Medical Gift Guide 2022

December 12, 2022

This holiday season, let’s consider healthcare during our shopping trips. Medical gifts are often on the wish lists of people we love, like our grandparents or even our doctors and medical student friends. They want useful gifts that not only ease foot pain and provide comfort, are also special for folks who like to showcase their foot health knowledge and care about preventing foot conditions.

But maybe you don’t know where to start as you hunt for a healthy gift.

That’s where we come into the picture! Feet First Clinic has curated the ultimate medical gift guide with a special focus on foot health. These goodies are affordable and can be stocking stuffers or larger gifts.

Useful Medical Gifts for Foot Care and Wellness

Here are some great finds in our holiday gift guide:

Shoes, shoes, and more shoes
Medical compression stockings
Orthopedic slippers
Therapeutic massage balls
Superfeet insoles
Foot files
Gehwol products

Shoes, Shoes, and More Shoes

For the loved one who is infamous for buying ill-fitting footwear.

Show someone you care by investing in a long-lasting pair of shoes that provide comfort and the right support.

Of course, it can be tricky to surprise someone without knowing how a shoe will fit, so you can offer to take your loved one on a shopping trip and treat them to a proper shoe fitting. At the end of the session, they’ll leave with a great new pair of runners, winter boots, or another type of shoe they need.

To ensure you snag the right shoes to gift someone, consider this trusty shoe-shopping checklist!

Medical Compression Stockings

For the loved one going through pregnancy or struggling with edema-related(swelling) conditions.

There is a lot of misinformation about compression stockings. Some claim that they’re only suitable for seniors, they cut off blood circulation, and they’re bulky and ugly. But they couldn’t be more wrong! Compression stockings are great for young people too! They stimulate blood flow and are super stylish!

Compression stockings help pregnant women and those suffering from foot swelling, and they’re a great idea for frequent travellers and people who stand all day long at work. They’re also great for athletes who need an oxygen boost for their muscles.

They’re a wonderfully versatile gift. To arrange this type of gifting, instruct your loved one to attend a complimentary fitting and then cover the cost when the stockings arrive.

Orthopedic Slippers

For the loved one who wants some extra support and coziness at home.

Orthopedic slippers are a fun gift that would make almost anybody happy simply because they feel so soft and comforting. As a bonus, they can also increase blood circulation, help with spinal issues and lower back pain, and reduce the risk of sustaining an injury from a fall.

You can have some fun shopping for supportive slippers. Some come with furry collars and several colours to choose from. There are also broad selections for both men and women.

Check out this blog to learn why these slippers are a great medical gift idea!

Therapeutic Massage Balls

For the loved one struggling with pain at the bottom of their feet.

This tiny ball works wonders and is the perfect stocking stuffer. You can also include them in a foot care gift box if you’d like them to be a part of a major gift!

They’re an accompaniment to several foot exercises (use them instead of tennis balls), and regularly using them can make a big difference in your loved one’s quality of life.

Specifically, therapeutic massage balls help loosen tense muscles on the bottom of your feet. You can also use them to help with back and neck pain as they work out knots and boost blood circulation.

Superfeet Insoles

For the loved one looking for extra support to accommodate their footwear.

As far as medical gifts go, Superfeet insoles are a wonderful route to take. The general use of their most popular colour, green, is to provide extra support for people with flat feet, plantar fasciitis and other types of foot pain. They’re also great at ensuring your footwear fits more snugly.

But if you have a loved one with more specific needs, worry not!

Superfeet produces several insoles with colours that indicate how they stand out. For example, Superfeet Berry is made specifically for women and comes with a slimmer heel and an arch length to fit the proportions of the female foot. And Superfeet Black is a versatile, low-profile option for people with flat feet. And that’s just the beginning!

Foot Files

For the loved one who likes to practice a solid foot care routine.

You can gift someone a foot file as a stocking stuffer or as part of a gift box (throw in some Gehwol products and a massage ball for the perfect foot care selection!).

But why do we need them?

Foot files remove hard, scaly dead skin from the bottom of the foot, making them feel silky smooth. The perfect tool for concluding a luxurious at-home foot care session, you should give them some consideration as you shop for medical gifts.

Gehwol Products

For the loved one who embraces skincare.

Gehwol is known for its abundance of high-quality foot creams, sprays and powders. They also make lovely bath foams and revitalizing bath salts for tired, achy feet.

You can gift someone one product as a stocking stuffer or try creating a gift bundle with some variety. Here’s a great example of a Gehwol gift bundle:

Gehwol’s Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath
Gehwol’s Med Salve for Cracked Skin
Gehwol’s Foot and Shoe Deodorant
Gehwol’s Med Lipidro Cream

Find All of These Medical Gifts at Feet First Clinic!

Our medical gift guide is your first step towards scoring some top-notch, healthy gifts. The next step stopping by Feet First Clinic, where you’ll be able to find every gift suggestion we talked about today!

Call us at 416-769-FEET (3338) or use our online booking form to book your appointment today!

Banner image by Acharaporn Kamornboonyarush from Pexels!

