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September 20, 2019

Top Saucony & Asics Shoes To Run In Right Now

As an avid runner and a writer who focuses on gear reviews, I’ve tested just about every type of running shoe on the market.

Since 2015, I’ve worn and tested more than 60 pairs of running shoes from all of the major brands. Overall, I’ve run in more than 150 different pairs of shoes in my lifetime. Two brands that consistently stand out for their value and quality are Saucony and Asics, both of which Feet First Clinic carry in-store.

While you’re here in person, ask us about great orthopedic shoes available to help combat foot problems.

Finding the right shoe is so essential, both for exercise and for your everyday life. Having a quality pair of running shoes can help prevent injury, and can reduce the strain you put on your legs.

With so many brands and various products offered by each, there is an overwhelming number of options. With so many to choose from, it’s easy to have decision anxiety. Not knowing where to start can be a significant hurdle when deciding what pair of shoes you should buy.

Fortunately, there are easy methods to find the right shoe.

In the clinic, for one, we employ 3D video in order to further analyze gait. Video gait analysis involves being recorded while walking on a treadmill. The video software allows us to slow and stop and zoom in on specific areas during your gait. This is done in order to educate you about your foot type and gait pattern. Following the biomechanical assessment and gait analysis, we may recommend certain devices, shoes and/or exercises to assist with obtaining your optimal biomechanics.

Beyond gait analysis, we can help you choose the right pair of shoes based on your desired outcomes.

We offer every customer a comprehensive footwear assessment free of charge to ensure that you invest in the healthiest footwear for your unique feet. Our footwear specialists and chiropodists will help match your foot shape, structure, and alignment to specific shoes and footwear features that answer to your corrective, supportive, or accommodative needs.

To offer a glimpse into two of the top running shoe brands we carry in-store, these are some of our favourite Saucony and Asics shoes on the market right now.

Top running shoes from Saucony and Asics

Saucony Kinvara 10 (men’s / women’s)

I’ve written extensively about the Kinvara including the Saucony Kinvara 8 and Saucony Kinvara 9. In my opinion, the Saucony Kinvara 10 is the best all-around shoe on the market. It’s neutral-cushioned, meaning it’s great for people who don’t overpronate or supinate. The Kinvara 10 is also light, and offers enough cushioning to help ward off many common foot injuries.

Because of the structure of the shoe, the Kinvara 10 feels more natural than most leading competitors. This is mostly due to the shoe’s drop at just 4 mm, which means the heel is 4 mm higher than the toe. Because the drop (difference between heel and toe heights) of your foot is naturally zero, a lower drop feels like less shoe. However, it puts more strain on your calves and Achilles versus shoes with a higher drop.

The cushioning of the Kinvara 10 has a very marshmallow-like feel, and the landing pad covers quite a lot of surface area. The shoe is spacious and very affordable, retailing for less than $150.

Saucony Ride ISO 2 (men’s / women’s)

If the Saucony Kinvara 10 is like a spring mattress, the Saucony Ride ISO 2 is memory foam. With more cushioning and structure, the Ride ISO 2 is more rigid than the Kinvara 10 but otherwise similar in many ways.

The Ride ISO 2 is ideal for running on asphalt and concrete sidewalks as it has lots of cushioning underfoot. The inner material of the shoe is quite a bit thicker than the Kinvara 10 making it feel extra soft and comfortable from the get-go. The Ride ISO 2 has a drop of 8 mm which means there’s support for your Achilles and calves.

Because of the shoe’s large amount of cushioning, the Saucony Ride ISO 2 is great for runners who underpronate (known as supination). This is because the brunt of the impact is borne by the outer edge of your shoe. So, the Ride ISO 2 has lots of foam underfoot to reduce impact. In turn, that means less soreness in your knees, shins, and feet.

Saucony Guide ISO 2 (men’s / women’s)

The Saucony Guide ISO 2 is the ideal shoe for runners who overpronate, meaning the brunt of the impact is borne by the inner part of your foot. Known to be stiffer than neutral-cushioned shoes, the Guide ISO 2 falls under the stability shoe category. Stability shoes focus more on rigidness and structure because they’re meant to correct imperfections in your stride.

