Paws First: How You Can Protect Your Dog’s Paws In The Winter

Written by Bianca Charles on December 14, 2021

For pet owners, magical walks in the snow with the dog are one of the best parts of winter. It’s a great way to enjoy the crisp Toronto weather while making sure you – and your pooch – get some much-needed exercise.

In our previous posts, we gave you our top tips to help you walk into winter the right way, from winter footwear to winter foot care. But winter doesn’t just affect human feet; it can also affect the paws of our four-legged walking companions. So this holiday season, we’re not just putting feet first – we’re also putting paws first!

To help, we asked the experts next door at ZenDog for their recommendations on how you can keep your pooch’s paws healthy this winter. Located in the heart of the Bloor West Village (right next to us), ZenDog is a fantastic local business offering only the best products from trusted, reputable suppliers. They gave us some valuable winter paw care advice to get your dog through the chilly season and put your pup’s paws first

What Happens To Your Dog’s Paws During Winter

The main dangers facing your puppy during the wintertime are salt, snow, cold air, and ice.

Salt

Salt is the biggest hazard to paw health, and the sidewalks and roads are full of it in the winter months. While salt helps melt ice and makes these surfaces less slippery, as a pet owner, it’s important to understand that this salt can also endanger exposed paws. Repeated contact with salt can create a split in the skin under the paw (so does hot pavement during the summer). Cracked paws can then lead to irritation and discomfort – just like cracked heels would on human feet.

There’s also the problem of ingesting the salt. After a long winter walk, your dog may attempt to lick their paws. This can be very dangerous if you don’t wash your dog’s paws first or protect them with boots, as ingesting salt can cause vomiting, dehydration and an upset stomach

Cold Air, Snow and Ice

Humans experience dry skin during the winter, and so does your pup! The cold, dry air can strip your dog’s paws from moisture the same way it does to human feet. If you’re not careful, prolonged exposure to ice and snow can even lead to frostbite. Telltale signs of mild frostbite include flinching when you touch their paws or licking the pads of their paws.

Fortunately, there are some great solutions to protect dog’s paws from these hazards:

How You Can Protect Your Dog’s Paws

Pawtection Balm

This all-natural, organic wax blend is a great product to have on hand for your dog’s comfort and your peace of mind. Since salt from the sidewalks and winter weather can cause irritation and cracked paws, this nourishing and moisturizing balm creates a layer of protection and can last for your entire time outside.

As long as you’re sure to apply before your winter walks or playing, it can protect against the cold, icy winter terrain and salt. It also has healing and soothing properties if your dog’s paws are already looking a little worn and irritated. Furthermore, there is no need to worry about your dog ingesting anything dangerous – your pup can lick away without getting sick! (Although, it’s important to keep an eye on that so they don’t also lick off the whole product.)

Ingredients in Pawtection Balm include:

Organic mango butter, rice bran oil, sunflower oil, and carnauba wax
Sunflower wax
Candelilla wax
Natural vitamin E
Benzoin resin
Lavender essential oil
Rosemary extract

Protex Pawz

Balloonies (rubber booties) are another way to protect your dogs’ paws first this winter. If you’re looking for something disposable that you don’t have to clean, Protex Pawz Rubber Dog Boots are a great choice for your pup’s paws this winter.

Protex balloonies are also easy to put on, letting you skip the zippers and straps. Let’s face it; dogs are often ecstatic when they’re about to go for a stroll and can have trouble containing themselves. Knowing this, you’ll appreciate the hassle-free way these balloonies slip on! Lastly, they come in packs with different colour options, which is great for coordinating with your dog’s outerwear (as shown by Champ and his matching puffer jacket from ZenDog). If your dog accidentally tears one, simply take another one out of the pack and continue on your journey.

Built with a decent amount of grip, these rubber boots can help keep your dog from slipping and sliding on slippery surfaces. They also keep your home clean after you get back from walking your pup! Simply take off these little rubber booties when you get back home, and your dog is free to roam around the house without leaving a dirty, snowy trail.

For a more durable no-muss-no-fuss option, you can go with Wellies (below). Wellies are rubber dog boots, but they are made with a thicker rubber and therefore last longer. They also have an adjustable Velcro strap.

Solid Boots

If you’d rather get something long-lasting and warm for your dog this winter (and don’t mind the extra laundry), you can check out solid dog boots!

