Why Do I Have Sweaty Feet?

April 20, 2021

With 250,000 sweat glands, your feet are prime to sweat, often more so than other parts of the body. That’s a lot of glands, and a lot of sweat. No wonder we get sweaty feet.

In fact, sweat rates of an adult can be up to 2–4 liters per hour or 10–14 liters per day (10–15 g/min·m2). Although sweaty feet is totally natural, excessive sweating can be a problem. Not only can it be a sign of a medical condition, it can also be burdensome to regularly wash, swap out socks, and apply antiperspirant. It may also be embarassing if you sweat excessively in public.

In this article, we’ll focus on sweaty feet, how to prevent and treat excessive sweating, and what it may be a sign of. But first, let’s do a brief overview of why we sweat in the first place.

Why do we sweat?

Sweating is primarily a means of thermoregulation, which is achieved by the water-rich secretion of the eccrine glands. When your body temperature rises, your body sweats in order to keep your core temperature down. Since evaporating sweat cools the body, and sweat releases heat, this is your body’s response to warm temperatures.

Not everyone sweats the same rate. Age, weight, muscle mass, health status, and fitness level all contribute to your sweat rate. External factors like humidity, temperature, or even eating spicy foods can cause your core body temperature to spike, and for your sweat rate to increase.

Possible causes of sweaty feet

Exercise

Not shockingly, exercise causes sweaty feet. As effort is exerted as part of exercise, your body’s response is to sweat in order to regulate temperature. The harder you exercise, the more likely you are to sweat. Same goes with higher temperatures.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is abnormally excessive sweating. In this instance, excessive qualifies as sweat that’s unrelated to heat, or activity. Unfortunately, the exact cause of hyperhidrosis is unknown; however symptoms often stem from overactivity of certain sweat glands, and social or physical stress.

According to Yale Medicine, people of all ages can experience excessive sweating. Yale Medicine adds the following regarding hyperhidrosis:

Hyperhidrosis tends to run in families.
Some medical conditions (like menopause) can cause sweating.
Certain medications can cause excessive sweating.
The problem occurs despite the climate.
More people probably have hyperhidrosis than are diagnosed.

If left untreated, excessive sweating can lead to certain foot conditions and toenail conditions including nail fungus and athlete’s foot.

Hot weather

It may sound obvious, but the weather and temperature affects your sweat rate. During the summer, when your body’s response to heat is greater than in cooler months, you sweat more. If you find you sweat excessively only in the summer or on hotter days, then this may be the leading factor.

Night sweats

Night sweats are repeated episodes of extreme perspiration. It’s often related to an underlying medical condition or illness. For example, menopause and diabetes can be underlying conditions for night sweats.

Why are my feet sweating but are cold?

Sweating can make feet feel cold when evaporation cools the feet quickly. This can often be caused by nervousness – literally “getting cold feet.” Lack of adequate blood flow to the feet through the arteries can also make the feet cold. In all these situations, the feet feel cold to the touch.

Is sweaty feet a sign of anxiety?

According to the International Hyperhidrosis Society, up to 32 percent of people with social anxiety experience hyperhidrosis. However, primary hyperhidrosis is not caused by anxiety; typically hyperhidrosis is a secondary symptom of social anxiety disorder.

Is sweaty feet a sign of diabetes?

People with type 1 diabetes may find that they sweat excessively in the upper body but that the feet are less likely to sweat. Typically, people with diabetes sweat excessively because of: (1) low blood sugar levels, or (2) diabetes-related nervous system damage.

Additionally, those with diabetes may experience night sweats. This is due to low blood glucose levels during the night. Drugs used to treat diabetes can also cause sweat night sweats as a side effect, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Does sweat make my feet smell?

Sweat itself does not produce an odour. That’s because sweat is close to being pure water; sweat contains a small amount (0.2–1%) of solute.

But, if sweat stays on the skin too long, bacteria begins to grow, and breaks down the skin’s natural chemicals. Bad smelling sweat is known as bromhidrosis. This condition is the accumulation of bacteria, fungi, molds and yeast on the foot.

In order to rid your feet of sweat ASAP, you’ll want to wash your feet every day, use antifungal powders, apply antiperspirant, wear moisture-wicking socks, and invest in the proper footwear. We dive deeper into each of these methods and parts of your daily routine below.