The standout feature of stability footwear is medial support along the inner edge of the shoe. This portion of hard plastic is long-lasting and tougher than regular foam cushioning and is designed to withstand the additional impact that overpronators apply to their arch area. The shoe also has a stiffer plate which requires the load put on your ankles by overpronation.

Asics Dynaflyte 4 (men’s / women’s)

The Asics DynaFlyte 4 is one of Asics’ newest lines of footwear. Though relatively young for a line of footwear, the DynaFlyte 4 sports an excellent upper giving it a comfortable feel. The DynaFlyte 4 is lightweight and has reflective panels to ensure you’re seen at nighttime.

The DynaFlyte 4 stands out in this list because it’s the most fashionable shoe among the bunch. Though you should never choose a functional shoe based on its looks, having various colourways never hurts.

Also, if you’re looking for a comfortable shoe, the DynaFlyte 4 has a fantastic sock liner. The material is super soft and feels great against the feet. If you have a regular or high arch and enjoy neutral cushioned shoes, the DynaFlyte 4 is a solid option.

Asics Gel-Nimbus 21 (men’s / women’s)

The Gel-Nimbus 21 is similar to the Saucony Ride ISO 2. Both are packed full of cushioning and they’re meant to go the distance, no matter how long your runs are. Though on the heavier side for a shoe, you gain additional support thanks to its extra cushioning so it’s a fair tradeoff.

With a 10 mm heel-to-toe drop, the Gel-Nimbus won’t feel as natural as shoes with a lower drop. If you’re prone to Achilles problems, the Gel-Nimbus may be what you’re looking for to stay injury-free.

With the Gel-Nimbus 21, you’re getting a shoe that lasts hundreds of kilometres thanks to the midsole technology. A heel plug and lining around the cushioning means that running won’t wear down the shoe as quickly. That means a shoe that lasts longer.

Asics Gel-Kayano 26 (men’s / women’s)

The Asics Gel-Kayano 26 is the most supportive and responsive shoe on this list. The Gel-Kayano 26 (meaning it’s the 26th iteration of the shoe) is a stability shoe. So, it’s best for overpronators and those who require significant support.

The Gel-Kayano 26 can be considered a sibling to the Asics Gel-Nimbus 21. Both are training shoes for long-distance running. Both will last you quite a while too. Where the Gel-Kayano 26 sets itself apart is the fact that it boasts comfort and structure.

With adjusted heel geometry and cushioning sculpted at an incline, the Gel-Kayano 26 puts less stress on your feet when you pronate. Asics says that its midsole technology combines two different density materials to reduce the risk of flat feet and bunions.

Stop by Feet First Clinic to browse our collection of top running shoes and brands you love.

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

At Feet First Clinic, we’re always excited to welcome new clients! After a successful 12 years of treating our amazing patients, we’re ready to continue offering only the best foot care services and products. Give us a call to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have! Our Toronto foot specialists are ready to help!

