Getting Your Feet Vacation-Ready

January 31, 2020

Anyone who lives in the city of Toronto is familiar with cold, winter weather.

All of the slush, ice and snow can put a damper on your mood, especially if you suffer from phycological conditions like seasonal affective disorder (often shortened to SAD).

To combat their winter blues, several Torontonians will pack their suitcases and take a trip to a tropical country.

However, if you’re going somewhere exotic, there’s one essential thing that you need to do beforehand: get your feet vacation-ready.

If you don’t take the time to beautify your feet, you might feel less comfortable walking around in sandals or flip-flops. Instead of wearing closed-toed shoes to the beach, you should use the list of practical tips that our team at Feet First Clinic has put together.

Our team is made up of a group of experienced and knowledgeable foot specialists in Toronto — we provide high-quality foot care services and products, like customized orthotic inserts.

Continue reading to learn how you can beautify your feet before your next tropical vacation.

Exfoliate and Moisturize

Do you want your feet to look youthful and attractive?

The first thing you need to do is exfoliate and moisturize them.

To exfoliate your feet, you’ll want to find a pumice stone or foot scrubber. You can use these tools to remove dry, dead skin from your feet.

Once you’ve removed all of the excess skin from your feet, it’s time to moisturize them. Moisturizing your feet will keep them feeling soft and touchable for your entire vacation.

You should try to avoid getting moisturizer in between your toes — this can encourage fungi to grow. If you have a case of toe fungus, you should book an appointment with a licensed chiropodist in Toronto before you depart on your trip.

Tend to Your Nails

When you’re on a tropical vacation, looking down at cracked toenails can ruin your mood and make you want to hide your feet in the sand!

Damaged toenails can also lead to several different types of foot fungus.

These fungi can affect the appearance of your nails and make them:

Brittle
Discoloured
Have an unpleasant odour

Additionally, if you have an untreated ingrown toenail, you need to make an appointment with us before you go. If left untreated for too long, ingrown toenails can result in harmful (and avoidable) conditions like bone infections and even ulcers!

Thankfully, if you contact one of our foot specialists before you go, we can remove your ingrown toenail in no time.

Paint Your Nails

Once you’ve dealt with any nail-related conditions, you’re free to paint your nails! This is something both men and women can do (a coat of clear nail polish goes a long way, guys).

Not only will this make your feet look better, but it can also give you an enormous confidence boost!

Whether you’re crossing a single border or an entire ocean, you need to make sure that your feet are vacation-ready before you go.

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!

PrevPrevious Cold or Warm Therapy: What’s Better For Your Feet?

NextNext 5 Standing Stretches For Your Legs

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 16, 2023

Medical Pedicure: What It Is and Why You Might Need One

When it comes to self-care and pampering, we often focus on treating ourselves to facials, massages, or spa days while neglecting one of our body's hardest working and overlooked parts: our feet. Enter the world of medical pedicures, a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience that goes beyond the typical nail salon visit. In this blog post, we look at medical pedicures and uncover the many benefits they offer for the health of your feet. Whether seeking relief from foot-related ailments or well-deserved self-care, a medical pedicure might be the secret to the happy and healthy feet you've been waiting for. What's a medical pedicure? A medical pedicure, also known as a medi-pedi, is a specialized foot treatment performed by a trained medical professional, typically a podiatrist or chiropodist. Unlike a cosmetic pedicure you might receive at a spa or nail salon, a medical pedicure focuses on the medical aspects of foot care - there is no nail polish or foot soaking. It ususally involves the following: Examination and consultation. Before the procedure, a chiropodist assesses your feet, discusses any concerns or foot-related issues you may have, and creates a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Nail and callus care. A chiropodist trims and shapes your toenails, carefully avoiding ingrown toenails. They will also remove calluses and corns to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. Hygiene. A medical pedicure places a strong emphasis on hygiene. The instruments used are sterilized (or disposable) to prevent the risk of infection. Skin and cuticle care. Your provider will moisturize and care for the skin on your feet, paying particular attention to dry or cracked areas. They will also address overgrown or problematic cuticles. Why should I get a medical pedicure? Only you can decide whether you need a medical pedicure, but we want to lay out the benefits to help you make an informed decision. There are several reasons why you may need one: Treatment of Specific Foot Conditions Medical pedicures are not just about pampering but about addressing specific foot conditions. Whether you're dealing with fungal infections, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or thickened and discoloured nails, your healthcare specialist can offer treatments and recommendations for future care. Proper Nail Care While traditional pedicures focus primarily on nail aesthetics, medical pedicures focus on nail health. Sure, they will properly trim and file your toenails, but they'll also go the extra mile in preventing ingrown toenails and addressing any nail conditions like toenail fungus. Healthy Skin The skincare aspect of a medical pedicure involves moisturizing and nurturing the skin on your feet. Dry, cracked, or rough skin patches will be taken care of. Plus, we can provide product recommendations to help you maintain healthy, soft feet between appointments. Education and Guidance A significant part of a medical pedicure is education. You'll receive valuable guidance on proper foot care practices. In addition, with conditions like recurring calluses or ingrown toenails, the chiropodist can determine whether there could be any biomechanical factors at play. These insights empower you to take better care of your feet daily, reducing the likelihood of future issues.

