How to Defeat Dry Skin This Winter

Written by Bianca Charles on December 4, 2020

There are plenty of positives of winter: snowy walks, cozy evenings by the fireplace, outdoor winter activities and the holidays. One not so great aspect of winter is dry skin.

Dry skin is an uncomfortable condition characterized by scaling, itching, and cracking. It can result from a variety of factors, or be totally natural. Although you can have dry skin anywhere on your body, your feet can be particularly prone to this condition.

Why Dry Skin is Prevalent in Winter

Winter is especially brutal for dry skin. This is the case for a number of reasons:

Dehydration is more evident in winter
Indoor heating and showers can dry out the layer of skin that locks in moisture
Low humidity levels can degrade the skin’s natural moisture barrier. This can lead to flaking and peeling

Generally, humans’ desire to stay warm, either through indoor heating or hot showers, is particularly conducive to having dry skin in the winter. If you’ve ever come inside from the cold and take lengthy hot showers to warm up, you know what we mean.

Beyond peoples’ habits, the environment plays a role. As Harvard Health Publishing explains it, the water content of the epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) tends to reflect the level of humidity around it.

Modify Your Home

Start by optimizing your home environment for the winter. Drier air means drier skin. Using a humidifier in the room that you spend the most time can help prevent your feet from drying out.

Keep the temperature on the cooler side as warmer temperatures will quickly dry out your skin.

Use a Moisturizer

One key component to avoiding dry skin is using moisturizing creams and products. Skin moisturizers specifically rehydrate the epidermis (the outermost of the three layers that make up the skin) and seal in the moisture. As a general rule of thumb, the thicker and greasier a moisturizer, the more effective it is. For example, petroleum jelly and moisturizing oils are highly effective as they help prevent water loss.

Use moisturizing products in damp conditions (like after taking a bath, or a shower) to seal in the water. By moisturizing your skin, you can help prevent calluses, blisters, and cracked heels.

Products we carry in-store here at Toronto’s Feet First Clinic include:

Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Lotion Spray
Dermal Therapy Heel Care Cream
Gehwol Refreshing Foot Bath
Gehwol Fusskraft Soft Feet Cream

Visit the clinic any time – no appointment required – for a wide selection of skincare products, footwear, and footcare products.

Skin Ageing and Dryness

Your skin gets drier as you age. It’s inevitable. In fact, more than 75% of people over age 64 have dry skin.

Dry skin and ageing are related through a number of factors: cumulative effects of the sun over time as sun damage can thin the skin’s layer that absorbs moisture, and the production of natural oils slows as we age. Generally, dry skin doesn’t cause serious foot or skin conditions, but they can. These conditions can include chronic eczema, bleeding, or even bacterial infection.

Cracked Heels

Cracked heels are another side effect of ageing. 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.

What You Can do About Dry Skin

Combat dry skin this winter by incorporating (or avoiding) some of these habits into your routine:

Use a humidifier in the winter
Limit yourself to 5-10-minute baths or showers
Use lukewarm water rather than hot water
Minimize your use of soaps. Alternatively, use moisture-rich hygiene products
Avoid deodorant soaps, perfumed soaps, and alcohol products
Use bath oils
Use moisturizer immediately after bathing or after washing your hands
To reduce the greasy feel of petroleum jelly and thick creams, rub a small amount in your hands, and then rub it over the affected areas until neither your hands nor the affected areas feel greasy.
Avoid scratching or itching dry areas
Use sunscreen in the winter (not just in the summer)
Use a cream or gel a few minutes before shaving
Avoid fabric softeners and use fragrance-free laundry detergents

We Can Help With All of Your Foot and Skincare Needs

We’re confident in our ability to help inform you and solve your concern with the least amount of discomfort possible. Call us to inquire about any concerns or questions you have and we’d be happy to point you in the right direction!

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

Everything You Need for Healthy Feet - All Under One Roof

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! We’re Toronto’s one-stop-shop for all your foot-related needs. For 15 years, our staff and licensed chiropodists have been helping people with their feet. From foot care to foot pain to foot products – we do it all! 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!

About Author: Bianca Charles

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

Learn more about Bianca Charles

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March 6, 2025

Palmoplantar Keratoderma: What is it?

