Everything You Need To Know About High Arched Feet

August 27, 2019

Most people know that a flat foot has its mechanical flaws, but less people are aware that high arched feet come with their own flaws, as well. A foot with a high arch is a common structural abnormality that can be difficult to live with. In this article, we will discuss:

The structure of high arched feet
Risks of having high arched feet
Managing high arched feet

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What are High Arched Feet?

Classified as a foot with an arch that is raised more than normal, high arched feet lead to excessive pressure on the ball and the heel of the foot. A bone or neurological condition can cause a very high foot arch, as well as genetics. While less common than flat feet, they can be highly inconvenient, and it is wise to consider both proactive and reactive Foot care when dealing with high arched feet. Of course, you will not be able to do much to change the high arch, but you shouldn’t ignore it.

Symptoms Of High Arched Feet:

Underpronation(feet roll excessively outward while walking or running)
Heel pain
Pain in the ball of the foot
Ankle pain

High Arched Feet Also Have an Increased Risk of The Following Pathologies:

Ankle sprains
Plantar fasciitis (heel pain, arch pain)
Calluses and Corns
Clawed digits (curling of the toes)
Metatarsalgia (pain at the ball of the foot)

Is There Anything You Can do About High Arched Feet?

There are things you can do to manage the pain that comes with having high arched feet. You can invest in proper footwear, and you will also benefit from seeking guidance from a qualified Foot specialist. It may seem like something you just have to “put up with,” but it is important to give it some attention so it doesn’t cause further problems.

The right footwear choices and a well-fitted pair of Custom foot orthotics can do a great deal in relieving pain and discomfort, as well as improve overall foot function. While proper footwear is the most important thing to consider, consistent self-care can also go a long way. There are foot stretches, such as toe curls and calf stretches, that you can incorporate into your daily routine that will help ease your foot pain.

When choosing footwear for a high arched foot, look for shoes that provide adequate cushioning and shock absorption. A contoured footbed/arch support, as well as a sole made of a dense foam, will likely do the trick. Over the counter Insoles may also help to redistribute the pressures along the bottoms of your feet as well as provide extra cushioning. Special additions such as heel cushions, arch pads, offloading pads, shock-absorbing top layers, and postings may be added as needed and as recommended by the prescribing health care professional.

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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 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 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

November 6, 2023

Numb Toes: Common Causes and When to Seek Help

Have you ever experienced that uncomfortable sensation of numbness in your toes? It's a temporary disconnect between your brain and lower extremities and may leave you wondering, "What's going on?" Numb toes range from a minor problem to a potentially severe issue, and understanding the reasons behind this unique sensation is the first step toward finding relief. So, if you've ever wondered why your toes sometimes go on strike, keep reading to learn more about the leading causes of numb toes and when to seek medical attention. Numb toes: The most common causes There are several causes of numb toes. Below, you'll find some of the top contributors and their signs. Poor Circulation Reduced blood flow to the toes can lead to numbness. This can occur due to sitting or standing in one position for too long, wearing tight shoes, or sitting with your legs crossed. In these cases, the numbness is usually temporary and goes away once you change your position or remove any constricting clothing or footwear. Peripheral Neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves, often due to diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or other underlying medical conditions. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and pain in the toes and feet. Nerve Compression Conditions like sciatica or a herniated disc in the lower back can compress the nerves that supply sensation to the legs and feet, causing numbness and tingling in the toes. Frostbite or Frostnip Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing the skin and underlying tissues. Your skin becomes cold and red, then numb, followed by hardening and paleness. Depending on the severity, you may experience frostnip (the early onset of frostbite or superficial frost bite) or deep frostbite, which involves more severe stages of nerve damage. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Like carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, tarsal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the tibial nerve in the ankle, leading to numbness and tingling in the toes. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space inside the ankle next to the ankle bones, through which the tibial nerve runs. A thick ligament covers the tunnel and helps contain its inner workings – veins, arteries, tendons, and nerves. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is the most common kind of nerve compression in the ankle. Underlying causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include direct trauma to the tarsal tunnel, flat feet, fallen arches, growths in the tarsal tunnel, and varicose veins. Morton's Neuroma Another type of nerve compression, Morton’s neuroma, may lead to numbness in your toes. The most common site is at the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes. As this nerve is thicker than its surroundings, it’s at a greater risk of being blocked, which can cause numbness in the toes. You may feel a numbing sensation or like you have a pebble in your shoe. Raynaud's Disease Raynaud's causes blood vessels in the fingers and toes to constrict excessively in response to cold temperatures or stress. This can lead to numbness and discoloration of the affected digits. Injuries Trauma to the foot or toes, such as fractures or compression injuries, can cause temporary numbness. For instance, ankle or Achilles heel injuries can directly or indirectly impact the tarsal tunnel region. Infections or Abcesses Toe or foot infections can lead to numbness, mainly if they spread to the nerves. Circulatory Disorders Conditions like atherosclerosis or blood clot formation can reduce blood flow to the toes, causing numbness. Tight Footwear Shoes that are too narrow in width or too small in length can compress your toes and reduce blood circulation. Ensure you are correctly fitted with the right pair of footwear to allow enough space for your toes to move. You can even do a shoe sizing and fitting session here at Feet First Clinic, choosing from leading footwear. When should you seek medical help for numb toes? We recommend that you seek help for numb toes if any of the following apply: The numbness in your toes is persistent, recurring, or unexplained. You have diabetes - Numbness in the feet can be a sign of diabetic neuropathy, which requires proper management. You experience numbness, weakness, coordination loss, or other neurological symptoms. There is a sudden onset of numbness, especially after an injury or in combination with other concerning symptoms. It's crucial to remember that numbness in the toes can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. An accurate diagnosis from a healthcare provider can be helpful when treating and ruling out any serious underlying issues.

