In Everything Give Thanks

October 11, 2019

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and that means spending time with family and friends. It also means spending a lot of time staying inside preparing, cooking and eating. It is important to be mindful about proper footwear at home especially during the holidays when we spend the most time walking around barefoot.

Recent studies find that it is not recommended to walk around barefoot at home when you have hardwood floors, laminate or ceramic floors. When we strike our heel, the pressures from the ground are absorbed by our heels by means of pronation. However, most people who are “heavy footed” lack proper shock absorption and with every heel strike those hard ground reactive forces are being transferred to the joints at an alarming force.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, people who walk with a “slap foot” have too much shock absorption and lack the ideal structure for proper pressure redistribution. If you are experiencing any heel pain, pain in the balls of the feet or your feet just feel tired – then you are definitely putting your feet at more risk by walking around barefoot. We often suggest wearing Birkenstocks as slippers for inside the house.

Birkenstocks have a cork footbed which is one of the best materials for shock absorption. The arch support also helps balance your foot and heel in the proper position for shock absorption. Also, straps around the ankle and the arch create a more stable platform for support. If you find Birkenstocks too hard or uncomfortable, a great alternative is Mephisto which have a softer footbed but equal support and shock absorption as Birkenstocks.

If you find you are susceptible to corns or calluses or you have been struggling with a painful corn or callus, then it is necessary to be wearing shoes inside the house. Calluses occur due to pressures not being absorbed properly while corns occur usually within a callus due to excessive pinpoint pressure.

Excessive swelling can occur in the ankles and feet if you are standing for long hours. Along with the swelling, the veins can be overworked and eventually become twisted and bulge out as varicose veins. Compression stockings help promote circulation and prevent varicose veins and swelling.

It is recommended to wear them while standing or sitting for long hours to make sure circulation is constantly flowing.

This year enjoy the Thanksgiving holidays with friends and family with pain free feet legs and feet.

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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June 5, 2023

Cold Sweats: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage Them

Cold sweats are episodes of excessive sweating involving feelings of coldness, clamminess, and a drop in body temperature. Our feet are particularly prone to cold sweats due to their position (away from the heart) and function. This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage cold sweats. Causes of cold sweats There are several possible causes of cold sweats, including medical conditions, medication side effects, and emotional triggers. Learn more about the common cause of cold sweats in feet below: Hyperhidrosis Hyperhidrosis is the common term for excessive sweating. If you experience cold and sweaty feet without exercising or temperature changes, you may have hyperhidrosis. The underlying cause is an overreaction of your body's sweat glands. Stress and anxiety can also disrupt your body's sweat glands. There is an overall increased risk of infection in the presence of hyperhidrosis, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) Peripheral Arterial Disease is a condition of the body's lower extremities. The leg's blood vessels become blocked or narrowed, restricting blood flow between your lower legs and heart. Fatty plaque in the arteries is often the culprit. You may be at greater risk of PAD if you have diabetes, are over 60, or have elevated blood pressure and cholesterol. Menopause A common cold sweats culprit is menopause. Blood circulation can increase or decrease based on hormonal changes, triggering sweats. Overactive thyroid A thyroid disorder can cause plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat) while deregulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid also messes with our blood circulation, giving the feet and skin only a quarter of the blood supply they usually need. Raynaud's disease Raynaud's disease causes cold hands and feet and numb toes. The condition decreases blood flow in certain body parts because of the blood vessels spasming in the area. Body temperature Sudden changes in core body temperature can trigger cold sweats. For instance, when sleeping, you may want to experiment with adjusting the room temperature up or down or even sleeping with your feet outside the blankets to thermoregulate your core body temperature. Other causes of cold sweats Wearing small shoes or shoes without proper ventilation: Shoes without proper breathing properties may trap in heat and cause your feet to sweat or have a cold sweat sensation. Neuropathy: Nerve damage, typical in diabetes patients, can cause excessive sweating and disrupt your average body temperature. Exercise: If you exercise and your feet continue to sweat or be moist afterwards, you may experience cold feet. Symptoms of cold sweats The top symptoms of cold sweats in the feet include Excessive sweating Feeling cold or clammy Shivering Paleness In addition to the symptoms in your feet, you may also experience these bodily feelings: Dizziness or lightheadedness Nausea or vomiting Weakness How to manage cold sweats The management of cold sweats will depend on the underlying cause. Here at Feet First Clinic, we recommend several treatment options, including: Foot deodorants, creams and sprays. Talk to your doctor about taking certain types of medications. For instance, antidepressants may lower triggers like stress and anxiety, which cause you to sweat more. Manage stress. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. Ensure you're getting enough rest. A lack of sleep can trigger cold sweats, so try to get enough restful sleep. Daily foot hygiene practices. Keep feet clean and dry, regularly change socks, etc. Regularly air out your feet. Breathable footwear. Dress in layers. Removing or adding layers will stabilize your core body temperature and prevent significant shifts. Moisture-wicking socks. Schedule regular foot assessments to check for conditions that thrive in moist environments, like athlete's foot.

