Is My Foot Pain Urgent?

January 2, 2021

It can be difficult to discern between serious foot pain and foot pain that may be more mild and responsive to at-home foot care. Luckily, we’re here to let you know what to look out for when assessing your discomfort. Generally speaking, foot conditions that need more immediate attention from a qualified specialist may present symptoms such as swelling, a complete inability to walk, and symptoms that may indicate an infection. Try not to worry, however, as there are treatment options out there for you. The key is being responsible and taking that first “step,” so to speak, in determining if your foot pain is cause for alarm. Keep reading to learn what symptoms indicate an urgent situation that requires care from a qualified foot specialist as quickly as possible.

Is Your Foot Pain Urgent? Seek Care ASAP If You’re Experiencing The Following Symptoms:

Severe pain and total inability to put pressure on your foot or ankle
Swelling
Signs of infection (fever, open wound on the foot, redness, etc)
A recent fall or accident may indicate a possible sprain in the foot or ankle
Likewise, a recent fall or accident may indicate a broken bone in the foot or ankle

Sprain or Broken Bone In The Foot Or Ankle

Your foot pain may be urgent if you’ve experienced a recent accident, such as a fall, and notice signs of a foot or ankle sprain. Clear signs of a sprain include bruising, swelling, and severe pain that completely prevents one from walking. What’s more, even slightly touching the sprain may be painful. If you suspect you have an ankle or a foot sprain, you should seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Failure to tend to a sprain, or ignoring a possible sprain, can lead to such effects as Arthritis in your joints and recurring foot or ankle pain.

Similar to a sprain, a broken bone in the foot will be tender to the touch. It will also be characterized by swelling, intense onset pain, and an inability to walk. Since our feet are comprised of 26 bones, the location of the fracture may determine the severity in terms of pain. Broken bones in the foot or ankle can range from anywhere from the big toe to one of the bones in your ankle joint. It is critical to see a chiropodist as soon as possible if you suspect you have a broken bone. Moreover, disregarding a possible fracture can lead to complications such as a bone infection, or arthritis.

Treatment Options For Sprains And Broken Bones

In order to treat a broken bone or a sprain in the foot or ankle, a chiropodist will need to determine the exact location of the fracture or sprain by doing a thorough assessment which may also require the patient acquiring diagnostic imaging elsewhere. Unless the location of the fracture or sprain is clear, they will need some time during your visit to determine the affected area. If the fracture or sprain is particularly serious, a surgery may be required. Other options for treatment that your chiropodist will thoughtfully incorporate into a plan include:

Rest – this is a given
Keeping your foot elevated during rest
Soothing the affected area with ice, preferably an ice pack. Compression is very important
Foot splint
A cast or a crutch
When the healing process has progressed, supportive footwear such as Custom orthotics may be recommended to ensure proper rehabilitation

Please note, if a surgical procedure focusing on the bone is required, you should discuss this with your family doctor. They will need to refer you to a podiatrist or an orthopaedic surgeon rather than a chiropodist, if this is the case.

Swelling

Foot swelling can be quite alarming, and could be indicative of a serious condition. A common occurrence for those suffering from Diabetes, a sprain, or an infection, if you notice your foot pain is accompanied by swelling, you should seek medical assistance as soon as possible. Medical News Today states that diabetes patients should see a doctor if there is swelling present in the foot or ankle. Furthermore, diabetes patients should ensure that regular visits with a qualified Chiropodist are a part of their routine. A chiropodist can help prevent complications by attending to Diabetes related foot conditions on a regular basis.

Infection

Some foot conditions involving small wounds, cuts or other vulnerable lacerations, including Blisters, Plantar warts and Ingrown toenails, can lead to an infection if left completely untreated. Moreover, the following symptoms could indicate an infection in your foot:

Pain
Redness
Swelling
Fever
Warm skin surrounding infected area
Pus from an open wound

Furthermore, those suffering with diabetes need to do everything they can to prevent foot ulcers that can ultimately lead to infections. Foot ulcer symptoms include a foul smell coming from the foot, fluid coming from the affected area, redness and irritation. According to Healthline, “infected diabetic ulcers and bacterial cellulitis require medical treatment.” Depending on the severity of a foot ulcer, a chiropodist may perform a surgery. Other treatment options that tackle infections include:

Prescribed medications (pills or creams)
Antibiotics
Meticulous cleaning of the affected area
In the case of an infection caused by a plantar war, Cryotherapy may be required

We Can Help!

