The Diabetes Foot Care Connection

April 30, 2018

Autumn and back to school can be an incredibly busy time of year. If you have a demanding job and kids in school, it’s easy to get completely carried away and throw out any time you might need for self-care. This can be a catastrophic mindset, since preventative care for your mind and body is the best recipe for health – it’s easier to prevent a problem than it is to fix it. This philosophy applies to all forms of healthcare, and foot care is no exception. If you require wart removal treatments or suffer from knee and back pain due to an abnormal gait, it is imperative that you seek the aid of a knowledgeable Foot Doctor as soon as possible.

Fall Foot Conditions

In the autumn, we also tend to switch from sandals and deck shoes to socks and closed shoes that hide our feet. If you have warts or athlete’s foot, there’s less motivation to deal with it, since your feet aren’t exposed. If you are a healthy individual and you’re incredibly busy, it’s not the end of the world if you procrastinate for a bit as long as you keep it in mind. If, on the other hand, you suffer from diabetes and develop toenail fungus or sores on your feet, it may actually pose a severe threat to your health if you don’t seek treatment immediately.

Why Are People With Diabetes At Higher Risk For Foot Conditions?

The reason that folks with diabetes are at a higher risk for complications is that they have reduced blood circulation in their feet and are prone to skin infection (cellulitis). This is why the diabetes foot care connection is so important. Nerve disorders can create huge problems, since your pain receptors are not able to alert you to serious damage that has occurred. Whether or not you have diabetes, if you suffer from cellulitis, seek Toenail Fungus Help in Toronto as soon as you can – otherwise your toenails may never recover.

Further advice for those with diabetes is to wear compression socks or stockings to increase blood circulation. Compression socks really work, and they come in a myriad of styles to suit whatever setting you might find yourself in.

If you’re not sure how to tell that you have toenail fungus, here are some clear signs to look for:

Thickened
Yellow-brown or whitish change in colour
crumbly or ragged, possibly brittle
Shape is warped
Blackish colouration, triggered by debris building up under nail
Offensive odour

Treatment

This may sound scary, but the actual process to rectify the situation is not so bad. A combination of oral and topical medication is often prescribed to get at the condition from both angles. If the patient wears nail polish, medicated nail polish (Penlac) is a strategic option to cover up the condition while treating it. In extreme cases, the doctor may remove the offending nail to apply cream directly to the infection.

Prevention

Once you’ve got your foot health back, or if you’re already healthy and want to avoid such infections, wear moisture absorbing/ wicking socks and shoes that breathe. If you shower at the gym, always wear flip flops and keep your nails well-trimmed. Feet First Clinic retails plenty of Breathable Footwear if you need help.

We Can Help!

Whether you need wart removal treatment or help with fungus, or if you’re looking for orthotic inserts and breathable shoes, book an appointment at Feet First Clinic! 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!

PrevPrevious Self Test: Do You Have A Common Foot Condition?

NextNext 3 Ways To Treat Your Feet Right

April 22, 2024

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

When it comes to anti-aging routines, our feet are often overlooked. Yet, they are one of the hardest-working parts of our body and deserve just as much attention as our skincare regimen. As we age, our feet undergo natural changes that can lead to discomfort and mobility issues if left unchecked. In this blog post, we'll explore age-defying foot care tips to help keep your feet feeling youthful and vibrant at any age. 1. Maintain proper hygiene Good foot hygiene is the foundation of age-defying foot care. As we age, our skin becomes thinner and more susceptible to infections, making it essential to keep our feet clean and dry to prevent fungal infections and bacterial growth. Wash your feet daily with soap and water, paying close attention to the spaces between toes, and thoroughly dry them afterward to prevent moisture buildup. 2. Moisturize regularly Dry, cracked skin is a common issue that affects aging feet. To keep your feet soft and supple: Moisturize them regularly with a rich foot cream or lotion. Focus on areas prone to dryness, such as the heels and soles, and consider using products containing ingredients like urea or shea butter, known for their hydrating properties. For an extra treat, indulge in a weekly foot soak followed by a moisturizing foot mask to pamper your feet and lock in moisture. 3. Supportive footwear As we age, the fat pads in our feet naturally thin out, leading to decreased cushioning and shock absorption—this is known as fat pad atrophy. Investing in supportive footwear with ample cushioning and arch support is crucial for maintaining foot health and preventing discomfort. Look for shoes with a roomy toe box to accommodate any changes in foot shape, and opt for styles with adjustable straps or laces for a customized fit. Additionally, consider wearing orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to provide extra support and cushioning. 4. Consistent exercise Like the rest of our body, our feet benefit from regular exercise to improve strength, flexibility, and circulation. To keep your feet limber and mobile, incorporate simple foot exercises into your daily routine, such as toe curls, ankle circles, and calf stretches. Additionally, consider practicing yoga or tai chi, which can help improve balance and stability, reducing the risk of falls and injuries as we age. 5. Routine and regular check-ups Regular foot exams are essential for detecting foot problems or underlying health issues early. Schedule regular check-ups with a chiropodist or foot specialist to monitor your feet's health and address any concerns promptly. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations tailored to your needs, helping you maintain healthy, youthful feet for years.