October 21, 2023

Runner’s Knee: What Is It?

Runner's knee is a condition that causes pain around the front of the knee, particularly near the kneecap. Don't let the name fool you: runner's knee doesn't just affect runners. Individuals who engage in repetitive knee-bending activities, such as cycling, jumping, or squatting, can experience this form of knee pain. The condition is characterized by discomfort or pain often felt during and after physical activities. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or lacing up your running shoes for the first time, understanding the ins and outs of this common ailment is helpful for preventing and managing its onset. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into runner's knee – its causes, symptoms, prevention strategies, and rehabilitation techniques – to ensure that you stay pain-free and on your feet. Runner's knee: What is it? Runner's knee, formally known as patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS), is a condition characterized by pain around the front of the knee. Any activity that repeatedly stresses the knee cap or the areas around the knee cap can aggravate the condition. It is more common in women than men. This is believed to be due to a greater susceptibility to knee misalignment in women. Runner's knee symptoms include: Pain around the knee cap, especially during activities that involve bending the knee, such as running, walking downstairs, or squatting. Pain after prolonged sitting and a stiff feeling in your knee Cracking or popping sensation Swelling and inflammation in and around the patella What cause's runner's knee? Many causes of runner's knee are not specific to the knee, but rather are abnormalities with the surrounding muscles and joints. Because the knee is a hinge joint, it relies on many different parts of the leg to properly perform its job. Common causes of runner's knee are: Misalignment of the patella: Improper tracking of the patella can lead to increased pressure on the joint. Muscle imbalances: Quad, hip, and knee imbalances can lead to biomechanical deficiencies that overexert the knee. Overuse: Repeated knee bending and straightening during activities can cause excessive stress on the patellofemoral joint, leading to irritation and pain. Poor biomechanics: Issues with how the lower extremities function during movement, such as flat feet or overpronation, can contribute to developing a runner's knee. Inadequate warm-up or stretching: Failing to properly warm up before exercise, or neglecting to stretch, can increase the risk of developing PFPS. Too much, too soon: A sudden increase in activity level, such as increasing mileage or intensity too quickly, can strain the knee joint and lead to a runner's knee. Inadequate footwear: Improper footwear that does not provide adequate cushioning and support can contribute to knee pain. How do I treat runner's knee? There are several ways of treating a runner's knee. First and foremost, understanding the cause(s) will help you get back to being healthier faster. Common treatments include: Rest and ice: Give your knees time to rest, and apply ice to reduce inflammation and pain. Reduce intensity: Reduce or stop the physical activity that could be causing the pain. Alternatively, reduce all activity while you consult a professional to diagnose the exact cause, at which point you can slowly re-introduce physical activity. You can also try low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling to maintain fitness while giving your knees a break. Physical therapy: Physiotherapy, massage therapy, and a strength program can help strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve biomechanics. Engage in exercises stretching and strengthening the quadriceps, hamstrings, hip, and calf muscles. Orthotics and proper footwear: Custom orthotic inserts or appropriate footwear can help correct biomechanical issues contributing to the condition. A shoe fitting and video gait analysis can help reveal any biomechanical deficiencies and provide a helpful guide into choosing the right shoe. Patellar taping: Taping techniques can help reposition the patella and reduce pain during activity. When to see a chiropodist for a runner's knee? If the pain persists despite conservative treatments, consult a healthcare professional like a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and personalized treatment plan. Addressing the runner's knee early is essential to prevent further complications and ensure a timely recovery.

October 12, 2023

Black Spot on Toenail: Should You Be Worried?

