Important Rules That Will Keep Your Feet Infection-Free

July 17, 2019

Nothing will dampen your spirits during a beautiful summer like a foot infection. You won’t feel like taking a long stroll by the beach when you have a painful plantar wart on your sole. You won’t want to head to a pool party when you have a bad toenail fungus. And you won’t want to go for a hike through a national park when the itch of your athlete’s foot is driving you up the wall.

If you don’t want to deal with a foot infection for the entire season, you should follow these simple rules:

1. Don’t Go Barefoot at the Pool

The best method of prevention of foot problems in the summer is to cover up your feet with high-quality shoes because the ground is covered with bacteria, fungi and viruses that can infect your feet. Areas that are warm, wet and have lots of visitors will be especially risky. So, you should sport protective footwear when you’re walking across the deck of the community swimming pool or using the locker room showers at the gym.

Get a pair of waterproof shoes that you can wear to the swimming pool deck, public showers and locker room. After every use, you should rinse your shoes with warm water and dry them. You should also start washing your feet and drying them with a towel after going to these locations in case any contaminants got onto your feet. Then, put on a clean pair of socks and outdoor shoes.

2. Don’t Go Barefoot at Home

You should break the habit of walking around barefoot, even at home. Other residents in your home could unknowingly transfer a contagious infection like athlete’s foot to the floor that you’re walking on every day. Wearing a pair of comfortable slippers or socks will protect your feet and prevent a frustrating cycle of infection.

If you’re worried about slippers or socks being too warm to endure in the summer heat, you can look at Feet First shoes and sandals from companies like Birkenstock, FitFlop and NAOT.

3. Change Your Shoes and Socks Often

You should change your shoes and socks often if you want to avoid problems like toenail fungus and athlete’s foot. As previously stated, bacteria and fungus thrive in warm, moist conditions — this includes inside of your sweaty shoes and socks.

Whenever your socks get sweaty, change them and put on a cleaner pair. Don’t wear one pair of shoes every single day, especially if you’re exercising in them. Give them a chance to air out.

If your shoes are starting to smell like foot odour, let them dry in the sunshine to kill off the bacteria. You can also put your shoes in the freezer to destroy any leftover bacteria clinging to the material, as long as you remember to put the shoes in a plastic bag first.

4. Don’t Share Your Shoes

Do you remember being told never to share hats in school because one of the other children could have lice and give it to you? You should give your shoes a similar treatment because sharing shoes with other people puts you at risks of contracting a toenail fungal infection or a bad case of athlete’s foot. Keep your shoes, boots, inserts, socks and everything else you put on your feet to yourself.

When you follow these essential rules, your feet will stay healthy and infection-free all summer long. You can go back to enjoying your favourite activities, whether it’s going for a walk through the neighbourhood park or taking a quick dip in the community swimming pool.