April 11, 2024

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

You are what you eat! This statement could not be more true, as the foods we consume help our bodies function at their best. The connection between nutrition and foot health isn’t widely known or obvious, but a healthy diet can work wonders for bone and joint health in the lower extremities. Eating the right foods for strong feet may also help you avoid painful foot conditions when combined with other foot care practices. Keep reading to discover nutrition and foot health secrets! How Good Nutrition Benefits Foot Health Healthy eating can lead to stronger feet by helping prevent excess inflammation. Inflammation can be protective and healing, but on the flip side, too much can lead to the following: Tissue damage Joint degradation (arthritis) Injuries and mobility issues Reduced bone density Moreover, a healthy diet supports proper blood circulation, which is essential for delivering oxygen and nutrients to the feet. Poor blood circulation can lead to cramping in the lower extremities, fatigue, varicose veins, and even ulcers, which are very dangerous for diabetics. Lastly, when we fuel our bodies with whole foods and don’t overeat (it’s okay to indulge on occasion!), we can maintain a healthy weight. Living your life at a healthy weight poses many benefits for your feet, including: Enhanced mobility and flexibility Decreased strain on the foot (your feet are carrying less weight, which is extra important when you have flat feet) Improved circulation to the feet Less edema and water/salt retention The Best Healthy Diet for your Feet Now let’s get to the fun part — exploring all of the yummy and nutrient-rich foods you should eat for strong feet! Check below for a list of the top choices to help your feet feel great. Keep in mind you can eat many more foods than these; we just think these options stand out as foot health power foods! Salmon: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and promote joint health. Leafy greens: High in vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K, which are essential for bone health. Berries: Packed with antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and improve circulation. Nuts and seeds: Good sources of healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support overall foot health. Greek yogurt: Contains calcium and probiotics, beneficial for bone density. Turmeric: Contains curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can alleviate foot pain and swelling. Avocados: Provides healthy fats and potassium, essential for maintaining proper muscle function and reducing cramping. Beans and legumes: High in fiber, protein, and various nutrients that support overall health and can help prevent foot-related complications like diabetes. To learn more about great foods for foot health, read here. In terms of what to avoid or eat in moderation, foods that cause inflammation are the main culprits. These include: Red and processed meats Baked goods and pasta made with refined carbohydrates Deep fried foods High-sugar foods like candy and soda Foods with trans fat (certain types of butter, chips, etc)

