Is Work Causing Your Foot Pain?

August 14, 2020

Is Work Causing Your Foot Pain? Do My Feet Hurt Because of My Job?

Have you ever thought about how your job or lifestyle choices may affect your feet? Whether you are an athlete, engineer, labour worker, teacher, or health care professional, your feet are very important in your day to day life. And although anyone can develop foot problems, there are certain issues that are more commonly seen in specific professions.

In today’s blog post, we will discuss profession and/or lifestyle specific foot concerns as well as easy tips on how to avoid them. Keeping your feet pain free and in good health will ensure you are less focussed on them and more focussed on doing your job to the best of your ability.

Athlete

Toenail Trauma

The purpose of a toenail is to protect the skin and bone underneath it, which means it takes on quite a bit of distress especially during rigorous activity if not properly protected itself. Due to the enormous amount of strain your feet endure during a game/work out session/training, the fast-paced stop and go motions, and the occasional collision with a member from the opposing team, your toenails are very vulnerable to trauma. Toenails can crack, become bruised, and even fall off. If damaged critically enough or repeatedly, the toenail may exhibit permanent changes such as thickening, discolouration, and stunted growth. Trauma can also encourage fungus to invade and colonize the exposed nail bed leading to stubborn toenail fungus.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal skin infection of your foot that causes skin peeling or a red scaly rash, is another common foot problem seen in athletes. During physical activity, feet can become very sweaty while confined within socks and shoes. This provides a perfect environment for fungi to thrive; dark and moist. Athlete’s foot is also contagious and can be spread from person to person by sharing towels and walking barefoot in gyms and locker rooms.

Solution:

Wear proper shoes that are activity specific and the correct size and fit to avoid injury
Wear toe caps to protect the toenails
Wear moisture-wicking socks
Disinfect the interiors of the shoe
Do not share towels and do not walk barefoot in public spaces

Working With Safety Shoes

Hyperhidrosis

Safety shoes are shoes made to protect an individual who is or may be exposed to hazards in the workplace. They are usually made with a protective material (ie steel, aluminium alloy, carbon fiber) at the toes as well as other sturdy materials at the soles and upper of the shoe. They may be puncture-resistant, slip-resistant, heat resistant, acid-resistant etc. When bought incorrectly, safety shoes can be occlusive and results in excessive sweating also known as hyperhidrosis. Hyperhidrosis and inadequate air circulation in footwear can lead to skin infections, foul odour, and heat rashes.

Solution:

Buy a safety shoe that is protective and breathable
Wear moisture-wicking socks
Change your socks throughout the day when they get too damp
Use foot powders to soak up the excess moisture

Desk Jobs

Swollen legs and feet

If you are sitting for extended periods of time, you may start to notice swelling at your legs and feet by the end of the day. This is because when you are inactive, the muscles in your legs do not help to pump the blood back up to the heart. With age, this can worsen, and swelling can lead to heavy and tired legs, maybe even varicose veins. These are all signs of venous insufficiency, which suggests your veins are not efficiently pushing the blood from your lower extremities back to the heart.

Shortened calf muscle

Some jobs have a dress code, we get it. But, believe it or not, your footwear choices can really affect the anatomy of your feet. For instance, wearing high heels on a regular basis can effectively shorten the calf muscle. Tight calves can produce symptoms such as sudden pain at the back of your calf or heel, especially when the foot is flat on the ground. Sitting with your heels lifted from the ground (tip-toed position) can also lead to this.

Ingrown toenails

Wearing improper footwear can also cause nail issues. Tight-fitting and narrow shoes apply pressure to the toes, pushing them together in a small space, which may encourage toenails to curve and become ingrown over time.

Solution:

Walk around every couple of hours to get the muscles in your calf working
Wear compression stockings
Do not sit with your heels lifted off the ground
Do not wear shoes with a heel higher than 2 inches
Do not wear narrow shoes

Hospital Staff / Health Care Workers / Restaurant / Food Industry

Heel pain/ball of foot pain/arch pain

Working as a healthcare professional, a waiter/waitress, chef, or even a teacher, you are on your feet for most of the day. Unless you have a perfect foot, the sheer time spent on your feet can lead to overuse injuries and soft tissue strains resulting in inflammation and overall foot pain. More often than not, these conditions are caused by faulty foot mechanics.