Figuratively speaking, it’s a good thing to have “thick skin,” right? But if you have palmoplantar keratoderma, it’s a different story. This condition, sometimes shortened to PPK, refers to a group of foot skin disorders characterized by thick, rough, and yellowed skin on the hand palms and feet soles. These conditions can be either inherited or acquired. In today’s article, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, and, most importantly, the treatment options available. This type of skin thickening may warrant a trip to a foot clinic and the expertise of a foot care professional, such as a Chiropodist or Podiatrist. However, successful treatment may depend on the underlying cause of the skin thickening. What is Palmoplantar Keratoderma? This condition combines two scientific terms: palmoplantar, which specifically refers to the skin on the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands, and keratoderma, a term for epidermis (skin) thickening. In less common cases, transgradient keratoderma can affect the top of the hands and feet. The feet are usually more severely affected than the hands. Palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) causes thickened skin on the palms and soles due to an overproduction of keratin, the protein that forms the outer layer of the skin. Normally, keratin helps protect the skin from friction, pressure, and environmental damage. However, in PPK, something disrupts the balance of keratin production and shedding, leading to excessive buildup. This happens because of genetic mutations or external factors that affect how skin cells grow and mature. Inherited forms of PPK often involve mutations in genes that control keratin formation or the connections between skin cells. These mutations make the skin cells more resistant to breaking down, so they pile up instead of naturally shedding. Since the palms and soles experience the most pressure and friction in daily life, they are especially prone to this excessive keratin buildup. Over time, the thickened skin can cause pain or become hard and cracked, depending on the severity of the condition. Some types can also cause blisters to form. Types of Palmoplantar Keratoderma and Associated Symptoms https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-iNFLGednYY Genetic (hereditary) keratoderma is usually divided into three main categories: diffuse, affecting the entire hand palm and foot sole; focal, where thickening is limited to pressure points; and punctate, which appears as small, hard lesions. Some genetic PPKs - particularly diffuse - are syndromic, meaning they are associated with other health conditions and additional symptoms, ranging from hearing loss to nail abnormalities to internal organ damage. Acquired PPK, on the other hand, is always syndromic and develops later in life due to external factors such as infections, inflammatory diseases, or underlying systemic conditions like internal malignancies. Acquired forms may be easier to treat since you and your healthcare team can address the underlying cause. Acquired PPK is also more common than genetic, since there are more causes and risk factors associated with it. Most types of PPK cause varying degrees of thick skin, potential foot odor (as a result of sweat combined with thick skin) and yellow/discoloured skin. Genetic PPK Types and Symptoms Diffuse PPK This form presents with even thickened skin on the palms and soles, often with a red border at the edges. Symptoms typically appear in early childhood and may include excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis). The thickening is usually confined to the palms and soles, without extending to the tops of the hands or feet. Focal PPK This type is characterized by linear (striate) thickened areas on the palms and soles, often following the lines of skin tension. It is typically caused by mutations in genes encoding desmosomal proteins, which are crucial for cell adhesion. A specific type of focal PPK called Pachyonychia Congenita is a rare genetic disorder that can also cause thick toenails. Punctate PPK This form is characterized by multiple small, hard, corn-like lesions scattered on the palms and soles. It is associated with mutations in genes that play a role in skin cell function. Acquired PPK Types and Symptoms PPK from Infections (syphilis, etc) Rough, scaly and yellow thickening on the palms and soles. May come with a rash or other symptoms affecting the whole body. Clears up when the infection is treated. PPK from Inflammatory Skin Conditions (psoriasis, eczema) Thickened, inflamed skin with redness and scaling. Can extend beyond just the palms and soles. Often improves with medicated creams or treatments that calm the immune system. PPK Linked to Other Health Conditions (cancer, hormone disorders) Yellow thickening of the palms and soles that appears suddenly in adulthood. Can sometimes signal an underlying health issue, like cancer. Needs further medical evaluation to check for possible internal diseases. What is the Difference Between Palmoplantar Keratoderma and Calluses? PPK is not the only cause of skin thickening on the feet and hands. In fact, it is more rare than another common culprit: calluses. But how do you know which condition you have? Calluses are localized areas of thickened skin that develop as a protective response to repeated friction or pressure. Commonly found on individuals who are physically active or spend long hours wearing ill-fitting shoes, they are much less severe than PPK. PPK tends to be thicker and more noticeable, alarming and unsightly than calluses, often covering a larger, symmetrical area on the palms and soles. It can appear hard and more yellow, or red and flaky. In some PPK cases, you may observe a red band at the edges of the thickened skin. Calluses can have a more mild appearance (but not always; they can sometimes be thick and painful!), with some people not even realizing they have them. Does that mean that PPK is the same as having excessive calluses? Not exactly. Calluses are only caused by friction and pressure----whereas PPK always has a driving force behind it, whether it's a genetic mutation or the result of an illness. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/yBACD8bUim0 Palmoplantar Keratoderma Treatment: Can a Chiropodist or Podiatrist Help? While there is no outright cure for certain forms of PPK, Chiropodists and Podiatrists can help manage symptoms, reduce discomfort, and improve mobility. This typically involves regular debridement (carefully removing excess skin), possibly prescribing medicinal products, and offering footwear advice to minimize friction and pressure. The latter may also include prescribing custom orthotics to properly distribute pressure on the bottom of the feet, especially if the thickened skin is impacting daily life. Scheduling an initial assessment is a good start! Naturally, since PPK can be linked to an underlying condition, more comprehensive care may be needed. A Chiropodist or Podiatrist might become a part of a broader team of healthcare professionals that can help you, including a dermatologist, your family doctor or other specialists trained to tackle the root cause. You may need advanced treatments such as topical retinoids, corticosteroids, or even laser therapy in some cases. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/sBIdll7qylQ