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.

October 23, 2023

Can Menopause Lead to Foot Problems?

Menopause and foot health have an indirect relationship. In other words, the symptoms and body changes you experience during this time can eventually cause foot conditions. On the bright side, foot problems during menopause are usually not serious and within one’s control. This is a relief for women who have enough to deal with during this challenging time! Today we’ll investigate what happens to your feet during menopause and what prevention strategies and foot care routines you can master to keep your feet feeling happy and healthy. Photo by iStock Hard and Dry Skin Studies show that estrogen aids in the prevention of skin aging by retaining moisture. So when menopause hits and estrogen levels drop, the padding on the heel of the feet can become hard and dry over time. This may lead to cracked heels, which may become progressively more painful if you don’t treat them. What You Can Do Practice a healthy self-care / foot care routine with an emphasis on moisturizing at least twice per day. Try Gehwol medicinal products with added urea. Burning Feet While hot flashes and night sweats are not always fully understood by medical experts, for those going through menopause they are very real. Somewhat related are the burning sensations also felt in the feet, which may be caused by poor circulation and dropping estrogen levels. What You Can Do Submerge your feet into a nice, warm (not too hot!) foot bath to help with circulation. Make the most of it by adding a Gehwol bath salt product to the water. You can also work on improving your circulation by practicing easy, low-impact foot exercises. Photo by Macrovector From freePik Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis and heel pain in menopausal women starts with collagen reduction, according to Foundation Podiatry. This causes less elasticity in the plantar fascia and the resultant pain. Furthermore, menopausal weight gain can cause you to place excessive pressure on the feet and change your walking patterns, causing even more discomfort. What You Can Do Orthopedic shoes and custom orthotics can help correct your walking patterns and ease the symptoms of menopausal foot pain. Photo By iStock Corns, Blisters and Calluses Abnormal gait patterns, placing pressure on vulnerable parts of the feet due to weight gain, and less healthy skin can all lead to more painful little nuisances for your feet. Years of wearing ill-fitting shoes are also not doing you any favours when it comes to skin issues for your feet. What You Can Do A chiropodist can remove and smooth corns and calluses, and treat painful blisters. You can also try products like corn and blister pads. Most importantly, you should ensure you always wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes (a shoe fitting can set you up with the right pair). Photo by FreePik

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Everything You Need To Know About High Arched Feet

What are High Arched Feet?

Symptoms Of High Arched Feet:

High Arched Feet Also Have an Increased Risk of The Following Pathologies:

Is There Anything You Can do About High Arched Feet?