Podiatrist and Chiropodist: The Difference

October 31, 2022

In Ontario, there are two terms for a foot specialist: a chiropodist and a podiatrist.

Many prospective patients ask themselves if there is a difference between the two occupations. They assume there must be since there wouldn’t be two words for one specialty, right?

But the truth is, there are very few differences between chiropodists and podiatrists. Even if you research the definition of both professions, you can be left feeling just as confused as when you started. You’ll often find that the internet tells you that they are healthcare professionals who tend to the feet, so what gives?!

Despite your confusion, there are some reasons medical experts split foot care experts into two categories. Let’s explore why the healthcare world doesn’t simply settle on one term!

Podiatry and Chiropody: Key Differences

Now that we have a clear understanding of each profession, the question remains; why does the medical industry insist on preserving two terms for foot specialists?

The terms are not interchangeable, despite how similar they are. Let’s look at why.

Education

It takes longer to become a podiatrist. According to the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association, podiatrists must complete a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine (D.P.M.) degree. This is a four-year post-baccalaureate program. On the other hand, chiropodists complete a post-secondary diploma in chiropody. Furthermore, both often have additional education in a science-related field from an accredited university.

Terminology and Word Choice

Even though they don’t go to a traditional medical school, you can use the term “foot doctor” to describe a podiatrist, as podiatrists obtain their D.P.M. You should not use this term to describe a chiropodist, although “foot care expert” and “foot specialist” certainly qualify.

Diagnoses Communication

Podiatrists can “communicate a diagnosis” to their patients, which stems from Ontario law granting them one of the six primary care professions in the province. This does not mean that a chiropodist cannot participate in effective communication with their patient.

Specialties

With their background in sports medicine, a podiatrist may be a better fit for someone experiencing a foot/ankle fracture or sprain. They’re also the only foot specialists able to perform surgeries on the forefoot bones. One may be able to argue that a podiatrist is better suited for a severe condition requiring surgical intervention. For example, surgery for severe heel spurs or bunions.

However, a chiropodist can also address foot conditions and may be a better fit for establishing follow-up visits, ongoing care, foot care treatments, and giving advice on managing your foot health.

For more information about the things a chiropodist can and cannot do, visit our FAQ.

Availability

As of May 2022, there are over 600 chiropodists and only 60 podiatrists in Ontario. With limited access to podiatry, it’s important to reiterate that those suffering from foot issues can explore chiropody and don’t have to wait for a podiatrist to become available. Of course, the exception is if you require bone surgery.

In addition, unlike a podiatrist, you do not need a referral to see a chiropodist (although your private extended benefits may require one for coverage).

Coverage

Podiatrists can bill OHIP. Chiropodists cannot bill to OHIP, but they can bill companies that offer extended healthcare coverage, like Manulife and Sunlife.

Can a Chiropodist and Podiatrist Treat the Same Conditions?

Unless you require surgery on the bones in your feet, or you are not covered by extended health insurance and need OHIP coverage, you can see a chiropodist instead of a podiatrist.

It can be difficult to schedule an appointment with a podiatrist, so there’s no reason to neglect the expertise, kindness and care a chiropodist can offer you. Plus, they treat the same conditions as podiatrists, which include (but are not limited to):

Skin conditions such as calluses, corns, plantar warts, and cracked heels.
Toenail conditions like ingrown toenails, cracked toenails, and discoloured toenails.
Structural abnormalities that cause foot pain, like Plantar fasciitis, osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and bunions.
Contagious conditions such as fungal toenail and athlete’s foot.
Additional conditions like foot odour.
Diabetic foot care, assistance and guidance.

Don't Wait Around for Foot Health Advice!

Some people make the mistake of assuming they need a podiatrist for treatment, but this couldn’t be further from the truth! Only under specific circumstances do you require a podiatrist.

Feet First Clinic offers expert foot care. We offer a wide range of services that help you get back on your feet as quickly as possible – No referral required!

