Itchy Top of Feet: Common Causes and Effective Treatments

Written by Brittany Stuckless on September 28, 2023

Last updated August 7, 2024

Medically reviewed by Peyman Alishahi, D. Ch.

There’s nothing quite as annoying as an itch that just won’t let up. And when it’s a tough-to-reach area like our feet, it’s even worse. But luckily, with the help of your local Toronto chiropodist and a little foot care, itchy feet are achievable! Your first step is understanding what foot condition might be causing your itchy feet and then learning about top treatment methods.

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Causes of Itchy Feet

Athlete’s foot
Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis
Contact dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis
Additional causes

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is causes itchiness on top of the feet, often on and between the toes. Both adults and kids can contract it by walking on contaminated floors without shoes (locker rooms, public showers, etc) or sharing towels and other items. The excessive itching will eventually produce a scaly rash.

Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

Both conditions cause dry, itchy patches of skin to form on the feet, with psoriatic arthritis producing additional, painful arthritic symptoms. Medical News Today notes that psoriasis can also lead to pus-filled blisters on the soles of the feet.

Contact Dermatitis

This is an allergic reaction to a product that touches your feet. New fragrant lotions, fabrics or detergents you’ve never tried may be the offender. The itchy rash forms along the area that touched the allergen.

Atopic Dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis is a medical term for eczema. It is a chronic, non-contagious condition that often develops during childhood and lingers into adulthood. In addition to extreme itchiness, it can cause inflamed red skin, swelling, cracking and may produce a clear fluid if you keep scratching.

Additional Causes of Itchy Feet

Woman gardening and scratching bug bites on the lower legs

Keep in mind that itchy feet can have numerous other causes — here are some more you may recognize:

Diseases like liver disease, kidney disease and cancer
Bug bites (check to see if you have bites in other areas too)
Scarring
General dry skin
Diabetes-related neuropathy. Read about the connection between neuropathy and diabetic ulcers.
Chilblains (reaction to cold temperatures)

Treatments for Itchy Feet

Woman practicing self care on sofa moisturizing lower legs

General Self Care

Morning and evening foot care routines can soothe the nagging itch from many conditions. This includes moisturizing, exfoliating, and enjoying warm foot baths. Try medicinal products from companies like Gehwol; they use ingredients that promote foot health and steer clear of harmful chemicals and fragrances.

Medical Pedicures

When a chiropodist performs a medical pedicure, you also get the added benefit of a thorough cleaning and moisturizing season that relieves itchy feet and may protect you from future flare-ups. Skipping cosmetic pedicures and opting for medical ones can also help you avoid further contamination from nail salons.

Medications and Anti-Fungal Products

If you have athlete’s foot, it might not respond to self-care and nonprescription products. In this case, you may need to try an anti-fungal ointment, cream or spray recommended by a chiropodist. Serious infections may warrant oral anti-fungal pills.

Furthermore, those with contact dermatitis can try over-the-counter antihistamines like Benadryl, Claritin and Allegra.

Don't Let Your Itchy Feet Slow You Down!

It’s important to speak to a Toronto foot specialist and your family doctor to understand what’s causing your itchy feet. Their combined expertise will give you peace of mind and advice on how to proceed. At Feet First Clinic, we have the skills and knowledge to help you combat itchy feet once and for all. Call us at (416) 769-3338 or book an appointment!

First and third body images from Freepik!

About Author: Brittany Stuckless

Brittany holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Language and Literature from Memorial University of Newfoundland. With a diverse background in journalism and marketing, she got her start as a freelance content writer. She currently works as a Marketing Assistant at Real Food for Real Kids in addition to her role as a writer at Feet First Clinic. Previously, Brittany has been a journalist for the Ontario Learning Development Foundation and Immigrant Muse magazine, and an Administrative and Marketing Assistant at Evolve Chiropractic and Physiotherapy. Originally from Newfoundland, she has lived in Toronto since 2014.