May 29, 2023

Running with Ingrown Toenails: How to Manage Discomfort and Avoid Infection

Ingrown toenails are the most common nail problem. And with toenails being put under pressure when running, combining the two can be challenging, but not totally out of the question. Although running with ingrown toenails can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of infection, it is doable. There are steps you can take to manage the discomfort and reduce the risk of complications. This article discusses tips on managing the pain associated with running with an ingrown toenail and ways to prevent infection. Don't let an ingrown toenail stop you from your running routine; read on to learn more! Can I run with an ingrown toenail? Yes. If the ingrown toenail is mild, and you take the proper precautions, you can safely run. The key is to manage discomfort and do your best to reduce the risk of complications or infection. However, there is a difference between whether you can run versus should run, and you should weigh the pros and cons outlined below. First, it's important to note that running with an ingrown toenail can worsen the condition and increase the risk of complications. If the pain is severe or you experience signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention immediately. If the ingrown toenails worsen, see a chiropodist or other healthcare professional. They may recommend antibiotics, specialized treatment or surgery to remove part of the affected nail. How to manage discomfort when running with an ingrown toenail To enjoy running with ingrown toenails, you must take steps to control the discomfort, reduce the risk of complications and keep the pain at bay. Here are some tips: Monitor pain and symptoms: There's no denying that physical activity can aggravate ingrown toenails. Sports with ground forces due to athletic activity, obesity or constricting footwear aid overlapping lateral nail fold penetration. Trim the toenail properly: If the ingrown toenail is mild, you can trim it yourself. Use a clean pair of nail clippers and cut the nail straight across without rounding the edges. Cutting straight across prevents the nail from growing into the adjacent skin. If your ingrown toenail is more persistent, inflamed or painful, you should see a chiropodist for treatment to prevent any risks and complications. Trim the toenail using toenail clippers: Avoid using fingernail clippers for your toenails. The strength and thickness of our toenails demand a more rigid tool to trim effectively. Wear proper shoes: Wear shoes that fit correctly and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Tight or narrow shoes can crowd the toes and increase the risk of ingrown toenails. Take pain medication: Pain relievers can help to manage the discomfort associated with ingrown toenails. See a chiropodist for professional treatment: If your ingrown toenail is painful, inflamed, or has persisted for a long time, you should book an appointment with a chiropodist to have it properly and safely treated. This will reduce the risk of infection and allow you to resume running pain-free. How to avoid infection when running with an ingrown toenail? To prevent your ingrown toenail from worsening while running, taking the proper measures to avoid infection is vital. You can take steps to manage the discomfort and reduce the risk of complications when running with ingrown toenails. Here are some tips: Keep the affected toenail clean: Wash the affected toe with soap and water daily, and keep it dry. A clean and dry site will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection. Apply topical treatments: You can use over-the-counter antiseptic or antibiotic ointments to the affected area to help prevent infection. Use clean toenail clippers (and maybe one from our top picks): Don't use someone else's nail clippers; clean them off before use. Bacteria are invisible to the eye, so be safe with what you put your feet in contact with. For instance, you wouldn't want to risk catching the fungus that causes athlete's foot. Apply a bandage over the ingrown toenail: Once you've cleaned the affected toenail, apply a bandage over the toenail before starting your run. This will help prevent any outside bacteria from penetrating the nail and surrounding skin.