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

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December 4, 2023
Stay Comfortable this Winter: Cold Weather Footwear Guide
Winter's chill may be invigorating but can also send shivers down your spine. It's therefore a top priority to keep your feet warm and cozy. As the temperature drops and the snowflakes fall, the choice of footwear becomes a crucial component of staying comfortable in the cold. But don't worry, you don't have to sacrifice style for warmth. In this comprehensive cold-weather footwear guide, we walk you through the best choices for winter footwear, from boots to socks so that you can embrace the season's beauty without a second thought about frozen toes. Say goodbye to chilly discomfort and hello to a cozy, fashionable winter. What makes winter footwear unique? Before we dive into the world of winter boots and socks, it's essential to recognize why proper cold-weather footwear matters. Winter footwear typically includes many, if not all, of the following features. Warmth Winter footwear is warmer than any other seasonal footwear. Cold feet can be not only uncomfortable but also potentially dangerous. Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures increases the risk of frostbite, so keeping your feet warm is essential for overall well-being. Traction Winter footwear boasts better traction than other footwear. December to March months often come with slippery sidewalks and icy roads. The proper footwear offers the traction needed to prevent slips and falls, reducing the risk of injury. Protection Winter shoes protect your feet from the elements, including cold, wet, and snow. The boot's protective layer keeps your feet dry and comfortable. Comfort Cold weather can bring added stress to your feet, so comfortable footwear with proper cushioning and insulation is crucial for a pleasant winter experience. Due to being heavier and rigid, expect winter footwear to feel more rugged than your spring, summer, and fall footwear. How to choose your perfect winter footwear Your perfect winter boot or footwear exists. It's just a matter of finding your match. Consider the following when deciding between boots this winter. Winter features: Invest in high-quality winter boots designed to keep your feet warm and dry. Look for boots with insulation, waterproof materials, and slip-resistant soles. Socks: What you wear on your feet is a crucial component of the whole winter footwear package. Choose moisture-wicking, insulating socks to keep your feet warm and dry. Wool socks are an excellent choice for winter as they provide insulation while wicking moisture away from your feet. Sizing: Ensure your winter boots have extra room for thicker socks. A snug fit can reduce warmth, so select boots that allow for additional sock layers. Proper Lacing: Ensure your boots are laced or fastened correctly. Properly laced boots provide better support and warmth by preventing cold air from entering. Waterproofing: Apply a waterproof spray or conditioner to your boots. Waterproofing adds a layer of protection and helps prolong the life of your boots or shoes. Reapply this treatment periodically throughout the winter. Traction Aids: For particularly icy conditions, consider adding traction aids or slip-on ice cleats to your boots for improved grip and safety. Fashion and Style: You don't have to sacrifice style for warmth. Many winter boots come in fashionable designs that keep you cozy and on-trend. Our top picks: Comfortable footwear for Toronto winters Now, for what boot to pick? Below, you'll find our top picks for winter footwear, all available at our Bloor Street West location in Toronto. Sorel IV Tivoli Parc Boot WP The Sorel IV Parc Boot WP, renowned for its exceptional cold-weather performance, is a quintessential winter boot designed to keep your feet warm and dry in the harshest conditions. Its waterproof synthetic upper and seam-sealed construction protects against wet and slush environments, while the removable felt liner ensures remarkable insulation even in frigid temperatures. These boots are temperature-rated to withstand extreme cold, and their rugged outsole with a multidirectional lug pattern offers exceptional traction on icy terrain. With its classic style and versatility, the Sorel IV Parc Boot WP is a trusted companion for those who brave the coldest winter elements while maintaining a sense of enduring fashion. Portofino ID1673 The Portofino ID1673 unisex winter boot is waterproof and lined with natural wool to keep your feet warm and cozy. The double zippers and laces allow for an optimal fit and comfort. The removable insole allows you to insert your orthotics. Portofino MS105 The Portofino MS105 women's winter boot features a line bootie and is available in several colours. The outer is suede, and the winter boot is water-resistant, protecting you from the cold and the slush. Superfeet Insoles You can also supplement your winter footwear with custom orthotics or Superfeet insoles. Winter boots are not always orthopedic, so if you want added support, most winter boots have a removeable insole and the extra foot and toe room to accommodate for the inserts.
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November 30, 2023
Discovering Perfect Footwear for Kids: A Parent’s Guide to Happy Feet
