How To Prevent Foot Pain At Work

April 16, 2021

From retail workers to restaurant servers, foot pain at work can be frustrating for many people. If you work in an industry where you spend a lot of time on your feet, foot pain can interrupt your productivity, affect your mood, and affect the rest of your day. After work, you may have had plans to go for a run or walk, but after a draining day on your feet, you might just want to do nothing and wait for the foot pain to subside.

Luckily, Feet First Clinic is happy to promote ways you can maintain healthy feet. We’re here to talk about some ways you can alleviate and prevent foot pain at work. Foot pain is not normal, and even though you spend most of your shift standing, you don’t have to put up with the pain any longer. If you want to take your foot care to the next level, you can also book regular visits with a chiropodist.

How Can I Prevent Foot Pain at Work?

Wear comfortable footwear
Incorporate foot stretches into your routine
Take sitting breaks
Enjoy a foot bath
Try some foot care products

Wear Comfortable Footwear

This is a given, but you need to be wearing comfortable footwear that fits properly to avoid foot pain at work. Your shoes should fit snugly, give you enough toe room, and not place too much pressure on the foot’s weight-bearing areas. The heel elevation, the material used on the body of the shoe, and the outsole and midsole(responsible for shock absorption) are also important factors. Insoles and custom orthotics should also be considered if you’re prone to painful foot conditions.

To achieve your goal of pain-free feet, you can look into these footwear focused services offered by a licensed Chiropodist:

Incorporate Foot Stretches Into Your Routine

Foot stretches that target Achilles tendon pain, Plantar fasciitis, top of the foot pain, toe pain, or any other foot soreness that’s been bothersome can be a lifesaver. They’re all easy to learn and take less than 5 minutes at a time. At the beginning and the end of the day, you should take the time to do your foot stretches. After a while, this will alleviate the foot pain you experience at work, and in time, prevent it all together.

Click for demonstrations of a few of our favourite foot stretches:

Take Sitting Breaks

If you’re working on your feet for long hours, you should make sure you take sitting breaks. If you’re in-between shoes and still have to wear an ill-fitting pair, you should sit down and take your shoes off for the duration of your break. During this time, you can even try to get some of your foot stretching in! Try to avoid standing during your break if you have been standing all day. A break from standing can get you through the remainder of your shift and alleviate a lot of pressure on the weight-bearing areas of your feet.

Enjoy a Foot bath

A Foot bath at the end of the day can soothe your aching feet and prevent pain from progressing. Before bed, soaking your feet in hot water Reduces inflammation, which sets you up for a better morning. Hot water also stimulates circulation and blood flow. Foot baths aren’t just great for foot pain! They can also soften your skin, alleviate stress, and fight fatigue. For even more benefits, you can incorporate Epsom salt and essential oils into your foot baths.

Try Some Foot Care Products

Foot pain at work doesn’t just come in the form of aching and soreness. Working hard on your feet all day can also lead to blisters, calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. One foot care brand we can’t get enough of is Gehwol. They make products designed to alleviate the pain associated with these irritable foot conditions. They make balms, creams, salves and other fantastic products full of medicinal ingredients meant to soothe your feet. These ingredients include Vaseline, medicated soap, menthol, and many more.

Do You Have Foot Pain At Work? Let Us Help!

Our Toronto foot specialists are here 6 days a week and can handle all of your foot health concerns. Our downtown foot clinic staff will be happy to answer any questions or inquiries. From mild, to critical, we cover all sides of the foot needs spectrum. Call us to ask about actionable steps towards your solution today!

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

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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

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

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April 22, 2024

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen. As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age. 1. Maintain proper hygiene Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup. 2. Moisturize regularly Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple: Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties. For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture. 3. Supportive footwear As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape, and opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning. 4. Consistent exercise Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age. 5. Routine and regular check-ups Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.