February 27, 2025

The Connection Between High Arches and Back Pain

Dealing with high arches and back pain can be a challenging combination, as the two are more connected than they seem. Understanding how high arches contribute to back pain is key to finding effective treatments and preventing further issues. Whether you’re dealing with foot pain, back pain, or posture problems, addressing high arches can significantly improve overall comfort and protect the rest of your body—especially your back. What are High Arches? https://www.youtube.com/shorts/osC-UmBtgNk High arches (or cavus foot or pes cavus) is a condition where the foot has an abnormally pronounced arch (as opposed to a flat foot or a normal arch). Having high arches can be due to simple genetics, inheriting structural abnormalities in the foot from your parents. They can also be caused by several neuromuscular disorders, which are conditions (ranging from mild to severe) that cause dysfunction or muscle weakness and leave certain muscles inactive. High arches generally develop during or after childhood when the flat feet most children have start to take shape and the foot arch forms. In some cases, idiopathic pes cavus occurs without a known cause (like genetics or neuromuscular disorders), and is just a case of simple variations in bone and ligament structure. A pronounced foot arch is usually quite discrete, aesthetically, and isn’t a serious condition. However, high arches are a common cause of foot pain and discomfort. High arches put extra pressure on the heel and ball of the foot, affecting normal pressure distribution and making it harder to absorb shock properly. This can lead to heel pain (plantar fasciitis— which is also commonly linked to flat feet feet), arch pain, and more, as the muscles and ligaments supporting the foot work overtime to stabilize each step, leading to inflammation or strain. High arches often cause the foot to roll outward, a motion known as supination. This can place extra stress on the ankles and knees, further disrupting alignment and increasing the risk of injuries like sprains and shin splints. It’s important to schedule an assessment with a foot specialist, like a podiatrist or chiropodist, if having high arches affects your daily life. The Connection Between High Arches and Back Pain https://www.youtube.com/shorts/7m3SQ5dXaeg A pronounced arch can also lead to back pain. But how do high arches affect the back when the two areas seem relatively far apart? The answer lies in how the body stays balanced. Many foot problems, not just high arches, often cause back pain—along with knee, leg, and ankle discomfort—because the feet serve as the body's foundation (carrying your weight) and closest connection to the ground. When that foundation is misaligned and overworked, the entire body has to compensate, leading to strain in other areas. Simply put, everything is connected, and the feet play a crucial role in maintaining functionality throughout our body’s kinetic connection! When it comes to the back, pain and poor posture often coexist. As we know, when the arches are too high, they can throw off the body's natural alignment, affecting the way you stand and walk. Uneven weight distribution forces the lower body to compensate, which can lead to foot pain and posture issues over time. The strain on the feet may cause the ankles to supinate, shifting stress to the knees and hips. This misalignment can travel up the spine, making it harder to maintain proper posture and increasing the risk of chronic discomfort. Without proper shock absorption, the impact of each step travels up through the joints, leading to tension in the lower back and shoulders. Over time, these small imbalances can create lasting posture problems, making everyday movements more difficult. Treating High Arches and High Arch-Related Back Pain When you treat high arches, you’re also preventing any potential back pain that may occur further down the road. But if you already struggle with high-arch related back pain, you can still focus on treatment methods that simultaneously target both issues. Video Gait Analysis https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Rhuga6vLdc0 This is when a Chiropodist or Podiatrist assesses your walking patterns (also known as your gait) using video gait analysis equipment. It can give foot care professionals insight into the potential damage your high arches could cause, so they can recommend preventative treatments. Custom Orthotics and Insoles A Podiatrist or Chiropodist can prescribe custom orthotics that you can wear inside your shoes. They will provide much-needed arch support, distribute weight evenly, and reduce strain on the feet and spine. Another option is over-the-counter Superfeet insoles, with the Superfeet Green: All Purpose High Arch being a good choice to ask your foot specialist about. Supportive Footwear Look for shoes with good arch support, cushioning, and shock absorption to minimize impact on joints. People with high arches should wear shoes with flexible midsoles or rocker soles to improve movement and reduce strain. Cushioning running shoes with shock absorption help counteract supination, ensuring even pressure distribution and healthy biomechanics. Avoid high heels, rigid soles, and unsupportive flats, as they can increase discomfort. Read more about the link between footwear and back pain. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-EeyHTdkrEs Targeting the feet, calves, and lower back can improve flexibility and stability, reducing pain. Some of the best include towel stretches (where you place a towel under your foot arch and pull towards you), seated toe pulls (pulling the top of your foot towards you - see above!), ankle circles and massage ball rolls (rolling your foot arch on a therapeutic massage ball). You can read more about them, including how to perform them, here. You can also try clamshells on an exercise mat with your ankles together (this will also help soothe hip pain. See below for a demonstration! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/ZODK0Q4zOws