Are you experiencing severe foot pain? Whether you’re on the mild or severe side of the spectrum, you can rest easy knowing we’re able and happy to solve all your foot care needs. If you think your foot pain is cause for alarm, don’t hesitate to book an assessment with one of our qualified foot specialists. We’re open 6 days a week, and are ready to work with you and get you back on your feet!

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

Banner Image by monicore from Pexels – Thank you!

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 Why Do I Have Swollen Feet? Causes and Treatments

NextNext Staying Safe Through the Necessary Winter Duties

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Get biweekly health information and advice from our experts.

November 30, 2023

Discovering Perfect Footwear for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Happy Feet

As parents, we're entrusted with our children's well-being and health. And when it comes to our little ones, growing feet deserve our attention. Selecting the right shoes for kids is critical; it's a crucial aspect of their comfort, development, and overall health. But with so many options available, choosing the perfect pair can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential considerations when picking the right shoes for your little ones so they can put their best foot forward with smiles on their faces and healthy, happy feet. The importance of proper footwear for kids Proper footwear for kids is critical, as shoes can affect overall foot health and gait development. Specifically, proper footwear for children promotes the following: Healthy growth: Kids' feet are continually growing and developing. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can hinder their natural growth and development. Comfort and function: Well-fitted shoes ensure your child is comfortable and can move freely. The right shoes also provide support and stability, helping prevent accidents and discomfort. Foot Health: Proper footwear plays a significant role in maintaining healthy feet, preventing issues like blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails, and even long-term problems like bunions and misaligned toes. Posture and alignment: The right shoes can promote proper posture and foot alignment, reducing the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues later in life. How do you choose footwear for kids? There are a few considerations to think about when choosing footwear for kids. Children's feet have special features, foot shape, and size that can change as they grow and age. Of course, you're helping decide for them, but you should also check in with how they're feeling and ask them how the shoes fit. Fit Ensure the shoes fit correctly. Children's feet grow rapidly, so a proper measurement each time is essential to get the right size. Leave a bit of room (about 1-2 cm) at the front to accommodate growth. The main area for growth will be in the toe box, so help your child with the fit by ensuring some room at the end of the shoe. Various studies suggest that children aged 2 to 6 years require a shoe size change every 1 to 2 months, while children aged 12 to 30 months require a shoe size change every two to three months. Foot growth slows over time, so the exact interval of new shoes may differ. The shape of the toe box is also a factor. A toe box with a broader, rounded shape follows the contour of the feet and prevents issues like blisters and ingrown toenails. Comfort and support Look for shoes with cushioning and arch support. A good insole is essential for shock absorption and maintaining healthy arches. Kids' shoes should be flexible to allow for natural foot movement. Rigid shoes can hinder healthy foot development. Material Choose shoes made from breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort. You'll also want to have a certain degree of durability. After all, kids will be kids. Invest in shoes with high-quality materials that can stand against the daily wear and tear of being a child. Secure closure(s) Opt for shoes with adjustable and secure closures like Velcro or laces. A secure closure ensures a proper fit and prevents tripping. What are the best shoes for children? There is no one "best" shoe, as children need different shoes based on their age, gait, and a variety of other factors. However, we recommend the following shoes as good reference points to start your search: ASICS Gel-Excite: The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 Grade School features a high-quality upper to reduce irritation in the forefoot. Other benefits include toe rubber stitching and a solid rubber outsole to extend the shoe's lifespan. ASICS GT-1000 12: The GT-1000® 11 Grade School is one of the few stability shoes available for kids. This is great if your child has flat feet or overpronates. The GT-1000 also provides excellent shock absorption with a softer feel underfoot, and are designed to withstand the strains of being a kid. Saucony Peregrine 11: The Peregrine is one of Saucony's most popular all-terrain shoes, and it comes in kids sizing. The Peregrine 11 has a water-repellent mesh upper, built-in odour control and a durable outsole for serious traction. Your child will love hiking that much more with the Peregrine 11. Sorel Children's Yoot Pac Nylon Boot: The Sorel Yoot Pac is an excellent choice for winter footwear. With a waterproof nylon upper, seam-sealed construction and cozy insulation, cold weather doesn't stand a chance. The boot also comes with conveniently toggled laces. The inner liner with a sherpa collar is removable and washable. You can also support your children's footwear with a pair of inserts. Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch insoles give structured support where you need it most and help redistribute stress and strain on your entire body, not just your feet. They are designed to replace the removable liner in a wide range of footwear. Best of all, you can trim Superfeet to fit your shoe size. Four tips for buying children's shoes Below are four tips to help you get the most out of shopping for your kids. 1. Shop in the afternoon or evening Children's feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it's best to go shoe shopping in the afternoon when their feet are at their largest. That way, you leave more room without sacrificing too much of the fit. 2. Take your time Allow your child to try on different styles and sizes. It's essential that they feel comfortable and happy in their new shoes. Let them walk around the store to get a sense of the fit. 3. Listen for feedback Children can often express when a shoe feels too tight or uncomfortable. Pay close attention to their feedback during the shopping process. 4. Consider specialty stores Consider visiting a specialty shoe store if your child has unique foot needs, such as orthotics or extra-wide shoes. The experts at Feet First Clinic can help measure your kid's feet and match them with the perfect shoe.

