Open

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun*: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (*alternating)

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Book an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

Open

Mon – Fri: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Sat: 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Sun*: 10:00 am – 4:00 pm (*alternating)

Book Appointment

Book an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

Book Appointment

Book an Appointment

Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!

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Swimming Low Impact Exercise

Swimming: The Best Low-Impact Exercise

Earlier this month, we talked about the frustration of not being able to exercise when recovering from knee and back pain associated with Gait Issues. While any Foot Clinic in Toronto will tell you to refrain from strenuous exercise beyond light walking, stretching and a bit of core work when you are recovering from acute pain and addressing your gait issues, there are a few forms of low impact exercise including swimming, cycling, and yoga that are sometimes acceptable for those who can’t live without regular cardio.

Cycling/Elliptical

Cycling Low Impact Exercise

Cycling might be okay if your pain is not too intense, however, because your back is in flexion when you’re on your bike, it may aggravate your back pain if you cycle vigorously for long periods of time. Elliptical machines at the gym pose a similar program: working out on these machines is much better than running, however, if you suffer from knee problems, extended use will aggravate those issues. Cycling and elliptical machines might be okay in moderation, just listen to your body and don’t overdo it.

Yoga/Pilates

Person Performing Yoga and pilates

Pilates strengthens the core which supports the back, and thus, attending a gentle Pilates class with a knowledgeable instructor can be incredibly beneficial. Again, moderation is best since engaging the core for extended periods every day may do more harm than good. Yoga comes in many different flavours, with Yin yoga (a calm, restorative practice) on one end of the spectrum and Bikram (hot yoga originally designed as a military practice) on the other. Doing something closer to Yin might be wise if you are in recovery, but as you feel stronger you might try a Moksha flow class, which is moderate in intensity. If you’re suffering from back pain related to the feet, hot yoga will increase the flow of oxygen and nutrients to your back muscles and relieve the discomfort.

Swimming

Person Swimming In A Pool For Low Impact ExerciseWhile the above exercises have their pros and cons, swimming is pretty much all pro. As with anything else, we’d urge you to listen to your body and take it slow, but because you are liberated from gravity in the swimming pool, the likelihood of injury through repeated impact is very low. Swimming is great cardio, which means it’s good for your heart, and since common strokes like the crawl, backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly mainly involve the upper body as well as the legs, your whole body gets toned and strong. When we’re working with avid runners on the mend, we often recommend swimming, since it creates a similar endorphin rush without aggravating knee and back pain or messing with gait adjustments. If you’re new to swimming, we’ll point out that it’s prudent to wear flip-flops in the deck and in the showers – otherwise you may need to get your Plantar Warts removed in the not-too-distant future.

For many, it’s a relief knowing that there are low impact exercise alternatives to explore while they are reaping the early benefits of Gait Analysis and Correction.

Injured and Needing a Second Opinion? We Got You Covered

We’re confident in our ability to help inform you and solve your concern with the least amount of discomfort as possible. Call us even to ask about a quick question and we’d be happy to point you in the right direction! Call us at 416-769-3338 or Click Above to 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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Our simple to use, online booking process makes it easy to book an appointment with a chiropodist for any of our services. No referral needed!


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Emily

Administrative Assistant

Emily is the newest addition to the Feet First family. She assists with the clinic’s accounting and finances, as well as all the behind-the-scenes work that keeps the clinic running smoothly. In addition to her accounting smarts, she brings sunshine and positivity to everyone at Feet First Clinic.

Erica Halpern

Marketing and Administrative Assistant (She/Her)

Part of our administrative support staff, Erica also works behind the scenes writing and editing content for our website and blog. She loves researching and writing educational content to help patients and anyone dealing with pain. When she’s not busy in the clinic, you’ll find her at her local gym, exploring underground music, hiking with friends, or cheering on her favourite sports teams (Go Jays!). She also loves huskies!

Sophie Rudahigan

Clinic Administrator (She/Her)
Sophie prides herself on providing top-tier customer service. She is here to ensure a smooth visit for all clients. In addition to overseeing the clinic’s administration and day-to-day operations, she maintains the cosmetic appearance of the store. She is the magic behind our elaborate display case designs and also ensures the clinic is stocked with stylish (but still orthopedic!) footwear options for all ages.

Bianca Carter

CEO (She/Her)

Day in and out, Bianca works hard to ensure Feet First Clinic runs smoothly. Customer service is at the top of her list and she treats every customer like family. Bianca has a passion for fitness and is dedicated to helping people take care of their feet and body. There is no problem that she can’t solve and she believes that where there is a will, there’s a way.

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.