How to get rid of sweaty feet

Wash your feet every day: Regular washing and proper drying can help reset your feet. Moist skin on the feet increases the risk of bacterial and fungal infections on the feet.
Dry your feet with antifungal powders: Sprays and powders can help prevent and absorb moisture to stop sweat build-up on your feet. Visit the clinic for a full lineup of foot products including those from industry-leading brand Gehwol.
Moisture-wicking socks: The goal of quality socks is to draw moisture away from your feet. Light, breathable options are best.
Breathable footwear: Opt for breathable footwear and avoid boots and formal shoes as often as possible.
Alternate use of footwear: If you have a lineup of shoes, it’s best to alternate through them to ensure they’re dry upon each use. Not only will this be more comfortable, your shoes will have a longer lifespan as they won’t be as exposed to constant wear and tear in suboptimal conditions (ie: sweaty, damp, wet).

Worry not!

We pride ourselves in effectively communicating your concerns and needs as comfortable as possible. Call anytime to ask about your specific concern and we’ll make sure to provide actionable steps towards getting your feet as happy and healthy as possible!

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

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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January 16, 2023

Toenail Pitting: What is it?

Fact: Your toenails can give you clues about your overall health. That's right, the state of your nails, including toenails, can indicate an underlying health condition. Conversely, healthy nails can be a sign of a healthy lifestyle. The state of our toenails can differ in a lot of ways. Toenails can splinter, thicken, thin, peel, dry out, break, and pit. Toenail pitting is the focus of this article. Below, you'll learn about toenail anatomy, the basics of pitting, signs, treatment methods, and preventative measures to keep your nails in good shape. Toenail anatomy Before we delve into the details of toenails and pitting, we must understand their anatomy and the part it plays for our feet. Toenails are the plate-like covers on our toes. Alpha-keratin, a type of protein, comprises toenails. Alpha-keratin is the same protein building block for hair and the outermost layer of our skin (the epidermis). Generally, the toenail is about 0.5 mm thick and slightly curved. The toenail consists of several distinct components. The toenail includes the nail plate, the cuticle, and the nail folds surrounding the nail's perimeter. The part referred to as the toenail colloquially is the "nail plate." What's toenail pitting? Pitting, by definition, is an indentation. Toenail pitting follows the same logic. Pitting of the nail occurs when tiny dents or "pits" form in the nail plate. Toenail pitting is a type of nail abnormality. Toenail indents can be shallow and only recognizable by touch. Deep toenail pits may be visible due to their concave nature. Within the grooves, some parts of the pitting may be deeper than others, just as there are deeper and shallow parts of a pit. Nail pitting is generally more common for fingernails, but toenails are also affected. What causes toenail pitting? There are several causes for toenail pitting. Toenail pitting reasons range from external trauma to an underlying medical condition. Learn about the various causes of toenail pitting below. Nail psoriasis Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause toenail pitting. Those with nail psoriasis produce too many skin cells, causing nail irregularities. According to Healthline.com, approximately 80% of those with psoriatic arthritis experience nail irregularities or changes. You may be able to recognize nail psoriasis because of two related symptoms: discolouration and nail bed separation. There are a few groups more likely to develop nail psoriasis. At-risk factors include: People who are over 40 (though psoriasis may occur at any age) Males Genetics Psoriatic arthritis According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, psoriasis can cause toenail pits "remarkably even in size and depth. Their distribution may be haphazard or sometimes arranged in parallel transverse or short longitudinal lines." Though psoriasis is not curable, you can mask the effects of toenail pitting. You can buff or apply nail polish to hide the indents and improve the aesthetic. Nail eczema Eczema is a condition that causes itchy and red skin. The disease can cause nail thickening or pitting when eczema targets the feet. Habit-tic deformity Habit-tic deformity on the fingernail. The habit-tic deformity is a nail condition similar to toenail pitting with several differences. When you constantly pick at your nails, external trauma can create pits in your nail. The habit-tic deformity is most common on the fingernails, specifically the thumbs, but it can also happen on your toenails. For instance, if you sit cross-legged or have your feet at arm's reach, you may develop a habit of picking at your toenails. The defining features of habit-tic deformity are horizontal ridges across the nail and a slight depression in the middle of the nail plate. The habit-tic deformity is not severe and typically heals if left alone. The condition is known as "washboard nails" because of the horizontal nail ridges. Reiter's syndrome/reactive arthritis Those with reactive arthritis may experience toenail pitting. An infection or bacterial infection elsewhere in the body can cause reactive arthritis, also known as Reiter's syndrome. People with a specific type of gene are more likely to develop the condition, as it's believed to be genetic. How do you fix nail pitting? Toenail pitting fixes vary. In some cases, like psoriasis, there is no cure. Cosmetic procedures are an option to mask the effects. Removing external trauma can help reverse toenail pitting in cases like a habit-tic deformity. Additional treatment options include medication applied to the nail itself. Options include steroids, salicylic acid, calcipotriol, cyanoacrylate adhesive (for the habit-tic deformity) and tazarotene. Is nail pitting serious? In most cases, nail pitting as a symptom isn't severe. Nail pitting is more often a cosmetic issue than a medical issue. However, the underlying conditions that cause toenail pitting can vary in severity.