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

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March 30, 2023

Custom Orthotics: The Solution for Chronic Foot Pain

For those with chronic foot pain, it can be downright impossible to achieve pain management on a substantial level. But if you wear custom orthotics with your shoes, long-lasting comfort may be just around the corner. Custom orthotic insoles are among the most popular medical devices chiropodists offer their patients. Per Harvard Health , foot specialists prescribe orthotic inserts when the "muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, or bones are not in an optimal functional position and are causing pain, discomfort, and fatigue." The key word here is "custom," meaning these insoles are specifically designed for your unique needs and tailor-made to target each individual's chronic pain. They are not the same as insoles you can buy over the counter, which appeal to the masses. But it's not enough to simply take our word for it. Understanding the science behind custom orthotics and how they aid so many different foot issues is important. In today's blog, we'll explore three main topics: How custom orthotics treat chronic foot pain What conditions can you treat with custom orthotics? How to acquire custom orthotics How Custom Orthotics Treat Chronic Foot Pain Orthotics have one main job: to correct the foot's walking and standing position. Those with a painful foot condition, or those predisposed to developing one due to flat feet or high arches, often adapt slightly unusual walking patterns to compensate for their less-than-ideal foot structure. The two main ways we do this include: Overpronation (flat feet): When the foot and ankle roll slightly inward and downward with every step. In this case, orthotics adjust your foot's position by offering sufficient arch support. Underpronation/Supination (high arches): When the foot's heel leans outward, putting excess weight on the outer edge of the foot. Orthotics can correct this by stabilizing the foot's steps. Orthotics also help with chronic foot pain caused by joint and muscle conditions like arthritis and pain caused by severe foot deformities, such as bunions and hammertoes. They do this by placing the foot in a position that reduces excess force and pressure on the foot's mot vulnerable and painful areas during movement. Not only does this relieve strain, but proper alignment of the feet can also help avoid future back, knee and hip pain. What Foot Conditions Can You Treat With Custom Orthotics? Custom insoles can help treat a wide array of common foot issues. Some of these: Plantar fasciitis: Orthotics support the foot's arch and provide extra cushioning and shock absorption for the heel. Osteoarthritis: Orthotics immobilize, support, or correct the joints' movements while stabilizing walking. Bunions: Orthotics help reduce excessive pressure on the big toe joint. Morton's neuroma: Orthotics prevent the rolling together of bones in the metatarsal arch (the arch responsible for distributing weight, located just behind the ball of the foot). Metatarsalgia: Semirigid orthotics reduce pressure in painful areas and support the feet. Achille's Tendonitis: Orthotics reduce the load and strain on the Achille's tendon while supporting the foot as the tissue heals. Gout: Supportive orthotics with sufficient cushioning can help with gout attacks by reducing joint pressure. Hammertoes: Orthotics counteract the muscle-tendon imbalance that causes hammertoes. They also align the bones in the foot and provide cushioning in crucial areas. How to Acquire Custom Orthotics The best way to secure the perfect pair of custom insoles is to schedule the appropriate appointments with your chiropodist. They start with a thorough biomechanical assessment that includes a test of your range of motion and weight-bearing tendencies, as well as a gait analysis. Following this, your chiropodist will use one of several casting techniques to make custom orthotics by capturing your foot in the ideal position. And lastly, you can schedule an appointment for a fitting when your orthotics arrive to ensure they're working properly. Check out our main orthotics page to read more about securing custom orthotics. You can also learn more about the benefits of custom orthotics and the several different kinds by viewing our comprehensive guide to orthotics.

