3 Ways To Treat Your Feet Right

May 14, 2018

Here at Feet First Clinic, in the west end of our fair city of Toronto, typically we’re sticklers for shoes with good arch support that give your feet enough room to breathe. However, we understand that during the summer, people like to rock skate shoes and deck shoes with no socks to feel free and stylish. On the one hand, we’ll give you a pass, since summer is a time for luxury and indulgence, on the other hand, we’d be remiss not to chastise you a little bit for wearing shoes with no support. Below you’ll find our tips on ways to treat your feet right.

If you’re just lounging around the pool or the cottage, flip-flops are fine for a little bit to putter around in. Even better: spending some time with no shoes on at all will strengthen the muscles in your feet and allow your toes and tendons to stretch out. What you really don’t want to do is start going on hikes or long walks, or doing any kind of strenuous labour in unsupportive shoes. This can be dangerous for your feet and put you at a higher risk for back or knee injury.

It’s fairly common to see people in September who’ve developed Athlete’s Foot or plantar warts from wearing shoes without socks all summer – this can be a bit annoying but fortunately, We Remove Warts quickly and painlessly, so call us up if you have this issue and we’ll sort you out. Athlete’s foot requires a slightly more rigorous course of treatment, but it’s really not a big deal and nothing to worry about.

Why Supportive Footwear Is So Important

Worse than temporary problems like warts or athlete’s foot is the structural problems you can cause to your feet by wearing unsupportive footwear. Proper footwear is at the core of the ways to treat your feet right. We see a lot of patients who could have avoided serious problems if they’d realized how much damage ill-fitting shoes were doing to their feet. Preventing a problem is easier than fixing it after the fact, so if you’ve found your way to our Local Toronto Foot Clinic for the GTA, take some free advice: go barefoot whenever it’s safe, and otherwise, buy yourself some Shoes with Good Arch Support that don’t constrict the natural shape of your foot.

Foot conditions that can result from wearing unsupportive or constricting shoes are bunions, heel spurs, ingrown toenails and plantar fasciitis. Aside from performing plantar stretches and rolling your calves out with a lacrosse ball, we can offer Plantar Fasciitis Treatment to relieve some of that pain!

Your Footwear Options

Since September is here and it is time to deal with the more practical aspects of life, why not do yourself a favour and buy some fresh shoes to make your feet happy? We’ve got incredible shoes from Asics, Saucony, Stride Rite and more in a myriad of styles, one of which is sure to fit your vibe. People often assume that comfort and style are mutually exclusive, but this is simply not true. Saucony has some really cool retro models that will look great out at the bar, and if you need custom inserts made to seal the deal, we can certainly help you out in that regard as well. Custom inserts can make all the difference in helping to correct your gait, so you can live pain-free in high style!

Look No Further For Your For Footcare Solutions

We’re confident in our ability to help inform you and solve your concern with the least amount of discomfort as possible. Call us 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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September 21, 2023

Polydactyly: Understanding the Rare Phenomenon of a Sixth Toe

Polydactyly is a rare genetic foot condition that causes a sixth toe (and toenail) to grow as the last toe on the foot, next to the pinky toe. However, the sixth toe can sometimes be in the center of the toes or next to the big toe. The sixth toe is often called a digit (dactyl), with “poly” referring to “many.” Today we’re going to answer all your questions regarding this rare condition, including: What are the causes of polydactyly? How does polydactyly affect foot health? How can you manage polydactyly? Photo by Daisy Laparra on Pexels Causes of Polydactyly Polydactyly is more common in children. This is because many adults will have had the sixth digit removed during their toddler years. Outside of genetics and genetic diseases, there are no known causes. A child can also be born with a sixth digit for no reason. How Does Polydactyly Affect Foot Health? Polydactyly does not usually cause foot pain. As far as toe conditions go, the main issue is finding accommodating footwear. Patients may need to search for specialized shoes and medical shoes. The emotional toll a condition like polydactyly can take on a person may be more pressing than the physical toll, and can lead to self-esteem issues. Photo by FreePik How to Manage Polydactyly Managing polydactyly often involves simply removing a child’s sixth toe. Many sixth digits develop poorly and don’t look the same as other toes and fingers. These are generally removed via in-office excision (more common for extra fingers) or surgery under anesthesia (more common for extra toes). If parents of children with a sixth digit wish to remove it, they should seek surgical intervention when the child is around one or two years old. This allows the bone to grow to the point where the cosmetic outcome is more favourable. This is also a good age since your child will likely not recall having this problem later in life and, according to Boston Children’s Hospital, can tolerate anesthesia more than an infant. Children who've had a sixth toe removed should get regular chiropody care after they recover from surgery. If you’ve had a sixth toe removed as a child, you should also seek regular chiropody care into your adult years. Services like gait analyses, custom orthotic fittings, callus and skin care, and more can ensure foot health is on the right track. Photo by jcomp from Freepik