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

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

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September 11, 2023

Skin Peeling on Feet: Causes and Remedies

Having peeling skin on your feet can be both uncomfortable and concerning. This condition, often called foot peeling or foot exfoliation, occurs when the skin on the feet sheds in small flakes or larger pieces. Peeling skin on the feet may sometimes lead to itchiness, redness, and even pain. Fortunately, proper foot care can help alleviate the problem and restore the feet to their natural, healthy state. Various factors can cause skin peeling on the feet, and it's essential to identify the underlying cause to determine the appropriate remedy. Here are some common causes and corresponding remedies: Dry skin Dry skin roughens the skin, making it itchy, flaky, or scaly. It's a common condition that affects people of all ages. The medical term for dry skin is xeroderma, whereas xerosis is severely dry skin. Cause Lack of moisture and hydration can lead to dry skin on the feet, making it prone to peeling. Dry skin has several causes, including: Heat: Warm temperatures reduce humidity, drawing moisture out of the skin and drying it out. Climate: Living in cold, windy conditions or low-humidity climates can cause drier skin. Too much bathing or scrubbing: Long, hot showers or baths and excessive drying/scrubbing can dry out your skin. Washing your feet too much may also dry out your skin because the washing strips away your body's natural oils. Harsh soaps and detergents: Some soaps and detergents may contain ingredients that can irritate and dry your skin. Age: As we age, the skin begins to thin and produces less water-retaining natural oils. Remedy Keep your feet well-moisturized by regularly applying a thick, hydrating foot cream or petroleum jelly. Ditch the harsh soaps and boiling water when washing your feet. It's also important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Athlete's foot Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Tinea pedis was named 'athlete's foot' because it is commonly found in people with sweaty feet. Cause A fungus called dermatophytes causes Athlete's foot when it comes in contact with your feet. It's a contagious infection that can quickly spread to others through skin contact. Common sites for fungus include warm, moist environments and shared spaces, like pools, locker rooms, shoes, or showers. Remedy Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders designed explicitly for Athlete's foot. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid wearing damp socks or closed shoes for an extended period. Eczema or psoriasis Eczema and psoriasis are conditions where your skin may peel on your feet. Cause These skin conditions can affect the feet, causing redness, itching, and peeling. Eczema occurs when you come in contact with an irritant, whereas psoriasis is an auto-immune disease with no cure. Remedy It's recommended to consult a dermatologist for remedies for eczema or psoriasis. They may prescribe topical corticosteroids or other medications to manage the condition. With psoriasis, treatments are designed to prevent skin cells from multiplying. Allergic reaction Cause Exposure to allergens in socks, shoes, or foot care products can trigger an allergic reaction, which then leads to skin peeling. Remedy Identify and try to remove the allergen causing the reaction from your environment. For instance, switch to hypoallergenic socks and shoes if your socks irritate your feet and lead to peeling skin. If that doesn't work, consider swapping your laundry detergent for a product with natural ingredients. Prolonged sun exposure Prolonged sun exposure refers to when you are exposed to UV rays for an extended time without proper sun protection. As a result, your skin may develop more wrinkles and lines. Cause Sun exposure to the feet can cause moderate to severe sunburns, damaging the skin's outer layer. Next, your skin begins to peel as the body tries to rid itself of damaged cells. Remedy Protect your feet from the sun by wearing appropriate footwear and sunscreen with a high SPF. Contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash stemming from an allergic reaction. Typically, the rash forms after your skin comes in contact with a substance or irritant. Cause Irritation of the skin due to contact with certain chemicals or substances. Remedy Identify and avoid the irritant. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may provide relief. Consult a doctor if the condition persists. Pitted keratolysis Cause A bacterial infection affects the feet' soles, creating pits and causing peeling. Remedy Keep your feet clean and dry, wear open-toed shoes when possible, and use antibacterial soaps or topical antibiotics as a healthcare professional prescribes. Poor foot hygiene Cause Inadequate foot hygiene can lead to the accumulation of dead skin, which may peel off. Remedy Practice good foot hygiene by regularly washing and thoroughly drying your feet. Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin, and use moisturizers to hydrate the skin.

August 22, 2023

Understanding Beau’s Lines: The Science Behind These Nail Changes

Beau's lines are changes in your toenail anatomy and appearance that may indicate an underlying illness. These changes can be difficult to detect unless you inspect your nail health, so it's important to take note if you see them. Systemic illnesses, which affect the entire body rather than a single organ or body part, may be the reason behind your nail changes. Photo by jannoon028 from FreePik The Science Behind Nail Changes: Beau's Lines Beau's nails generally look like deep, horizontal grooves that go from side to side, almost as if you have a band wrapped around your finger that astoundingly makes an indent in the nail. They can affect both adults and children. They are your body's way of telling you, "Hey! I have too much to focus on right now, so I'm neglecting your normal nail growth pattern." This means that Beau's nails aren't a problem but a symptom. Similar to your hair and skin, aesthetic changes to toenails and fingernails often serve as a warning your general health is under attack in some way. Research suggests that illnesses interrupt natural nail matrix growth and that the longer you suffer from an illness, the deeper the grooves can become. Photo by Rawpixel.com from Freepik Do Beau's Lines Mean Something Is Wrong With My Health? Not necessarily, but systemic illnesses are often the reason behind these deep nail grooves. If you notice them, you should see your family doctor immediately. If you know you're suffering from an illness and notice Beau's lines, there is a high chance the two are connected. Beau's lines may also linger for a while after you've recovered from your illness or begin treatment. You may have a serious illness if you have more than one nail with Beau's lines, but if you just have one, it may be from a toenail infection, blunt-force trauma injury, or exposure to cold temperatures. However, Beau's lines in all 20 fingernails and toenails often indicate disease or aggressive treatment for a disease, like chemotherapy. Some common causes of Beau's lines include: Heart attacks and poor heart health Pneumonia Strep infections Measles Mumps Diabetes High fevers/infections Infections in the nail fold Malnutrition Skin disease Thyroid conditions Hypocalcemia (low calcium) Raynaud's Disease Severe emotional stress, traumatic life events, and generalized anxiety disorders can also wreak havoc on nail growth. Treatment Getting rid of Beau's lines depends on how successfully you treat the underlying cause, whether it be injury, illness, stress or infection. However, chiropody treatments like Onyfix or medical pedicures can help encourage proper nail growth and keep your nails clean while you treat the root cause.