March 27, 2023

Understanding Plantar Fasciitis: Symptoms and Treatment

Do you experience heel pain when you walk or stand? Is the pain exceptionally sharp in the mornings or evenings? You might have a foot injury called plantar fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in the heel and bottom of the foot. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs from the heel to the toes, becomes strained or injured. This can cause tiny tears in the fascia, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. In this blog post, we explore what is plantar fasciitis, its common symptoms, and treatment options. What is plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is pain or soreness in the heel and sole. It occurs when the band of tissue between your heel and toes on the underside of the foot - called the plantar fascia - becomes inflamed or irritated. The plantar fascia absorbs shock and supports the arch of the foot. Small tears can occur in the tissue when it is repeatedly strained, leading to inflammation and pain. This condition is common in athletes, runners, and people who stand for long periods. Most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis symptoms includes: Sharp or stabbing pain in the heel or arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after periods of rest. Pain that worsens with weight-bearing activity or standing for long periods. Stiffness or aching in the bottom of the foot. Swelling or redness in the heel or arch. The most common symptom of plantar fasciitis is a pain in the heel or arch of the foot. You may experience pain in the surrounding areas due to plantar fasciitis, but discomfort is typically in the underside of the midfoot. Pain can be more intense during certain times of the day. You may experience plantar pain, even a sharp stabbing sensation, in the morning and evening. Next, let's tackle effective treatment methods for plantar fasciitis to help you recover from this foot condition as soon as possible. Plantar fasciitis treatment methods Plantar fasciitis treatment depends on the severity and longevity of the pain. Try the following treatment methods to see what works best for you. RICE: Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation The "RICE" method is a commonly recommended treatment for minor injuries, including sprains, strains, and bruises. RICE stands for: Rest: Reduce and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain, and rest the foot as much as possible. Resting may include taking a few days off exercise or wearing more supportive shoes around the house to strengthen your feet. Ice: Use cold therapy by applying an ice pack or dipping your feet in an ice bath or tub for 15-20 minutes to reduce inflammation and pain. Compression: Compression sleeves can help reduce swelling and improve blood flow to the feet and legs. You can also choose to wear a splint at night to stretch the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon while sleeping. Elevation: Lifting your feet above your heart by elevating your legs and feet can reduce swelling. The RICE method works best in the first 48 to 72 hours after injury or aggravation, but can be effective throughout the treatment stage. Afterward, you may gradually move the affected area and do gentle exercises to help you recover. Shockwave therapy Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that leverages sound waves to kickstart healing. A handheld device delivers the waves on the underside of the foot. The high-energy sound waves stimulate the growth of blood vessels and encourage better blood flow to the affected area. Greater blood flow can help reduce pain and inflammation and promote tissue regeneration. Shockwave therapy requires a series of sessions. Each session last 10-15 minutes, and the number of sessions varies based on the severity of the injury. Did you know Feet First Clinic