As parents, we're entrusted with our children's well-being and health. And when it comes to our little ones, growing feet deserve our attention. Selecting the right shoes for kids is critical; it's a crucial aspect of their comfort, development, and overall health. But with so many options available, choosing the perfect pair can be overwhelming. In this guide, we will walk you through the essential considerations when picking the right shoes for your little ones so they can put their best foot forward with smiles on their faces and healthy, happy feet. The importance of proper footwear for kids Proper footwear for kids is critical, as shoes can affect overall foot health and gait development. Specifically, proper footwear for children promotes the following: Healthy growth: Kids' feet are continually growing and developing. Ill-fitting or unsupportive shoes can hinder their natural growth and development. Comfort and function: Well-fitted shoes ensure your child is comfortable and can move freely. The right shoes also provide support and stability, helping prevent accidents and discomfort. Foot Health: Proper footwear plays a significant role in maintaining healthy feet, preventing issues like blisters, calluses, ingrown toenails, and even long-term problems like bunions and misaligned toes. Posture and alignment: The right shoes can promote proper posture and foot alignment, reducing the risk of developing musculoskeletal issues later in life. How do you choose footwear for kids? There are a few considerations to think about when choosing footwear for kids. Children's feet have special features, foot shape, and size that can change as they grow and age. Of course, you're helping decide for them, but you should also check in with how they're feeling and ask them how the shoes fit. Fit Ensure the shoes fit correctly. Children's feet grow rapidly, so a proper measurement each time is essential to get the right size. Leave a bit of room (about 1-2 cm) at the front to accommodate growth. The main area for growth will be in the toe box, so help your child with the fit by ensuring some room at the end of the shoe. Various studies suggest that children aged 2 to 6 years require a shoe size change every 1 to 2 months, while children aged 12 to 30 months require a shoe size change every two to three months. Foot growth slows over time, so the exact interval of new shoes may differ. The shape of the toe box is also a factor. A toe box with a broader, rounded shape follows the contour of the feet and prevents issues like blisters and ingrown toenails. Comfort and support Look for shoes with cushioning and arch support. A good insole is essential for shock absorption and maintaining healthy arches. Kids' shoes should be flexible to allow for natural foot movement. Rigid shoes can hinder healthy foot development. Material Choose shoes made from breathable materials to prevent excessive sweating and discomfort. You'll also want to have a certain degree of durability. After all, kids will be kids. Invest in shoes with high-quality materials that can stand against the daily wear and tear of being a child. Secure closure(s) Opt for shoes with adjustable and secure closures like Velcro or laces. A secure closure ensures a proper fit and prevents tripping. What are the best shoes for children? There is no one "best" shoe, as children need different shoes based on their age, gait, and a variety of other factors. However, we recommend the following shoes as good reference points to start your search: ASICS Gel-Excite: The ASICS Gel-Excite 10 Grade School features a high-quality upper to reduce irritation in the forefoot. Other benefits include toe rubber stitching and a solid rubber outsole to extend the shoe's lifespan. ASICS GT-1000 12: The GT-1000® 11 Grade School is one of the few stability shoes available for kids. This is great if your child has flat feet or overpronates. The GT-1000 also provides excellent shock absorption with a softer feel underfoot, and are designed to withstand the strains of being a kid. Saucony Peregrine 11: The Peregrine is one of Saucony's most popular all-terrain shoes, and it comes in kids sizing. The Peregrine 11 has a water-repellent mesh upper, built-in odour control and a durable outsole for serious traction. Your child will love hiking that much more with the Peregrine 11. Sorel Children's Yoot Pac Nylon Boot: The Sorel Yoot Pac is an excellent choice for winter footwear. With a waterproof nylon upper, seam-sealed construction and cozy insulation, cold weather doesn't stand a chance. The boot also comes with conveniently toggled laces. The inner liner with a sherpa collar is removable and washable. You can also support your children's footwear with a pair of inserts. Superfeet All-Purpose Support Medium Arch insoles give structured support where you need it most and help redistribute stress and strain on your entire body, not just your feet. They are designed to replace the removable liner in a wide range of footwear. Best of all, you can trim Superfeet to fit your shoe size. Four tips for buying children's shoes Below are four tips to help you get the most out of shopping for your kids. 1. Shop in the afternoon or evening Children's feet tend to swell throughout the day, so it's best to go shoe shopping in the afternoon when their feet are at their largest. That way, you leave more room without sacrificing too much of the fit. 2. Take your time Allow your child to try on different styles and sizes. It's essential that they feel comfortable and happy in their new shoes. Let them walk around the store to get a sense of the fit. 3. Listen for feedback Children can often express when a shoe feels too tight or uncomfortable. Pay close attention to their feedback during the shopping process. 4. Consider specialty stores Consider visiting a specialty shoe store if your child has unique foot needs, such as orthotics or extra-wide shoes. The experts at Feet First Clinic can help measure your kid's feet and match them with the perfect shoe.