June 29, 2023

2023 Summer Camp Essentials: Kids Camp Shoes Must-Haves

2023 camp shoes for kids are just as high-quality as adult footwear. Gone are the days of compromising on quality and comfort for our little adventurers. After all, children deserve the same support and comfort we enjoy from our favourite brands. And one of the most crucial times of the year to invest in your child's feet is right before they head off to summer camp to run, explore, swim, hike, and lose all their inhibitions until school starts again. Photo by RDNE Stock project from Pexels! You know your kids will exert high energy levels at camp and you want to ensure they don't return with a fresh, painful foot condition they didn't have before. And for that, you need some shoe recommendations for the summer months. Let's explore some of the best camp activity shoes and the top outdoor shoes for kids! 2023 Kids Footwear Must-Haves: Summer Camp Shoes Saucony Peregrine Shield ASICS GT-1000 Birkenstock Arizona Birkenstock Arizona EVA Saucony Peregrine Shield For hiking and exploring Plenty of children spend their summer camp days hiking. While exploration can be a lure for many kids, it does pose the threat of slipping and falling on a trail, which can cause a serious injury without the right shoe. Since camp terrain can be unforgiving, the Saucony Peregrine Shield is one of the best shoe recommendations for kids who love hiking. When it comes to traction and grip, you can't beat them. The Shield version of the Peregrine series also includes a water-resistant upper and waterproof membrane. This feature helps keep your child's feet dry and protected when hiking in wet or rainy conditions or crossing streams and puddles. The Peregrine Shield also features everything else you need in a solid camp shoe, like breathability, protection, cushioning, and stability. Saucony Peregrine Shield for kids ASICS GT-1000 For sports, running, and high-impact activities ASICS has always been a top shoe contender for adults with different foot types. But many parents may not realize they have a tot-sized version of their GT-1000 for your child's summer camp needs. The ASICS GT-1000 for children features cushioning technology that helps absorb impact and provides a comfortable fit. This can be beneficial during summer camp activities that involve a lot of walking, running, or playing. These shoes also offer a good balance of support, cushioning, and traction, and are the best choice for the countless sports and high-impact activities kids enjoy at camp. ASICS GT-1000 for kids Birkenstock Arizona EVA For the pool, lakes and beach For the little ones who seem more like fish than children sometimes, comfortable shoes with waterproof features are essential. A nice sturdy pair of Birkenstocks made with EVA are one of the best kids footwear options for protecting your child's feet from contagious fungal infections like fungal toenail and athlete's foot, which notoriously breed in common areas like pools, public showers, bathrooms, and locker rooms. (never let your child run around in these areas without footwear!) They're also great for wearing on the beach or next to a lake. EVA is a waterproof rubber material that is also highly durable and provides cushioning. The waterproof qualities come from the sealed bubbles within the foamed rubber and the absence of stitches, allowing water to roll off the shoe without penetrating it. Birkenstock Arizona EVA for kids Birkenstock Arizona For everything in between Some days at summer camp are low key. Kids may be spending time in the cafeteria, playing low-impact games that don't require runners, walking around aimlessly, or simply sitting around the fire telling stories. For those days, they need a neutral sandal they can use for walking without pain and fatigue. It should be breathable, but without the flimsy material and complete lack of support you get in a flip flop (psst: ditch the flip flops). Birkenstock Arizonas for kids come with all the sleek sophistication the adult version has, like the shock absorbing sole, supportive cork footbed, moisture-wicking and strengthening jute fibers, and footbed liner. These all come together to create the ultimate layering of comfort, support, protection, and durability. Birkenstock Arizona for kids