offers shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis? Book an appointment online or call us at (416) 769-3338. Stretching exercises Stretching exercises can help relieve the symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Specifically, stretching the plantar fascia and the Achilles tendon can effectively treat heel and arch pain. Here are some stretching exercises that may help with plantar fasciitis: Calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with your hands on the wall at shoulder height. Step back with one foot and keep it straight, with the heel on the floor. Lean forward with the other foot, keeping both heels on the floor until you feel a stretch in your calf. Plantar fascia stretch. Sit in a chair with one foot on your opposite knee. Grab the base of your toes with one hand and your heel with the other. Gently pull your toes back toward your shin until you feel a stretch in the arch of your foot. Towel stretch. Sit on the floor with your legs straight out in front of you. Place a towel around the ball of your foot and hold both ends of the towel with your hands. Pull the towel toward your body until you feel a stretch in your calf and the bottom of your foot. Generally, we recommend holding stretches for 20-30 seconds and switching sides. You should feel a light stretch and shouldn't strain the movement, or you risk overextending your muscles. Orthotics Custom orthotics are shoe inserts that fit your feet and address biomechanical issues that may contribute to plantar fasciitis. Custom orthotics can help curb plantar fasciitis by doing the following: Reduce pressure on the plantar fascia by redistributing pressure away from the plantar fascia, which can help reduce pain and inflammation. Correct foot mechanics, including flat feet or collapsed arches. Provide cushioning and support. Improve overall foot function by addressing underlying biomechanical issues and providing support and cushioning to the foot. It's important to note that custom orthotics are not a one-size-fits-all solution and may not be appropriate for everyone with plantar fasciitis. Consult a chiropodist to determine if custom orthotics are right for you. Taping Taping isn't just for athletes. Elastic therapeutic taping techniques can limit unwanted movements that increase strain on the plantar fascia. Taping can act as a lock on your feet to reduce overextending any aggravated muscles in your feet. Research finds that "in the short-term, taping is beneficial in treating plantar fasciitis. The best evidence exists for low-dye taping and calcaneal taping." The tape provides stability and structure to the muscle group. Our chiropodists at Feet First Clinic can tape your feet and toes to help treat plantar fasciitis. Self-massage Self-massage can be a helpful way to relieve some of the pain and discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. Here are some techniques you can try at home: Ball roll. Sit on a chair and place a tennis or massage ball under your foot. Roll your foot back and forth over the ball, applying pressure to the arch of your foot. Thumb press. Sit on a chair and cross one leg over the other. Place your thumb on the arch of your foot and press firmly, moving your thumb in a circular motion. You can also use your other fingers to help support your foot and apply additional pressure. Toe stretch. Sit on a chair and cross one leg over the other. Grab your toes with one hand and gently pull them back toward your shin until you feel a stretch in the arch of your foot. Hold for a few seconds and release. Heel squeeze. Sit on a chair and place a small hand towel on the floor before you. Place your heel on the towel and squeeze your heel toward your toes, scrunching the towel. A chiropodist can recommend additional exercises for you or demonstrate how to do these self-massage techniques to do them properly on your own.