Ruffwear (below) makes doggie boots for the avid hiker who loves to take their dog along for the adventure. Their Polar Trex boots are made for winter terrain and keep your dog’s paws feeling snug and toasty. They’re heavy-duty and suitable for long winter walks.

These boots provide a solid level of grip on slippery surfaces, just like your own favourite winter boots! This is thanks to the Vibram® Icetrek® ice-specific sole compound and winter-specific lug pattern (which just so happens to be the same technology used in Saucony’s Peregrine ICE).

Additionally, the three-layer upper is DWR (durable water repellant) coated. DWR means manufacturers add a thin layer of liquid to the outside of the boot to repel water, dirt and snow. These boots also stay on (and keep snow out!) without a fuss. The hook-and-loop closure, stretch gaiter, and zipper keep them on your dog’s paws without falling off – no matter how excited they get!

Ruffwear also makes an all-season Grip Trex dog boot for exploring the outdoors and various terrain.

Muttluks are another boot option available to dog owners. Their Snow Musher boots and original Fleece-lined Muttluks are good choices for the cold, snowy and wet winter season. The Snow Mushers may be the prime choice for winter, as they also have a fleece lining to protect from frigid temperatures and frostbite.

Additionally, they’re designed with rugged rubber soles for your pup’s traction needs. After all, dogs are just as likely to slip as their owners! Reflective accents also ensure your dog’s safety by making them visible during nighttime winter walks.

Don't Forget To Put Your Pet’s Paws First This Winter!

Filling up your pet’s stocking with some protective gear not only lets you rest easy, but it gives your furry companion some loving attention this holiday season. They love goodies just as much as you do! Check out ZenDog this year for some high-quality pet products! Don’t forget to also treat yourself by making a stop at Feet First Clinic for all your footwear needs.

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

About Author: Bianca Charles

With 15 years of dedicated experience in podiatry, Bianca Carter offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise at Feet First Clinic. Throughout her career, Bianca has worked closely with leading chiropodists, continually deepening her understanding of all aspects of foot care.