November 27, 2023

Do You Have Wide Feet? Simple At-Home Tests to Know Your Foot Type

If you've ever struggled to find comfortable shoes, you might have wondered about your foot type. Knowing your foot shape, particularly whether you have wide feet, can be a game-changer when choosing the proper footwear. The good news is there are ways to determine your foot type at home with simple tests. It's important to note that your foot type refers to the entire shape of your foot, including your arch size (i.e.: whether you have flat feet or high arches). However, today, we're going to focus on foot width and tests to help you identify whether you have wide feet. Understanding your foot width is the first step to ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit for your feet. While these tests are not the be-all-end-all for determining whether you have wide feet (after all, shoes sizes vary from brand-to-brand), they may provide useful information: Three simple at-home tests to know whether you have wide feet The wet foot test The wet foot test is a simple DIY test that involves just a pool of water and a piece of paper. To perform a wet foot test: Fill a shallow container, like a basin or a bucket, with water. Wet the soles of both of your feet. Step onto paper or cardboard, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed. Step off and examine the wet imprint your feet left behind. Based on the shape of the imprint, you can use the following guide to determine whether you have narrow, average, or wide feet. Wide feet: If the imprint shows a wide forefoot with minimal curvature on the sides, you likely have wide feet. The width between the ball of your foot and your heel is noticeably broad. Average or standard feet: If your footprint shows a slight curve inward at the arch area, your feet are considered to have an average width. Your foot imprint can also be measured to see the exact width of your foot. Use the wet foot test to measure the width of your foot at its two widest points. Bonus tip: Do both feet. If one is wider than the other—which is common—then account for the wider of your two feet. The shoe size test The shoe size test is even simpler than the wet paper test. All you need is a current pair of shoes. Check the width size on your shoe label. Width sizes are typically marked as narrow (N), average (M or D), wide (W), or extra-wide (XW or E). As a rough guideline, a regular foot width is less than half your size. For example, if you wear a size seven shoe, a regular foot width would be ~3.5 inches. For those who are a size seven and have wide feet, expect more like 3.75-4.25 inches. For more details, see our complete guide on determining whether you have wide feet. Note: Your shoe size and your foot size are not the same. Different companies use different sizing for their shoes, so don't assume you're the same size in all shoe brands. Comfort/fit test The third test is more of a trial and error, but it is definitely the most accurate. Try on a few different pairs of shoes to determine which shoes fit best. Reflect on your experience with shoe shopping. If you frequently find shoes too tight in the forefoot, causing discomfort and sometimes requiring you to size up, this suggests you have wide(r) feet. What are the benefits of knowing your foot type? Now that you know the tests, it's important to understand why knowing your foot type is helpful. The shape and width of your feet can vary significantly from person to person. Identifying your foot type provides the following benefits: Proper footwear. No one shoe fits all. Knowing your foot type allows you to hone in on choosing shoes with the best support and comfort. Prevent discomfort. Reduce the risk of common foot issues by wearing shoes that match your foot width. Proper footwear for your foot type can help prevent discomfort, blisters, and other problems. Enhance performance. Knowing your foot type can narrow your perfect sports footwear, improving your performance and reducing the risk of injuries. Reduce foot and toe pain. If you have pre-existing foot conditions or pain, such as bunions or plantar fasciitis, understanding your foot type - specifically whether you have flat feet, normal arches or high arches, can help you find shoes that alleviate discomfort. With wider feet, opt for a shoe with a wider toe box for added room. Brands such as APEX, ASICS, Saucony, Anodyne and Clarks are known to have wider footwear options.