September 14, 2023

Bunions 101: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Management Strategies

Bunions - or for those who have them, the painful, bony nuisances that form at the big toe joint - are a common foot condition for older people, especially women. While surgical intervention can sometimes help those with debilitating bunions, lifestyle changes and effective management strategies can help you avoid a bunionectomy in many cases. Moreover, surgeries are usually only necessary if your bunions cause regular functional and mobility problems and chronic pain, which is often not the case. Let’s look at the causes and symptoms of bunions and explore how you can manage them without invasive measures. Image Credit: Fabrikasimf from Freepik Symptoms of Bunions Bunions protrude from the side of your big toe, forming an “L” shape angle. Additional symptoms of bunions include: More corns and calluses than you would normally have due to the big toe rubbing against the second toe Mild redness, pain, and swelling Limited movement in the big toe Severe bunions can cause overlapping toes, pain that doesn’t subside, and toe angulation of more than 40 degrees. Photo credit: istock Causes of Bunions The main culprit? The wrong shoes! Wearing high heels may make you feel good about yourself aesthetically, but they can damage your physical health over time and are one of the main causes of bunions in women. Narrow, tight, and pointed shoes (often the design of stilettos and other types of heels) squeeze and push your toes together and forward unnaturally, increasing pressure on the big toe and leading to bunion formation. Having another condition that targets the joints, like osteoarthritis or Rheumatoid arthritis, or one that causes an abnormal gait, like flat feet, can also hint at bunions in your future. Activities where your toes are more vulnerable than the rest of your feet, like dancing, may also be a risk factor. Image by rawpixel.com from FreePik Bunions: Management Strategies You can tackle a mild bunion problem from home and with regular visits to the chiropodist. Here are some of the best ways you can prevent bunions from ruining your day or getting worse: Change your footwear: Ditch the high heels for comfortable alternatives and shoes with extra room in the toe box. If you’re not sure where to start, attend a shoe fitting. Try bunion splints or aligners. They can hold the affected joint in place. Therapeutic taping can help hold the joint in place and temporarily relieve pain. Shoe stretching may help secure more room in the toe box and take pressure off the bunion. Try these 5 simple exercises for bunions. They are relatively easy, low-impact, and don’t require exercise equipment. Get custom orthotics. Orthotics might reduce excess pressure on the big toe joint and correct any biomechanical issues that are contributing to your bunions (plus they're also super comfortable!). Ask about shockwave therapy. This innovative, non-invasive, and quick procedure is an effective management strategy for bone and joint conditions. It can help relieve pain caused by muscle tightness around the bunion. It's important to remember that bunions don't disappear like other conditions sometimes do. But successfully practicing these treatment methods can help you avoid surgery. If you suspect your bunions are too severe for these strategies, speak to your family doctor. Bunion products available at Feet First Clinic