January 9, 2025

4 Tips For Living With High Arches

Living with high arches can be a challenge, but if you pay attention to your foot health, you can manage them effectively. Let’s explore what high arches are, their impact, and our top 4 tips for living with high arches. What Are High Arches? https://www.youtube.com/shorts/13rmyA18ZzY High arches (pes cavus) is a condition where one has - you guessed it - abnormally high foot arches. They are essentially the opposite of flat feet, which are characterized by having a minimal or non-existent arch. High arches may be hereditary or caused by neurological disorders such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease. From a biomechanical perspective, the raised arch reduces the surface area in contact with the ground, which can result in an uneven distribution of weight across the foot. High arches often place excessive pressure on the ball and heel of the foot, leading to discomfort, instability, potential injuries and chronic foot conditions. High arches also impairs shock absorption, which causes progressive wear-and-tear on the joints over time. Side effects of high arches include foot pain, issues like calluses and hammertoes, and an increased risk of ankle sprains. Individuals can also develop conditions like plantar fasciitis (this can also frequently occur in people with flat feet), or Achilles tendonitis due to the strain placed on the muscles and ligaments. The lack of shock absorption can also reverberate up the body and lead to joint disorders like arthritis. High arches are associated with supination, also called underpronation, a condition where the foot rolls outward during movement. This gait pattern places additional stress on the outer edges of the foot and ankle, leading to instability and overuse injuries. Consequently, individuals with high arches should pay close attention to their walking or running patterns to prevent long-term complications. High arches can also lead to changes in posture and gait. This, combined with the lack of shock absorption, may result in secondary issues such as knee, hip, or back pain over time. Tips for Living with High Arches https://www.youtube.com/shorts/2et0ZUSx4OM Living with high arches requires thoughtful adjustments to your daily routine and habits. Here are some ways to keep your feet comfortable and supported: 1. Choose the Right Footwear Proper footwear is essential for managing high arches. Opt for shoes with ample shock absorption, arch support and cushioning. Shoes with flexible midsoles or rocker soles can also be very helpful: People with high arches tend to have rigidity in the toes and ankles due to joint wear-and-tear, which means the toes and ankles do not flex as much as it should during the gait cycle. A flexible midsole and rocker sole counteracts this and make movement easier. Likewise, people with high arches should avoid high heels, rigid soles, and unsupportive flats, which can exacerbate discomfort. Due to supination, people should look for cushioning running shoes. These provide balanced cushioning and plenty of shock absorption and flexibility to support the foot’s natural motion and healthy biomechanics. This design helps distribute pressure evenly, enhances comfort, and reduces the risk of injury. 2. Wear Custom Orthotics Custom orthotics are a valuable tool for redistributing pressure evenly across the foot. You can work with a specialist, like a podiatrist or chiropodist, at a foot clinic to create orthotics tailored to your specific needs. Scientifically, custom orthotics help correct abnormal biomechanics, such as excessive supination, by stabilizing the foot and encouraging a more neutral gait. They can also provide added cushioning to reduce the impact of your stride on your joints. Over time, this can alleviate pain, reduce fatigue, and prevent the development of secondary issues in the knees, hips, or lower back. 3. Maintain a High Arch Foot Care Routine Foot baths and massages can soothe foot pain, relax the muscles in your feet and boost blood circulation. Soak your feet in warm water with Epsom salts, or foot bath products from reputable companies like Gehwol, to alleviate tension. Gehwol products, such as their Herbal Foot Bath, are available to buy at our Toronto foot clinic, Feet First Clinic! Gently massage the arch, heel, and toes to improve circulation and relieve tightness. Read this article to learn how to give yourself a foot massage from home. 4. Try Stretching and Strengthening Exercises Foot stretches and exercises play a crucial role in managing high arches by improving flexibility, reducing muscle tightness, and promoting better blood circulation in the feet. High arches can lead to stiffness and imbalances in the tendons and muscles, increasing the risk of discomfort and injury. Over time, these stretches can support better alignment and strengthen the foot's ability to handle daily stress, making them an essential part of high arch foot care. Here are some simple routines you can try today! Toe Flex and Raise: While standing, plant your toes and lift your heels off the ground. Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat 5 times. Seated Towel Stretch: Loop a towel around your foot and gently pull it toward you, holding for 15-30 seconds. Pen Pick-ups: Stay seated. Then, lay three pens, or similarly shaped objects, in front of you–spaced apart evenly. Using your toes, pick up each pen and place it in a bowl. Seated Toe Pulls: Sit on a chair and cross one ankle over the opposite knee. Grab the top of your foot and gently pull it toward your body until you feel a stretch on the top of your foot. Hold for 15-30 seconds and repeat 2-3 times per foot. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/-EeyHTdkrEs Additional High Arch Pain Relief Tips More practical approaches for high arch pain relief include: Ice Therapy: Apply an ice pack to sore areas for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation and soothe discomfort. If your feet are particularly painful, take this one step further by practicing the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation). Supportive Inserts: Use over-the-counter insoles with firm arch support. A good choice for high arches is the Superfeet Green or the Superfeet Run Cushion High Arch insoles. However, talk to a podiatrist or chiropodist about if you need more customized support from orthotics. Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may help manage pain. Seek Professional Help: Visit a podiatrist or chiropodist for a biomechanical assessment to determine how prominent your high arches are, how they are affecting your body, and any contributing biomechanical factors. These foot specialists can also fit you for custom orthotics, provide shoe recommendations and curate a full treatment plan. When to See a Specialist For High Arches If high arches are causing persistent discomfort or limiting your mobility, it’s essential to seek professional advice. As we mentioned, visiting a foot clinic ensures access to personalized treatment plans. Consulting a foot specialist is especially important if you notice: Increased frequency of ankle instability or sprains. Development of deformities like hammertoes, claw toes, or bunions. Chronic pain that makes simple activities like walking increasingly difficult. A foot specialist can recommend the appropriate treatments, depending on the severity of your condition. They may also suggest physical therapy to improve balance, coordination, and overall foot function. Regular check-ups and assessments with a podiatrist or chiropodist can prevent seemingly minor issues from becoming major concerns. Don’t hesitate to seek their expertise! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/XZUfVhny5pY

December 26, 2024

What is the Difference Between Corns and Plantar Warts?