Learn more about Bianca Charles

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November 5, 2021

Cracked Heels and Heel Fissures: The Dangers and What You Can Do

Cracked heels (heel fissures) are a common foot condition that can affect anyone. The main culprit behind cracked heels is dry skin. Cracked heels are often worse in the winter when the outdoor air is dry and the heaters are blasting full force at home, at work, and in public. Sometimes hectic lifestyles and the daily grind can get in the way of maintaining proper foot care to protect your feet from dry skin. Luckily, you have the option to see a Toronto foot specialist for your cracked heels. There are also many products and foot care tips you can use to manage and prevent them. Let's discuss cracked heels in-depth and answer the following questions: What are cracked heels? Are there risk factors? Are there dangers or complications that may arise from having cracked heels? How do you treat cracked heels? What Are Cracked Heels? Cracked heels are what they sound like: cracks in the heels of the feet. Sometimes referred to as heel fissures, cracked heels are caused by dry skin. The skin on the bottom of your feet may also be hardened, in addition to being excessively dry. Web MD notes that sometimes cracked heels are just a cosmetic problem. That said, deeper cracks often present with bleeding and pain. If you suspect you may have cracked heels, you can check for the following common symptoms: Hard skin on your heels that feels like plaster Dry skin Flaky, crusty or peeling skin Heel pain Foot callus formation surrounding the heel You may notice the following in severe cases: Bleeding Redness Loss of sensation in the heel Swelling/inflammation Causes and Risk Factors Risk factors include standing for long hours on hard surfaces, which places excessive pressure on the pad of the heel and contributes to splitting the skin. Seasonality can also play a role, as cold weather in the fall and winter can make your skin dry. Likewise, heated public spaces in the winter, as well as taking long hot baths and showers, can quickly dry out the skin on your feet. Other causes and risk factors for cracked heels include: Using soaps and products with harsh chemicals Obesity can increase pressure on the heel pads Ill-fitting, unsupportive footwear Dehydration can contribute to dry skin Neglecting regular foot care, like moisturizing and exfoliation Diabetes: Studies show that diabetics with high blood sugar are more likely to have dry skin Flat feet and high arches: These biomechanical foot conditions can place excessive pressure on the heels Eczema Are There Dangers Or Complications? Cracked heels are normally a mild foot condition, but complications and more serious symptoms may present themselves if they are particularly deep and painful. First and foremost, if you have diabetes, untreated cracked heels may lead to a serious foot ulcer (sometimes resulting in amputation). According to Everyday Health, people with diabetes must regularly consult with a chiropodist to examine their feet. Mild foot conditions can result in serious complications for people with diabetes due to a compromised immune system, poor circulation and diabetic neuropathy (loss of sensation) in the legs and feet. The loss of sensation means people with diabetes may be unaware of the seriousness of foot conditions without the assistance of a chiropodist. With cracked heels, this is extra important to acknowledge, as diabetes patients are prone to dry skin. Because diabetes also impairs the immune system, it's very easy for cracked heels in diabetes patients to get infected, which can lead to serious complications. Even if you don't have diabetes, or perceive your cracked heels to be mild, you should still see a foot specialist and learn how to treat them. If left untreated, deeply cracked heels can become progressively more painful and bleed. This can affect your quality of life, causing consistent soreness on your heels. Likewise, unchecked cracked heels can impact your ability to go about your daily life. Severely cracked heels can also make you vulnerable to a bacterial infection called cellulitis. Telltale signs of cellulitis include warm, swollen and painful skin surrounding the infected area. How Do You Treat Cracked Heels? Before you worry too much about cracked heels, you can rest assured that there are plenty of treatment options available. These include treatments with a Toronto foot specialist and things you can do at home to prevent and treat cracked heels. A chiropodist can help by removing foot callus formation surrounding the affected heel. This repairs the skin's natural elasticity. They can also make footwear recommendations that provide more cushioning and support for your heel, offloading pressure on the heel pad. Examples include Superfeet insoles, which can be easily inserted into your everyday shoes. This can be particularly helpful for people struggling with obesity-related cracked heels, people with flat feet, and those who stand for long hours on hard surfaces. Chiropodists can also recommend products you can use to manage your cracked heels. Feet First Clinic offers products from Gehwol, a brand that specializes in foot creams, baths, deodorants, balms, salves, and more. One of their superstar products is Gehwol's medical salve for cracked skin. Perfect for people with cracked, dry skin that regularly flares up, this salve can prevent the problem from getting worse by warding off itchiness, flaky skin, bleeding and irritation. Active ingredients include medicated soaps, Vaseline, lanolin, camphor and menthol. The latter helps soothe your sore feet, while other components work to protect the natural strength and elasticity in your heels. Additional Treatment Options and Products Include: Dermal therapy heel care: This soothing cream moisturizes your heels and is an excellent preventative measure against dry, hard skin. For the best results, you can moisturize your feet daily with this cream, allowing for consistent moisture restoration during the winter. Routine exfoliation. Gehwol's Soft Feet Peeling Scrub is a great option! As a preventative measure, use scent-free soaps without chemicals. Soaps should also moisturize your feet. Avoid long, hot baths until cracked heels improve.