PrevPrevious 5 Causes for Numb Feet or Toes

NextNext Foot Care Gift Guide 2022

April 11, 2024

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

You are what you eat! This statement could not be more true, as the foods we consume help our bodies function at their best. The connection between nutrition and foot health isn’t widely known or obvious, but a healthy diet can work wonders for bone and joint health in the lower extremities. Eating the right foods for strong feet may also help you avoid painful foot conditions when combined with other foot care practices. Keep reading to discover nutrition and foot health secrets! How Good Nutrition Benefits Foot Health Healthy eating can lead to stronger feet by helping prevent excess inflammation. Inflammation can be protective and healing, but on the flip side, too much can lead to the following: Tissue damage Joint degradation (arthritis) Injuries and mobility issues Reduced bone density Moreover, a healthy diet supports proper blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor blood circulation can lead to cramping in the lower extremities, fatigue, varicose veins, and even ulcers, which are very dangerous for diabetics. Lastly, when we fuel our bodies with whole foods and don’t overeat (it’s okay to indulge on occasion!), we can maintain a healthy weight. Living your life at a healthy weight poses many benefits for your feet, including: Enhanced mobility and flexibility Decreased strain on the foot (your feet are carrying less weight, which is extra important when you have flat feet) Improved circulation to the feet Less edema and water/salt retention The Best Healthy Diet for your Feet Now let’s get to the fun part — exploring all of the yummy and nutrient-rich foods you should eat for strong feet! Check below for a list of the top choices to help your feet feel great. Keep in mind you can eat many more foods than these; we just think these options stand out as foot health power foods! Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Leafy greens: High in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health. Berries: Packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support overall foot health. Greek yogurt: Contains calcium and probiotics, beneficial for bone density. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate foot pain and swelling. Avocados: Provides healthy fats and potassium, essential for maintaining proper muscle function and reducing cramping. Beans and legumes: High in fiber, protein, and various nutrients that support overall health and can help prevent foot-related complications like diabetes. To learn more about great foods for foot health, read here. In terms of what to avoid or eat in moderation, foods that cause inflammation are the main culprits. These include: Red and processed meats Baked goods and pasta made with refined carbohydrates Deep fried foods High-sugar foods like candy and soda Foods with trans fat (certain types of butter, chips, etc)

April 8, 2024

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

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

April 4, 2024

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

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

April 1, 2024

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

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

March 28, 2024

Ultimate Guide to Moisturizing Your Feet: Say Goodbye to Dry Skin

Wondering about top foot moisturizing tips and dry skin remedies? Look no further! Skin-related issues are common at Feet First Clinic, so we know a thing or two about the secrets behind soft feet! Keep reading to master our step-by-step guide on the perfect hydrated skin care routine for your feet. Foot Moisturizing Tips: A Step-by-Step Guide Numerous studies support the use of high-quality moisturizing creams on the feet to fight xerosis (the medical term for dry skin). Dry skin acts as a foundation for common foot problems, like pain and soreness, bleeding, cracked heels, peeling skin, and more, so moisturization not only makes your feet feel smooth to the touch, but it also gives you protection against future troubles. Moisturizing can also help you manage more serious concerns, like diabetes and psoriatic arthritis. Below are the steps you should follow to guarantee you are lathering your feet up the right way: Step 1: Get the right products Step 2: Cleanse and exfoliate your feet Step 3: Moisturize your feet Step 4: Protect and maintain Step 1: Get the Right Products For the best results, choose medicinal moisturizing creams from brands like Gehwol. These focus on hydration, are fragrance-free and made without harsh chemicals. Their Soft Feet Cream contains urea (which absorbs moisture and softens skin) and glycerin (which relieves dryness and retains moisture). It also contains soothing and pleasant ingredients like avocado oil and honey extract. Their Med Salve for Cracked Skin may be the best bet for a more aggressive moisturizing treatment. Due to it being a salve and not a cream, it is specially designed to penetrate the skin more thoroughly. Likewise, in addition to being a good choice for people prone to cracked heels, it is suitable for diabetics. Another good option is the deep penetrating heel care cream from Dermal Therapy. Step 2: Cleanse and Exfoliate Your Feet Before moisturizing comes foot hygiene! You should always start with a clean base. Clean your feet in warm water with fragrance-free, gentle soaps, and thoroughly dry, especially in between the toes (vulnerable area for fungal infections). To go the extra mile, exfoliate your feet with a scrub product and finish off with a foot file on the bottom of the feet. This eliminates dead skin cells, making your moisturizer more effective! Step 3: Moisturize Your Feet Moisturizing itself is pretty simple. Use a generous dollop (but not too much) of moisturizer and focus on dry areas, if you have any. Massage the moisturizer into your feet using circular motions, ensuring full coverage. Avoid the area in between the toes if you’re prone to infections or wounds (if you have diabetes). Moisture can build in the between the toes more easily than other areas. Step 4: Protect and Maintain Repeat this process regularly, ideally daily or at least a few times a week, to keep your feet soft, smooth, and well-hydrated. If your skin is especially vulnerable and sensitive, like for those with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, a regular routine is extra important to help you manage painful flar- ups.

March 25, 2024

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

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

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!

Share:

Useful Medical Gifts for Foot Care and Wellness

Shoes, Shoes, and More Shoes

Medical Compression Stockings

Orthopedic Slippers

Therapeutic Massage Balls

Superfeet Insoles

Foot Files

Gehwol Products

Find All of These Medical Gifts at Feet First Clinic!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

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

The Science of Walking: How Foot Mechanics Impact Your Health

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

Ultimate Guide to Moisturizing Your Feet: Say Goodbye to Dry Skin

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)