March 23, 2023

Understanding and Managing Foot Pain in Diabetic Patients

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

March 20, 2023

Foot Arch Pain: Causes and Treatment

Are you experiencing foot arch pain? You’re not alone. The arches of our feet support our weight when we're upright, providing a critical function for the body. Your arch also influences how you move, making it essential to keep them healthy and supported. But, sometimes, pain can creep up. We're here to help. This blog post outlines how foot arch pain develops and how to nip foot arch discomfort early to prevent long-term effects. What is foot arch pain? Foot arch pain can be a subtle or intense discomfort in the curved, raised area along the bottom of the foot (the arch). The arch is the midpoint of the foot between the ball and the heel of the foot. It comprises bones, ligaments, and tendons in the foot, which support the body's weight and help absorb shock during walking and other activities. A person's arch is unique. The height and shape of the arch vary from person to person. Genetics, age, and the type of shoes a person wears all play a role in the arch's shape. Foot arch pain is a common source of discomfort and may occur for various reasons. You may experience pain in different parts of the arch: the medial arch (inside edge), the lateral arch (outer edge), and the transverse arch (middle). Next, we get into the causes of foot arch pain. What causes foot arch pain? Foot arch pain can be acute or chronic, typically stemming from inflammation. Pain can also range from a dull soreness to an intense sensation. Below, we outline the various causes of foot arch pain. Overuse or repetitive stress Foot arch pain can be simply the result of doing too much in too short a period. Repeated stress or overuse of the feet can lead to inflammation and pain in the arches. Overuse is especially prevalent in sports, with running, jumping, or even standing for long periods (like at work or if you stand at your desk while working from home). Flat feet Flat feet occur when the arch comes in complete contact with the ground due to weakened tendons and ligaments that can no longer hold up the arch. While flat feet may not always cause problems, individuals with fallen arches may require treatment such as supportive shoes or custom orthotics to alleviate symptoms and prevent further damage. Plantar fasciitis Plantar fasciitis affects the bottom of the foot and causes heel pain. This foot condition occurs when the band of tissue between your heel and toes becomes irritated. Plantar fasciitis can happen for various reasons, such as overuse, repetitive strain, or injury to the foot. People who are overweight, have flat feet or high arches, or engage in activities that stress the feet, such as running or standing for long periods, are more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. You may experience pain and stiffness in the heel or arch of the foot, especially in the morning or after walking, running, or standing. Arthritis Arthritis describes conditions that cause inflammation and damage to the joints. Various forms of arthritis can lead to arch pain. Types of arthritis that cause arch pain include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. Injury You may experience foot arch pain because of past trauma or injury. Conditions like sprains, strains, or falls can cause arch pain due to acute muscle damage, ligament, and tendon damage. Now that you know the various causes of arch pain, let's get into treatment methods. How can foot arch pain be treated? Foot arch pain treatment can sometimes be frustrating due to our reliance on our arch. Staying off our feet to reduce stress on the arch can be challenging, but fortunately, there are several effective treatment options for foot arch pain. Depending on the intensity of the pain, you may choose a DIY treatment method. If your arch pain is persistent or severe, we recommend seeing a foot specialist to discuss treatment options and create a treatment plan. Rest and ice A mix of rest and ice is an effective treatment method for foot arch pain. First, temporarily reduce impactful activities and allow your feet to rest. Supplement rest with icing to keep swelling and inflammation down. (You can even use a frozen water bottle as an icy massage tool by rolling your feet on the bottle.) Then, when you feel like you're on the upswing, ease slowly back into physical activity. Avoid returning to strenuous activity to allow your body to readjust from rest to being active. Stretching Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and relieve tension in the arches. Here are a few effective stretching and strengthening exercises for arch pain: Place a towel on the floor, and grab the towel with your toes pulling it towards you. Grasp your toes (while seated), and scrunch them towards you to feel a stretch in your arch. Lean against a wall with your arms extended, and move your hips forward to stretch your calves. Shockwave Therapy This non-invasive innovative treatment delivers high-energy sound wave pulses to the affected area. Shockwave therapy triggers your body’s natural healing response to repair the damaged tissue in the arch area and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is scientifically proven to be a highly effective treatment for chronic arch pain caused by plantar fasciitis. It is an excellent supplement to other treatments like orthotics and supportive footwear. Orthotics Custom-made orthotics can provide additional support and cushioning to the arches, which can help reduce pain and discomfort. Orthotics work to correct or accommodate biomechanical abnormalities, foot deformities, and other conditions to improve your gait and manage pain. The purpose of orthotics is to redistribute the force and pressure placed on our muscles and joints when we move. Equal distribution across your feet means fewer aches and pains as your muscles work better in tandem instead of select groups overworking. Supportive footwear Shoes with good arch support can alleviate arch pain, much like orthotics can. Wearing the proper footwear for your feet and the purpose is the least we can do for our feet. Supportive footwear acts to provide both the correct cushioning and Physical therapy Physical therapy can help improve strength, flexibility, and range of motion in the feet and ankles. Keeping your feet strong and balanced is vital to proper arch support. Over time, the tendons and ligaments of the arch tend to weaken. Physical therapy can help combat age and fallen arches. Medications You may supplement the above treatment methods with over-the-counter medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce inflammation. Consult a doctor if you have intense pain or have questions about dosage or the recommended medication.