November 23, 2023

Why Are My Feet Swollen? Unraveling the Causes and Solutions

Swollen feet (edema) can become a concerning foot health problem if you don’t explore ways to manage them. That said, many folks are left in the dark as to why their feet are swelling in the first place. Knowing the causes of swollen feet is the first step towards treatment, and learning solutions and contacting your chiropodist for help is the second step! Causes of Swollen Feet Prolonged standing and sitting Pregnancy Weight gain Diabetes Warm weather Aging Image Credit: iStock Prolonged Standing and Sitting When you stand or sit for extended periods, blood can pool in your lower extremities, especially if your veins are not functioning properly. This can lead to fluid retention and swollen feet and ankles. Pregnancy According to Mayo Clinic, your body retains more fluid during pregnancy and your hormones are thrown out of whack, which both contribute to swollen feet. A growing uterus can also affect your vein and circulation efficiency, causing edema. Image Credit: iStock Weight Gain Weight gain can lead to swollen feet because the additional body weight puts increased pressure on your veins. This pressure can hinder the blood flow back to the heart, causing blood and other fluids to pool in the lower extremities. Diabetes Diabetes can wreak havoc on your feet in many ways. When it comes to swelling, high glucose levels can thicken the arteries, which causes them to lose their elasticity. This impairs blood flow to the feet, causing severe fluid retention. Warm Weather Sometimes the humidity we experience in the summer or during a vacation can cause mild foot swelling. This is called heat edema. It occurs when high temperatures cause the blood vessels to expand, which rapidly moves body fluid downward towards the feet. Aging Unfortunately, our ability to properly circulate blood throughout our bodies lessens as we age. Like diabetes patients, the arteries can lose their elasticity and efficiency. Other risk factors affecting older people include: age-related hormonal changes, mobility problems that encourage a sedentary lifestyle, and medications that cause side effects like swollen feet. Image Credit: iStock Solutions for Swollen Feet Orthopedic Shoes: Many shoes are designed with foot comfort in mind, but orthopedic shoes take it to new heights. They often come with adjustable closures and other features that accommodate swollen feet and prevent foot pain, like extra depth and wide toe boxes. Compression Stockings: From pregnant women, to people who stand at work all day, to those who spend a lot of time cooped up in airplanes — compression stockings can help prevent associated foot swelling. Studies show that calf-length compression stockings with a pressure range between 11 and 21 mmHg are the way to go, but this can vary depending on your needs. Please note compression stockings are not recommended for diabetes patients. Foot Care / Movement: Make sure you get enough movement in your daily life (taking into account disability and mobility troubles, of course!). There are plenty low-impact exercises and stretches that can go a long way for those with a sedentary lifestyle. To fight swelling feet, try exercises that rotate the ankles and move your toes. They may be able to get your muscles pumping and enhance circulation. Light walking can also aid swelling feet. Diet Changes: Eat nutrient-dense foods low in sugar and salt, and stick to small portions to lose weight. Shedding excess weight can have a direct, positive impact on your swollen feet. Check out the best foods to eat for your foot health. Nude and black compression stockings. Image Credit: iStock

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 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

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:

Is Your Foot Pain Urgent? Seek Care ASAP If You’re Experiencing The Following Symptoms:

Sprain or Broken Bone In The Foot Or Ankle

Treatment Options For Sprains And Broken Bones

Swelling

Infection