January 9, 2023

Red Toes: Should You Worry?

There can be a range of discolouration in your toes. The most common is a pinkish/red hue - a sign of red toes. Red toes may result from cold temperatures, toe injury, infection, or potential medical conditions. Red toe onset may be immediate, or red toe onset may be progressive. The redness often resolves itself, but it may sometimes present symptoms of underlying medical conditions. Learn more about red toes and potential risks in our article below! Why are my toes red and itchy? Several causes result in redness in your toes. Red toes result from inflammation, injury, temperature, skin irritation, and infection. Varying degrees of redness may indicate the severity of damage to the toes. In some cases, redness may subside independently, while others may require medical attention. What medical conditions cause red toes? There are a variety of medical conditions that induce red toes. Red toe causes range from skin conditions to musculoskeletal damage to infection. Below, we've categorized medical conditions that cause red toes by severity. Note that all medical conditions can have varying degrees of severity, so use this list as a reference, not a diagnosis. Lower severity Low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are short-term causes and often subside independently. Proper attention and care are required to prevent additional damage. However, low-severity medical conditions that cause red toes are more surface-level and less cause for concern. Blisters A blister is a small fluid-filled bubble that forms just under the outer layer of the skin. The fluid (usually a serum, rarely blood) is a natural cushion to protect the tissue underneath from friction and irritation. Fortunately, blisters often heal on their own once the source of friction is eliminated. As tempting as it may be, avoid popping the blister and allow it to heal naturally. Frostnip Frostnip is a mild, non-severe cold injury to the skin and tissue. As such, frostnip doesn't cause permanent damage. You can treat frostnip with basic first aid. Above all else, you should try to escape the cold as quickly as possible. Possible complications include infection and temporary nerve damage, which are rare if caught at the frostnip stage. Stubbed toe A stubbed toe occurs any time you jam your toe against another object. A stubbed toe is a trauma injury. The injury results from a one-time accident. Depending on the severity, damage to the toe may cause swelling and inflammation, muscle injury, and even bone fractures. Contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is a red, itchy rash triggered by an allergic reaction. The skin's response to an irritant causes inflammation, followed by a rash. Contact dermatitis isn't contagious nor life-threatening, but it can be very uncomfortable. Soaps, plants, detergents, or jewelry have the potential to cause an allergic reaction. One can treat and prevent contact dermatitis by identifying and removing environmental allergens. A doctor can also prescribe topical medications to help treat flare-ups. Athlete's foot Fungal skin infections are a common culprit of red toes. Athlete's foot is one such common fungal skin. Athlete's foot is a prevalent cause of the redness. The toe fungus is not life-threatening, but it is contagious and may spread elsewhere on your body or even to other people. It can also cause foot pain and difficulty walking if left untreated. Nail infection Paronychia is an infection of your nail folds typically caused by bacteria or a fungus and can cause toe pain and swelling, which causes redness and the appearance of red toes. Ingrown toenail An ingrown toenail is a nail condition that targets the toes, mainly the big toe. As the name applies, it occurs when the sides or edges of the toenail grow into the skin. As the nail pierces the skin, it can cause bleeding, redness and pain. If left untreated, the ingrown toenail can get infected. Moderate severity Moderate-severity causes of red toes are more severe and may be longer-lasting. Symptoms and recovery time may vary, and pain and discomfort may be more intense and significant. You may require medical assistance to determine the diagnosis and treatment method(s). Gout Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by