Learn more about Brittany Stuckless

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April 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

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

October 16, 2019

4 Reasons You Have Pain on the Bottom of Your Foot

Pain on the bottom of your foot can significantly alter your lifestyle. Because so much of what we do every day involves our feet, it's important to take the proper precautions and treatments to ensure our feet are feeling at its best. But, because we're on them so much, whether it's for work, exercise, or for pleasure, our feet are susceptible to injury. Below, we break down four common injuries and reasons for why you may be experiencing pain on the underside of your foot. Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common injuries among runners, let alone the general population. The pain comes from irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick tissue on the bottom of the foot. You generally feel pain in the heel and the arch. If you experience plantar fasciitis, follow the RICE method - rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Giving your body rest allows the inflammation to go down, and for the irritation of the tissue to subside. An additional trick: fill a bottle full of water and freeze it. Once frozen, while sitting, rest your foot on the bottle and roll back and forth. This acts as both a massage tool to break up the tissue and encourage blood flow, as well as a way to reduce inflammation with cold therapy. Depending on the circumstance, custom orthotics may also help with plantar fasciitis by providing additional heel support. Ill-fitting footwear could be one of the causes of the injury in the first place, so a simple solution like new shoes or orthotics may be your best bet. Additional prevention measures include calf raises, foot doming and towel pickups. If you have persistent heel pain, schedule a diagnostic assessment with our own licensed Chiropodists (foot specialists), use the booking form below or call 416-769-FEET(3338). Heel spurs A heel spur is a bony outgrowth on the underside of the heel. A spur could be the reason you experience pain on the bottom of your foot. If you experience intense heel pain that seems to get worse over time, a heel spur may be the culprit. Heel swelling and a visible bump on your heel are also signs that you may be experiencing a heel spur. Unfortunately, without surgery, there’s no way to remove a heel spur. But, with the proper treatments and precautions, you can limit the damage and pain associated with the injury. Stretching and strengthening exercises, properly fitted custom orthotics, over-the-counter insoles, and taking ill-fitting footwear out of rotation can all help with heel spurs. Typically, as is the case with most injuries, heel spurs develop because of overuse. Recurrent strain on the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that connect to the heel bone can cause heel spurs . In response to stress, the heel bone “fortifies” itself by depositing extra bone on the existing bone. If you experience pain in the toe area, a bone spur in that area may too be the culprit. Morton’s Neuroma Have you ever felt like there’s a pebble in your shoe that you can’t seem to get rid of? It may be Morton’s neuroma. Morton’s neuroma is a type of nerve compression syndrome which involves nerves in the lesser toes. It is characterized by fibrosis and thickening of nerve tissue between the third and fourth intermetatarsal space and is a result of repetitive trauma. Pain is typically in the area between the third and fourth toes. Because of the area of the injury, ill-fitting shoes, specifically those with a narrow toe box, can be the cause. By forcing your toes inwards and squeezing them into a small area, you put more pressure on your third and fourth toes. According to the Mayo Clinic, high-heeled shoes have been linked to the development of Morton's neuroma. Many people experience relief by switching to lower heeled shoes with wider toe boxes. Sometimes corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary. Common treatment methods include custom orthotics, wearing shoes with a wider toe box, like Altras for example, and using metatarsal pads, which are placed under the ball of the foot and act to open the intermetatarsal space and reduce irritation of nerve tissue. Sesamoiditis There are many types of tendonitis in the foot, but sesamoiditis is pain in the tendons close to your big toe. This type of pain is prominent in athletes including gymnasts and runners because of the pressure on the ball of the feet. According to Healthline, the primary symptom of sesamoiditis is pain that develops under the ball of the foot. The pain tends to build gradually, and you may notice some swelling or bruising. Often, bending and straightening your big toe can be difficult, and you may experience popping sensations when you walk. As tendonitis is inflammation and overuse of the tendons, sesamoiditis is exactly that: overuse of the tendons near your big toe. Also, tenderness near your toes is a sign as is the toe's flexibility. Typically, mild cases of sesamoiditis are treated with rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medicines. If pain persists, visit a professional to be properly diagnosed and for best next steps. Our Toronto foot clinic is open Monday-Friday 10 a.m.- 7 p.m., Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. You do not need a referral to become a patient at our foot clinic. We are located at 2481 Bloor Street West Have pain on the top of your foot and not the bottom? Read about why you might be experiencing pain on the top of your foot.