May 25, 2023

The Best Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins: How to Choose the Right Pair

Compression stockings are very popular amongst people with varicose veins. As the veins become painful and your legs feel heavy and tired, wearing them every day is often one of the only ways people feel comfort and relief (don't worry, most types are stylish or discrete). Finding the best compression stockings for varicose veins involves visiting a doctor and then attending a fitting at a foot clinic where you will discover: The type of compression stocking you need The right level of compression Your size According to the National Library of Medicine, doctors and chiropodists recommend compression stockings not only because they help patients manage pain, but they're also easier to use than bandages and pneumatic devices. Let's discuss everything you need to know about varicose veins and compression stockings. Types of Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins Varicose veins often develop in the calf area towards the back of the leg. This is because walking and standing tend to put more pressure on the leg veins closer to the feet. As a result, knee-high compression socks are often the best type of compression stockings to invest in for varicose vein treatment. However, any vein in the leg can become varicose, so you may need thigh-high or pantyhose compression hosiery. Compression Levels for Varicose Veins Compression stockings have different compression levels, and stockings with more compression are tighter. You can often buy stockings in the 8-15 or 15-20 mmHg range at drug stores, but someone with varicose veins will need more compression from medical-grade stockings. To adequately support blood flow and circulation and provide comfort and support, Sigvaris recommends a compression level of 20-30 mmHg for varicose vein treatment. However, if your varicose veins are severe, you should look into graduated compression in the 30-40 mmHg range. Lastly, compression levels should always be the highest in the area with the varicose veins. While this should give you a general idea, your family doctor will know the right level of compression you need. Once you've gone to your family doctor and received your compression stockings prescription, you can then bring the prescription to your local foot clinic to get measured and fitted. Note: only a medical doctor can issue a prescription for compression stockings with the appropriate level of compression. Compression Stocking Sizes During your compression stocking fitting, a certified fitter at your foot clinic will determine what size you need and order the stockings after selecting from a size chart. Sizes for medical grade compression stockings (20-30 mmHg and above) are quite specific and require measuring; compression stockings will not work if they don't fit well. To ensure they order the right size, your fitter will measure your calf circumference, calf length, and ankle circumference. They may also need to measure your hip circumference, leg length, and thigh circumference. Your fitter will also go over the various style and material options and help you select the option that works best for your activities.

May 11, 2023

The Different Types of Compression Stockings and How to Wear Them

It's easy to forget that leg health is just as important as foot health. In fact, one of the most effective medical devices to target both foot and leg conditions is compression stockings. By gently squeezing your lower extremities, they help you manage aches and swelling and boost blood circulation. Many people can benefit from these special socks for relief for foot and leg problems, but worry about how they look or don't know how to wear them. Today's blog will discuss the different types of compression stocks and advise on how to wear them so you make the most of this amazing product! Different Types of Compression Stockings Compression gear looks just like standard versions of hosiery and stockings and blends in well with your outfits. Here are some of the most common types: Pantyhose Maternity stockings Knee-high stockings Thigh-high stockings Open-toe stockings How to Wear Compression Stockings While appearing fashionable may be on your mind, Mayo Clinic notes that the most important thing is to wear compression stockings as your health care provider prescribes. This may mean wearing them all day or only in the morning or before bed (do not wear compression stockings when sleeping). Whether you have varicose veins, are pregnant, have edema (swelling), venous insufficiency, or deep vein thrombosis (DVT), the symptoms you struggle with can easily flare up if you neglect to wear them as intended. Improper use can also cause blood clotting or skin irritation. Putting your compression stockings on and removing them is often the most challenging part of using them. You have to be gentle and take your time when putting them on. Otherwise, it can affect the elasticity and compression levels. Depending on the type, it's also important to roll the stocking down to the heel, leaving the toe area open before you put them on. In addition, you need to smooth out wrinkles and ensure the stocking fully covers the part of the leg or foot that needs the most compression. Sigvaris, the brand we provide at Feet First Clinic, offers a detailed guide on how to put on your compression stockings and take them off. Types of Compression Stockings In addition to the above-noted conditions, compression stockings are recommended for people who stand at work for long periods or who travel on planes often. Your preferences, lifestyle, and specific condition can help your foot clinic choose the right type. Please also note that compression levels range from mild to firm, which are measured in mmHg; the higher the level of mmHg, the greater the benefit. The over-the-counter compression levels (like the ones you'd find at a drug store) range from 8-15 mmHg to 15-20 mmHg. Medical grade levels of compression start at 20-30 mmHg (the most common level of compression) and can go up to 40-50 mmHg. Your health care provider can help determine the level you need. Pantyhose Pantyhose compression hosiery is a good choice for women who work long hours, travel frequently, or have varicose veins or other circulatory issues above the knee. They start at the feet and go up to the waist, like standard pantyhose. They apply graduated pressure (like a gentle squeeze) along the leg, becoming less tight as they extend upwards. This stimulates blood flow back to the heart, thereby reducing pain and swelling. Compression pantyhose is available in various shades in sheer or opaque fabric, making them suitable as professional attire. Maternity Stockings Stockings for pregnancy-related symptoms are available in pantyhose, knee-high and thigh-high stockings. As hosiery, they can be opaque or sheer and include more wiggle room in the waist and hips to accommodate a growing belly. Pregnant women can also choose cotton and linen knee-high socks for pain and swelling in the lower legs (see below). Maternity stockings help prevent DVT and varicose veins often associated with pregnancy. Moreover, postpartum women may also be at risk of these vein issues and often experience prolonged circulation issues. Knee-High and Thigh-High Stockings Knee-high compression stockings provide compression and support to the calf muscles, ankle, and foot and usually resemble regular socks. Thigh-high stockings provide compression and support to the entire leg, from the ankle to the thigh and are generally opaque or sheer. Both come in a variety of materials for your individual needs. Open-Toe Stockings Open-toe stockings offer more ventilation than the standard closed-toe version, making them more appealing to wear in the warmer, humid months. They can also be helpful for individuals who have difficulty putting on traditional compression stockings or those who find them uncomfortable. Rest assured, open-toe compression stockings offer the same compression levels, just with the bonus of added breathability. You can also wear sandals with open-toe stockings as they're more discrete.

