain. With its classic style and versatility, the Sorel IV Parc Boot WP is a trusted companion for those who brave the coldest winter elements while maintaining a sense of enduring fashion. Portofino ID1673 The Portofino ID1673 unisex winter boot is waterproof and lined with natural wool to keep your feet warm and cozy. The double zippers and laces allow for an optimal fit and comfort. The removable insole allows you to insert your orthotics. Portofino MS105 The Portofino MS105 women's winter boot features a line bootie and is available in several colours. The outer is suede, and the winter boot is water-resistant, protecting you from the cold and the slush. Superfeet Insoles You can also supplement your winter footwear with custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles. Winter boots are not always orthopedic, so if you want added support, most winter boots have a removeable insole and the extra foot and toe room to accommodate for the inserts.

November 30, 2023

Discovering Perfect Footwear for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Happy Feet

As parents, we're entrusted with our children's well-being and health. And when it comes to our little ones, growing feet deserve our attention. Selecting the right shoes for kids is critical; it's a crucial aspect of their comfort, development, and overall health. But with so many options available, choosing the perfect pair can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential considerations when picking the right shoes for your little ones so they can put their best foot forward with smiles on their faces and healthy, happy feet. The importance of proper footwear for kids Proper footwear for kids is critical, as shoes can affect overall foot health and gait development. Specifically, proper footwear for children promotes the following: Healthy growth: Kids' feet are continually growing and developing. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can hinder their natural growth and development. Comfort and function: Well-fitted shoes ensure your child is comfortable and can move freely. The right shoes also provide support and stability, helping prevent accidents and discomfort. Foot Health: Proper footwear plays a significant role in maintaining healthy feet, preventing issues like blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails, and even long-term problems like bunions and misaligned toes. Posture and alignment: The right shoes can promote proper posture and foot alignment, reducing the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues later in life. How do you choose footwear for kids? There are a few considerations to think about when choosing footwear for kids. Children's feet have special features, foot shape, and size that can change as they grow and age. Of course, you're helping decide for them, but you should also check in with how they're feeling and ask them how the shoes fit. Fit Ensure the shoes fit correctly. Children's feet grow rapidly, so a proper measurement each time is essential to get the right size. Leave a bit of room (about 1-2 cm) at the front to accommodate growth. The main area for growth will be in the toe box, so help your child with the fit by ensuring some room at the end of the shoe. Various studies suggest that children aged 2 to 6 years require a shoe size change every 1 to 2 months, while children aged 12 to 30 months require a shoe size change every two to three months. Foot growth slows over time, so the exact interval of new shoes may differ. The shape of the toe box is also a factor. A toe box with a broader, rounded shape follows the contour of the feet and prevents issues like blisters and ingrown toenails. Comfort and support Look for shoes with cushioning and arch support. A good insole is essential for shock absorption and maintaining healthy arches. Kids' shoes should be flexible to allow for natural foot movement. Rigid shoes can hinder healthy foot development. Material Choose shoes made from breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort. You'll also want to have a certain degree of durability. After all, kids will be kids. Invest in shoes with high-quality materials that can stand against the daily wear and tear of being a child. Secure closure(s) Opt for shoes with adjustable and secure closures like Velcro or laces. A secure closure ensures a proper fit and prevents tripping. What are the best shoes for children? There is no one "best" shoe, as children need different shoes based on their age, gait, and a variety of other factors. However, we recommend the following shoes as good reference points to start your search: ASICS Gel-Excite: The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 Grade School features a high-quality upper to reduce irritation in the forefoot. Other benefits include toe rubber stitching and a solid rubber outsole to extend the shoe's lifespan. ASICS GT-1000 12: The GT-1000® 11 Grade School is one of the few stability shoes available for kids. This is great if your child has flat feet or overpronates. The GT-1000 also provides excellent shock absorption with a softer feel underfoot, and are designed to withstand the strains of being a kid. Saucony Peregrine 11: The Peregrine is one of Saucony's most popular all-terrain shoes, and it comes in kids sizing. The Peregrine 11 has a water-repellent mesh upper, built-in odour control and a durable outsole for serious traction. Your child will love hiking that much more with the Peregrine 11. Sorel Children's Yoot Pac Nylon Boot: The Sorel Yoot Pac is an excellent choice for winter footwear. With a waterproof nylon upper, seam-sealed construction and cozy insulation, cold weather doesn't stand a chance. The boot also comes with conveniently toggled laces. The inner liner with a sherpa collar is removable and washable. You can also support your children's footwear with a pair of inserts. Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch insoles give structured support where you need it most and help redistribute stress and strain on your entire body, not just your feet. They are designed to replace the removable liner in a wide range of footwear. Best of all, you can trim Superfeet to fit your shoe size. Four tips for buying children's shoes Below are four tips to help you get the most out of shopping for your kids. 1. Shop in the afternoon or evening Children's feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it's best to go shoe shopping in the afternoon when their feet are at their largest. That way, you leave more room without sacrificing too much of the fit. 2. Take your time Allow your child to try on different styles and sizes. It's essential that they feel comfortable and happy in their new shoes. Let them walk around the store to get a sense of the fit. 3. Listen for feedback Children can often express when a shoe feels too tight or uncomfortable. Pay close attention to their feedback during the shopping process. 4. Consider specialty stores Consider visiting a specialty shoe store if your child has unique foot needs, such as orthotics or extra-wide shoes. The experts at Feet First Clinic can help measure your kid's feet and match them with the perfect shoe.