Solution:

Wear shoes with arch support, good torsional stability, and adequate cushioning
Wear orthotic inserts
If pain is worsening or consistent, have your feet assessed by a foot care professional

As always, if you have serious concerns with your feet, do not wait to seek attention from a Licensed Chiropodist.

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All under one roof! Our team is trained to handle any and all your foot health concerns. From mild, to critical, we cover all sides of the foot needs spectrum. Call us to ask about actionable steps towards your solution today!

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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!

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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 20, 2023

Common Foot Problems in Women: Treatment and Prevention

Since women are more likely to experience foot pain and conditions, a significant focus of women's health should always be foot health. According to Foot Health Facts, narrow footwear that cramps the forefoot and squeezes the toes is the primary reason women are prime targets for foot health issues. Furthermore, common foot problems in women can arise after years of wearing shoes with little arch support and unstable heels. Today's article will discuss the most common foot problems women struggle with and prevention and treatment options. Common Foot Problems in Women Bunions Plantar fasciitis Arthritis Hammertoes Plantar Fasciitis Medical News Today notes women risk developing plantar fasciitis more than men. This may be due to post-pregnancy foot changes and the effects of wearing unsupportive footwear for years; both can lead to plantar fascia strain and subsequent stabbing heel pain. The best way for women to prevent and treat this painful condition is to only wear high heels on special occasions and choose comfortable heels with cushioning and a stable heel. For daily activities, opt for shoes with sufficient arch and heel support (most important) and thick soles and cushioning. But it's also important to find shoes with that create a healthy environment for your feet (i.e.: enough room in the toe box, breathability, etc.) to prevent other conditions. Maintaining a healthy weight can also prevent too much pressure on the plantar fascia. To help, women can stretch their feet and perform daily exercises that work the plantar fascia and calf muscles (see an example below!). And lastly, orthotics with arch support can distribute the pressure on your feet more evenly. https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908317/ Bunions Again, low-quality shoes are the main culprit behind women developing bunions, but genetics may also play a role. Bunions may also be at their worst during menopause or pregnancy. Some women may require intervention from a surgeon to eliminate severe bunions. But many can try non-invasive methods like bunion pads, inserts and orthotics, and frequent rest periods with compression and ice packs. The most worthwhile preventative measure is changing your shoes and giving your feet the support and room they deserve. Ensure all shoes have enough room in the toe box (cramped toes are a major risk factor for bunions) and are not too narrow. Arthritis Research suggests post-menopausal women suffer more from osteoarthritis than men because of estrogen fluctuations. There may be a connection between pre-menopausal estrogen levels and joint and cartilage health. Targeted exercises are one of the best ways to prevent and treat most types of arthritis (not just osteoarthritis!). Moreover, Feet First Clinic's beginner's guide to exercises for arthritis Part 1 and Part 2 outline beneficial exercises, the steps involved and why they're so useful. These routines also consider that arthritis can be very limiting and ensures all movements are manageable. Other forms of treatment include braces or canes (in severe cases), anti-inflammatory pain relievers, orthotics that support the ankle and the foot (also good for prevention), physiotherapy and orthopedic footwear. Hammertoes Like bunions, hammertoes affect women because they are more likely to wear excessively tight and unsupportive shoes, causing the toes' middle joints to bend more and more over time. To avoid and manage pre-existing hammertoes, ensure your shoes have at least half an inch of room between the toes and the end of the shoe. Additionally, women should avoid high heels on most days and only wear them if the heel is a "reasonable" height. It may also be wise to buy shoes with stretchy fabrics and avoid excessive fabric layers. They can force your toes into uncomfortable positions and make it difficult to accommodate pre-existing hammertoes. Inserts and pads can also be helpful for women by positioning the toes and feet more favourably. Furthermore, a chiropodist can use a splint or some tape to fix your toe in the proper, straight position. Several medical devices can help with toe conditions