May 8, 2023

Understanding and Treating Bunions: A Comprehensive Guide

Bunions can be a debilitating condition, but there is still plenty of hope to manage it and reduce the pain it causes. Bunions are joint deformities located at the base of the big toe. You may see bony bumps on the foot's inner side, which can be painful and uncomfortable. Bunions can also affect the alignment of the foot and cause the big toe to point inward toward the other toes. (They can also exist along the outer edge of the foot at the base of the little toe. These are known as bunionettes.) Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods can help spot bunions early and get you back to feeling better soon. Below you'll find a comprehensive guide to understanding and treating bunions. Causes of bunions Various factors, including genetics, foot shape, and footwear, cause bunions. Family history can dictate the likelihood of bunions due to inherited foot shape. People with foot shape abnormalities or imbalances like flat feet, low arches, or loose joints are also at a greater risk of developing bunions as these underlying conditions put more pressure on your big toe and surrounding areas. All of these risk factors are quite common; roughly six percent of Canadians yearly have foot injuries, bunions, and flat feet or fallen arches. Additionally, external factors like tight or narrow shoes or high heels can squeeze your toes together, which adds pressure and restricts movement across the toes. Over time, your big toe joint may shift, causing it to protrude outwards. Shoes with narrow toes can trigger and catalyze developing bunions, but footwear alone is not solely to blame. Symptoms of bunions The most prominent symptoms of bunions are pain and discomfort in your big toe. You may also experience swelling and redness and have a large bony protrusion at the base of your big toe. Due to the outgrowth and irritation, the skin over the bunion may become thickened and callused. The toe may become rigid and difficult to move in more severe cases. You may also experience difficulty wearing your regular footwear as the protrusion (resulting from your bones shifting) increases your feet's surface area. The rigidness of the big toe makes the big toe more susceptible to strain and over-exertion. Lack of flexibility further imbalances the weight across your feet and toes. This causes a vicious cycle that can further aggravate the bunion. Treatment for bunions Although bunions can be painful, not all hope is lost. You can do plenty to recognize bunions early or treat them via surgical or non-surgical methods to improve your quality of life. Depending on the severity, you can slow the progression of bunions or find ways to manage the discomfort effectively. The exact treatment typically depends on the severity of the bunions, a person's lifestyle demands, and their age. Milder cases may be managed and treated with non-surgical treatments, including specific devices, such as bunion splints or custom orthotics, or physical therapy. The more severe cases may require surgery, which in and of itself has its pros and cons. Non-surgical treatments for bunions Non-surgical treatment for bunions focuses on limiting further aggravation of the affected joint and slowing the bunion's progression. This in turn decreases pain and improves quality of life. Such treatments include: Alter your footwear: Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box to reduce pressure on the bunion. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes. Use padding and taping: Apply a pad or cushion to the bunion to reduce pressure and protect the skin. Taping can also help to keep the foot in a more natural position. You can also try bunion splints and bunion aligners to properly align the joint as you go about your daily activities. Custom-made orthotic inserts or generic inserts like Superfeet may help to redistribute pressure and support the foot. Padding or cushions to protect your feet may also help. OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce and keep swelling and inflammation at bay. Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve the flexibility and strength of the foot and ankle. Strengthening the muscles around the joint also halts the vicious cycle of bunion growth. Maintain a healthy weight to prevent sudden impact on your feet and toes. If non-surgical treatment for bunions hasn't improved the condition, you can explore surgical treatments, which we dive into below. Surgical treatments for bunions More than 100 different types of surgeries for bunions exist. An orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist may perform the surgery, depending on the nature and type of procedure. With surgery, the goal is physically to eliminate the bunion. However, surgical treatments have risks, and a bunion may still return in the future, so you should consult a medical professional. No one surgery is perfect for everyone; it's highly individual. Some of the more common surgeries for bunions are: Bunionectomy is a surgical procedure in which the bony bump is removed from the joint. The goal is to realign the joint with the rest of the foot to improve the position. Osteotomy is a procedure that involves cutting a portion of the bone to improve the toe's position. Arthrodesis (commonly known as joint fusion surgery) is a procedure that adjoins joints together. Resection arthroplasty is a procedure that removes the damaged joint. The joint is then rebuilt during the procedure. Artificial implant insertion is a procedure where an implant replaces the deformed first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.