While corns and plantar warts may look alike at first glance, they differ significantly in their causes, symptoms, and treatments. If you’re unsure about whether you have a corn or a plantar wart, visiting a chiropodist can help you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Whether it’s corn enucleation or wart removal, timely intervention with a podiatrist or chiropodist at a foot clinic will ensure your feet stay healthy and pain-free. What are Corns? Corns are small, thickened areas of skin that develop in response to repeated friction, pressure, or irritation. They usually develop on the feet, particularly in weight-bearing areas such as the tops and sides of the toes or on the soles. Foot corns are essentially the skin's way of protecting itself from friction, forming as a shield for the underlying skin. The hardened layer is your body’s method of preventing skin ulceration. There are different types of foot corns, each with its own characteristics. Hard corns are small, round, and painful, typically found on the bottom of the foot due to abnormal pressure or friction. Soft corns, which are usually located between the toes, are white and rubbery due to moisture. Seed corns are tiny, painless and appear on the sole of the foot. Corns: Causes, Risk Factors and Symptoms Generally speaking, corns are caused by inefficient foot mechanics which lead to excessive pressure and friction. They may also be linked to other foot conditions. For example, an abnormal gait pattern due to flat feet can lead to pressure points. This can then cause corn formation in vulnerable areas of your foot. Here are some key risk factors and causes: Wearing high heels often. Wearing shoes that are the wrong size. Wearing uncomfortable shoes. Not wearing socks with your shoes. Irregular walking motion / abnormal gait. Corn Symptoms Include: Thickened, hardened areas of skin on the toes, sides, or soles of the feet Rough or waxy texture on the affected area Localized pain or tenderness, especially when pressure is applied Yellowish or greyish appearance, sometimes with a central core Discomfort during walking or wearing tight-fitting shoes Interference with daily activities in severe cases What are Plantar Warts? Plantar warts are localized skin infections caused by certain strains of the human papillomavirus (HPV), specifically types 1, 2, and 4 which target the epidermis—the outermost layer of the skin. The strain of HPV can sometimes determine how painful a plantar wart may be. For example, HPV 1 may cause deeper, more painful warts, while HPV 2 causes more superficial ones. These warts develop on the plantar surface of the foot, which includes the sole and heel, areas that bear significant weight and endure pressure during standing and walking. Unlike some other HPV-related warts, plantar warts are non-cancerous and are confined to the feet, as the virus is adapted to thrive in the thicker, tougher skin found on the soles. Plantar warts can last anywhere from two months to several years, especially if left untreated. For individuals with a healthy immune system, plantar warts are generally not a significant health concern. However, they can make activities like walking, standing, or running very uncomfortable and painful. The pressure exerted on the wart may cause irritation and discomfort, which causes hardened skin to build up over the wart. The latter is also a big reason people confuse them with corns or calluses. It’s important to seek treatment as soon as you notice any symptoms: Even if it's not interfering with your daily routine, it is still contagious so you can infect others. In addition, addressing these symptoms promptly with a foot specialist like a chiropodist or podiatrist can prevent further complications. Plantar Warts: Causes, Risk Factors and Symptoms Plantar warts are contagious and similar to fungal infections like athlete’s foot in that you can contract them by walking barefoot in public, moist spaces. Here are some more details on what activities or risk factors may lead to plantar warts: You have a weakened immune system. Many people's immune system can recognize and fight off the HPV virus before warts form. However, people with a poorly functioning immune system are more susceptible as their body is less equipped recognize and fight the HPV virus. People who are immunocompromised may take longer to fight the virus, meaning that that the warts will take longer to treat. You’re 65 or older, or a child or teenager: Plantar warts can be more common in these age brackets. For children, their immune systems are still developing, and they’re more likely to share communal spaces like gyms and locker rooms. For seniors, the immune system may be compromised. Environment exposure and being barefoot: Frequenting warm, moist environments like swimming pools, locker rooms, and communal showers increases exposure to HPV. These areas are ideal breeding grounds for the virus, making it easy to contract through bare feet. Walking barefoot on abrasive surfaces, like pool decks or gym mats, can also create micro-injuries that allow HPV to enter. Skin cracks and abrasions: Any break in the skin, including cracks, blisters, or injuries, can act as an entry point for