March 21, 2024

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Foot hygiene and solid foot care tips are your secret weapons for happy and healthy feet! Everyone should practice a clean and healthy foot routine, but those with foot conditions such as diabetes or chronic fungal infections should be extra vigilant. Today we’ll talk about the best foot cleaning practices and how to implement them into your daily foot care routine. Foot Health Essentials: How to Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Foot hygiene is pretty straightforward stuff! But you may make some minor missteps along the way. Take a look below at the best ways to wash, dry and moisturize your feet. Washing Your Feet Wash your feet daily with natural, gentle soaps in warm water. Hot water can negatively impact your blood circulation by increasing the size of the blood vessels, so be careful with temperatures. Moisturizing Your Feet Use lotion on the bottom and top of your feet. This can help you prevent calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more. Natural, fragrance-free and medicinal lotions are your best bet (try Gehwol at Feet First Clinic!). If you have diabetes, be extra careful to avoid putting lotion in between your toes; it could cause an infection depending on the lotion. Fungal infections also favour wet toes and tend to appear there. Keeping Your Feet Dry Thoroughly dry your feet after washing them. If you get lazy and keep them damp, you are again more likely to attract contagious fungal infections (they love moist environments!). Invest in products that help manage foot dampness and repel excess moisture. These include moisture-wicking socks (also remember to change your sock frequently!), waterproof shoes and boots, running shoes with perforated holes in the uppers, and various foot deodorant products (creams, powders, sprays). These products are also great for preventing foot odour. Toenail Care and Foot Hygiene Keeping your nails in top shape is an important element of foot hygiene. Follow these nail care tips to protect your nails and keep them clean and strong. Cut your nails straight across with high-quality nail clippers. Don’t try to shape them during this stage! Avoid cutting your nails too close to the skin; this will cause ingrown toenails. Gently use a nail file for subtle shaping. Don’t try to cut your own cuticles if you’re prone to infections. They protect the nails and getting rid of them improperly may welcome fungi. Schedule a medical pedicure for professional care and a cleaning of hard-to-reach areas.

March 18, 2024

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

Toenail care is your shield from future foot issues. Foot conditions affecting the toenails can lead to infections, fungus, brittle and damaged nails, pain, bleeding and more. But you have the power to prevent these complications! By investing in proper footwear, learning to trim your nails properly, and more, you can take the reins on your toenail health. Let's talk toenails! Preventing Fungal Infections and Other Toenail Conditions Practice Proper Toenail Trimming It would be nice to have a professional always trim our nails for us, but sometimes we do have to do toenail care ourselves. To prevent issues or conditions, trim your nails following these two simple steps: Use nail clippers to trim straight across (very important), avoiding curved edges. Smooth edges with a nail file if needed. Keep Your Feet Clean and Protected Fungal toenails love when you forget to care for your feet. Make sure you always thoroughly clean and dry your feet before wearing socks and shoes. To go the extra mile and protect from skin issues, moisturize, exfoliate and use a foot file. Avoid areas where contagious fungal viruses breed and are passed along. These include public pool grounds, public showers, shared locker rooms, and more. If you frequent places like this, always wear shoes. Pedicure safety and hygiene are also very important when it comes to prevention. Schedule medical pedicure appointments with your chiropodist instead of a cosmetic pedicure to avoid contracting a contagious fungal infection and for a more health-focused experience. Learn more about the difference between a cosmetic and medical pedicure. Make Healthy Footwear Choices The link connecting toenail issues and footwear may seem unclear, but picture it this way: When our shoes are too tight it often means there is not enough room for the toes to spread out naturally. This can wreak havoc on your nails and you also risk annoying ingrown toenails or a cracked toenail. Always buy shoes with enough room in the toe box! Take it to the next level by looking for running shoes with mesh uppers that allow air to flow inside the shoe. This is a bonus way of keeping your toes fresh and protecting against fungal infections. Check out this handy shoe shopping checklist for even more help! Toenail Care for Pre-existing Conditions Anti-fungal Treatments for Toenails You won’t be able to treat a current fungal infection without using antifungal products or visiting a chiropodist. Products include sprays, ointments and sometimes pills. At times, over-the-counter versions like ClearNails Pro + (available at Feet First Clinic) are enough, but other times, you’ll need a prescription for a persistent infection. Chiropodists can also perform nail debridement, which involves removing the infected part of the nail and thinning the outer layers of the toenail. This allows prescription-strength topical antifungal medication to penetrate the toenail and reach the fungus. Treating Cracked Toenails Cracked toenails are more of a nuisance than a serious problem. But messing with your toenails in any way can still cause bleeding and pain. You may be more susceptible to cracks if your nails are weak and brittle. If you’re looking for some ways to speed up nail growth, but also to strengthen your nails as they are, try these toenail growth tips: As we've mentioned, trim nails straight across and avoid trimming too close to the skin Again, wear well-fitting shoes. Tight shoes can disrupt healthy toenail growth. Protect toenails during physical activities. Avoid excessive use of nail polish. While polish itself doesn’t slow growth, some types can cause toenail dehydration, making your nails more likely to crack. Eat a balanced diet for nail health. Treating Ingrown Toenails OnyFix is a useful and modern way of treating ingrown toenails. It involves the application of a specialized corrective strip to the affected nail. Nail avulsions can also be a good idea for chronic, severe ingrown nails, and chiropodists may tackle infections using certain draining methods. Treating Toenail Discolouration Discoloured toenails are tricky because the colours can vary wildly. Discolouration caused by a fungal infection (green or yellow) may be treated using similar methods as fungal toenails. But if your discolouration is black, blue, purple, or red, this is probably linked to a mild blunt-force trauma injury (like dropping something on your toe). It’s best to schedule a nail care appointment to determine the culprit!