October 28, 2024

5 Ways Cold and Wet Weather Impacts Your Feet

Taking care of your feet during winter might require a little extra effort, but it’s essential for preventing discomfort and long-term issues. The cold weather can impact your feet in its own unique ways, just like hot weather can. Whether you’re dealing with dry, cracked skin or trying to avoid slippery conditions, being mindful of your foot health will keep you a step ahead of the cold. 5 Ways Cold and Wet Weather Can Impact Your Feet Dry, cracked skin Skin conditions Reduced circulation Stiffness and joint pain Winter-related foot conditions 1. Dry, Cracked Skin https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1-Sf43woLLE One of the first things you may notice during the winter is dry, cracked skin on your feet, especially your heels. The chilly air and low humidity can quickly sap the moisture from your skin, leaving your feet feeling rough and sore. Heating indoors doesn’t help either, as it dries out the air, exacerbating the issue. This is where cold weather foot care enters the picture! Since cracked skin can cause pain and even bleed, it becomes essential to protect your feet. This dryness isn’t just unsightly—if the cracks open up, it creates an easy pathway for infections. This can lead to debilitating pain and bleeding that makes walking difficult. Regular moisturizing with a medical-grade foot cream is a straightforward way to combat dry feet and cracked heels. Look for products that contains a high urea concentration, which will help your skin replenish and retain lost moisture. It's important to use a foot cream instead of a regular moisturizer for your feet because the skin on your feet is thicker than the skin elsewhere on our body. Therefore, a regular body or facial moisturizer won't cut it - especially during the dry, colder months. While you're at it, take your hydration to the next level by always remembering to drink your eight glasses of water per day. This advice still holds up today! 2. Reduced Circulation Cold weather can mess with your blood flow, which can pose a problematic obstacle for foot health. When temperatures drop, blood vessels constrict to preserve heat, meaning less blood flows to your extremities. This is called vasoconstriction. As a result, your feet may feel cold, numb, or even tingly. Poor circulation can also lead to prolonged healing times for cuts or blisters. This is concerning for diabetes patients with neuropathy who are already struggling with wound healing issues. That's why cold weather diabetic foot care should always include steps to monitor and improve blood flow— including daily foot inspections and easy foot exercises. Wearing thermal socks and ensuring your feet are properly insulated can help combat the impact of reduced circulation. Just make sure your thermal socks fit comfortably with your fall and winter footwear: if your shoes or boots are too tight, it will reduce circulation and make your feet more susceptible to cold-weather complications (more on that below). If you experience slippery conditions during winter, circulation issues can also increase your risk of falling or slipping. When your feet are numb, it’s harder to get a good sense of balance, so be cautious and wear shoes with good grip for FALL prevention. Moving around can also help keep your blood flowing. So, if you’re out and about, take small breaks to wiggle your toes and stretch to maintain circulation. There are even targeted foot exercises you can try to help trigger healthy blood flow. In fact, you should do these more often in the winter than the summer. 3. Skin Conditions https://www.youtube.com/shorts/xZ4RQwPmCzg It might seem strange to consider blisters a winter problem, but they can definitely crop up due to cold weather foot care challenges. Wearing heavy boots and thick socks can cause friction, leading to blisters on your heels or toes. This is why it’s extremely important for boots to fit snugly, but not be too tight. So if the socks you like to wear in the winter are causing your boots to constrict your feet, they don’t fit! And if your feet are already dry, cracked, or dealing with reduced circulation, they’re even more susceptible to developing painful blisters. Combat this by ensuring your boots and sock combo always fit perfectly together, and opt for moisture wicking socks to go the extra mile. Another common winter foot problem is athlete's foot. Though often associated with the hot summer months and public swimming pools, athlete's foot is no stranger to winter either. Athlete's foot thrives in wet, damp areas, so instead of crowded public summer pools, fungal infections change their habitat to the wet-from-the-snow environment inside your boots. And keep in mind, you can get athlete’s foot simply by coming into contact with someone who already has it. When you’re tackling wet feet, whether it’s from snow or rain, you need to dry them thoroughly before putting on warm socks. Athlete’s foot loves moist environments, so making sure your feet are dry is key. If you start to notice itchy or peeling skin between your toes, it’s a sign that athlete's foot might be setting in. Treat it promptly with your Toronto chiropodist, who can provide the right antifungal products. Make sure you also keep your feet clean and dry and avoid sharing shoes and socks to protect your feet from a future infection. 4. Stiffness and Joint Pain https://www.youtube.com/shorts/n46k32OZgco Cold weather tightens your muscles, which in turn can lead to stiff joints. This discomfort can be particularly noticeable if you already have arthritis or any other joint-related issues. Without the right cold weather foot care, your feet can end up feeling stiff, which can affect your overall mobility. To help counteract this, regular stretching and low-impact exercises, such as foot rotations, can keep your joints limber. This season also requires some extra attention to footwear. Choose shoes with ample support to keep your feet cushioned against the impact of walking on hard, cold surfaces. Slippery conditions can further aggravate joint pain because your body works overtime to stay balanced, putting extra pressure on your feet. Adding orthotics or insoles that provide added arch support can also reduce some of this strain and make your steps feel more cushioned and less jarring. 5. Winter Related Foot Conditions Winter brings its own set of unique foot problems, including chilblains, frostbite, and Raynaud’s disease, all of which can make cold weather foot care a bit trickier. Chilblains occur when your feet are exposed to cold, damp environments, causing painful, itchy red patches. This is particularly common in teenagers, or people who quickly reheat their feet after being in the cold, so it’s best to warm up slowly. Frostbite is another concern in extreme cold, as it can severely damage your skin and tissues. Frostbite can occur more quickly than you might expect, especially if you don't protect your feet from the weather. Signs of frostbite include numbness, skin discolouration, and a hard, waxy texture. If you think you may be experiencing frostbite, it’s essential to seek medical help immediately. To prevent frostbite, be sure to layer up and wear weatherproof boots that keep your feet dry and warm. Lastly, Raynaud’s disease can be exacerbated by cold weather. People with Raynaud’s experience an exaggerated response to cold, which restricts blood flow to the toes, leading to reduced circulation and making your feet even more vulnerable. Keeping your feet constantly warm and avoiding sudden temperature changes can help manage Raynaud’s symptoms, but if you experience persistent pain or numbness, you should consult a healthcare provider.

