Plantar Hyperhidrosis: Frequently Asked Questions

Written by Bianca Charles on November 20, 2019

Last updated February 13, 2020

Plantar hyperhidrosis is the medical term used to describe a condition characterized by excessive sweating of the feet. This condition affects approximately 1-3% of the population. Today, we will be answering some the most frequently asked questions about plantar hyperhidrosis.

What causes sweaty feet?

In most cases, the cause of sweaty feet is idiopathic, meaning the cause is unknown. Onset is usually in childhood suggesting a hereditary component to this physiological disorder. Emotional and physical distress as well as heat can initiate sweating and/or make it worse. Sweaty feet can also be secondary to a chronic systemic illness or it can simply be a side effect of a drug.

How can I stop excessive sweating?

More often than not, plantar hyperhidrosis can be controlled by conservative measures including topical antiperspirants, foot powders, deodorants, proper footwear, moisture-wicking socks, and absorbent insoles. In severe cases, treatments include but are not limited to prescription oral medications, Botox injections, and iontophoresis.

Can it be cured?

Plantar hyperhidrosis will likely require ongoing treatment and management.

Does it get worse with age?

The general trend is sweaty feet actually improve with age. This is because as we age, our sweat glands become less active and less responsive to stimuli.

How much does your feet perspire in a day?

According to the Canadian Federation of Podiatric Medicine, your feet contain approximately 250 000 sweat glands and the average person will perspire about a cup of moisture throughout the day.

Does wearing socks make a difference with sweaty feet?

Wearing socks with closed toe shoes help to reduce sweating in feet. When you don’t wear socks with closed toe shoes, the increased friction between your feet and the interior of the shoe in combination with poor air circulation tends to induce sweating.

The type of sock is also important. Choose socks made out of cotton, wool, or merino wool and avoid synthetic materials such as nylon and polyester.

In general, look for socks that have a “moisture-wicking” property. Finally, socks that contain silver, copper, or bamboo will control odors and growth of micro-organisms.

Sweaty feet can cause foul odors, increase risk of fungal and bacterial infections, and dramatically affect your quality of life.

Book an appointment with a Registered Chiropodist at Feet First Clinic today for all your foot concerns, including sweaty feet.

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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.

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November 7, 2024

6 Myths About Foot Odor

Foot odor is a frustrating problem; it goes to show that non-painful foot conditions can be as life altering as painful ones. There are many foot odour myths floating around the internet. In this article, we'll break down some of the most common foot odour myths, and give you the facts about foot odour causes and how to prevent it. 6 Myths About Foot Odour: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition All Foot Odour Smells the Same Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour If You Have Foot Odour, you Aren’t Showering or Bathing Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Myth 1: Only People With Sweaty Feet Have Foot Odour Foot odour, also known as bromodosis, is the unpleasant smell that comes from the feet due to a combination of sweat and bacteria. The feet have numerous sweat glands, which produce moisture to regulate temperature and prevent skin from drying out. Plantar hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessively sweaty feet. Sweat is a major contributor to foot odour and provides the moisture needed for it to thrive, however, other factors are also at play. The Main Causes of Foot Odour General bacterial buildup and everyday life! (wearing shoes all day long, etc). Fungal infections: Conditions like athlete’s foot can lead to odour as fungi produce waste products during growth. Diet: Certain foods, like garlic and onions, can affect sweat composition and lead to a noticeable foot odour. Health conditions: Conditions other than plantar hyperhidrosis can cause foot odour, including diabetes, particularly when ulcers and wounds omit a strong smell. Other conditions include thyroid disorders (they may cause excessive sweating) or kidney and liver issues. Footwear material: Shoes made from non-breathable materials trap even normal sweat production, increasing moisture and bacterial growth. Preventing foot odour often means choosing breathable, waterproof shoes. Hormonal changes: Puberty, pregnancy, or menopause can contribute to foot odour. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1aaNATnXvWw Foot Odour Myth # 2: Foot Odour Always Means You Have a Serious Health Condition It’s true that one of the causes of foot odour can be an underlying health condition, but that doesn't mean it's serious. The most common cause of foot odour is a general build up of sweat and bacteria that you can tackle yourself. Foot odour is often caused by everyday factors like wearing shoes made from non-breathable materials or not changing socks frequently enough. In most cases, simple steps like improving hygiene, airing out shoes, or using foot deodorants (sprays, powders or creams) can help control the smell. While it's important to be mindful of persistent odour or other accompanying symptoms, the vast majority of foot odour issues are easily managed with at-home care and do not indicate a serious health condition. https://www.youtube.com/shorts/aFdZ042koME Foot Odour Myth # 3: All Foot Odour Smells the Same Foot odour can vary significantly based on several factors, including the underlying cause, personal hygiene, diet, and the type of bacteria or fungi present. For example, open wounds and sores will smell different than smelly, sweaty shoes. Here are some common smells: Sour: Often caused by bacteria breaking down sweat, resulting in lactic acid production. Musty: May be associated with fungal infections or warm, moist environments. Vinegar-like: Often linked to sweat and potentially neglectful hygiene. Ammonia: May indicate dehydration or a dietary imbalance. Rotten: This odour can be a sign of a more serious infection. Foot Odour Myth 4: Going Barefoot Helps Eliminate Odour While going barefoot might seem like a good idea for reducing foot odour, it can actually have the opposite effect in some cases. While it’s always good to air out your feet, going barefoot outside exposes your feet to various surfaces that may harbour bacteria and fungi. Walking on dirty or damp surfaces can lead to the accumulation of these microorganisms, potentially worsening foot odour. In fact, foot fungus (one of the most common causes of foot odour) is often caused by walking barefoot in public places. Additionally, sweat can still pool in the crevices of your feet without socks and shoes, allowing bacteria to thrive. Instead of eliminating odour, going barefoot may introduce new sources of smell. Wearing breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks and changing them regularly is a much better idea. Myth 5: If You Have Foot Odour, You Aren’t Showering or Bathing This is completely untrue since foot odour is often linked to other conditions like plantar hyperhidrosis and fungal infections. Therefore, foot odour is is a symptom rather than a cause. It also often develops throughout the day, so you can shower every morning and still experience smelly feet when you get home at night. That said, you should pay more attention to foot-specific hygiene and clean your feet frequently. Check out this blog article on foot hygiene tips to learn what to do. Myth 6: Foot Odour Only Happens in Hot Weather Foot odour is commonly associated with hot weather, but it can occur year-round, regardless of the temperature. While warm conditions can exacerbate sweating and create a breeding ground for bacteria, factors such as personal hygiene, footwear choice, and lifestyle also play significant roles in foot odour. For example, wearing insulated shoes in fall or winter weather can trap moisture and heat, leading to odour even when temperatures are low. Additionally, individuals who sweat excessively—regardless of the season—are more likely to experience foot odour. Therefore, it’s essential to maintain proper foot care and hygiene practices throughout the year to prevent odour, not just during the warmer months.