April 13, 2023

Foot Care for Women Over 40

It’s a fact that your body changes as you age. Your hair, your skin’s elasticity, your weight --- pretty much everything requires more attention. This is also true for your feet, and foot care for women over 40 is much more important than you may think. According to an article from UChicago Medicine, women’s feet change during middle age because the tissues become looser, leading to a “sagging” arch and a wider foot. Getting older will also reduce your foot’s natural cushioning ability as the sole's fat pads get thinner. Women over 40 must also pay attention to their foot health because menopause can cause additional issues, like foot odour due to excessive perspiration and swollen feet due to high blood pressure. Foot Care For Women Over 40 Foot checks with your chiropodist, preventative care to address common foot problems, and investing in medical products and supportive footwear are some of the best practices. But here are some simple, specific ways to execute foot care: Exercises Footwear Orthotics Additional foot care ideas Exercises Regular stretching and exercising can help treat and prevent several common foot problems women over 40 may struggle with, like arthritis, bunions, hammertoes and diabetes. These exercises are easy to perform and suitable for anybody with mobility issues. Gentle exercises can do the following: Loosen up the muscles, tendons and ligaments in the feet. Strengthen your feet so you can withstand everyday activities as you get older. This is especially important for the foot’s tiny intrinsic muscles (which stabilize the foot and support the arches). Increase your range of motion, balance and flexibility. Check out these resources for the best exercises and stretches for women over 40: Feet First Clinic Stretches Pinterest Board A Beginner’s Guide to Exercises for Relieving Arthritis: Part 1 A Beginner’s Guide to Exercises for Relieving Arthritis: Part 2 The Perfect Stretching Routine 5 Foot Pain Stretches for Women Over 65 Footwear and Orthotics Women in their 40s should ditch unsupportive shoes. While it may be okay to wear certain types of high heels on rare occasions (there are comfortable options!), wearing them too often can worsen pre-existing arthritis (or increase your chances of developing it) by wearing down your joints. High heels, while tempting to wear, can also force your toes into a cramped position, leaving you at risk of developing bunions (or making them worse). The unsteady nature of high heels can also pose an ankle injury risk. Flip-flops and flats with no arch support are big no-nos as well. Instead, opt for shoes with enough arch support, and try stability shoes if you experience ankle arthritis. Choose shoes with a wide toe box to accommodate age-related foot widening, and consider looking into wide footwear. Wearing custom orthotics with your everyday footwear also adds an extra layer of protection and comfort. They provide stability and support, correct any abnormal gait patterns you may develop due to foot changes, and protect joints and muscles from wear and tear. Additional Foot Care Ideas for Women Over 40 Skincare: Clean and thoroughly dry your feet, and use a moisturizer twice a day. Women over 40 are more likely to experience calluses, cracked heels, and dryer skin. This is because the foot’s fat pad cushioning diminishes with age, placing more pressure on the area and wearing down the skin. Clean, moisturized skin will also combat foot odour. Shoe sizing: Women over 40 (especially those who have been pregnant) have flatter arches, which increases your foot’s width. This will leave your old shoes feeling too small and increases your risk of developing bone deformities (bunions, hammertoes). Make sure you don't buy new shoes until you try them on and know they fit properly. Remember: different brands have different sizing systems, so don't get attached to the number - fit is what matters most. Medical pedicures: These pedicures help your toenails look amazing and focus on skin and callus care, as well as foot odour - so you can sit back, relax and let your foot care specialist do the work for you.