October 14, 2024

The Importance of Regular Foot Check-Ups: What to Expect During a Foot Clinic Visit

There are many at-home and natural remedies for foot pain that work, but there’s no denying the importance of foot exams with a top Toronto chiropodist. Some conditions require foot check-ups throughout the year and your foot clinic visits can make a big difference in not only your comfort levels, but your long-term health. Let’s take at what you can expect at a foot clinic appointment and why you should get your check-ups. What You Can Expect at a Foot Clinic This depends on if you’re visiting your foot clinic for the first time or are following up with a specific service, such as a custom orthotic casting and fitting or a medical pedicure. At Toronto’s Feet First Clinic, your first foot check-up—an initial foot assessment—helps determine your unique needs. It’s your chance to discuss any concerns so your chiropodist can tailor the care to what matters most to you. Many people schedule one if they have persistent foot pain, but you may also do it for diagnostic purposes, footwear recommendations and more. Why Schedule Regular Foot Check-ups? Regular foot care is mandatory if you have diabetes. Studies show that neglecting your feet and failing to visit your foot specialist may lead to infections, ulceration and limb loss. While they sound extreme and scary, chiropody services can help you prevent these problems. Chiropodist visits for diabetes include full examinations (particularly to assess for neuropathy), nail and skin care, wound debridement, and more. Some experts recommend coming in every 4-6 months, but this may be more or less, depending on your condition. Foot check-ups are also a must for anyone with arthritis, circulatory issues, a history of strain injuries like plantar fasciitis, chronic fungal infections, to name a few. They’re especially important as we get older. But really, anyone can benefit from a little foot TLC—whether you're on your feet all day or just looking to prevent future problems, regular check-ups help keep your feet healthy, pain-free, and ready to go wherever life takes you! An annual foot assessment is also a great preventative form of self care, like a wellness check for your feet. You don’t have to wait until you notice symptoms — assessments can catch early signs of the most common foot issues before they become painful.

October 10, 2024

Common Fall Foot Problems and How to Prevent Them

Toronto's summer is behind us and the warm days of sandals won’t return until next year. But fall brings its own charm and many folks are excited for a new chapter. At the same time, you may also be looking to prevent foot issues this fall in as many ways as possible, and luckily, you’ve come to the right place! For top tips on blisters and dry skin prevention, as well as how you can fight some other common fall foot problems, keep reading today’s article! Cracked Heels As summer’s humid air is replaced with dryness, the skin on your feet may dehydrate and over time, cracked heels can form. One of the best fall foot care tips to prevent this is regular moisturizing. Use a nutrient-dense product like Gehwol’s Lipidro Cream, available at Toronto’s Feet First Clinic. It helps lock in moisture and prevent further damage. Containing high-quality ingredients like avocado oil and urea, this cream helps your skin absorb water into its layers and supplies dry skin with the lipids it needs. Properties like allantoin can also soothe irritation sometimes associated with cracked heels. Fungal Infections You may have heard how fungal infections like athlete’s foot are easy to contract during the summertime. Public pools, shared locker rooms and showers, and other communal spaces are all summer hot spots where this foot fungus can breed. But did you know that foot fungi is still a threat in the fall? It can thrive when people wear closed shoes for longer periods, trapping moisture and warmth. To prevent this, keep feet clean and dry, wear breathable socks, and choose shoes that allow proper ventilation. Shoes should also be waterproof to prevent extra water getting into your shoe’s environment. To find the right pair for fall, visit your local Toronto foot clinic for a shoe fitting. While you’re at it, learn all about the best foot hygiene here! Musculoskeletal Foot Conditions Musculoskeletal foot conditions can flare up as the fall chill starts to bite, making each step feel a little extra uncomfortable. Cold temperatures cause the tissues in your joints to contract, putting pressure on nerve endings and leading to more foot pain and aggravated osteoarthritis. The cold can also worsen foot conditions like plantar fasciitis and other sources of arch and heel pain. Get ahead of this issue by wearing boots with solid insulation that traps warmth. Also, keep your feet extra cozy with warm socks — a Toronto chiropodist may even suggest a pair of compression stockings (like Sigvaris' Thermoregulating Wool or Merino Wool compression stockings). Blisters Autumn foot health often involves managing painful blisters. As new footwear makes its debut, a tight squeeze can slowly wreak havoc and cause discomfort. To keep your feet happy and blisters at bay, make sure your shoes fit securely and snugly (but not tight!) to prevent excessive friction rubbing against your skin. Wear your boots with other products like moisture control socks, foot powders, blister bandages and insoles to prevent this frustrating issue.