Generally speaking, you don’t have to worry about a black spot on the toenail. Incidents like . In many cases, you can let your toenail heal naturally, but if you have a fungal infection or severe pain, you should schedule an appointment with your chiropodist. Often, incidents like stubbing your toe can cause a black toenail, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition you are already aware you have. Source: istock Causes of Black Toenail If you see a full black toenail or a black spot on your toenail, it is likely for one of the following three reasons: Trauma (injury) Natural pigmentation changes Fungal toenail In some (rarer) cases, a serious illness like heart disease, diabetes or melanoma can cause a black toenail. Trauma (Injury) Sometimes our foot health takes a turn for the worse when we injure ourselves. Dropping a heavy object on your toe or stubbing your toe on a piece of furniture can cause a subungual hematoma, or bleeding and bruising under the nail. This gives it a black appearance and it is usually tender to the touch. There are certain medical procedures (like drainage and decompression) that treat black toenails caused by injury, but for minor cases, resting and using ice while elevating your injury is sufficient. Source: istock Natural Pigmentation Changes For people with darker skin tones, black patches can sometimes appear underneath the toenails over time. Medical News Today notes that this will usually happen to matching toes on each foot. So if your black spot is happening on corresponding toes, this may be the reason. Fungal Toenail Fungal toenail infections usually cause yellow or brown discolouration and thickening of the nail. But when debris builds under the nail bed, it can appear black. There are topical and oral antifungal medications you can take to treat fungal toenail. In some cases, you can even have your nail removed. But prevention is just as important when it comes to contagious foot conditions. Proper toenail care like keeping your nails (and the rest of your feet) clean can ward off infections, and for extra peace of mind, you can enjoy regular medical pedicures with your chiropodist. Source: istock. While Fungal Toenail usually looks thick and yellowish brown, there can aslo be black spots caused by debris build up.

October 5, 2023

Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

When it comes to toenail anatomy, a lot can change the structure and growth pattern of your toenails. Case in point: curly toenails. They don't look quite right and, the truth is, there are several potential causes behind their development. Sometimes it can be an underlying health condition wreaking havoc on your nails, and other times it may be a more direct toenail condition. It's also wise to ensure curling toenails don't co-exist with/turn into ingrown toenails, which may become infected. Let's take a look at what might be causing your curling toenails, and what you can do about it! Causes of Curly Toenails Image Credit: Istock Onychomycosis This is a fungal toenail infection in the nail unit (the nail plate, surrounding soft tissues and nail folds). It usually results in nail thickening and the formation of pincer nails (curly toenails). Diabetes patients in particular should be on the lookout for diabetes-related onychomycosis, or “ram horn,” and other severe abnormalities caused by toenail thickening and curling. Autoimmune Illnesses and Deficiencies Lupus, psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and thyroid disorders can all cause thickened toenails that eventually degrade and curl. Severe iron deficiency can also cause curly toenails since iron is so critical for maintaining our nail and foot health. Ill-Fitting Footwear Perhaps the least serious cause of curly toenails is also the most avoidable — simply neglecting foot care and failing to buy shoes that fit well. Wearing shoes that are far too tight for years (perhaps because you’re procrastinating a proper shoe fitting) is a mistake. When you wear shoes with minimal space in the toe box, the shoe will squeeze both sides of the toe, disrupting normal nail growth and bending the nail root or matrix. Image Credit: Studio4art From Freepik Medications Drug-induced nail disease is a very real concern for those taking necessary medicines. Some examples of medications that cause curly toenails and other nail growth disruptions include antibiotics, chemotherapy drugs, lithium, and Retinoids. Genetics Sometimes your gene pool is responsible for your curly toenails. Your mom and dad can pass down hereditary characteristics like the shape and thickness of your toenails, as well as how much skin you have surrounding the toenails. But don’t worry if you feel like you have no control over genetic traits - proper foot care can still help you manage curly toenails. Image credit: FreePik by kroshka__nastya Here are some of the best treatments for curly toenails: Medical Pedicures: Chiropodists can properly clean and trim the nails to promote healthy growth. Antifungal Medicines: These can help with onychomycosis. OnyFix: Modern, non-invasive treatment that involves using a special paste to correct nail growth. At-home foot care: Remember to keep your feet and nails clean, but don’t try to trim them on your own if they're severely curled or ingrown. If your toenails become severely curled or ingrown, it's best to contact a chiropodist. Image Credit: Istock