the virus. Poor foot hygiene practices: Neglecting foot care, such as not cleaning feet thoroughly or allowing them to remain damp for prolonged periods, can create conditions favourable for infection. Plantar Wart Symptoms Include: Rough, thick circular patches that have similar colouring and shape to a cauliflower. Warts that form on the heels, around your toes, or on the ball of the foot. Other discoloration: brown, pink, yellow or gray. “Wart seeds” – which look like a small black dot in the wart Pain, tenderness and general discomfort. Bleeding. Both cluster and solitary growth are possible. Corns and Plantar Warts: Key Differences While warts and corns can look and feel very similar, the main difference lies what causes them. Corns are caused by the body's response to excessive friction against the skin, whereas plantar warts are caused by strands of the contagious HPV virus. Here are two additional ways to help distinguish between corns and plantar warts. Pain type: Plantar warts may cause pain when pinched from the sides, whereas corns are tender when pressure is applied directly to them. Appearance: Corns have a “waxy” yellowish appearance, whereas plantar warts often have a black dot in the centre. And while difficult to tell, warts go much deeper into the skin than corns. Location: Corns tend to occur in the non-weight bearing parts of the foot, like between or on top of the toes. Conversely, plantar warts tend to occur on the weight-bearing parts of the foot, like the ball of the foot. Multiplication and Spreading: Corns are concentrated in pressure-points on the foot and don't typically "spread". Plantar warts, however, can multiply and spread to other parts of the foot if the virus is allowed to grow unchecked. Corns and Plantar Warts: Treatment and Prevention https://www.youtube.com/shorts/TDV3Dd98oOM Many services performed by a chiropodist or podiatrist are available at a foot clinic and can target both conditions. How to Treat Plantar Warts Plantar wart treatment requires a specialized approach. As they're caused by a virus, they cannot simply be "removed". Rather, depending on the severity of the warts, the frequency of re-exposure to the virus, and the person's immune system, warts can take multiple treatments spanning over several months. Here are the different treatment options for plantar warts, in order from most conservative to most aggressive: Salicylic acid, a common over-the-counter treatment, gradually softens the wart and sheds layers of skin. Although it is not painful, it may take longer to see results. For a faster alternative, a chiropodist can prescribe a higher-strength salicylic acid solution to be applied at home with follow-up visits. The chiropodist will then routinely debride the dead skin covering the wart to allow better penetration of the medication. Cryotherapy, or freezing, is another standard method where liquid nitrogen is applied to the wart to freeze and destroy the wart tissue. This treatment may cause temporary pain and requires multiple sessions, each 2 -3 weeks apart. Cantharone (canthacur) is an acid applied by a chiropodist that causes a blister to form and the wart to lift off the skin, typically within a few days. Although this treatment is more effective and doesn't take as long as cryotherapy, the resulting blister may be uncomfortable. This is the most common treatment used by chiropodists. It requires multiple treatments, each 2 - 3 weeks apart (though typically not as many as cryotherapy). Wart needling is a surgical procedure. It involves puncturing the wart multiple times with a sterile needle to trigger the body's immune response. It is a good option for multiple or resistant warts. Finally, excision involves surgical removal of the wart. It is reserved for stubborn warts that don't respond to other treatments, and has a risk of scarring. It is seldom used. How to Treat Corns A chiropodist or podiatrist can treat corns by gently shaving down the thickened skin with sterilized tools. The treatment is effective, safe, typically painless, and will discomfort without risking infection. Inserts and custom orthotics can also play a significant role in managing and preventing recurrent corns. Custom orthotics are specially designed to provide support and distribute pressure evenly across the foot. This reduces the friction and pressure points that can lead to corns. Over-the-counter insoles and inserts can also provide extra cushioning and improve the fit of shoes, offering relief and preventing further irritation. Self care can also go a long way. Soaking corns in warm water softens them, making it easier to reduce its size. It's also important to moisturize your feet regularly to make the skin stronger and more flexible, which will reduce its sensitivity to friction and hardened skin buildup. Toe pads or non-medicated patches can also protect corns from further irritation and promote healing. Lastly, but equally important, you must find the right shoes to wear for each season and choose shoes with a proper fit. This can help prevent the pressure and friction that causes foot corns. A complimentary shoe fitting at a foot clinic can help! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/R7GV0GbKhvQ