November 27, 2023

Do You Have Wide Feet? Simple At-Home Tests to Know Your Foot Type

If you've ever struggled to find comfortable shoes, you might have wondered about your foot type. Knowing your foot shape, particularly whether you have wide feet, can be a game-changer when choosing the proper footwear. The good news is there are ways to determine your foot type at home with simple tests. It's important to note that your foot type refers to the entire shape of your foot, including your arch size (i.e.: whether you have flat feet or high arches). However, today, we're going to focus on foot width and tests to help you identify whether you have wide feet. Understanding your foot width is the first step to ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit for your feet. While these tests are not the be-all-end-all for determining whether you have wide feet (after all, shoes sizes vary from brand-to-brand), they may provide useful information: Three simple at-home tests to know whether you have wide feet The wet foot test The wet foot test is a simple DIY test that involves just a pool of water and a piece of paper. To perform a wet foot test: Fill a shallow container, like a basin or a bucket, with water. Wet the soles of both of your feet. Step onto paper or cardboard, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed. Step off and examine the wet imprint your feet left behind. Based on the shape of the imprint, you can use the following guide to determine whether you have narrow, average, or wide feet. Wide feet: If the imprint shows a wide forefoot with minimal curvature on the sides, you likely have wide feet. The width between the ball of your foot and your heel is noticeably broad. Average or standard feet: If your footprint shows a slight curve inward at the arch area, your feet are considered to have an average width. Your foot imprint can also be measured to see the exact width of your foot. Use the wet foot test to measure the width of your foot at its two widest points. Bonus tip: Do both feet. If one is wider than the other—which is common—then account for the wider of your two feet. The shoe size test The shoe size test is even simpler than the wet paper test. All you need is a current pair of shoes. Check the width size on your shoe label. Width sizes are typically marked as narrow (N), average (M or D), wide (W), or extra-wide (XW or E). As a rough guideline, a regular foot width is less than half your size. For example, if you wear a size seven shoe, a regular foot width would be ~3.5 inches. For those who are a size seven and have wide feet, expect more like 3.75-4.25 inches. For more details, see our complete guide on determining whether you have wide feet. Note: Your shoe size and your foot size are not the same. Different companies use different sizing for their shoes, so don't assume you're the same size in all shoe brands. Comfort/fit test The third test is more of a trial and error, but it is definitely the most accurate. Try on a few different pairs of shoes to determine which shoes fit best. Reflect on your experience with shoe shopping. If you frequently find shoes too tight in the forefoot, causing discomfort and sometimes requiring you to size up, this suggests you have wide(r) feet. What are the benefits of knowing your foot type? Now that you know the tests, it's important to understand why knowing your foot type is helpful. The shape and width of your feet can vary significantly from person to person. Identifying your foot type provides the following benefits: Proper footwear. No one shoe fits all. Knowing your foot type allows you to hone in on choosing shoes with the best support and comfort. Prevent discomfort. Reduce the risk of common foot issues by wearing shoes that match your foot width. Proper footwear for your foot type can help prevent discomfort, blisters, and other problems. Enhance performance. Knowing your foot type can narrow your perfect sports footwear, improving your performance and reducing the risk of injuries. Reduce foot and toe pain. If you have pre-existing foot conditions or pain, such as bunions or plantar fasciitis, understanding your foot type - specifically whether you have flat feet, normal arches or high arches, can help you find shoes that alleviate discomfort. With wider feet, opt for a shoe with a wider toe box for added room. Brands such as APEX, ASICS, Saucony, Anodyne and Clarks are known to have wider footwear options.

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

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

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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Custom Orthotics Relieves Pain and Fixes Foot Issues

Custom orthotics help to correct foot abnormalities

Metatarsalgia

Achilles Tendonitis