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.

August 12, 2024

Managing Bunions: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips for Relief

Dealing with bunions can be a pain—literally. For those managing bunions, finding effective solutions can greatly improve quality of life. Let's dive into various bunion treatment options and explore lifestyle tips that can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further issues. Bunion Treatment Options: Finding What Works for You When it comes to managing bunions, there's no one-size-fits-all approach. Remember, they are bony protrusions and can vary in pain level and size. While they can occur in both men and women, they are most common in women. Non-surgical bunion treatment is often the first line of defense. Non-Surgical Bunion Treatment Ill-fitting and unsupportive footwear - particularly narrow shoes and high heels - is one of the most common causes of bunions. A chiropodist can suggest footwear for bunions that provide ample toe space and cushioning. They'll help you discover fashionable footwear for sensitive feet from your local Toronto foot clinic. Additionally, they can do a biomechanical assessment to determine if custom orthotics can help manage the bunion's progression and reduce your pain. A chiropodist can also recommend bunion cushioning techniques and products, such as: Silicone toe separators Bunion aligners Rigid, yet walkable, bunion splints These non-invasive measures can help reduce pressure on the affected area and offer bunion pain relief. Lifestyle Tips For Bunion Relief and Preventing Bunion Progression As with any foot condition, lifestyle changes go a long way! Implement simple bunion exercises into your routine to strengthen the muscles around the joint. To give it your best shot, refer to these 5 simple exercises for bunions! It is also strongly recommended that you avoid high heels. If you have a special event, visit your local foot clinic to talk about comfortable heel and wedges you may be able to wear, for a limited amount of time. In addition, avoid activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, such as long periods of standing on hard surfaces. You can try beginner-level, low-impact yoga to keep moving, but make sure it isn't too intense for your feet. Surgical Solutions In severe situations, bunion surgery from a podiatrist or orthopaedic surgeon can offer significant relief. Surgery realigns the toe joint, providing a long-term solution and eliminating the need to accommodate the bunion at all times. However, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional to determine if surgery is the right step for you. Most of the time, surgery is only an option for severe bunions as it can be a lengthy and inconvenient process for you. In addition, there's no guarantee the bunion will not return: some studies indicate a reoccurence rate of up to 25% after bunion surgery. It's important to note that bunion surgery alone isn't going to permanently get rid of your bunions: you still need to do non-surgical bunion treatment options after surgery to prevent reoccurence, namely: Wear proper fitting footwear and avoid high heels Strengthen and condition the muscles in your feet and ankles Address any underlying biomechanical issues to reduce pressure and strain on the affected joint.