April 6, 2023

What are Corns and Calluses: Prevention and Treatment

Corns and calluses on the surface of your feet can be a warning to pay better attention to your foot health. Specialists discuss corns and calluses simultaneously because both conditions are caused by your body protecting your feet from friction or pressure. Likewise, the same treatment and prevention methods help both pesky skin problems. Today's blog will discuss the preventative measures you can take to ward off calluses and corns and the treatments a chiropodist can perform. Corns vs. Calluses The causes of calluses and corns are similar, but it's important to note a few key points. The term "corn" derives from their appearance as round, hardened skin resembling a piece of corn. Calluses encompass a large, rough and thick area of the foot. Corns usually appear on the top or side of the toe. Calluses can spring up anywhere on the foot that bears weight, like the heel, big toe, ball of the foot and side of the foot. Both conditions are not usually painful but may feel tender if you continuously walk on them. Corns may feel slightly more painful since they're a more concentrated area. To read more about calluses and how they form, click here. To read more about corns and how they form, click here. How to Prevent Corns and Calluses Prevention of calluses and corns starts with the footwear you choose. Shoes with too much or too little overall room can be a risk factor: When shoes fit loosely, the foot slides forward excessively, creating friction and leading to corn and callus development. When shoes are too tight, consistent pressure will lead to the same result as loose-fitting shoes. That's why it's essential to look for shoes that properly fit your feet and leave enough room in the toe box (especially important for corns). Sometimes, biomechanical issues can make a person especially vulnerable to corns and calluses. In these cases, custom orthotics may be helpful as they correct any biomechanical abnormalities that can be causing excess friction and pressure on parts of the foot. Further, they add an extra layer of defence between your foot and friction via the arch support they provide. Orthotics also help manage hammertoes, a pre-existing risk factor for corns. Treatment Options for Corns and Calluses In general, non-painful calluses and corns can go away independently with footwear modifications. But there are occasions when chiropody and podiatry services must enter the picture. For instance, if you notice inflammation, redness and intense pain in the affected area, you should seek treatment. It is extremely important to never attempt to remove a callus or corn from home! Furthermore, those with diabetes should ensure a chiropodist regularly tends to their corns and calluses because diabetes prevents them from healing properly. In addition, diabetic neuropathy can prevent the patient from noticing if corns and calluses are getting worse and entering ulcer territory. Chiropodists can remove thick calluses during a medical pedicure. This is also a preventative treatment as the entire treatment process strengthens the skin's protective barrier. Chiropodists can also shave down corns and calluses with sterilized tools before applying the right creams or ointments to ensure skin repair. In addition, they can recommend medical-grade products like corn foot pads and foot devices to reduce friction.

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.