October 7, 2024

5 Ways Orthotics Can Be Customized for Maximum Comfort and Support

Many people don’t know what goes into their custom orthotics – not just the materials, but the technology that creates a comfortable orthotic. In this post, learn about all the different accomodations and orthotic customizations available to make your feet happy! https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IBXAXoUouFY?feature=share What Are Orthotic Customizations and Accomodations Additions and Accommodations are very common parts of custom orthotics. They are used if a normal over-the-counter insole just won’t cut it. For example, if a patient has a neuroma or a misaligned gait, an orthotic without custom support won’t have anywhere near the same effectiveness. Here is a list of the most common orthotic customizations and accommodations for custom orthotics. Heel Modifications Firstly we have heel modifications. These are some of the most common additions to keep your feet comfortable and supported: Cushion – Adds additional padding and shock absorption on the heel. Heel cushions cover the whole heel. Cushioning the heel is helpful for a variety of foot conditions, like plantar fasciitis and arthritis. It essentially reduces the strain and impact of your step. Lift – Heel lifts can balance out differences in leg height and to prevent overpronation or supination. They can also be used to help with Achillies tendonitis. They're made of a harder material for balance. Hole – Heel holes are used to help with heel spurs. Cushioning can be added to increase comfort and distribute pressure in the heel. Seat – A Heel seat gives the patient more control if they overpronate. It's designed to hold the fatty tissue under the calcaneus in place. Metatarsal Modifications These orthotic customizations are designed to take pressure off of your metatarsals (the ball of your foot). They are helpful for anyone experiencing foot pain at the ball of their foot just below the toes. 1st Ray Cutout - Helps to offload pressure off 1st metatarsal head (the big toe). This is used to help with bunions and arthritis. 2-4 Metatarsal Pad – This is a teardrop shaped pad that sits below the metatarsals. It takes some of the load off the metatarsals by offloading pressure at ball of foot and elevating the second, third, and fourth metatarsals. Metatarsal Bar – This is similar to 2-4 metatarsal pads, but has more surface area and offloads more pressure from the metatarsal heads. It can provide more stress relief in some cases. Neuroma Pad – This is a small pad that sits between metatarsals and spreads them apart. It is designed to correct the transverse arch and help with pain in the metatarsals. As the name suggests, it is can help people experiencing a Morton's neuroma. Arch Support Moving on, we have arch support, which is important for everyone - regardless of whether you have a foot condition - but moreso for people who struggle with plantar fasciitis and arch pain. Arch Pad – Additonal support on the arch for patients who need more arch support. Fill – Arch fills make the orthotic more rigid. This is used to help the orthotic to support more weight. It can also be used to help somewhat with controlling the midtarsal joints. Additional Accommodations Finally, we have modifications that don't really fit into the previous categories. These are all very common additions that are often put in orthotics: Morton’s Extension – Extra length under 1st metatarsal to keep it rigid. It helps during the push off phase of gait and can be rigid if patient has hallux rigidus or limitus. It immobilizes and offsets pressure on the first met joint. Reverse Morton’s – This increases the mobility of the first met joint. The pad sits under the 2nd to the 5th met head and ends before the first. Dancer Pad – Offloads the ball of the foot. It works by taking weight off of the big toe joint and dispersing it. Scaphoid Pad - This is used to help support the mid and back foot. Helps take pressure off the joints and bones in the arch. While these are the most common accommodations found on orthotics, there are many more! To learn more about how orthotics can be modified and customized to suit your unique foot needs, check out this Website. What Orthotic is Right For Me? A licensed chiropodist can determine what orthotic customizations and features are best for you. The chiropodist would first do a biomechanical assessment and gait analysis. They'll then diagnose your foot condition and make recommendations. Remember - orthotics are just one part of the equation when it comes to treating foot pain. While they can be beneficial for many common foot conditions, it's recommended to also explore other treatment options first, like supportive footwear, exercises and stretches. If your chiropodist recommends orthotics, they'll discuss the different options and customizations available, and which ones will work best for your foot condition. They'll also take into account your activities and the footwear you'd be wearing the orthotics with. The chiropodist will then take a 3D scan of your foot and send it off to the lab to make your orthotics. You would then see the chiropodist a few weeks later for a fitting appointment, at which time the chiropodist will check that the orthotics are constructed properly and working the way they should. If everything checks out, you can take them home! We also recommend coming back about 6 to 8 weeks after your fitting for a follow-up appointment to see if your orthotics are helping with your foot pain. If they aren't, the chiropodist can modify the orthotics. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/pO5oWb6S5MA?feature=share