June 8, 2023

Toenail Thickening: Causes and How to Manage

Toenail anatomy is a funny thing, and it can be alarming when our nails don't look quite right. Toenail thickening is an unsightly occurrence that affects your nail health and overall foot health. Factors like aging can cause it, but thick toenails are also directly linked to trauma and certain foot conditions and fungal infections, like fungal toenails. If you notice bizarre toenail thickness, you should seek treatment and guidance from your foot specialist. But learning the potential causes will also give you some much-needed insight. Today's article will tackle what you need to know about toenail thickening. Causes of Toenail Thickening Thick toenails are not usually a sign of something sinister. However, in some cases, they can become painful if you ignore them. They could also potentially be a sign of a chronic illness. Here are some of the most common causes of toenail thickening: Fungal Nail Infections The University of Michigan notes that toenail thickening can occur when you contract a contagious infection caused by a group of fungi called Dermatophytes -- the same fungi that cause athlete's foot. Toenails may also appear "crumbly," misshapen, brittle and have a yellow-green tint. Aging The National Library of Medicine explains that thickening is a common nail alteration in the elderly. The New York Times attributes this to a drastic decrease in nail growth rates in older people. As a result, nail cells called onychocytes start to pile up. This happens much more often in toenails than in fingernails. Trauma and Injury When trauma disrupts and damages the toenail bed and nail matrix, it can lead to abnormal nail growth. Trauma to the toenail can result from various causes, such as stubbing or jamming your toe, dropping a heavy object on it, or repetitive pressure from ill-fitting footwear. Psoriatic arthritis/Psoriasis Psoriasis nails are one of the many symptoms people with this condition must deal with. People with this illness are also more vulnerable to fungal infections. Moreover, genetic and immune system factors can affect nail health. Ingrown Toenails On their own, ingrown toenails do not cause thickness. However, untreated ingrown nails are vulnerable to infection the more they grow and pierce the skin. This can cause subsequent inflammation and toenail damage that disrupts the nail environment and causes cell build-up. Managing Toenail Thickening Treating thick toenails involves matching the cause to the appropriate plan of action. If you have toenail fungus, you will likely need prescription anti-fungal pills or ointment. You may also be able to use anti-fungal creams or powders. It is very important to see a chiropodist for treatment if you have toenail fungus, as toenail fungus is notoriously stubborn and persistent and rarely an be treated without seeing a foot specialist. But practicing vigilant foot care to make sure a fungal infection doesn't become a chronic problem is equally important. Always make sure you wear shoes in contagious spaces like public pools and showers, avoid sharing socks, shoes and nail clippers, keep your feet clean and dry, and wear breathable footwear. If toenail trauma is your issue, you should protect your toenail while your injury heals. Trim it carefully or seek help from a chiropodist if it's too difficult. Be sure to practice foot hygiene at the same time. As your injury heals, the nail should gradually return to normal thickness with time. If your toenails are thickening due to aging, simply practicing nail care and buffing and smoothing the rough surfaces can help you manage them. In severe cases where chronic illness and pain is present, you may need injections or a minor surgery to remove your thick toenail.

May 1, 2023

The Benefits of Medical Pedicures

Medical pedicures can significantly enhance and supplement your overall foot care routine. Think of a medical pedicure as a way to relax while having your feet inspected and relieved of pain. By working with a licensed chiropodist or foot care professional, you can ensure your feet receive the care they need to stay healthy and pain-free. Medical pedicures perform double duty in that they're a blend of foot care and nail care, combined with the foot care benefits provided by chiropodists. This article covers how a medical pedicure can benefit you and your feet. 1. Improved foot health First and foremost, a medical pedicure can serve as both a treatment and a preventative method for common foot problems. During a medical pedicure, any number of the following can be prevented or treated: Diabetes-related foot complications Calluses Corns Blisters Cracked Heels Ingrown toenails Athlete's foot Fungal Toenails Discoloured Toenails Cracked toenails We recommend routine medical pedicures for patients prone to foot issues or those with diabetes. 2. Reduced risk of infections A medical pedicure can also help prevent you from developing infections in several ways. First, medical pedicures use sterile instruments and follow strict hygiene to reduce the risk of infections. Suppose you have any conditions or auto-immune diseases that increase your health risks. A medical pedicure performed by a chiropodist would be safe for you. The second is that leaving certain foot care routines to a foot specialist - like toenail clipping, corn removal, blister care, or callus debridement - takes the unknown out of the equation. Sometimes, leaving treatment to a professional outweighs the risk of doing it yourself at home (and risking mishaps). 3. Pain relief A medical pedicure can relieve pain for people with foot problems, such as corns, calluses or ingrown toenails. A foot care professional can safely treat these conditions, reducing pain and discomfort. Corns and calluses can have some side effects, including altering your gait and could lead to other foot conditions if you're not careful, so it's a good idea not to let these conditions linger. 4. An up-close look at your feet A chiropodist takes a complete medical history for any underlying conditions or concerns you have. Additionally, they thoroughly examine your feet to diagnose unknown issues or conditions that may worsen. A complete picture of the health of your feet is reassuring for your feet's future, and you'll be provided with foot care advice and a treatment plan to keep your feet healthy going forward. 5. Relax and moisturize your feet Beyond preventative and treatable measures, a medical pedicure can be a relaxing experience. In addition to tending to your skin and toenails, chiropodists apply an intense moisturization treatment with high-quality medical strength moisturizing products leaving your feet soft and smooth, stronger, and more elastic. Moisturizing isn't just about soft feet; it strengthens your skin's protective barrier and makes your feet less susceptible to future issues.