September 18, 2023

Why Your Ankle Cracks When Rotating: A Comprehensive Guide

Although it may sound scary, ankle cracking isn't necessarily a sign to worry about. Often, ankle cracking is normal and, fortunately, harmless. There's a minor chance ankle popping can signify an underlying condition like a sprain or tendon damage, but that's not generally the case. Ankle cracking or popping when rotating can be a common occurrence for some people. However, this doesn't mean you should ignore ankle cracking altogether. You should monitor and assess whether you experience pain elsewhere or any other symptoms associated with the ankle popping (for instance, deep pain that could be a sign of a stress fracture). Understanding your recent history also helps - be extra careful if you've experienced a recent injury or trauma. Whether severe or a non-issue, we recommend brushing up on the possible reasons your ankle cracks when rotating. Read more in our comprehensive guide below. Gas bubble release The most common cause of ankle cracks when rotating is cavitation. When you rotate your ankle, the movement can cause tiny gas bubbles to form and collapse within the synovial fluid that lubricates the joint. This sudden collapse of gas bubbles can produce an audible cracking or even popping sound. Ankle cracking in this context is normal and harmless. Ligament or tendon movement Ankle cracks when cracking can also be due to the movement of ligaments or tendons over bony structures in the ankle joint. They may produce a popping sensation or sound as they shift during rotation. Tendon snapping Why Your Ankle Cracks When Rotating Sometimes, a tendon can snap over a bony prominence in the ankle, leading to a popping sensation or sound. This typically occurs due to repetitive movements or increased physical activity. Scar tissue or adhesions Past injuries or trauma to the ankle may create scar tissue or adhesions around the joint. These tissues may stretch or release during ankle rotation, causing a cracking noise. Joint instability Ankle cracking can be associated with joint instability. If the ligaments supporting the ankle are lax or weakened, the bones may move more than usual during rotation, leading to a popping sensation. Arthritis Occasionally, arthritis or inflammation in the ankle joint can cause cracking or popping sounds during movement. This is often accompanied by pain and stiffness. Synovial cysts Synovial cysts are fluid-filled sacs that can develop within the ankle joint. These cysts may cause cracking or popping sensations when they move or change position during ankle rotation. Bone-on-bone movement In rare cases where there is existing significant wear and tear in the ankle joint, bone surfaces may rub against each other during movement. This results in cracking sounds. Be careful with bone-on-bone friction; it's a recipe for developing bone spurs, which are calcium deposits that build up over time into outgrowths. How do I know when ankle cracking is severe? In most cases, ankle cracking during rotation is benign and not a cause for concern. However, we recommend seeing a professional if you experience pain, swelling, or instability along with the cracking or other concerning symptoms accompanying the cracking. They can thoroughly evaluate and provide appropriate advice or treatment based on the underlying cause. How do I prevent or reduce ankle cracking? To reduce the occurrence of ankle cracking and maintain ankle health, you can consider the following preventive measures: Regularly perform ankle exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the joint. Warm up properly before physical activity to prepare the ankles for movement. Avoid excessive or forceful rotation of the ankles, especially if it causes pain or discomfort. Wear appropriate footwear that provides support and cushioning for the ankles.

Request an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

416-769-FEET(3338) 2481 Bloor St. W, Toronto info@feetfirstclinic.com

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun : 10:00 am – 4:00 pm *
*alternating

Share:

Getting Your Feet Vacation-Ready

Exfoliate and Moisturize

Tend to Your Nails

Paint Your Nails

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

Stay Comfortable this Winter: Cold Weather Footwear Guide

Medical Pedicure: What It Is and Why You Might Need One

Runner’s Knee: What Is It?

Black Spot on Toenail: Should You Be Worried?

Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

Why Your Ankle Cracks When Rotating: A Comprehensive Guide

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

416-769-FEET(3338) 2481 Bloor St. W, Toronto info@feetfirstclinic.com

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm Sat : 9:00 am – 4:00 pm Sun : 10:00 am – 4:00 pm * *alternating

Share:

Getting Your Feet Vacation-Ready

Exfoliate and Moisturize

Tend to Your Nails

Paint Your Nails

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

Stay Comfortable this Winter: Cold Weather Footwear Guide

Medical Pedicure: What It Is and Why You Might Need One

Runner’s Knee: What Is It?

Black Spot on Toenail: Should You Be Worried?

Curly Toenails: What They Indicate and How to Manage Them

Why Your Ankle Cracks When Rotating: A Comprehensive Guide

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat : 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun : 10:00 am – 4:00 pm *
*alternating