September 11, 2023

Skin Peeling on Feet: Causes and Remedies

Having peeling skin on your feet can be both uncomfortable and concerning. This condition, often called foot peeling or foot exfoliation, occurs when the skin on the feet sheds in small flakes or larger pieces. Peeling skin on the feet may sometimes lead to itchiness, redness, and even pain. Fortunately, proper foot care can help alleviate the problem and restore the feet to their natural, healthy state. Various factors can cause skin peeling on the feet, and it's essential to identify the underlying cause to determine the appropriate remedy. Here are some common causes and corresponding remedies: Dry skin Dry skin roughens the skin, making it itchy, flaky, or scaly. It's a common condition that affects people of all ages. The medical term for dry skin is xeroderma, whereas xerosis is severely dry skin. Cause Lack of moisture and hydration can lead to dry skin on the feet, making it prone to peeling. Dry skin has several causes, including: Heat: Warm temperatures reduce humidity, drawing moisture out of the skin and drying it out. Climate: Living in cold, windy conditions or low-humidity climates can cause drier skin. Too much bathing or scrubbing: Long, hot showers or baths and excessive drying/scrubbing can dry out your skin. Washing your feet too much may also dry out your skin because the washing strips away your body's natural oils. Harsh soaps and detergents: Some soaps and detergents may contain ingredients that can irritate and dry your skin. Age: As we age, the skin begins to thin and produces less water-retaining natural oils. Remedy Keep your feet well-moisturized by regularly applying a thick, hydrating foot cream or petroleum jelly. Ditch the harsh soaps and boiling water when washing your feet. It's also important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Athlete's foot Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that affects the skin on the feet. Tinea pedis was named 'athlete's foot' because it is commonly found in people with sweaty feet. Cause A fungus called dermatophytes causes Athlete's foot when it comes in contact with your feet. It's a contagious infection that can quickly spread to others through skin contact. Common sites for fungus include warm, moist environments and shared spaces, like pools, locker rooms, shoes, or showers. Remedy Use over-the-counter antifungal creams or powders designed explicitly for Athlete's foot. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid wearing damp socks or closed shoes for an extended period. Eczema or psoriasis Eczema and psoriasis are conditions where your skin may peel on your feet. Cause These skin conditions can affect the feet, causing redness, itching, and peeling. Eczema occurs when you come in contact with an irritant, whereas psoriasis is an auto-immune disease with no cure. Remedy It's recommended to consult a dermatologist for remedies for eczema or psoriasis. They may prescribe topical corticosteroids or other medications to manage the condition. With psoriasis, treatments are designed to prevent skin cells from multiplying. Allergic reaction Cause Exposure to allergens in socks, shoes, or foot care products can trigger an allergic reaction, which then leads to skin peeling. Remedy Identify and try to remove the allergen causing the reaction from your environment. For instance, switch to hypoallergenic socks and shoes if your socks irritate your feet and lead to peeling skin. If that doesn't work, consider swapping your laundry detergent for a product with natural ingredients. Prolonged sun exposure Prolonged sun exposure refers to when you are exposed to UV rays for an extended time without proper sun protection. As a result, your skin may develop more wrinkles and lines. Cause Sun exposure to the feet can cause moderate to severe sunburns, damaging the skin's outer layer. Next, your skin begins to peel as the body tries to rid itself of damaged cells. Remedy Protect your feet from the sun by wearing appropriate footwear and sunscreen with a high SPF. Contact dermatitis Contact dermatitis is an itchy rash stemming from an allergic reaction. Typically, the rash forms after your skin comes in contact with a substance or irritant. Cause Irritation of the skin due to contact with certain chemicals or substances. Remedy Identify and avoid the irritant. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream may provide relief. Consult a doctor if the condition persists. Pitted keratolysis Cause A bacterial infection affects the feet' soles, creating pits and causing peeling. Remedy Keep your feet clean and dry, wear open-toed shoes when possible, and use antibacterial soaps or topical antibiotics as a healthcare professional prescribes. Poor foot hygiene Cause Inadequate foot hygiene can lead to the accumulation of dead skin, which may peel off. Remedy Practice good foot hygiene by regularly washing and thoroughly drying your feet. Exfoliate gently to remove dead skin, and use moisturizers to hydrate the skin.