April 27, 2023

How to Alleviate Foot Pain During Pregnancy

Pregnancy can alter your life in more ways than one. From cravings to hormones, it's a challenging (yet rewarding) nine months. One of the most frustrating aspects of pregnancy is the foot pain that comes along with it. Let's look at how you can alleviate foot pain during pregnancy while you wait to welcome your little one! How to Alleviate Foot Pain During Pregnancy Change your shoes Wear compression stockings Try orthotics Move (when you can) Practice self-care Photo by Amina Filkins from Pexels Change Your Shoes Did you know that your feet can grow in size during pregnancy? As a result, foot pain can occur when you ignore the need to shop for new shoes that accommodate this growth. Thanks to fluid retention and an increase in soft tissues, pregnancy can permanently change the size of your feet. The ligaments in the feet can also change while they try to support excess weight. As a result, your feet may become wider and flatter. To deal with this phenomenon and alleviate foot pain, get a proper shoe fitting or shoe stretching (for certain shoe types) if you notice your footwear is feeling a little too tight. The best shoes for pregnancy should have the following features: Width options Low heels Breathable materials Sufficient toe box room Arch support Cushioning Thick soles Wear Compression Stockings Compression stockings provide gentle pressure to the feet and lower legs during pregnancy. Specifically, they boost blood circulation, alleviating foot pain. Triggering blood flow can also be a preventative measure and stop blood clotting and pooling. Compression socks can also prevent varicose veins, which can be very painful. It's a common myth that compression socks look unflattering or unfashionable; in fact, they look the same as traditional socks and hosiery and come in various colours and styles. To get a pair of compression stockings or hosiery, you can get a prescription from your family doctor. Then simply come to Feet First Clinic to be measured by our staff. Try Orthotics During pregnancy, you may notice you suddenly have flat feet, whereas before, you had more of a pronounced arch. Luckily, custom orthotics can help correct the abnormal walking patterns you may develop due to flat feet, which will help stabilize your movements. With these corrections, you can avoid additional pain in the lower back, hips and knees. Orthotics will also provide shock absorption, protecting your feet from the ground's harsh impact. In addition, using orthotics to correct your gait will prevent future pain after you give birth since your feet may not immediately revert to the way they were before pregnancy. Move (When You Can) It's no surprise that pregnancy can make you feel lethargic. But it's important to perform light stretching exercises as they can do a world of good for your feet! They will strengthen the muscles in your feet and lower legs while improving blood circulation. Some examples include lightly massaging the bottom of your feet with a golf ball or water bottle(see below), or you can perform the calf stretch on a step, which gently stretches the soles and lower legs. Your chiropodist can recommend specific stretches for target muscles, and you can also refer to Feet First Clinic's Pinterest page for quick and easy routines. https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922795231123/ Practice Self Care Below are some additional ways to alleviate foot pain during pregnancy. Many of them are luxurious, relaxing and fun! Enjoy a foot massage Self-massage your calves and flex your feet when you experience cramping Soak your feet in a warm foot bath to relax your muscles Moisturize your feet (rubbing your feet will also boost blood flow) Stay hydrated and avoid salty foods to prevent swelling and inflammation Try not to stand for long periods without resting

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Related Posts

Cold Sweats: Causes, Symptoms, and How to Manage Them

Running with Ingrown Toenails: How to Manage Discomfort and Avoid Infection

The Best Compression Stockings for Varicose Veins: How to Choose the Right Pair

The Different Types of Compression Stockings and How to Wear Them

Understanding and Treating Bunions: A Comprehensive Guide

How to Alleviate Foot Pain During Pregnancy

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