July 25, 2024

What’s A Crossover Toe: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Foot pain can be debilitating, affecting our ability to walk, exercise, and perform daily activities comfortably. One common foot condition that causes discomfort and requires attention is crossover toe. This blog post delves into crossover toe, its symptoms, and available treatment options. First off, we'll explain exactly what is a crossover toe. What is a crossover toe? Crossover toe, also known as floating toe or floating fifth toe, is a type of deformity in which the toe drifts out of its normal position and crosses over or under a neighbouring toe. The condition is also known as overlapping toe. The condition generally affects the fourth and fifth toes, leading to pain, swelling, and difficulty wearing shoes comfortably. However, any combination of toes may become an overlapping toe. Roughly 7% of adults—men and women equally — have overlapping toes of some sort. Symptoms of crossover toe Toe pain: Discomfort is often felt at the base of the affected toe, especially when walking or standing for long periods. Swelling and inflammation: The affected area may become swollen and inflamed due to the abnormal positioning of the toe. Uncomfortable shoe fit: Shoes may feel tight or uncomfortable, especially in the toe box area where the affected toe rubs against adjacent toes or the shoe itself. Visual appearance: The affected toe may appear to cross over or under the adjacent toe, giving it a visibly different appearance than the other toes. Corns: Corns will often form on top of crossover toes due to excessive friction and rubbing on the affected toes. Causes of crossover toe Crossover toe can develop due to several factors, including: Foot injuries: Joint and ligament damage caused by unhealed trauma and foot injuries can change the toes' alignment over time. Additionally, arthritis, including rheumatoid arthritis, can shift the alignment of your toes as it progresses and damages the joints. Foot structure: People with high arches or flat feet are prone to developing overlapping toes. Genetics: Overlapping toes may also be inherited. Many conditions that make one prone to developing an overlapping toe, like arthritis and Morton's toe, have genetic contributing factors. Improper footwear. Wearing shoes that are too short, too narrow or too tight can force the toes into an unnatural position and curl up, which will ultimately lead to the development of a crossover toe. Treatment options for crossover toe Footwear adjustments: Proper-fitting footwear is one of the most important ways to manage a crossover toe. Switching to shoes with a wider toe box can ease pressure on the affected toe and reduce discomfort. You should also make sure you have sufficient space at the end of your shoes (typically 1 cm) for your toes to properly splay. If shoes are too short, your toes will curl up. Many companies, like ASICS, APEX and Saucony, offer a wide-width options to give your feet the extra room it needs. Shoes with a mesh or soft upper are also recommended, as this will reduce pressure and friction on the top of the toes. Orthotics Custom orthotic inserts or pads can help support the arch and redistribute pressure across the foot. This can help promote proper toe alignment and reduce pressure on the crossover toes so that they don't get worse. Foot and Toe exercises: Performing specific exercises to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the toes can improve flexibility and prevent the condition from progressing. Splinting or taping: A foot specialist can tape the affected toe to encourage proper alignment and reduce pain. You can also buy a splint or toe spacer to help stabilize and align the toe. Corn and Callus Treatment: Since crossover toes are extremely prone to corns and calluses, it is very important to see a licensed chiropodist for routine foot care. A chiropodist can safely debride any corns and calluses on your crossover toe, which will reduce pain and irritation.