September 30, 2024

Fall Footwear Trends: What’s Safe and Healthy This Fall

It's time to refresh your wardrobe with the latest fall footwear trends! While staying stylish is important, it's equally crucial to ensure your feet remain safe, comfortable, and healthy throughout the season. In this guide, we’ll explore the best shoe types and features that offer protection from the elements and minimize foot pain. The Best Fall Shoe Styles Just because safe fall shoes are practical, it doesn’t mean they can’t be fashionable. While shopping, look for designs that complement your wardrobe while still offering the comfort and protection you need. You also need to make sure your shoe always corresponds properly with your activity of choice. Also, consider specific needs: from seniors to children to construction workers, every foot is unique. Fall shoe styles for this season include: Foot-friendly fall ankle boots for everyday wear. These can be simple in style and include laces or easy slip-ons made mostly of leather with pull-tabs or pull-loops. But, there are also versions designed for fall adventures and challenges with extra shock absorption and waterproofing. Speaking of shock absorption and waterproofing, this also applies to running shoes and athletic shoes for fall. Look for extra traction to prevent falls and foot injuries on slippery wet surfaces and on your favourite trail excursions. Our top picks are the Saucony Excursion GTX or the ASICS Gel-Sonoma. They're both hiking shoes with great grip and cushioning. They have a Gore-TEX upper, which is both waterproof and breathable. The Saucony Excursion GTX Heeled or platform boots that pair with your favourite dressy attire. Combat boot with an elevated sole, like the Clarks Torhill Rise, are on trend. These boots are out there, and waiting to be worn with your best duds! Brand That Make Healthy Fall Footwear Our downtown Toronto foot clinic carries only the best-of-the-best trendy and comfortable shoes. These may rotate sometimes, so be sure to stop by or call to ask what we have in stock. We often carry these brands that make first-rate fall footwear: Saucony: A great source for waterproof hiking shoes to keep your feet dry in wet conditions. ASICS: Another great option for waterproof hiking shoes. They also make waterproof running shoes. Ara: Ara makes stylish cushioned dress shoes, waterproof ankle boots and winter boots for when the weather starts to turn. Clarks: Clarks carries an array of fashionable boots. Mephisto: Mephisto's All Rounder collection has a variety of ankle-hiking boots, like the Nigata-TEX and Satika-TEX. They also have some great waterproof walking shoes that are perfect for fall. More Fall Footwear Essentials to Consider: Shoes may steal the spotlight in fall footwear, but they’re not the whole show. Here are more fall must-haves: Orthopedic slippers you can wear inside: These are great for people with musculoskeletal conditions like plantar fasciitis, Morton’s neuroma, metatarsalgia, and more, because they often have moulded foot beds and deep heel cups to provide arch support. One example is the Aetrex Mandy (below). Custom orthotics or insoles to wear with your footwear:. Check that your fall shoes have removable footbeds to accommodate these. Compression stockings to stimulate blood flow and keep your feet extra toasty. Moisture-wicking socks to control foot odour and ward off fungal infections.