November 30, 2024

Foot Care Holiday Gift Guide 2024

Holiday shopping can feel like a daunting ordeal that takes away from all the fun. Your list is long, and you don't have ideas for some people - which is okay! But it doesn't have to cause so much stress. We've got you covered with our guide to the best foot care holiday gifts! When you're stuck on what gift to get for your grandparents, friends, and other relatives, medical gifts may inspire you more than you realize. The health and wellness industry is known for producing excellent products, opening your mind to many gift options. Gifts that promote foot health can help those with debilitating foot issues. But they can also help prevent foot conditions before they develop. And they're simply fun to use. We're talking foot creams, scrubs, and other luxurious products fit for a spa session! The gifts we'll discuss today focus on both skincare and foot pain; they shine on their own and work well as stocking stuffers. But the best way to gift products from a foot care clinic is by compiling a foot care gift set! It's fun to try more than one product, and it gives loved ones the tools for a great self-care day. Let's take a look at our top picks! Foot Care and Medical Gifts: Gift Guide 2024 Below is a general overview of our top foot care holiday gifts. But don't worry, we'll cover all the details. Foot Exfoliators Foot Creams & Moisturizers Superfeet Insoles Feet First Clinic Gift Certificates Foot Exfoliators Foot Scrubs & Foot Baths Products like Gehwol's Herbal Bath are affordable medical gifts to raise your loved ones' foot care game to the next level. They're suitable for people of all ages and help exfoliate and soothe dry skin. Exfoliation prevents itchy, flaky dead skin from building up while simultaneously unclogging your pores. Exfoliating your feet weekly will help prevent and treat any callus buildup and cracked heels, while keeping your feet soft and moisturized. But foot baths do even more for the body than you may realize. First, foot bath products combined with hot water help promote healthy blood flow, which can relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, etc. They can also warm your overall body temperature, which alleviates muscle tension, reduces stress, and may help prevent sickness or fight flu symptoms by strengthening your natural immunity (perfect for the winter!). Helpful tip: It's best to start a spa session by bathing your feet, as it leaves a clean base for exfoliation and moisturizing by washing away bacteria and dirt. Foot Files Feet First Clinic's foot files are another great way to exfoliate your feet! You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in the Gehwol Herbal Foot Bath and some foot cream 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. Our foot files also have a smoothing side to buff and soften the skin. This allows you to customize and control where and how much skin you remove when exfoliating your feet (unlike the foot peels you see online). The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Feet First Clinic (@feetfirstclinic_) Foot Creams & Moisturizers Gehwol Foot Creams To restore the skin's natural barrier functions, you should always moisturize after soaking and exfoliating. Gehwol's Soft Feet Cream, Universal Foot Cream, and Med Lipidro Cream are just a few examples of medicinal moisturizers that work wonders. So why not gift them to someone you love? They'll get to enjoy smooth skin and fewer cracks and calluses. If your loved one already has severely painful cracked heels, try gifting them Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care instead. Dermal Therapy Heel Care Hopefully, it's becoming clear that medical gifts can be more valuable than gifts that sit around collecting dust. And Dermal Therapy Heel Care is one of the best foot care holiday gifts around. Cracked heels have the potential to burden everyone, from your best friend to your grandmother - dry skin doesn't discriminate! Severely cracked heels can make walking almost unbearable and cause swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. So if you're catching wind that someone you love is suffering, why not brighten their holidays by gifting them some relief? Dermal Therapy helps skin cells deep below the surface absorb and lock in moisture, which fights cracked heels. It has the highest urea concentration (25%) of all the foot creams we carry. Urea is important because it works into the deeper layers of the skin to help skin both absorb and retain moisture. To top it off, dermal therapy is a moisturizer and exfoliator that removes dead cells, revealing fresh, young skin. Superfeet Insoles As far as medical gifts for healthy feet 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. And for those who want the same arch support as the flagship Superfeet Green, but with more cushioning and flexibility, you can get the Superfeet Run Cushion High Arch insoles - a new favourite and best seller at our Toronto foot clinic! 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!