heightened uric acid in the blood. Elevated uric acid levels lead to the formation of crystal deposits in the joint. The joint then becomes red, hot, swollen, and painful. The initial attack of this condition is usually sudden, with symptoms lasting for about a week. The most common joint it affects is the joint that connects your big toe to the rest of the foot. If left untreated, gout attacks may reoccur, increase in severity and lead to enduring joint damage. Frostbite (superficial) Superficial frostbite is a stage more severe than frostnip. Cold temperatures damage the skin and the underlying tissues in your toes. Blisters form 24-36 hours after rewarming, and you may experience pain and discomfort for several days. Higher severity More serious medical conditions that cause red toes may be chronic or permanent. These conditions can be irreversible and limit the motor function of your toes. Surgery may be a last-resort treatment option in severe cases. Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis ("RA") is an auto-immune disease that causes chronic joint inflammation. RA causes periodic flare-ups of joint pain, stiffness and swelling, eventually making movement difficult. Although there is no cure, you can manage the condition with proactive and diligent treatment focusing on your overall health and well-being. Diabetes Diabetes can cause a chain reaction in your body that hinders circulation to the feet and toes. People with diabetes may experience two conditions that cause red toes: peripheral vascular disease and nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy). Nerve damage and reduced circulation can cause an itchy or numbing pain in the toes. Diabetes can also hinder the body's ability to fight less severe conditions due to reduced immune response and blood circulation. Frostbite (deep) Deep frostbite is the most severe form of cold damage to the skin. Your skin or tissue may turn red and black and die altogether. You may sometimes lose muscle function and require surgery to remove part of the toe. Bunions A bunion is a foot condition of the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Bunions occur when the big toe misaligns. The shift in bone structure causes what appears to be a bony outgrowth. The outgrowth is simply the angling of your toes. The damage to the joint causes pain and redness, and the increased volume of your toes can make wearing shoes uncomfortable. Without proper footwear or orthotics, you can further aggravate your bunions. Bunions are irreversible and have no "cure" other than surgery. However, physical therapy and accommodations, like orthotics and proper footwear, improve quality of life. How can I prevent my toes from turning red? Treatment and prevention for red toes depend on the severity of the underlying medical condition. Generally, low-severity medical or skin conditions are treated simply through rest and recovery. For low-severity conditions, the goal should be to focus on "How do I prevent this from getting worse?"; whereas for high-severity needs, much of the damage has been done and is irreversible. For more severe red toe conditions, the focus is more geared towards improving quality of life and implementing tools to improve mobility, like custom foot orthotics or orthopedic footwear. We've created a treatment guideline below: Low severity. Low-grade medical or skin red toe conditions are treatable, often at home. Treatment methods include topical creams or prescription medication, rest, recovery, taping, or changing footwear. Further prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene. Moderate severity. Moderate severity medical or skin red toe conditions are a mix of prevention and treatment. A proper diagnosis is often required, followed by a treatment plan. Rest and recovery may be part of the treatment plan, but the recovery may be longer (weeks, not days). Like low-severity causes, prevention should focus on recognizing signs and symptoms of red toes early and following proper foot hygiene. Higher severity. Severe medical or skin red toe conditions are often irreversible and have no cure. Treatment methods focus on improving motor function, mobility, and well-being through orthopedic tools and physical therapy.