March 16, 2023

The Importance of Foot Care for People with Rheumatoid Arthritis

If you suffer from Rheumatoid arthritis, chances are you're already scheduling regular appointments with a chiropodist. And if you aren't, you may be overdue. This serious condition requires assistance and guidance from a healthcare professional. That said, it's truly amazing what practicing foot care on your own time can help you achieve. The two main goes of foot care for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are pain management and avoiding complications. Today we will discuss how lifestyle factors such as shoe choices and exercises can help you structure your life around RA with less discomfort. But first, let's break down everything we'll discuss today: What is Rheumatoid arthritis? Best shoes for Rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis and exercises Additional foot care practices for RA What is Rheumatoid Arthritis? Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that wreaks havoc on your joints by mistakenly targeting the body's healthy cells, leading to inflammation. It most commonly affects the feet, hands, wrists and knees. It's critical to take Rheumatoid arthritis seriously. If you don't pay attention to foot care and neglect regular check-ups, you may be putting yourself at risk of developing complications. These include osteoporosis, an increased body mass index (BMI), heart and lung problems, and a compromised immune system that leaves you more vulnerable to infections. Click here to read more on RA, including symptoms, treatments from a chiropodist, and helpful medications. Best Shoes for Rheumatoid Arthritis One way to practice foot care and pain management with RA is to be extremely vigilant about your shoes. Medical News Today notes that people with RA should look for shoes with a wide-toe box, rocker bottoms and cushioning with arch support. Adjustable straps and breathable materials can also be beneficial to maximize comfort levels. Rocker bottoms: Also called rocker soles, this shoe feature can reduce pain and help with mobility and activity limitation in RA patients. They are designed to reduce pressure under the ball of the foot and excessive toe motion. Wide toe box: Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to foot deformities in the form of severe bunions, claw toes and hammertoes. It can also cause severely flat feet, and a widened forefoot, sometimes called splay foot. Rheumatoid nodules (firm bumps of tissue) can also pop up anywhere along the affected area. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box is imperative for maintaining a certain comfort level and accommodating these deformities. Adjustable straps: When you have Rheumatoid arthritis, having more room in the entire shoe to accommodate stiff joints and deformities can be a major plus. Breathable materials: A 2019 study highlighting important features of retail shoes for women with RA found that breathable materials (such as soft mesh uppers) were crucial for most patients. Cushioning and arch support: The same study reported that most women found shoes with adequate rearfoot and forefoot cushioning most comfortable. Women said the same about longitudinal arch support. The Clarks Wave 2.0 has a rocker sole Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise An exercise routine can help most people with arthritis in the lower extremities. We're not talking about exerting energy levels you aren't comfortable with or practicing difficult workouts and training. We know that mobility constraints will always be an issue. Exercises should simply work the muscles in your feet and lower half to prevent atrophy from a lack of use and help with pain management and mobility. Here are some multi-purposeful exercises that can also help with RA: Toe Flex and Raise https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908317/ Ankle Circles / Alphabet https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922798992582/ Calf Stretch on a Stair https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908193/ Be sure to also check out our two-part series on the best exercises for arthritis! Part 1 Part 2 Additional Foot Care Practices for RA The RICE Method: Sometimes, your pain may flare up to the point where all you can do is be patient and wait until it passes. Luckily the magical combination of rest, ice (or heat), compression, and elevation can help you accommodate severe pain and swelling. Summer footwear: During the warm months, wear sandals with open toes. Warmth: Keep your feet as warm as possible, as cold air can worsen joint pain. A heating pad can also be very helpful for loosening stiff muscles. Foot baths: The warm water in foot baths can loosen up stiff joints. Try adding Gehwol foot bath products for added comfort! Meditation: Stress can often trigger RA flare-ups, so reducing anxiety via healthy, quiet rumination can be a wonderful preventative measure. Other stress-reducing lifestyle habits include taking walks (when physically able) and listening to soothing music.