March 23, 2023

Understanding and Managing Foot Pain in Diabetic Patients

Diabetes is a serious illness that affects people from all over the world. Type 1 or type 2 diabetes can lead to several complications, like heart disease, kidney problems, vision issues, oral health deterioration, and more. But one of the most common problems diabetes patients face is diabetic foot pain and other foot problems that can transform into serious complications when left unchecked. Today's blog will discuss the following: The causes of diabetic foot pain Diabetes-related foot complications Diabetic foot pain treatment at a foot clinic Self-care tips and at-home diabetic foot care Photo by Artem Podrez from Pexels What Causes Diabetic Foot Pain? The main culprit behind type 1 and type 2 diabetes-related foot pain is diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes patients struggle with four types of neuropathy, all of which cause nerve damage: Peripheral Neuropathy: This is the most relevant categorization of neuropathy when discussing foot pain causes. It affects the lower extremities (feet and legs), arms and hands. It occurs when high blood sugar and triglyceride levels damage the nerves and tiny blood vessels in the circulatory system, causing poor blood flow. Symptoms include shooting foot pain, "pins and needles," numbness, weakness and burning sensations. Autonomic Neuropathy: This is similar to peripheral, except the nerve damage affects the body's organs rather than the limbs. Proximal Neuropathy: A rare type of nerve damage that causes severe hip, buttock, or thigh pain. Focal Neuropathies: Rare singular/local (hence "focal") nerve damage, typically in the hand, head, torso, or leg. Diabetes-Related Foot Complications Whether it's numbness or pain, it is extremely important to pay attention to the warning signs your feet give when you have diabetes. Moreover, your feet often fail to signal problems to your brain due to neuropathy. This means you also need to consistently inspect your feet and visit a foot specialist for an extra set of eyes and expertise (more on that later!) If you don't, debilitating complications with varying degrees of pain and discomfort may creep up. These include: Skin changes like dry skin and cracked heels. This occurs due to nerve damage preventing your body's natural oil and moisture production. If you cannot feel cold, heat and other sensations on your feet, you may be unaware of a foot injury. This can lead to a worsening injury or infection if the skin is broken and you haven't noticed. Calluses are common in people with diabetes, and the more they thicken, the more likely they are to become an ulcer (open sores or lesions that will not heal). Peripheral artery disease (plaque buildup in the arteries) can arise in diabetic patients. Like neuropathy, it reduces blood flow, so you don't notice ulcers, infections and injuries. Aggressive infections and ulcers without treatment can lead to gangrene or amputations. Edema (swelling): This is caused by nerve damage and the subsequent fluid buildup in the body's lower extremities. Swelling can cause pain and mobility problems. Diabetic Foot Pain Treatment at a Foot Clinic Since diabetes impacts our feet, patients should find a chiropodist and schedule regular appointments. The general recommendation is no less than once yearly but more frequently if nerve damage is present. Not only can foot specialists help with pain management, but consistent foot inspections are critical for spotting the beginning stages of a complication. Some of the main ways chiropodists help with diabetic foot pain include: Skin health assessments and maintenance Foot assessments Custom orthotics Footwear recommendations Skin Health Assessments and Maintenance This is one of the most important jobs a chiropodist will do. They can notice signs of ulcer development, infections and other skin abnormalities. Chiropodists also perform regular diabetic foot care on diabetes patients, so they don't develop ingrown toenails or fungal infections. Foot Assessments Your chiropodist will check your vascular (circulation) health via regular inspections. They will also check your foot temperature, look for swelling, and check the colour of your feet. They can also ask what type of foot sensations you're feeling, like tingling, shooting pain or burning and proceed from there. This is included with Feet First Clinic's diabetic foot care services. Custom Orthotics Orthotics make walking much easier, as they distribute body weight evenly across the foot while reducing pressure and friction and relieving the foot's pressure points. They also help regulate your motion and correct any abnormal gait patterns you develop while struggling with foot pain. Chiropodists can provide orthotics via a thorough a biomechanical assessment. Footwear Recommendations Footwear modifications can help reduce diabetic foot pain, and the special shapes and designs of orthpaedic footwear can accommodate neuropathy symptoms more successfully than standard footwear. Diabetic patients often need deep shoes to support orthotics and to manage the discomfort and pain they experience when dealing with swelling. Diabetes patients also need footwear with little to no seams in order to reduce pressure points and friction against the foot. Companies such as APEX and Anodyne make shoes especially for diabetes patients. Self-Care Tips and At-Home Diabetic Foot Care Orthopedic slippers can help manage foot pain and allow you to move around your home more freely. Soak your feet in a warm foot bath to ease stress and soothe aches and pains. Try your best to regulate blood sugar levels to help fight nerve damage. Inspect your feet and keep them clean. Note: do not try to get rid of calluses and other skin abnormalities on your own. Schedule an appointment with your chiropodist if you notice callus buildup or skin problems. Keep on top of diabetes routines not directly related to your feet. This includes proper medication management and regularly checking your blood pressure at the local pharmacy and doctor's office. Light exercises and stretches can be beneficial for diabetic foot pain. For example, rolling your feet on a ball (or water bottle) or scrunching your toes to pick up a towel can strengthen your feet. And those are just two examples! Most foot stretches are easy to perform and relieve pain in different ways. Low-impact activities like swimming and walking can also be beneficial.

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Is Work Causing Your Foot Pain?

Is Work Causing Your Foot Pain? Do My Feet Hurt Because of My Job?

Athlete

Working With Safety Shoes

Desk Jobs

Hospital Staff / Health Care Workers / Restaurant / Food Industry

Your Solutions Live Here!

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

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

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Related Posts

Understanding and Treating Bunions: A Comprehensive Guide

Common Foot Problems in Women: Treatment and Prevention

Foot Care for Women Over 40

What are Corns and Calluses: Prevention and Treatment

Foot Pain: Causes and Treatment

Understanding and Managing Foot Pain in Diabetic Patients

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