January 5, 2023

Best Medical Shoes 2023

What comes to mind when we think of the best "medical shoes?" Would they be shoes for doctors? Or shoes someone wears to overcome an injury? While both may technically be true, a medical shoe is simply a shoe that supports and accommodates the structure of your foot, which is a means of treating foot ailments. In other words, they go above and beyond what standard footwear can provide. The best medical shoes are more widely available than some people may think. Countless shoe brands focus on constructing the best shoe for your foot health. But it can be tough to know what shoe you need to address your unique foot concerns. Let's assess the best medical shoes of 2023 to better understand what footwear you may be missing out on! Best Medical Shoes 2023 Saucony Integrity Walker ASICS Gel-Nimbus APEX Lace Walker Anodyne Sport Double Depth ASICS Gel-Keyano Saucony Integrity Walker The reasons the Saucony Integrity Walker shines amongst footwear choices are twofold. This shoe can help with foot pain relief for everyday Torontonians, but it's also a great choice for nurses, doctors, and working students who spend Mondays to Fridays (and sometimes the weekends!) standing all day. Part of what makes this one of the best medical shoes is its ability to accommodate wide feet, and you can select options based on your foot width. You can choose from wide, extra wide, regular or narrow to ensure the perfect fit. This neutral walker also offers responsive cushioning for people who need to walk or stand for long days. Furthermore, the PWRRUN midsole gives the shoe a light and bouncy feel, as opposed to a clunkier shoe which can weigh you down. Lastly, this shoe has the stamp of approval from The American Podiatric Medical Association. Not all shoes come with the honour of being recognized as a highly beneficial product for maintaining foot health - so that's a plus! Saucony Integrity Walker ASICS Gel-Nimbus The Gel-Nimbus is a great medical shoe for neutral walkers or those with high arches who slightly underpronate. If you have a higher arch, this shoe can prevent and help you manage ankle strain, shin splints and plantar fasciitis. The newest version of the Nimbus is about 10% lighter than its predecessor, which keeps your steps light and springy. In terms of being a top-notch medical shoe, its advanced impact protection stands out and helps you land your steps without triggering muscle strain. This is thanks to ASICS' highly developed rearfoot and forefoot GEL® technology. Lastly, the FLYTEFOAM™ and FF BLAST+™ cushioning work together to protect your joints by creating a softer landing, more responsive toe-off, and lightweight impact absorption. After all, cushioning is more than just "padding"; Insufficient cushioning can make your feet too tired to continue throughout the day. ASICS Gel Nimbus APEX Lace Walker The APEX Lace Walker is an orthopedic shoe and a godsend for anyone with flat feet. This type of foot structure can cause you to overpronate while walking. Likewise, neglecting to buy the proper footwear for flat feet can put you at risk of developing bunions, bone spurs, and arthritis. The external heel counter in the APEX walker extends around the heel to the foot's arch. Then it works with the internal heel counter to provide excellent motion control and promote neutral steps. This gives people with flat feet a higher chance of successful and comfortable walking. If that isn't enough to make it one of the best medical shoes, doctors recommend the APEX Lace Walker for anyone who needs stability control and extra comfort. Apex Lace Walker Anodyne Sport Double Depth Anodyne makes shoes for people with diabetes, propelling them to superstar status in our discussion of the best medical shoes. Furthermore, this company's careful construction and focus on health makes Anodyne shoes an appropriate choice for those with other foot problems, not just diabetes. The Anodyne Sport Double Depth shoe comes with width options, but where it truly shines is in its depth. This gives even more room to accommodate those with debilitating foot conditions than other Anodyne options. Hailed as perfect for those with "difficult" feet, anyone with extremely swollen feet or who need to insert their custom orthotics into their shoes can use them. Furthermore, those with bunions and hammertoes should consider investing in the Anodyne Sport Double Depth, as those conditions are known for requiring extra depth in the toe box. Anodyne Double Depth Shoe ASICS Gel-Kayano While the Gel-Nimbus is designed for those with high arches who underpronate, the Gel-Keyano is great for people with low arches who overpronate. This shoe helps with rearfoot support by offering a low-profile external heel counter. The LITETRUSS™ stability feature in the midsole keeps your feet from rolling too far inward, which is the typical experience of overpronators. This is highly beneficial as overpronators are more at risk of putting strain on their muscles, tendons and ligaments, which makes them more injury-prone. Other features include the Rearfoot GEL® technology cushioning, which gives your shoes much needed shock absorption, and the OrthoLite™ X-55 sockliner takes comfort to new levels. ASICS Gel Keyano