April 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Innovation has always been important in the healthcare world, with chiropody and innovative foot treatments being no exception! These days, with advanced foot care, you can enjoy pain management and comfort without resorting to a time-consuming ordeal like surgery. Let’s explore the services you can participate in thanks to innovation and great ideas! Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024 Confusing and lengthy procedures can cause you to neglect the foot condition you may be struggling with, so modern treatments should save you time and put you at ease! Here are some of the best innovative treatments available today: Shockwave therapy Custom orthotics Video gait analysis Onyfix Splinting and taping Shockwave Therapy Healthcare professionals have been using shockwave therapy to address musculoskeletal conditions since the 1980s. While the term “shockwave” can be off-putting, it’s a totally non-invasive procedure and most patients report very mild discomfort and no pain. Shockwave therapy is quickly shaping up to be one of the best Achille’s tendonitis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis solutions. It works by targeting injured tissues, boosting blood circulation and stimulating a natural healing response in our bodies. To learn more about shockwave therapy, click here. Custom Orthotics Orthotics date back to ancient civilization when humans started to realize their feet needed more support! As the centuries passed, they have become one of the most innovative treatments because now chiropodists and manufacturers can mold them to fit your specific needs. Custom orthotics treat a wide range of conditions and help correct your gait. To learn more, click here. Video Gait Analysis A video gait analysis uses technology and visuals to determine what type of unique gait (walking pattern) you have. Think of it as a much more advanced version of walking on a treadmill! It gives your chiropodist the insight they need to help you correct it and avoid pain as much as possible. To learn more, click here. OnyFix Imagine if you could alter your nail growth pattern without using invasive tools? Primarily used as an ingrown toenail treatment, OnyFix uses composite material to ensure your nails grow evenly and correctly! It’s one of the newest chiropody treatments and only became popular in North America within the past decade or so. To learn more, click here. Splinting, Taping and Correction Tapes, splints and other devices can help people manage foot deformities without surgeries. For example, patients often experience bunion relief with bunion correctors, which are both affordable and comfortable and put your toes in an optimal position. Splinting and taping can also do the same for various conditions! To learn more, click here.

April 8, 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being.

April 4, 2024

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Today we delve into the relationship between walking and health, with a specific focus on foot mechanics and how crucial they are. The impact walking has on your overall health is something most people don’t think about in their day-to-day life. But foot motion science suggests everyone should learn about this topic! When your walking pattern is compromised, even slightly, it can put you at risk of developing foot pain, in addition to heel and ankle pain, back pain, knee pain and even hip pain! This can wreak havoc on your overall life as you experience worsening discomfort. Let’s explore more about the connection between your walking pattern and overall health! The Connection Between Walking and Overall Health To start, here are some basic tidbits of info to remember: The scientific term for “walking pattern” is gait. There is an inverse relationship between musculoskeletal foot conditions and your gait. Foot issues can lead to gait abnormalities as you try to accommodate new pain while still getting to the places you need to go. However, abnormal walking patterns can also put you at risk of developing additional problems. In addition to pre-existing foot conditions, risk factors that may lead to gait abnormalities include age-related foot changes, your foot type (flat feet or high arches), having foot/ankle injuries in the past, balance and neurological disorders, and ill-fitting and low-quality footwear. Common Types of Gait Abnormalities and How They Affect Our Health Two gait abnormalities we see a lot at Feet First Clinic are overpronation and supination. Overpronation is synonymous with flat feet and the resultant issues that develop when you have a flat/fallen arch. When you “overpronate,” your foot rolls inward excessively as you stride forward. Supination is when you place too much weight on the outside of your feet. These walking patterns are often subconscious and your way of trying to adjust to having “non-typical” feet. Gait abnormalities can completely mess with your lower extremities. In more scientific words, they affect your feet and ankles and lead to misalignments in the lower body, which may contribute to issues such as knee pain, hip discomfort, and lower back problems. This is because your body’s skeletal system is connected and everything must work in harmony. You are also more prone to injury when you overpronate! Lastly, there are many specific versions of gait abnormalities. One may not overpronate or supinate, but different types of pain can result in various compensatory movements. Check out this valuable resource from Stanford Medicine for more. Treating Abnormal Walking Patterns Don’t worry if you think you may have a gait abnormality. Unless your walking pattern is caused by a severe medical issue, you can often work hard at correcting it. There are many services, medical devices, and products you can try. Foot assessment: Understanding your feet is the first step (no pun intended!). Video gait analysis: This will provide valuable insights into biomechanical issues, your foot type, and any noticeable abnormalities. Custom-made orthotics: Orthotics work by improving your gait, over time, and with correct usage. Strengthening and balance exercises: These improve muscle strength, coordination, and stability. Surgical interventions (in severe cases of foot deformities, for instance, bunion correction). Footwear modifications: Medical shoes and stability/motion control shoes can often help. Focusing on your posture: This helps properly align the body’s skeletal structure. Remember: everything is connected, from head to toe!