July 18, 2024

Morton’s Toe: When Your Second Toe Is Longer Than Your Big Toe

Feet come in all shapes and sizes, and while many people have heard of common foot conditions like bunions or flat feet, there's another lesser-known but equally interesting foot characteristic called Morton's foot or Morton's toe. The condition occurs when the second toe is longer than the big toe, leading to potential biomechanical implications and foot-related issues. Let's delve into Morton's Foot, its potential effects on foot health, and how to manage it. What is Morton's foot/toe? Morton's Foot, also known as Morton's toe/foot or Greek foot, is a foot structure in which the second toe is longer than the big toe. The big toe is the longest in a typical foot, followed by the second toe. (Despite sharing the same name, Morton's neuroma and Morton's toe are not the same.) However, in individuals with Morton's foot, the second toe extends beyond the big toe, sometimes significantly. The condition is quite common. As many as 40%+ individuals have a longer second toe than a big toe. Potential biomechanical implications But here's the twist: while Morton's foot is generally considered a variation of normal foot anatomy rather than a medical condition, it can have some surprising biomechanical implications that affect gait and foot function. Let's explore these potential issues associated with Morton's foot. Added pressure on the second toe The longer second toe may bear more weight during walking or standing, leading to increased pressure and potential discomfort or pain in the ball of the foot, which may contribute to clawing of the toe and hammertoes. Gait changes Morton's foot can alter the distribution of weight and pressure across the foot, potentially affecting gait mechanics and posture. This may contribute to overpronation, increasing the risk of injuries such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints and bunions. Footwear challenges Finding the right footwear can be a real challenge for individuals with Morton's foot. Shoes often fail to comfortably accommodate the longer second toe, leading to issues such as rubbing, irritation, or the development of thickened or ingrown toenails, corns or calluses on the affected toe. How to manage Morton's foot While Morton's Foot may not require medical intervention, there are steps individuals can take to manage associated discomfort or mitigate potential issues proactively: Choose footwear wisely. Opt for shoes with a wide toe box to comfortably accommodate the longer second toe—Asics is a great choice for a roomier and wider toe box. Avoid narrow or pointed shoes that can squeeze or crowd the toes. Consider orthotic support. Custom orthotic inserts or insoles can offset pressure on the toes and support the foot. This can alleviate any discomfort associated with Morton's Foot and improve your overall foot mechanics. Foot-strengthening exercises. Engaging in exercises to strengthen the muscles of the foot and ankle can help improve stability and support, reducing the risk of overuse injuries or discomfort associated with Morton's foot. Regular foot care. Practicing good foot hygiene and monitoring for signs of irritation or injury can help prevent complications such as corns, calluses, or ingrown toenails on the longer second toe.

July 15, 2024

Aging Feet: Common Changes and How to Adapt

Just like the rest of your body, your feet change with age. There are many age-related foot conditions that can target anyone at any time, but are more likely to occur in our golden years. With proper care, foot health in older adults doesn’t have to be too challenging and your aging feet can step out in downtown Toronto with confidence (and more importantly, in comfort). Why Aging Feet Become Vulnerable Studies show that one of the reasons musculoskeletal foot conditions, toe deformities and ankle problems are more common in older adults aged 65-74 is due to ill-fitting footwear. Poorly fitted shoes not only wreak havoc on your feet, but if you’ve worn them for double the amount of years a younger adult has, then they’ve had more time to cause foot issues! The math speaks volumes and is one of the many reasons wearing good shoes from a young age is so important. A change in size and shape also signifies your feet are getting older. Your body’s ligaments and tendons lose their ability to “spring back” which causes fallen arches (flat feet). This also relates back to ill-fitting footwear; if you aren’t aware of your foot changes, you can wear shoes that are too small without realizing it. Your skin also becomes thinner when you get older, and your nails more brittle and fragile. Your toenails can also get thicker, but not in a healthy way. Their weakening can invite unwanted problems like fungal infections and skin conditions. Lastly, it's only natural for a little wear and tear to set in after years of walking on your feet - after all, we only get one pair! This can cause degradation in many of the 33 joints in the foot. Common Foot Ailments In Elderly People: Bunions Hammertoes Plantar fasciitis Osteoarthritis Gout Type 2 diabetes and diabetic neuropathy (commonly occurs after age 45) Calluses Corns Toenail fungus Elderly-onset rheumatoid arthritis (a different type of RA than the one that targets younger adults) Foot Care Tips and Footwear For Seniors Managing foot problems and caring for aging feet is achievable when you do the following: Wear shoes that fit well! Many foot conditions feel better and more manageable when you wear orthopedic shoes, shoes for sensitive feet or the best shoes for seniors. Also, find shoes with the right level of shock absorption to protect your joints. Consider custom orthotics. Perform regular, low-impact exercises and stretches to keep your feet strong and flexible. Yoga and swimming is a great idea, but there are also exercises for arthritis. Keep your feet clean and moisturized. Get medical pedicures to maintain your nail health. Manage conditions like gout with proper dietary health and learn the role of nutrition in foot health. Try other products and medical devices like bunion pads, correctors, etc. Learn more about age-defying foot care.

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Plantar Hyperhidrosis: Frequently Asked Questions

What causes sweaty feet?

How can I stop excessive sweating?

Can it be cured?

Does it get worse with age?

How much does your feet perspire in a day?

Does wearing socks make a difference with sweaty feet?

Everything You Need for Healthy Feet - All Under One Roof

About Author: Bianca Charles

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6 Myths About Foot Odor

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

Managing Bunions: Treatment Options and Lifestyle Tips for Relief

What’s A Crossover Toe: Understanding Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Morton’s Toe: When Your Second Toe Is Longer Than Your Big Toe

Aging Feet: Common Changes and How to Adapt

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