January 3, 2023

5 Causes & Solutions for Top of Foot Pain

The top of your foot is one of the most common areas to experience everyday foot pain. The muscles and tendons within the top side of your foot play a critical part in how you move. The top of the foot can be easily overworked and damaged, leading to various foot conditions. Some symptoms and top-of-foot conditions are short-lived. Other top-of-foot symptoms can signal an underlying condition elsewhere in your foot or leg. This article teaches about five potential causes (and solutions) for top-of-foot pain. Cause 1: Foot Sprain A foot sprain occurs when the ligaments in your foot stretch beyond their limit and become damaged. Foot sprains can vary in location. An ankle sprain is likely to be more of a forefoot sprain. A midfoot sprain is more likely to affect the front half of your foot. Cause: Acute trauma causes foot sprain. Acute trauma refers to a one-time impact of an incident where you put your foot in an awkward or uncomfortable position. Your tendons are stretched beyond their limit and lose some elasticity. Your tendons may develop micro tears or more serious strains. More severe forms of acute trauma can result in a stress fracture or a hairline break of the bone. Solution: Foot sprains require rest and recovery to heal. Rest allows your tendons to repair themselves and regain their elasticity. Ice and elevating your legs above your body can help promote healing and may quicken the recovery process. If the injury persists, or you have difficulty moving, you should visit your family doctor. Taping can also act as an additional support system. A chiropodist can skillfully tape your feet. Taping works by providing additional support and "locking" your feet to avoid re-aggravating the injury. Cause 2: Tendonitis Inflammation of the tendons in the foot can cause top-of-foot pain. Damage to the tendons is known as tendonitis. Cause: Extensor tendonitis can cause pain in the top of the foot. The extensor tendons are the tendons that run along the topside of your foot. The tendons help you straighten your feet and lift your toes. The extensor tendons play a critical role when running or walking. Chronic damage through overuse injuries can cause extensor tendonitis. Too much walking or running, or even too much of a weight-intensive activity too soon after any injury can cause extensor tendonitis. Solution: The best course of action for tendonitis is rest. Specifically, you want to avoid the source activity that causes aggravation. If the pain is intense, you can also take over-the-counter medications and visit your family doctor. They may refer you to a massage or physiotherapist. If the tendonitis persists or is disrupting your mobility, you should visit your family doctor. Cause 3: Athlete's Foot Athlete's foot is a contagious fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Although athlete's foot, medically known as tinea pedis, sounds like it only affects sporty folks, it can affect anyone. Although not life-threatening, it's contagious and can be painful if left untreated. Cause: A fungus called dermatophytes causes athlete's foot. The fungus inhabits, grows, and survives off the outer layer of the skin. By extension, the fungus can also spread to other parts of the body and people, either directly or indirectly. You can catch athlete's foot anywhere where fungus thrives. Fungi love warm, moist environments, such as communal showers, locker rooms and the decks around public swimming pools. Solution: Over-the-counter topical antifungals are the most common remedy for mild cases of athlete's foot in the early stages. However, fungal infections are notoriously persistent and stubborn. If your Athlete's foot persists, you should see a chiropodist, who can treat the skin on your feet and prescribe prescription anti-fungal creams. Our Toronto foot clinic also sells foot deodorants, including an antifungal foot spray, which are great for prevention and supplementing your athlete's foot treatment. While treating your athlete's foot infection, it's essential to do the following: Clean your socks and linens with bleach or hot water. The fungus can spread from your feet to these surfaces and re-infect you if not cleaned between uses. Clean any surfaces that your bare feet come into contact with Wash your feet once or more a day Ensure your feet are thoroughly dry after bathing or washing. Wear flip-flops or shoes in any place where you think you could catch athlete's foot Cause 4: Bone bruise Damage to the bone itself can be painful and cause top-of-foot pain. There are varying degrees of bone damage, ranging from bruises to fractures. Cause: A bone bruise is an acute injury, less severe than a fracture. Bone bruises typically stem from a one-time event that causes damage to the foot. Dropping an object, rolling your ankle, or stubbing your foot on an object can cause damage to the bone itself. You may notice bruising (reddish/blueish) on the skin. When in doubt, an X-ray can determine the severity of a bone bruise. Solution: Treatment for a bone bruise includes the following: Rest Icing Elevating your leg so it's above your heart (to promote blood flow and reduce swelling) Taking anti-inflammatories or over-the-counter medications if the pain is intense Cause 5: Peroneal nerve injury Nerve damage can cause top-of-foot pain. The general term for nerve damage is known as peripheral neuropathy. When nerves are damaged, signals between your muscles and brain are disrupted, causing numbness, pain, and complete loss of sensation. Cause: Injury to the peroneal nerve, known as peroneal nerve dysfunction, can cause top-of-foot pain. The peroneal nerve is outside our lower leg and just below the knee. For example, you may experience temporary numbness in your feet from peroneal nerve compression. Have your legs crossed, and your feet and toes go numb? Peroneal nerve compression causes the numbing and tingling sensation. There are several symptoms of peroneal nerve dysfunction. Signs can include: Foot drop Pain, weakness, or numbness on the top of the foot Inability to move the toes up and down Reduced mobility in the foot Abnormal knee lift to compensate for reduced motor function Solution: You should visit your family doctor at the first sign of any nerve-related symptoms. They will conduct the necessary diagnostic investigations and refer you to the appropriate doctors. There are both surgical and nonsurgical treatments for peroneal nerve injury. Non-invasive treatments include orthotics, which can correct your gait and better distribute pressure within your feet. Additionally, physical therapy and foot-strengthening exercises to fortify the muscles in your feet can help improve mobility. If you have foot drop, an ankle-foot orthotic may be recommended. You may require surgical treatment for more severe cases, including decompression surgery or nerve repair. Other causes of top-of-foot pain Tarsal tunnel syndrome: Tarsal tunnel syndrome occurs when the nerve inside one of the tunnels within your ankle compresses. Specifically, the posterior tibial nerve (within the tarsal tunnel) is compressed from injury, flat feet, or fallen arches. Bone spurs: Hallux rigidus, or arthritis of the big toe joint can cause bone spurs, which can lead to pain on the top of the foot. The bony outgrowths can put pressure on your foot or toe when wearing shoes and cause pain when lifting your toes due to the deteriorated joint. Ganglions: Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled bumps on the tendons or joints in the feet. The cyst itself doesn't cause pain, but if large enough, it can add pressure to the nerves in the same vicinity.