October 3, 2024

The Importance of Proper Footwear for Kids in Fall: What Parents Need to Know

Are you wondering how much you need to invest in your kids’ foot health this fall? Not sure what all the fuss is about over getting the best fall shoes for children? While it may seem like your child’s summer shoes can last a little while longer, it’s important to take their foot health needs seriously and make sure they're set up for the fall. We’ve crafted this parent's guide to kids’ shoes in the fall to help you out! Keep reading to learn the main reasons why proper footwear for kids is essential during this beloved season. 3 Reasons Why Your Kids Need Fall Shoes They support back-to-school activities They protect feet from the elements They provide support for growing feet Support Back-to-School Activities Remember the excitement of getting a new pair of athletic shoes every year before that first day of school? Well, there’s a reason your parents did that for you! Many kids up their activity game during back-to-school season. The excitement of reuniting with friends, outdoor recess time, extracurriculars and gym class are all contributing factors to this healthy boost in physical activity. Thus, comfortable athletic shoes for children land inside the fall shoes realm. The best shoes for kids should encourage proper gait patterns. They also feature cushioning for shock absorption, which reduces stress on growing bones and joints during activities like running and jumping. Additionally, supportive footwear can prevent common foot problems such as blisters, calluses, and ankle injuries, the latter of which is a common injury for kids. It's important to ensure shoes have a snug (but not tight!) and secure fit, breathable materials, and a durable outsole for safe performance and comfort. If your child's shoes put pressure on the side of their feet, opt for wide-width shoes. Protect Feet From The Elements Shoes are always designed with seasonality in mind, and just like you need new fall boots, so do your kids. One of the reasons is the slowly declining temperatures and damp, cold conditions. While September and early October are often pleasant weather-wise in Toronto, November can bring sudden frigid air and freezing rain. Wearing the wrong shoes in this weather may cause foot problems like chilblains, or small, itchy swellings caused by poor circulation in response to the cold. Studies show it often targets teenagers. Additionally, shoes designed with weatherproof materials and proper ventilation help ward off bacteria and fungi. Lastly, fall shoes for children correlate with FALL prevention. Colder weather + rain = slippery sidewalks and even black ice formation. For these, your kids need boots with a solid grip. Provide Support For Growing Feet Did you know that children’s bone, muscle and joint growth continues until they reach their early twenties? Child foot development is both fascinating AND fast paced, so you need to keep on top of your child’s needs and assess how much their feet have grown or changed shape when the fall season rolls around. Properly fitted shoes with arch support and cushioning are crucial during growth phases to ensure healthy foot alignment and prevent long-term issues. Likewise, teaching good footwear habits during the foot development phase sets your child up for success! Wearing ill-fitting shoes now can lead to problems in their adult years, and may even cause deformities like bunions and hammertoes decades down the road. Here are our top tips to make sure your child's shoes fit properly: When putting shoes on, get your kid to kick their heel back before lacing or strapping up the shoe. This puts their foot is in the proper position, with the heel in the heel cup and the arch lined up with the arch support. Then use the laces or straps to secure the foot into that position. This will ensure your kid's foot doesn't slide forward when they walk, and also allows you to properly gauge their toe room. If your kid's shoe isn't put on properly, you won't be able to determine whether it fits. Leave about 1 cm of toe room at the end of the shoe. While it's good to leave growing room, it's important not to leave too much room. Otherwise, the shoe will slip and slide around your child's foot and not be secure. And a shoe that's not secure won't provide good support. If you see a gap at the back of the shoe or the shoe moves as your child walks, go down half a size, or make sure the shoe is put on properly (see above). Use the laces to adjust the width and fit. If your child feels pressure on the sides, try loosening the laces. Don't pull the laces too tight. Instead, gently adjust them to the width of your child's feet. If the shoe still feels tight and there's enough room at the end of the shoe, look for a wide width shoe. Don't size up if there already is enough room at the end; you'll just end up with a long narrow shoe.

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.

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