April 3, 2023

Foot Pain: Causes and Treatment

Are your feet giving you a hard time? Foot pain can have many causes, including injury, overuse, medical conditions, and poor footwear. The underlying cause will dictate how to treat your foot pain, which can include anything from supportive footwear, to stretching exercises, to rest, to medication. In this article, we'll go through six common causes of foot pain and how to treat them: Plantar Fasciitis Achilles Tendonitis Bunions Ingrown Toenails Osteoarthritis Plantar fasciitis Causes Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia (the band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes) becomes inflamed. It is caused by inadequate arch support or overexerting the plantar fascia. For instance, poorly constructed shoes, obesity and pregnancy, high-impact activity, and long periods of standing (like if you have a standing desk or work in a standing-first occupation) cause strain on the plantar fascia. Treatment Plantar fasciitis treatment involves rest and recovery, which should be the first course of action. Then physical therapy, like massaging your arch and stretching and strengthening exercises, are effective. Additional treatment methods include shockwave therapy, taping, wearing a splint or boot cast, and custom orthotics designed to provide additional arch support. Read more: See our complete guide on plantar fasciitis. Achilles tendonitis Causes Achilles tendonitis is an injury to the Achilles tendon, the part of the leg that connects the calf to the heel bone. It is usually caused by overuse. Overworking the Achilles heel is done through various avenues. The most common causes include overexercising, weight gain, joint disorders like rheumatoid or psoriatic arthritis, bursitis, a sudden fall or past trauma, and biomechanical abnormalities. Treatment Within 72 hours of injury, the first form of treatment you should pursue is rest and recovery. Good R&R prevents aggravation and stops the condition from worsening at its most vulnerable. Once you remove the cause, effective treatment methods include shockwave therapy, strengthening and stretching exercises (see our how-to), custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatories. Read more: See our complete guide on Achilles tendonitis. Bunions Causes Bunions are a type of joint deformity where the base of the big toe shifts outwards. There is a combination of factors that can either cause, directly or indirectly, bunions. Genetics (namely foot shape or joint-related), tight footwear or high heels, flat arches, and activities that stress the toe base (like running or ballet) can lead to bunions. Treatment Treatment options include footwear modification, anti-inflammatories, bunion splints, bunion aligners, taping, shoe stretching, orthotics, shockwave therapy, and surgery. Note that bunions are progressive, meaning non-invasive treatment focuses on preservation rather than reversing damage already done. Surgery is an option if you'd like to remove the bunion. Read more: See our complete guide on bunions. Ingrown toenails Causes Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the toenail grow into the skin, causing pain and swelling. Ingrown toenails can be caused by: Cutting the nail too short or too far down along the edges Poorly fitted shoes. Injury to the nail bed. A genetic disposition to ingrown toenails. Treatment In some cases, you can treat ingrown toenails at home; otherwise a foot specialist can treat the condition. To treat your ingrown toenail at home, soak your foot daily in warm water with Epson salts, massage the skin at the edges of the nail, wear shoes with a wide toe box, and let the toenail grow out. When it does, cut the nail straight across. Never try to cut out your own ingrown toenail as this can lead to infection. If the toenail doesn't improve within 3–5 days, it's time to call the foot specialist. A foot specialist can safely treat ingrown toenails at any stage. In-office ingrown toenail treatment includes antibiotics, softening the skin around the nail, removing or cutting open the area to drain pus, Onyfix nail correction system, partial or complete nail avulsion, phenol, or surgery. Read more: See our complete guide on ingrown toenails. Osteoarthritis Causes Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and is caused by wear-and-tear of the cartilage between the joints. Getting old is the most common cause of osteoarthritis. Our joints get more mileage as we age and eventually wear down. Low bone density (for instance, in post-menopausal women) can also lead to osteoporosis, contributing to osteoarthritis (it would be like having defective brake pads). Additionally, unhealed trauma or injury, weakened deconditioned muscles, sudden weight gain, and biomechanical abnormalities like hammer toes or bunions can all lead to osteoarthritis. Treatment Treatment of osteoarthritis focuses on management, as it's a progressive condition. Physiotherapy, stretching, and light exercise to strengthen the muscles in the lower body is vital for managing osteoarthritis symptoms and preventing the condition from worsening. This can be done in conjunction with proper footwear and medication like anti-inflammatories. Custom orthotics can also help by effectively rebalance the weight distribution across your feet while adding support. Read more: See our complete guide on osteoarthritis.

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How to Keep Your Feet Safe from Infection This Summer

1. Don’t Go Barefoot at the Pool

2. Don’t Go Barefoot at Home

3. Change Your Shoes and Socks Often