December 22, 2022

Best Holiday Travelling Shoes

Holiday travel can be an exhausting and inconvenient experience, no matter how excited you are. There is often little time to rest. Standing, walking, and waiting for hours at the airport can also do a number on your feet. Moreover, the Canadian winter weather can surprise you and leave you without the right footwear. That's why bringing the right travel shoes for your plans is critical. Now, you don't have to jam-pack your luggage with five pairs of travel shoes. That is just another inconvenience, especially for those who want to avoid checking bags at the airport. But you should assess your winter activities and double-check the weather forecast before selecting a couple of shoe types for your travel bag. And if you invest in some of the shoes in today's blog, your feet will thank you! The Best Travel Shoes 2022 The all-purpose boot The snow boot The running and walking shoe The dressy shoe The hiker All-Purpose Boot: Portofino ID1673 or Portofino MS-105 Everyone needs an all-purpose boot to get from point A to point B, especially during the holidays when your travel time includes a dusting of snow. The depth of snow can soak your feet and make the sidewalks slippery, putting you at risk of a fall. While searching for winter boot travel shoes, you should opt for a brand that offers not only foot support, but also insulation, a solid grip, and waterproofing features. That's where Portofino comes into the picture! They make orthopeadic boots, a feature rarely found in winter footwear that can help with countless foot conditions. Their unisex black boot (ID 1673 on their website) is perfect for a mild snowfall and is lined with genuine sherpa wool that keeps you cozy and warm. They're also waterproof, and the rubber outsole allows for a slip-free walk during the holidays. Moreover, you can remove the footbed if you need to insert custom orthotics or insoles to walk without foot pain. The MS-105 boot from Portofino is another solid all-purpose option, with the main difference being the outside is made with suede, and there are just laces and no zippers. Portofino ID 1673 The Snow Boot: Sorel Tivoli Parc Boot Snow boots differ from all-purpose winter boots, so you may need to alter your travel shoes depending on where you're heading for the holidays. Essentially, a snow boot should take the insulation and waterproofing features of an everyday boot to the next level. And a boot that can handle deep snow is crucial for any Canadian. Furthermore, some provinces encounter much heavier snow than others. So if you're travelling from the west coast to the east, you should prepare for inconvenient weather. A supportive, warm and protective snow boot is also great for doing some last-minute Christmas shopping on a particularly cold day. Sorel is known for its winter footwear, and the Tivoli Parc Boot, with its 200g insulation, is great for cold temperatures that dip as low as -40. The shearling collar and microfleece lining also work together to warm your feet. The moulded rubber outsole keeps you safe from sudden slips, and this boot also features a removable footbed for custom insole accommodation. And lastly, the entirety of the boot's upper (sans the laces) is waterproof, so you can walk easily and confidently, knowing the elements won't slow you down. Mephisto Tivoli Parc Boot The Running and Walking Shoe: ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX or GT-2000 GTX Did you know that you can still go for runs during the wintertime? That means you can take your fitness goals with you during the holiday season if you bring the right travel shoes. You should assess your comfort level and conditions, but wet sidewalks and trails with compacted, dense snow are usually no trouble! You should look no further than ASICS for a smooth December running session. If you need a stability or a neutral shoe, you can opt for the Gel-Cumulus for GT-2000 GTX. The GT-2000 GTX is designed for overpronation (low arches and flat feet), and the Gel-Cumulus GTX is designed for neutral gaits and underpronation (high arches). If you aren't sure what type you need, you can read more about shoe stability here! Both shoes are lined with GORE-TEX fabric to keep your feet dry, letting you stay active as long as you'd like. Other notable features include the engineered mesh upper, lightweight cushioning and reflective accents that keep you visible when it's dark outside. ASICS is also always upgrading and fine-tuning its GEL technology, which makes you feel like you're walking (or running) on a cloud. The GT-2000 GTX is similar to the Cumulus but includes LITETRUSS™ technology to improve medial support for stability. ASICS Gel-Cumulus GTX The Dressy Shoe: Ara Maggie Sometimes, travel shoes need to be stylish. And while Ara's highly-cushioned waterproof pump may not be the best for snowfall, it's a solid choice for a short journey to a holiday party. Like your ASICS running shoes, the Maggie is made with GORE-TEX membrane, which guarantees dry feet. It also comes with a removable footbed for easy insole insertion. Ara's Maggie is also made with a stretchy fabric, so it's easy to wear with thick fleece tights or leggings. Ara Maggie The Hiker: Mephisto Allrounder Nigata-Tex Winter hikes are underrated, and snow lovers should bring hiking boots for the holidays! Mephisto's Nigata-Tex is great for trudging along the winter trails. That's likely why they claim this boot is great for "rising to everyday challenges." More specifically, it combines the lightweight feel of an ankle boot with the protection and innovation of your winter boots. The ALLRO-TEX technology ensures breathability, which keeps your feet healthy during strenuous activity. The shock absorber in the outsole protects your feet by reducing the harsh impact often felt on hiking trips. Most importantly, they have one of the best grips out of all the shoes in today's blog. This is especially crucial for the unpredictable nature of trails. Mephisto Nigata Tex