September 26, 2024

The Role of Orthotics in Supporting Foot Health and Correcting Alignment

Orthotics are supportive, custom devices designed to improve the alignment and function of the feet, ankles, and lower limbs. They aim to address specific issues like flat feet, overpronation, or arch support. This can help alleviate discomfort and prevent injuries by redistributing pressure and correcting abnormal movement patterns. Adequately fitted orthotics can significantly enhance comfort and mobility, making daily activities more manageable and pain-free. Custom orthotics can make a big difference, but how exactly do orthotics correct foot alignment? And how do they work? Let's explain. What are orthotics? Orthotics are specialized, custom-designed insoles that you place inside your shoes. They come in many forms, and are molded and constructed specific to your unique foot needs. Their main job is to support and correct the alignment of your feet, which can help address various foot and lower limb issues. They essentially promote healthy biomechanics to ensure your body moves the way it's designed to. Orthotics are custom-made specifically for your feet by a chiropodist (foot specialist). The chiropodist will do a biomechanical and gait analysis, and then take a mold of your foot (typically with a 3D digital scanner). The chiropodist then custom-designs the orthotics according to your specific needs, and a lab then constructs the orthotics according to the chiropodist's instructions. It's important to note that while orthotics can be beneficial, they may not be suitable for everyone and can have some drawbacks, such as initial discomfort and the need for regular maintenance. Custom orthotics are more expensive than over-the-counter options, but they are an investment in your future — they may allow you to avoid more severe issues and chronic pain long-term, and can address foot concerns that over-the-counter insoles cannot. Not to mention, they are longer-lasting. How orthotics correct foot alignment? Orthotics are meant to modify how your foot moves and distributes pressure. They can help with several conditions, including: Flat feet: Orthotics can support fallen arches to maintain and prop up the natural contours of your foot. High arches: When you have high arches, excessive pressure is placed over a very small area of your foot. Orthotics help by cushioning and distributing pressure more evenly. If pressure is unevenly distributed across your feet, you're at a higher risk of overworking neighbouring parts of your foot. Overpronation: If your feet roll inward too much when you walk or run (called "overpronation), orthotics can help correct this movement. They do this by creating a barrier to your foot's inward movement, which corrects the overpronation. (Interesting fact: people with flat feet are prone to overpronation, so the treatment for the two conditions is often the same). Heel pain: Orthotics can reduce the strain on the plantar fascia and help alleviate heel pain. By correcting foot alignment, orthotics can provide significant relief from pain and prevent future issues. The feet are our body's foundation, so when your feet are moving properly, it helps the rest of our body move properly. That allows muscles and joints to work the way they were designed to without being over-stressed. This then helps reduce pain - not only in our feet, but the rest of our body too! Types of orthotics There are many different types of orthotics designed for different footwear and activities. Click here to learn more! Benefits beyond pain relief Orthotics don't just help with pain—they can also play a proactive role in enhancing overall foot and body health. Proper alignment can lead to better posture, reduced knee and hip stress, and improved gait. Athletes often use orthotics to boost performance by optimizing foot mechanics, which then reduces the strain on the rest of their joints. How to choose the right orthotics If you're considering orthotics, here's what to keep in mind: Consult a professional: A chiropodist can help determine if you need custom orthotics through a biomechanical assessment. They can then prescribe, design and fit your orthotics based on your activities and specific foot concerns. A chiropodist may also recommend footwear and over-the-insole options to test out first before going the custom route. Consider your activities: Choose orthotics that match your lifestyle. For instance, if you're a runner, look for ones designed to absorb shock and provide stability. If you work in a setting with a formal dress code, you may want to opt for slimmer dress orthotics that will fit into your dress shoes. Look at the full picture: Orthotics alone likely won't solve all your foot concerns. They're just part of the equation. You'll also want to ensure your wearing proper footwear and maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. If you have chronic pain or a conditions like arthritis, regular exercise and stretching is very important to build strength in your feet and ankles. Orthotics are essentially meant to supplement a healthy lifestyle - not substitute it. How to get the most out of your orthotics Once you have your orthotics, wear them regularly to see the best results. They take some time to get used to, so gradually increase the time you wear them daily. Also, remember that orthotics are just one part of foot health—maintaining a proper exercise routine and suitable footwear are equally important. To ensure the longevity of your orthotics, clean them regularly and follow any specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer or your chiropodist.