October 31, 2024

5 Expert Tips to Prevent Foot Pain

Foot pain can disrupt your life and make even simple tasks challenging. Whether you’re dealing with soreness, aching arches, or general fatigue, there are several ways to prevent foot pain. So we asked the chiropodists at our Toronto foot clinic their top tips to prevent foot pain. These expert tips also work for a) preventing full-blown foot conditions that constantly flare up and affect your life; and b) preventing existing foot conditions from getting worse. From daily foot care to choosing the right footwear, these expert tips will help you maintain healthier, happier feet. 5 Expert Tips to Prevent Foot Pain Maintain Daily Foot Care Perform Light Foot Exercises and Stretches Wear the Right Footwear Consider Your Lifestyle See a Foot Specialist 1. Maintain Daily Foot Care Daily foot care plays a critical role in preventing various foot issues and ensuring long-term comfort. Begin with moisturizing your feet regularly. Dry skin on the feet can lead to cracks and calluses, which not only cause pain but can also become a breeding ground for infections. Apply a moisturizing cream or lotion designed specifically for foot care after showering, as this helps lock in moisture and keeps the skin supple. It's important to use a dedicated foot cream - not a body or facial moisturizer - as the skin on our feet is thicker and has unique needs due to the stress and weight of our movement. To get double the results with one action, amp up your at-home foot care routine with a self-performed foot massage when you moisturize. Massaging the soles of your feet and gently stretching each toe helps to release tension and boost blood flow. The arch of the foot is often noted as the “sweet spot” during a foot massage since the arch muscles are some of the hardest working in the human body. Massages can be especially beneficial if you spend long hours on your feet or wear tight shoes (but remember, you need to stop doing the latter!). If you find sore spots, spend a bit more time on those areas to ease discomfort and prevent future pain. Additionally, a soothing foot bath can go a long way in alleviating stress and enhancing your foot health. Warm water (hot water can dry out your skin) with Epsom salts can help reduce inflammation and improve circulation in the feet. For an extra boost, consider adding essential oils like lavender or eucalyptus, which offer calming and antibacterial properties. However, the most bang-for-your-buck can be found in foot bath products come from companies like Gehwol. These contain both essential oils AND medicinal ingredients, and are available at our Toronto foot clinic. 2. Perform Light Foot Exercises and Stretches https://www.youtube.com/shorts/AsuUXJYnUmQ Foot exercises and stretches are incredibly beneficial for keeping your feet limber and reducing stiffness. Incorporating gentle stretches can also help prevent foot injuries and make you less susceptible to other biomechanical conditions. Foot exercises work by maintaining flexibility and strength in the intrinsic and extensor muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Some foot exercises are self-explanatory and very straight-forward, like ankle circles and towel curls. Ankle circles are perfect for improving range of motion; simply rotate each ankle clockwise and counterclockwise. For towel curls, place a towel on the floor and use your toes to scrunch it toward you. This simple exercise works the muscles on the underside of your feet. For more specific guidance, take a look at these targeted exercises for common foot conditions: Best exercises for plantar fasciitis: These exercises focus on stretching the plantar fascia ligament, which often causes heel pain when inflamed. Best exercises for arthritis part 1 and 2: Aimed at maintaining mobility in the joints, these exercises help reduce stiffness and improve range of motion for individuals with arthritis. Best exercises for diabetes: Diabetic foot exercises promote circulation, which is crucial for managing foot health in individuals with diabetes, as they are more prone to infections and sores. Best exercises for bunions: These exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the big toe, improving alignment and reducing pressure on the bunion. Adding these exercises to your routine can be instrumental in alleviating foot pain and keeping you active. Regularly performing these stretches will not only reduce discomfort but also prevent potential injuries by keeping your feet strong and resilient. 3. Wear The Right Footwear https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xl6cE3oxDuE Many people think foot pain is a normal part of life, and that ill-fitting shoes will not cause harm in the long run. None of this is true! Wearing appropriate footwear is perhaps one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent foot pain. There are 4 things to consider when selecting the right shoes: support, fit, purpose, and condition. Support Your feet bear the weight of your entire body, so providing them with the right support is essential. Shoes with adequate shock absorption help cushion the impact from the pavement, hard floors and ground when you walk or run, which reduces stress on all parts of the foot. Arch support is equally important; It distributes pressure evenly across your feet, minimizing strain on specific areas. Fit Ill-fitting shoes are a major cause of foot pain and can lead to conditions such as bunions, plantar fasciitis, and even arthritis. When shoes don’t fit properly, they can restrict movement and force your feet into unnatural positions, creating pressure points and friction. To see if your shoes fit properly: Look for footwear that allows enough room for your toes to wiggle - ideally between ⅜” to ½” of space between the end of your longest toe and the front of the shoe. If you're feeling your toes knocking against the front of your shoes, they're too small. Conversely, if you're feeling your shoe moving around and sliding as you walk, they're too big. Loosen the laces if the shoes feel too tight. If that doesn't work, look for a wide-width shoe; do not go up in length to accommodate width (you'll just end up with a long narrow shoe). Always check the toe room when you're standing - not sitting. Our feet splay when we stand, which affects how the shoe fits. Activities Selecting shoes tailored to your specific needs is key. For example, runners should look for high-quality athletic shoes while people who walk or stand for long periods may benefit from shoes that have a removable insole so they can wear custom orthotics at work. Whatever your lifestyle, investing in quality footwear is one of the best foot pain tips anyone can follow. Wear-and-tear Lastly, shoes aren’t meant to last forever, even the best ones. You may need to rotate them based on seasonality, or if you think your foot size may have changed. Either way, rotate your shoes regularly to avoid the wear-and-tear that causes discomfort over time. 4. Consider Your Lifestyle https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Y9kriXz1dL4 Foot health tips only go so far if you don’t understand your lifestyle and its impact on your feet. As previously mentioned, athletes need supportive athletic shoes. These shoes are designed for activities that involve running, jumping, or quick lateral movements. Without proper footwear, athletes risk overuse injuries like shin splints, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis or stress fractures, which can be both painful and debilitating. Seniors or individuals with mobility concerns, on the other hand, may benefit from orthopaedic footwear. Orthopaedic shoes are designed to support the structure of the foot and can accommodate issues such as arthritis or diabetic neuropathy. These shoes often feature wider toe boxes, extra depth, extra cushioning, and removable insoles to ensure maximum comfort and stability. For seniors, having footwear that reduces the risk of falls is crucial in maintaining independence and mobility. Professionals who spend long hours on their feet, such as nurses, restaurant workers, or flight attendants, may need compression stockings in addition to solid footwear. The opposite is also true: office workers or anyone who works in a sedentary position can also benefit from compression stockings. Compression stockings promote blood circulation, reducing the risk of swelling and fatigue. By combining supportive shoes with compression stockings, these folks can significantly reduce foot pain that comes from standing for hours on end. By aligning your footwear choices with your daily activities, age or general lifestyle, you can not only prevent pain but also enhance your life experiences. If you find that a specific activity or aspect of your lifestyle is causing foot discomfort, consider getting a foot assessment with a chiropodist or podiatrist. At a foot assessment, you'll get expert advice to ensure you're taking the right steps to prevent foot pain. Which leads to our last tip to prevent foot pain: 5. See a Foot Specialist The best way to prevent foot pain is to be proactive. Adding a foot specialist like a chiropodist or podiatrist to your health care team is one of the best ways to do that. A chiropodist can do the following: Routine foot care: This includes medical pedicures, corns, calluses and routine nail care. All of this is done in a safe, sterilized environment so you don't need to worry about infection. A chiropodist will also trim your toenails so they don't become ingrown, and will notice any problems you may not. The best part about seeing a chiropodist for foot care is that they can give you expert advice for taking care of your feet at home. Foot & Biomechanical Assessments: A chiropodist can do a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis to diagnose any potential foot concerns that can lead to pain. For instance, a chiropodist can see if you overpronate or have flat feet. You can then get expert advice to manage it so it doesn't cause problems down the road. A chiropodist can also recommend footwear based on your foot type and gait pattern, as well as any exercises, stretches or devices that can help prevent foot pain. https://youtube.com/shorts/XZUfVhny5pY?si=VWt1aoyRtpAxQKFS

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