March 13, 2023

Effective Treatments for Plantar Fasciitis

Arch pain is among the most common forms of foot discomfort. It can be particularly uncomfortable because of how critical the arch and heel are to the foot. The arch is the supporting foundation of our feet and appropriately resembles the shape of an aqueduct. Given the daily demands of life, it's easy to see how these structures can become overworked and damaged. The most common cause of arch pain and heel pain is a condition called plantar fasciitis. Keep reading to learn about the most effective plantar fasciitis treatments, including shockwave therapy, custom orthotics, and pain management solutions, to help you conquer the pain of plantar fasciitis for good. What's plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is when you experience pain or discomfort in the heel and underside of the foot - including the arch. Inflammation or irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that extends between the heel bone and the arch, triggers plantar fasciitis. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis may include: Pain in the heel or underside of the foot. Pain may peak in the morning or after prolonged periods of standing or walking. Stiffness and tenderness in the foot. Swelling or redness in the foot. Difficulty walking or standing for long periods. What causes plantar fasciitis? Plantar fasciitis is a common condition, especially among athletes and people who spend long periods on their feet. Understanding the source of your plantar fasciitis can help determine the best plantar fasciitis treatments for you. Causes of plantar fasciitis include: Overuse: Repetitive activities that stress the plantar fascia, such as running, jumping, or standing for long periods, can overwork the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Lower leg biomechanics: Some foot structures can stress the plantar fascia and increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Flat feet or high arches, for instance, may cause plantar fasciitis by adding stress to the muscle group. Footwear: Improper footwear that (1) doesn't provide enough arch support, (2) doesn't have enough support or cushioning, or (3) doesn't fit properly can all contribute to plantar fasciitis. Age: Plantar fasciitis is common in people over 40, as the plantar fascia loses elasticity and becomes more prone to injury with age. Medical conditions: Obesity, diabetes, and osteoarthritis can increase the risk of plantar fasciitis. Tight or weak muscles: Tight muscles in the calf or foot can put extra stress on the plantar fascia, leading to inflammation and pain. Weight: Sudden weight gain can add stress to the plantar fascia before your body acclimatizes to the high support requirement. The causes of plantar fasciitis can vary from person to person, and a combination of factors may contribute to the development of the condition. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a chiropodist, can help identify the underlying causes of your plantar fasciitis and guide appropriate treatment. What are the effective treatment methods for plantar fasciitis? There are many effective treatments for plantar fasciitis. Depending on the severity of the condition, you can treat the pain and discomfort yourself or be better off seeing a foot specialist. We recommend the following treatments for plantar fasciitis: Rest Avoiding activities that cause pain can help reduce inflammation and allow the plantar fascia to heal. Rest is the number one treatment method for plantar fasciitis as you remove the source cause. You may only need a few days of recovery, but more severe cases may need up to 4-6 weeks. After adequate rest, you may slowly resume physical activity and be on your feet. Ice Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and swelling. You can freeze a water bottle, and rest your foot on top of it while sitting. The cold therapy reduces inflammation. Footwear modifications Wearing supportive shoes or inserts can help reduce stress on the plantar fascia and improve foot biomechanics. You should also remove ill-fitting footwear from your closet. Instead, choose one of our best shoes for plantar fasciitis relief. Physical therapy Physiotherapy and massage therapy effectively treats plantar fasciitis if you prefer not to DIY. At home, you can self-massage by rolling a tennis ball or frozen water bottle under the foot. Self-message strengthens the foot arch muscles and relieves tension in the inflamed plantar fascia. Stretching and strengthening are also critical parts of plantar fasciitis treatment. Towel stretches, calf stretches, tennis ball rolls, and marble pickups can help strengthen the arch and heel. Find out how to effectively do plantar fasciitis exercises here. Shockwave therapy This non-invasive innovative treatment delivers high-energy sound wave pulses to the affected area. It triggers your body's natural healing response to repair the plantar fascia and reduce pain. Shockwave therapy is scientifically proven to be a highly effective treatment for plantar fasciitis pain persisting longer than six months. Custom orthotics Custom orthotics and orthopedic shoes support the arches of your feet and reduce stress on the plantar fascia. Both also encourage proper heel-to-toe gait, which, combined with arch support, can prevent a recurrence. Taping Taping isn't just for sports. Elastic therapeutic taping techniques may prevent unwanted movements that increase strain on the plantar fascia. For example, research finds that “in the short-term, taping is beneficial in treating plantar fasciitis. The best evidence exists for low dye taping and calcaneal taping.” Behind-the-scenes, taping provides stability and structure to the muscle group. Our chiropodists at Feet First Clinic can skillfully and therapeutically tape the feet and toes to treat and prevent a variety of foot conditions and deformities.

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