September 23, 2024

Preparing Your Feet for Fall: Essential Tips for Comfort and Support

The leaves are starting to change colour and the temperatures are taking a dip! What does that mean for your feet? A lot! Seasonal changes have a big impact on our foot health, which is why it's important to prepare your feet for fall — especially if you have a foot condition. To help you our, we compiled our Toronto foot specialists' top foot care tips for fall to keep your feet comfortable and healthy as you transition into cooler days. From selecting the right footwear to vigilant skin care, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping you cozy and supported. Moisturizing, Skin Care and Protection We all get thirsty, and the same thing happens to your skin — especially when the summer’s humidity is replaced with colder air that prevents it from retaining moisture. One of the best ways to prepare your feet for fall is by focusing on hydrating your skin. Moisturizing your feet regularly will help you fight painful issues, like cracked heels. Incorporate a rich foot cream, like Gehwol’s Salve for Cracked Skin, if you notice dry cracks in your heels. For a more preventative approach, moisturize every day to lock in moisture and keep your skin soft, and then exfoliate to remove dead skin cells. This lets the moisturizer penetrate deeply. Try the universally beneficial Soft Feet Cream from Gehwol; it binds moisture to the deepest layers of the skin and strengthens its natural defence. Learn more with our comprehensive moisturizing guide. Fall Shoe Tips and Supportive Fall Footwear Cold air can exacerbate foot pain by messing with your blood circulation. Healthy shoes can help offset this and make a world of difference. Look for cozy fall boots, ideal for everyday wear. These include ankle boots with sturdy soles, a solid grip to prevent falls, good arch support, and cushioning. Additionally, consider shoes made from waterproof materials, like Gore-Tex fabric, to protect against the elements. Not only will this help with fall foot comfort, but it will also keep your feet dry and warm as the weather cools down. Damp feet can cause issues like infections and foot odour. For those extra cold days, you should wear boots with soft materials, like fleece or shearling, for insulation against the cold. You never know when the snow falls and below-zero temperatures will begin, so having a pair of boots like this ready to wear is always wise. Lastly, your fall shoes might work even better if you wear them with custom orthotics or high-quality Superfeet insoles. Ask your chiropodist if they can help you. Our Toronto foot clinic is known for our excellent shoe shopping tips, particularly for the fall and winter. We can also provide a complimentary shoe fitting service for when you don’t know where to start with your fall shoe hunting. Foot Conditions Requiring Extra Care in Fall If you have arthritis or diabetes, fall foot care is even more important. That's why one of our top fall foot care tips is to pay close attention to your foot health and regularly visit your chiropodist so they can keep an eye on your feet - especially if you have vulnerable feet. Arthritis sufferers may find that the cold exacerbates joint stiffness and pain. The lower temperatures can cause muscles to tighten, putting additional strain on already sensitive joints. For people with diabetes, the reduced blood circulation can be extra dangerous and worsen the body’s already compromised healing abilities. Ulcers, infections and even frostbite can be big problems during the chilly months.

September 19, 2024

Foot Care for Runners: Preventing Injuries and Maximizing Performance

Whether you're an experienced marathoner or an occasional runner, healthy, happy feet are core to your running success. After all, our feet are the unsung heroes that carry us through kilometres of training and races. Without proper care, our feet and body can only take us so far before we develop aches and injuries. Proactively caring for your feet can help prevent injuries and boost your performance. In this blog post, we dive into our top foot care tips for runners to keep your feet in tip-top shape. Choose the right shoes It all starts with the right pair of running shoes. Everyone's feet are different, so there's no one-size-fits-all. Make sure your shoes fit well—there should be about a finger's width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe. The best way to find your ideal shoe is to visit a specialty running store (like our Toronto foot clinic!) where they can analyze your gait and recommend a shoe that suits your running style and foot type. Replace your shoes regularly Another one of our top foot care tips for runners is to replace your running shoes when they wear out. Running shoes don't last forever. Generally, they should be replaced every 450-800km. Worn-out shoes lose their shock absorption, grip, and support, which can lead to injuries. Look for signs like flattened soles or uneven tread to know when it's time for a new pair. You may also notice wrinkles among the various areas of cushioning. Incorporate foot-strengthening exercises Strong feet are less prone to injury. Simple exercises like toe curls, heel raises, and foot stretches can help build strength and flexibility. Try using a resistance band to stretch your feet and calves, and don't forget to roll a tennis ball under your foot to relieve tension and keep things limber. You may also find a lacrosse ball effective for a more rigid plantar fascia massage. Pay attention to your running form Sometimes, foot pain can be traced back to improper running form. Ensure you're landing with your feet underneath your hips rather than over-striding, which can put unnecessary stress on your feet. If you're unsure about your form, consider working with a coach or getting a gait analysis to pinpoint any issues. Stretch and foam roll Stretching isn't just for your legs and back; your feet need love, too. Incorporate foot stretches into your routine, focusing on the Achilles tendon, calves, and the bottom of your feet. For example, do a calf stretch by standing on a step and letting your heels drop below the level of the step. Foam rolling can also help, particularly if you're experiencing tightness in your plantar fascia or Achilles tendon. Keep your shoes dry Blisters and fungal infections love a moist environment. Make sure your feet are dry before putting on socks and running shoes. Choose moisture-wicking socks designed to remove moisture from your skin to help keep things dry. This can prevent blisters and reduce the risk of fungal infections. Consider using foot powder or antiperspirant if you're prone to sweaty feet. For additional moisture prevention, buy two of the same pairs of running shoes and cycle them in and out. Longer durations between uses allow the cushioning to decompress and give your shoes more time to dry thoroughly. Listen to your body Our final foot care tip for runners is to always listen to your body. If you're experiencing persistent foot pain, don't push through it. Ignoring pain can lead to more serious injuries later. Rest, assess, and seek professional advice if needed. Remember, rest days are just as important as training days. They give your feet and body the time they need to recover and adapt to the stress of running.