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November 27, 2023
Do You Have Wide Feet? Simple At-Home Tests to Know Your Foot Type
If you've ever struggled to find comfortable shoes, you might have wondered about your foot type. Knowing your foot shape, particularly whether you have wide feet, can be a game-changer when choosing the proper footwear. The good news is there are ways to determine your foot type at home with simple tests. It's important to note that your foot type refers to the entire shape of your foot, including your arch size (i.e.: whether you have flat feet or high arches). However, today, we're going to focus on foot width and tests to help you identify whether you have wide feet. Understanding your foot width is the first step to ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit for your feet. While these tests are not the be-all-end-all for determining whether you have wide feet (after all, shoes sizes vary from brand-to-brand), they may provide useful information: Three simple at-home tests to know whether you have wide feet The wet foot test The wet foot test is a simple DIY test that involves just a pool of water and a piece of paper. To perform a wet foot test: Fill a shallow container, like a basin or a bucket, with water. Wet the soles of both of your feet. Step onto paper or cardboard, ensuring your weight is evenly distributed. Step off and examine the wet imprint your feet left behind. Based on the shape of the imprint, you can use the following guide to determine whether you have narrow, average, or wide feet. Wide feet: If the imprint shows a wide forefoot with minimal curvature on the sides, you likely have wide feet. The width between the ball of your foot and your heel is noticeably broad. Average or standard feet: If your footprint shows a slight curve inward at the arch area, your feet are considered to have an average width. Your foot imprint can also be measured to see the exact width of your foot. Use the wet foot test to measure the width of your foot at its two widest points. Bonus tip: Do both feet. If one is wider than the other—which is common—then account for the wider of your two feet. The shoe size test The shoe size test is even simpler than the wet paper test. All you need is a current pair of shoes. Check the width size on your shoe label. Width sizes are typically marked as narrow (N), average (M or D), wide (W), or extra-wide (XW or E). As a rough guideline, a regular foot width is less than half your size. For example, if you wear a size seven shoe, a regular foot width would be ~3.5 inches. For those who are a size seven and have wide feet, expect more like 3.75-4.25 inches. For more details, see our complete guide on determining whether you have wide feet. Note: Your shoe size and your foot size are not the same. Different companies use different sizing for their shoes, so don't assume you're the same size in all shoe brands. Comfort/fit test The third test is more of a trial and error, but it is definitely the most accurate. Try on a few different pairs of shoes to determine which shoes fit best. Reflect on your experience with shoe shopping. If you frequently find shoes too tight in the forefoot, causing discomfort and sometimes requiring you to size up, this suggests you have wide(r) feet. What are the benefits of knowing your foot type? Now that you know the tests, it's important to understand why knowing your foot type is helpful. The shape and width of your feet can vary significantly from person to person. Identifying your foot type provides the following benefits: Proper footwear. No one shoe fits all. Knowing your foot type allows you to hone in on choosing shoes with the best support and comfort. Prevent discomfort. Reduce the risk of common foot issues by wearing shoes that match your foot width. Proper footwear for your foot type can help prevent discomfort, blisters, and other problems.  Enhance performance. Knowing your foot type can narrow your perfect sports footwear, improving your performance and reducing the risk of injuries. Reduce foot and toe pain. If you have pre-existing foot conditions or pain, such as bunions or plantar fasciitis, understanding your foot type - specifically whether you have flat feet, normal arches or high arches, can help you find shoes that alleviate discomfort. With wider feet, opt for a shoe with a wider toe box for added room. Brands such as APEX, ASICS, Saucony, Anodyne and Clarks are known to have wider footwear options.
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November 23, 2023
Why Are My Feet Swollen? Unraveling the Causes and Solutions