March 7, 2024

The Link Between Foot Health and Overall Wellness

Foot health directly correlates with our overall wellness. Seniors, in particular, can learn a lot about their general health when they start to understand the biomechanics of healthy feet. How feet look, how they feel, and how they function can be a sign of a serious health issue. This is also true in reverse — neglecting foot health can lead to conditions and other problems. Let’s take a look at how our feet act as a mirror to our holistic health. Here are the two main topics we'll break down today: How our feet can signify poor health How neglecting foot health affects overall wellness How Our Feet Can Signify Poor Health Your feet will often try to warn you that you need to visit your family doctor or foot specialist. Some of these warning signs include: Cold feet Feet that are cold to the touch and don’t seem to warm up can be a sign of a blood circulation or heart issue. Icy cold feet can also be a sign of peripheral artery disease, which is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels in the lower extremities, or a thyroid condition. Sores and wounds that don’t heal Diabetes is arguably the medical condition most notorious for damaging our feet. Elevated blood sugar levels can make our feet more susceptible to wounds. Even the tiniest blister, cut, or callus that doesn’t bother the average person can become a major concern. Wounds that do not heal can become infected and lead to devastating problems like gangrene and amputation. Numbness and tingling Bizarre foot sensations are also often a tell-tale sign of diabetes. They warn us that diabetes has progressed to the point of neuropathy (when the disease causes nerve damage). Foot swelling (edema) Injuries, medications, heart and kidney problems, and more can all cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues. Edema can also be a sign that you need to eat less salty foods. Foot pain From plantar fasciitis to Morton’s neuroma, painful feet can be a sign of many conditions, and it’s tough to really narrow down the cause. Sometimes it may be from simply ignoring foot care for years (wearing unsupportive shoes, not using inserts or orthotics, etc), but sometimes it may be a sign of age-related joint deterioration, like osteoarthritis, or weight gain. Strange colouring Toes that turn red, white or blue may be a sign of Raynaud’s disease (this can also make your feet very cold). This condition often causes blood vessel “spasms” due to their narrowing, and may be connected to stress and cold weather. How Poor Foot Health Affects Overall Wellness Taking care of your feet plays an imperative role in an overall healthy lifestyle. Everyone should practice foot care, but foot health tips for seniors are extra important as we age. Outside of foot pain and the common foot conditions we all know about, here are some other ways poor foot health can affect you: Back, knee and hip pain Foot issues may contribute to pain and discomfort in the back, knees, and hips due to altered gait and poor posture. This happens when you adopt unusual walking patterns to make up for the fact that your normal stride is painful. Remember, the musculoskeletal system is all connected! Heightened injury risk Weaker feet = more likely to fall and do some serious damage. Ignoring things like strengthening exercises and wearing proper footwear can lead to vulnerable feet. Infections Don’t ignore skin and toenail issues and assume they will magically go away! We already touched on how important this is for diabetes patients, but brushing off problems like fungal conditions can lead to painful infections that may even harm your immune system. This is true for everybody.

February 8, 2024

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.

Request 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!

Share:

The Diabetes Foot Care Connection

Fall Foot Conditions

Why Are People With Diabetes At Higher Risk For Foot Conditions?

Treatment

Prevention

We Can Help!

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

Age-Defying Foot Care: Keeping Your Feet Youthful at Any Age

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Tips for Healthy Toenails: Prevention and Care

The Link Between Foot Health and Overall Wellness

Senior Foot Care: Staying Active and Pain-Free

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)