September 16, 2024

Understanding Different Types of Custom Orthotics: How to Choose the Right Support for Your Feet

You may have heard of custom orthotics before, (if not, check out this article) but did you know that there are many different types of custom orthotics? Orthotics range from sports orthotics to dress orthotics, and everything in between. In this article we will cover the different types of custom orthotics you can choose, and what might be best for your feet. Custom Orthotics Custom Orthotics are the most common type of orthotic. Easily accessible and slipped into shoes, these provide maximum support and can help with foot problems like plantar fasciitis or Morton’s neuroma. Custom orthotics are also ideal simply if you want more comfort and support when walking around during everyday tasks. All of the orthotics below are some kind of custom orthotic. You can also find many examples of these orthotics on this website. Sports Orthotics These orthotics are ideal for people who are often running, jumping, and doing high impact activates on a regular basis. Sports orthotics can be easily modified to fit the sport you're doing. For example, if you were a basketball player who Is doing lots of jumping, the orthotic would be made with extra shock absorption. Sports orthotics are designed to help with common sports conditions like plantar fasciitis. They are made semi-rigid to provide the optimal balance between comfort and control. Casual Orthotics If you enjoy going on walks but often have pain in your feet, casual orthotics may be the way to go. These orthotics are meant for walking and standing for long periods of time and can provide comfort that you may not otherwise get from your regular shoes. Casual Orthotics are also great because they are easy to transfer between shoes and are low profile, meaning they're relatively, so you can wear them with shoes that don't have removable insoles. Casual orthotics are typically rigid or semi-rigid depending on your foot condition. Dress Orthotics Like casual orthotics, dress orthotics are meant for long periods of standing and walking. The main difference between the two is the size. Dress orthotics are designed to be slimmer and fit into the smaller shape of dress shoes. Because of the limited space, some orthotics may have to sacrifice width and support; however they will still provide relief from uncomfortable shoes. Accommodative Orthotics: Accommodative orthotics are designed for people that have more severe issues with foot pain and comfort. This can include arthritis, foot deformities, and diabetes. They tend to have a soft and cushioned top cover. These orthotics are mostly flexible to be nicer on the feet, however they can also be semi-rigid if the user needs more control. Children's Orthotics Childrens orthotics differ from adults because children are growing constantly. Often, children are prescribed orthotics to correct an issue that would be present in their adult life if not corrected. Children may get several different pairs of orthotics as they grow older to accomodate their changing feet. Children's orthotics are made for comfort as well as correction, so that your little one can be comfortable running around. Conclusion There are many different types of orthotics available that can easily accomodate your footwear and activities. They're also a great way to upgrade your favourite shoes. Whether you want comfort or control, there is always an option for you.

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