Swollen feet (edema) can become a concerning foot health problem if you don’t explore ways to manage them. That said, many folks are left in the dark as to why their feet are swelling in the first place. Knowing the causes of swollen feet is the first step towards treatment, and learning solutions and contacting your chiropodist for help is the second step!  Causes of Swollen Feet Prolonged standing and sitting Pregnancy Weight gain Diabetes Warm weather Aging Image Credit: iStock Prolonged Standing and Sitting When you stand or sit for extended periods, blood can pool in your lower extremities, especially if your veins are not functioning properly. This can lead to fluid retention and swollen feet and ankles.  Pregnancy According to Mayo Clinic, your body retains more fluid during pregnancy and your hormones are thrown out of whack, which both contribute to swollen feet. A growing uterus can also affect your vein and circulation efficiency, causing edema. Image Credit: iStock Weight Gain Weight gain can lead to swollen feet because the additional body weight puts increased pressure on your veins. This pressure can hinder the blood flow back to the heart, causing blood and other fluids to pool in the lower extremities. Diabetes Diabetes can wreak havoc on your feet in many ways. When it comes to swelling, high glucose levels can thicken the arteries, which causes them to lose their elasticity. This impairs blood flow to the feet, causing severe fluid retention.  Warm Weather Sometimes the humidity we experience in the summer or during a vacation can cause mild foot swelling. This is called heat edema. It occurs when high temperatures cause the blood vessels to expand, which rapidly moves body fluid downward towards the feet. Aging Unfortunately, our ability to properly circulate blood throughout our bodies lessens as we age. Like diabetes patients, the arteries can lose their elasticity and efficiency. Other risk factors affecting older people include: age-related hormonal changes, mobility problems that encourage a sedentary lifestyle, and medications that cause side effects like swollen feet. Image Credit: iStock Solutions for Swollen Feet Orthopedic Shoes: Many shoes are designed with foot comfort in mind, but orthopedic shoes take it to new heights. They often come with adjustable closures and other features that accommodate swollen feet and prevent foot pain, like extra depth and wide toe boxes.  Compression Stockings: From pregnant women, to people who stand at work all day, to those who spend a lot of time cooped up in airplanes — compression stockings can help prevent associated foot swelling. Studies show that calf-length compression stockings with a pressure range between 11 and 21 mmHg are the way to go, but this can vary depending on your needs. Please note compression stockings are not recommended for diabetes patients.  Foot Care / Movement: Make sure you get enough movement in your daily life (taking into account disability and mobility troubles, of course!). There are plenty low-impact exercises and stretches that can go a long way for those with a sedentary lifestyle. To fight swelling feet, try exercises that rotate the ankles and move your toes. They may be able to get your muscles pumping and enhance circulation. Light walking can also aid swelling feet.  Diet Changes: Eat nutrient-dense foods low in sugar and salt, and stick to small portions to lose weight. Shedding excess weight can have a direct, positive impact on your swollen feet. Check out the best foods to eat for your foot health. Nude and black compression stockings. Image Credit: iStock
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November 6, 2023
Numb Toes: Common Causes and When to Seek Help
Have you ever experienced that uncomfortable sensation of numbness in your toes? It's a temporary disconnect between your brain and lower extremities and may leave you wondering, "What's going on?" Numb toes range from a minor problem to a potentially severe issue, and understanding the reasons behind this unique sensation is the first step toward finding relief. So, if you've ever wondered why your toes sometimes go on strike, keep reading to learn more about the leading causes of numb toes and when to seek medical attention. Numb toes: The most common causes There are several causes of numb toes. Below, you'll find some of the top contributors and their signs. Poor Circulation Reduced blood flow to the toes can lead to numbness. This can occur due to sitting or standing in one position for too long, wearing tight shoes, or sitting with your legs crossed. In these cases, the numbness is usually temporary and goes away once you change your position or remove any constricting clothing or footwear. Peripheral Neuropathy Peripheral neuropathy involves damage to the peripheral nerves, often due to diabetes, alcohol abuse, vitamin deficiencies, or other underlying medical conditions. Symptoms can include numbness, tingling, and pain in the toes and feet. Nerve Compression Conditions like sciatica or a herniated disc in the lower back can compress the nerves that supply sensation to the legs and feet, causing numbness and tingling in the toes. Frostbite or Frostnip Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing the skin and underlying tissues. Your skin becomes cold and red, then numb, followed by hardening and paleness. Depending on the severity, you may experience frostnip (the early onset of frostbite or superficial frost bite) or deep frostbite, which involves more severe stages of nerve damage. Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome Like carpal tunnel syndrome in the wrist, tarsal tunnel syndrome involves compression of the tibial nerve in the ankle, leading to numbness and tingling in the toes. The tarsal tunnel is a narrow space inside the ankle next to the ankle bones, through which the tibial nerve runs. A thick ligament covers the tunnel and helps contain its inner workings – veins, arteries, tendons, and nerves. Tarsal tunnel syndrome is the most common kind of nerve compression in the ankle. Underlying causes of tarsal tunnel syndrome include direct trauma to the tarsal tunnel, flat feet, fallen arches, growths in the tarsal tunnel, and varicose veins. Morton's Neuroma Another type of nerve compression, Morton’s neuroma, may lead to numbness in your toes. The most common site is at the ball of the foot between the third and fourth toes. As this nerve is thicker than its surroundings, it’s at a greater risk of being blocked, which can cause numbness in the toes. You may feel a numbing sensation or like you have a pebble in your shoe. Raynaud's Disease Raynaud's causes blood vessels in the fingers and toes to constrict excessively in response to cold temperatures or stress. This can lead to numbness and discoloration of the affected digits. Injuries Trauma to the foot or toes, such as fractures or compression injuries, can cause temporary numbness. For instance, ankle or Achilles heel injuries can directly or indirectly impact the tarsal tunnel region. Infections or Abcesses Toe or foot infections can lead to numbness, mainly if they spread to the nerves. Circulatory Disorders Conditions like atherosclerosis or blood clot formation can reduce blood flow to the toes, causing numbness. Tight Footwear Shoes that are too narrow in width or too small in length can compress your toes and reduce blood circulation. Ensure you are correctly fitted with the right pair of footwear to allow enough space for your toes to move. You can even do a shoe sizing and fitting session here at Feet First Clinic, choosing from leading footwear. When should you seek medical help for numb toes? We recommend that you seek help for numb toes if any of the following apply: The numbness in your toes is persistent, recurring, or unexplained. You have diabetes - Numbness in the feet can be a sign of diabetic neuropathy, which requires proper management. You experience numbness, weakness, coordination loss, or other neurological symptoms. There is a sudden onset of numbness, especially after an injury or in combination with other concerning symptoms. It's crucial to remember that numbness in the toes can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. An accurate diagnosis from a healthcare provider can be helpful when treating and ruling out any serious underlying issues.
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October 30, 2023
Orthopedic Shoes in 2023: Benefits, Selection, and Advice
Sometimes your foot health depends on orthopedic shoes. For people with bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, arthritis, and other foot deformities, orthopedic footwear can make the difference between a painful day and a day where you can manage simple activities. Let’s take a look at the benefits of orthopedic shoes, the best practice for selecting orthopedic shoes, and how to use them.  Photo by iStock Benefits of Orthopedic Shoes Orthopedic shoes come with a wide array of qualities that promote foot health and tackle foot conditions. Here are some of the most notable:  Studies show that orthopedic footwear can improve the ability to maintain continuous walking in people with chronic foot and ankle injuries.  Many patients report their foot pain diminished after using orthopedic shoes for 1-2 years.  Orthopedic shoes can help you manage bunions so they don’t get worse and require surgery later.  They can help with proper foot alignment for people with plantar fasciitis and flat feet.  They usually provide extra heel cushioning and arch support.  To accommodate wide feet, orthopedic shoes often come with features like adjustable straps, extra wide toe boxes, and flexible fabric.  Photo by iStock Selecting Orthopedic Shoes Since choosing orthopedic shoes can be difficult, you should schedule a foot assessment with your chiropodist who will then prescribe orthopedic footwear. That said, here are three of the most important tips for finding the right orthopedic shoes for you: Since your foot size can over time, especially with age, you should always triple check that your shoes fit snugly.  Make sure your new shoes are designed to best support your specific concern. For example, shoes with adjustable straps are good for wide bunions.  Consider your lifestyle and daily needs. Search for orthopedic sneakers if you’re trying to be more active, or orthopedic dress shoes if you need something for work.  Ensure any accessories like socks or custom orthotics fit properly with your shoes. Usage of Orthopedic Shoes  You should use orthopedic shoes for activities they are designed for. For instance, if you have orthopedic dress shoes, use them for work and special occasions.  Furthermore, after wearing your shoes for some time, schedule a check up with your chiropodist so they can assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments or recommendations.  Photo by iStock
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Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)

If you’ve been to the clinic before, chances are you had the pleasure of meeting Carolina! Carolina’s daily goal is going above and beyond to make sure patients are always completely satisfied. Having worked in the podiatry industry for 22 years, Carolina brings a wealth of knowledge pertaining to client service, insurance policies, and procedures.​ She steers the ship to make sure everything runs smoothly on the daily. Carolina is known for spicing up every outfit with her signature costume jewellery.