April 1, 2024

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

March 25, 2024

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

In the realm of fashion, footwear often takes center stage. However, finding stylish footwear for sensitive feet that provides comfort can seem like an elusive quest. Fear not: whether you're dealing with conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or have feet that demand extra care, we'll explore a range of footwear brands that cater to sensitive feet without compromising style. Best for cushioning Mephisto Mephisto is renowned for its commitment to crafting footwear that marries fashion with function. Their shoes feature advanced cushioning and support systems, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive feet. Their footbeds are made of cork, a natural material that is naturally shock absorbent and anatomically contoured for the foot. From sleek sneakers to sophisticated loafers, Mephisto offers various styles to suit various tastes and occasions. The Mephisto Hester sandal features a cushioned cork footbed with a deep heel cup and strong arch. It is perfect for summertime outings, casual strolls or as an indoor slipper. Asics While Asics is primarily known for its performance-oriented athletic shoes, the Gel-Nimbus line caters to those seeking superior comfort and support. The Gel-Nimbus utilizes innovative gel cushioning technology to provide excellent shock absorption. They're excellent for individuals with sensitive feet who lead active lifestyles, whether you're hitting the gym or running errands. Best footwear for width and fit Clarks Clarks have long been synonymous with comfort footwear, and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship shines through in every pair it produces. With a focus on ergonomic design and premium materials, Clarks' shoes relieve sensitive feet without compromising style. Some of their shoes are also available in different widths, from narrow to wide, like the Nalle Lace. This stylish sneaker is available in width with and also comes with a zipper to make it easier to take on and off. Clarks also makes a variety of high-end dress shoes, which are a great option for the style-conscious. Ara Ara is another brand renowned for its dedication to comfort and innovation. Their shoes feature cushioned footbeds, flexible outsoles, and adjustable closures, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and support. The Ara Lilly has a soft cushioned footbed with a stretchable woven upper. It provides maximum comfort and sophistication for any occasion. Portofino Portofino specializes in crafting footwear that seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with orthopedic support. Their shoes feature anatomically shaped footbeds and shock-absorbing soles, catering to the needs of individuals with sensitive feet without compromising on style. Additionally, Portofino offers shoes in H width, which are slightly wider, providing more room and comfort. They also have a more comprehensive tread depth. For instance, the DY-5068 is a favourite. It features a removable insole, allowing you to insert your orthotics, and a zipper for in-and-out ease. Best seamless footwear Seamless footwear is excellent for sensitive feet as fewer friction points come in contact with the foot. Anodyne Anodyne is dedicated to providing therapeutic footwear solutions for individuals with foot ailments. Their shoes feature extra-depth designs, seamless interiors, and accommodative toe boxes, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive feet seeking relief without sacrificing style. They also accommodate foot sensitivities for people with diabetes. The Anodyne No. 23 is designed with comfort in mind. It features a roomy toe box and plush cushioning, ensuring all-day comfort without compromising style. APEX APEX specializes in crafting shoes that cater to the unique needs of individuals with foot conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and neuropathy. Their shoes feature innovative technologies such as pressure-relieving insoles and stretchable uppers, providing unparalleled comfort and support for sensitive feet. The APEX Ambulator Conform Oxford is engineered for comfort and stability. This Oxford-style shoe features adjustable closures and a removable orthotic insole, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and functionality. Best footwear with natural materials Certain materials in shoes can aggravate sensitive feet. If you have skin sensitivities or allergies, you may develop contact dermatitis, which can cause a red rash and itchiness, and even skin blisters. Possible allergens in footwear that can lead to contact dermatitis include rubber, the glue that binds your shoes together, a nickel buckle on a sandal, chromates, formaldehyde, or paraphenylenediamine (a type of dye). If your shoes give you a rash or redness, you can try footwear with natural materials. Our picks include: NAOT Shoes crafted from natural materials have garnered widespread acclaim for their comfort, sustainability, and timeless appeal. Among the pioneers in this domain stands NAOT, renowned for its innovative use of cork beds in crafting footwear that melds impeccable comfort with eco-consciousness. NAOT's cork beds are ingeniously designed to conform to the wearer's foot contours, providing unparalleled support and cushioning. Sourced from renewable cork oak trees, this material delivers superior comfort and embodies the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility. One such option for summer is the NAOT Amadora, which is wrapped in suede and moulds to the shape of the foot with each wear. Mephisto Similarly, Mephisto has carved a niche in natural-material footwear, prioritizing comfort and style. Embracing premium leathers, cork footbeds and other natural textiles, Mephisto integrates advanced technologies into its designs to deliver optimal support and flexibility. Whether strolling through urban streets or traversing rugged terrain, Mephisto shoes offer a harmonious blend of form and function, appealing to the discerning consumer seeking quality craftsmanship and sustainable elegance. The Mephisto Izae is a casual-looking sneaker with optimal comfort, fit and a leather lining.

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How To Prevent Foot Pain At Work

How Can I Prevent Foot Pain at Work?

Wear Comfortable Footwear

Incorporate Foot Stretches Into Your Routine

Take Sitting Breaks

Enjoy a Foot bath

Try Some Foot Care Products

Do You Have Foot Pain At Work? Let Us Help!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

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