December 15, 2022

Foot Care Gift Guide 2022

Holiday shopping can feel like a daunting ordeal that takes away from the fun. Your list is long, and you don't have ideas for some people --- which is okay! But it doesn't have to cause so much stress. When you're stuck on what gift to get for your grandparents, friends, and other relatives, medical gifts may inspire you more than you realize. The health and wellness industry is known for producing excellent products, opening your mind to many gift options. Gifts that promote foot health can help those with debilitating foot issues. But they can also help prevent foot conditions before they develop. And they're simply fun to use. We're talking foot creams, scrubs, and other luxurious products fit for a spa session! The gifts we'll discuss today focus on skincare; they shine on their own and work well as stocking stuffers. But the best way to gift products from a foot care clinic is by compiling a foot care gift set! It's fun to try more than one product, and it gives loved ones the tools for a great self-care day. Let's take a look at our top picks! Foot Care and Medical Gifts: Gift Guide 2022 Below is a general overview of the products in our gift guide. But don't worry, we'll cover all the details. Bath products Scrubs, creams, and deodorants Leg balms Dermal therapy heel care Foot Bath Products Products like Gehwol's Revitalizing Bath Salt and their Refreshing Foot Bath are underrated and affordable medical gifts. They're suitable for people of all ages and help loosen and soothe dry skin. But they do even more for the body than you may realize. First, foot bath products combined with hot water help promote healthy blood flow, which can relieve pain from foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, etc. They can also warm your overall body temperature, which alleviates muscle tension, reduces stress, and may help prevent sickness or fight flu symptoms by strengthening your natural immunity (perfect for the winter!). Helpful tip: It's best to start a spa session by bathing your feet, as it leaves a clean base for exfoliation and moisturizing by washing away bacteria and dirt. Scrubs, Creams and Deodorants Foot Scrubs Many bath products prep the feet for exfoliation by softening the skin. But gifting someone an additional exfoliation product will take your medical gift game to the next level. Exfoliation tools prevent itchy, flaky dead skin from building up while simultaneously unclogging your pores. Gehwol's Soft Feet Scrub is a nice gift choice. Moreover, you can toss an affordable foot file into your gift box to buff the skin. Foot Creams To restore the skin's natural barrier functions, you should always moisturize after soaking and exfoliating. Gehwol's Soft Feet Cream, Universal Foot Cream, and Med Lipidro Cream are just a few examples of medicinal moisturizers that work wonders. So why not gift them to someone you love? They'll get to enjoy smooth skin and fewer cracks and calluses. If your loved one already has severely painful cracked heels, try gifting them Gehwol's Med Salve for Cracked Skin or Dermal Therapy Heel Care instead. Foot Deodorants Deodorants are useful to have on hand. Moreover, they fit in nicely with a foot care gift set but can also hold their own amongst other stocking stuffers. Regarding health benefits, foot deodorants (sprays, powders, etc.) can fight foot odour and target plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweating). The latter is extra common in winter as we stuff our feet into warm winter boots. Leg Balms Many of our elderly loved ones suffer from lower leg issues and have mobility problems. Likewise, if your grandparents struggle to move freely, it can lead to neglect, and problems like skin irritation and severe blood flow restriction can arise. A good gift for grandparents is a high-quality leg balm. Gehwol's Leg Balm prevents leg ailments, slows skin aging, and can even strengthen your veins. Gehwol's Fusskraft Leg Vitality also refreshes tired legs. But again, don't assume medical gifts are just for your grandparents. Many young people credit Gehwol's leg products for helping with tired achy legs after a long day. While this product doesn't necessarily scream "spa day," it still works as a part of a general foot care routine. So feel free to include it in a gift box or use it as a standalone present for someone who will cherish it. Dermal Therapy Heel Care Hopefully, it's becoming clear that medical gifts can be more valuable than gifts that sit around collecting dust. And Dermal Therapy Heel Care is one of, if not the best, medicinal products. Cracked heels have the potential to burden everyone, from your best friend to your grandmother --- dry skin doesn't discriminate! Severely cracked heels can make walking almost unbearable and cause swelling, inflammation, and bleeding. So if you're catching wind that someone you love is suffering, why not brighten their holidays by gifting them some relief? Dermal Therapy helps skin cells deep below the surface absorb and lock in moisture, which fights cracked heels. This cream is a moisturizer and exfoliator that removes dead cells, revealing fresh, young skin.

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