September 4, 2023

Best Shoes for Teachers 2023

Teachers spend long hours on their feet, so choosing comfortable and supportive shoes is essential to prevent foot fatigue and discomfort. From standing at the front of the classroom, traveling to or from work, or walking between classrooms, teachers put their feet to the test every day. The best shoes for teachers offer a combination of cushioning, arch support, stability, non-slip soles, and durability. The right pair of shoes can make a difference in a teacher's daily life, providing comfort, support, and style that keeps up with their fast-paced roles. The Ontario Physical Activity Safety Standards in Education suggests that "appropriate footwear is a shoe designed for athletic activities with a sole that provides traction and is secured to the foot." Without the proper footwear, teachers are at greater risk of developing two common foot conditions: plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. In this guide, we list our recommendations for the best shoes for teachers to maximize comfort and keep your feet feeling great all day. Saucony Saucony has a wide range of footwear, including athletic, athleisure, and sport-specific shoes. With a strong focus on running shoes, Saucony caters to various running styles and preferences and is known for its durability, support, and cushioning. For teachers, we recommend the Saucony Triumph 21 for those looking for a more athletic shoe or the Saucony Shadow Original and Jazz Triple for a more casual appearance. Asics ASICS shoes are amongst the most popular in the world. The brand's GEL cushioning system makes them a great choice to protect your feet and keep them feeling their best. They have great shoes for walking and standing, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 (for people with neutral gaits or high arches), the Asics Novablast 3 for those seeking a rocker sole, and the Asics Gel-Kayano for those requiring a stability shoe. Apex Apex shoes provide ample support, cushioning, and ergonomic design to promote proper alignment and alleviate common foot ailments. From orthotic-friendly features to diabetic footwear options, APEX aims to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or diabetes can experience improved comfort and mobility. Look at the Apex Boss Runner Active Shoe for a supportive and comfortable option on the job. Anodyne Anodyne footwear specifically caters to those with diabetes, neuropathy, and other foot-related sensitivities. Their footwear features extra depth and roomy toe boxes to provide ample space for toes and accommodate custom orthotics. In addition, Anodyne shoes also often incorporate seamless interiors to minimize irritation and pressure points. The Anodyne No. 75 or No. 72 Casual Sport shoes are excellent for teachers mixing comfort and style. Mephisto Mephisto shoes strongly emphasize quality and feature the brand's soft-air midsole technology. Their shoes prioritize shock absorption and cushioning, which reduces impact on joints and promotes a smoother walking experience. Mephisto offers both casual and dressier options like the Mephisto Wing or Majestro. ara Shoes ara Shoes blend of fashion and functionality appeals to individuals seeking versatile footwear that combines style and comfort. Look at the Ara Leigh footwear line from Ara Shoes for a solid shoe choice for teachers' working hours. Portofino Portofino shoes are backed by Italian craftsmanship and offer a premium footwear line for a more formal look. Whether it's delicate stitching, exquisite leather, or refined silhouettes, Portofino Shoes blend traditional artistry and contemporary aesthetics. Consider the Portofino DY-5068 model if you're a teacher in the market for new shoes. Clarks Clarks shoes combine form and function. They're also backed by close to 200 years of innovation. The Clarks Unstructured Line is excellent lightweight footwear with flexible soles, ideal for long days on your feet. We recommend the Clarks Nalle Lace or the Clarks Court Lite Wally outside the Unstructured line.

August 24, 2023

Summer and Swelling Feet: How to Prevent Foot Inflammation in Hot Weather

Most are thrilled when the temperatures warm up. But for some people, the summer and swelling feet are a dreaded yearly occurrence. Foot inflammation in hot weather happens when sweltering heat causes our blood vessels to dilate, leading to fluid pooling in the legs and feet. This is also called heat edema. Those with underlying health or foot conditions can be more prone to foot inflammation in the summer. Still, young and healthy adults who exercise in high temperatures or gyms without proper ventilation can also experience it. For those wanting to prevent foot inflammation this summer, there is hope. Let’s check out several ways you can keep your feet cool and comfortable. Photo Source: Photo by brgfx on Freepik Exercises and Stretches PHoto by FreePik Boosting your blood circulation with movement and activities can reduce foot swelling (not to mention the other foot health benefits you can enjoy). Try a solid, low-impact exercising and stretching routine, performing a few sets twice daily. Compression Stockings Compression socks place pressure on the feet and legs so fluids cannot pool as easily. They also boost blood flow. That said, compression stockings are generally not recommended for diabetes patients. If your swelling feet are a diabetes symptom, you should seek other relief methods. Compression socks can also be uncomfortable during the summer, so make sure you wear them indoors in cool spaces. You can also try lighter, sheer hosiery instead of knee-high socks. Orthopedic Shoes Wearing the right shoes can help accommodate larger, swollen feet and prevent your heat edema from worsening. Look for orthopedic shoes and medical shoes with extra cozy and protective features, such as more width and depth, stretchy fabric, easy adjustability (like velcro and buckle closure straps), and removable insoles you can replace with orthotics if needed. Summer and Swelling Feet: At-Home Foot Care Tips for Preventing Foot Inflammation Chiropodists and other healthcare professionals recommend the following tips for reducing heat-related foot swelling: Eat magnesium-rich foods or take supplements. Studies show that foot swelling is often a result of magnesium deficiency. Lower your sodium intake. Stay hydrated. Soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath. Stay in cool, air-conditioned areas and avoid hot temperatures when possible. Photo by FreePik

August 19, 2023

Back to School Shoes for Kids 2023: A Comprehensive Guide

Your child is about to return from summer camp and gear up for the school year. As a parent, it's time to shift your shoe guide focus from summer adventures to 2023 footwear trends for the classroom, playground, school gym, and more! This guide will discuss the best 2023 school shoes for kids and other vital foot health tips for children: Know your child's condition Invest in orthotics Get the right shoes Get ready for the elements Sizing, sizing, sizing Prepare for gym change rooms Image Credit: Katerina Holmes from pexels Know Your Child's Condition There are a wide variety of foot conditions unique to children. Knowing if your kid is struggling with one is the first step towards securing quality footwear and the best kids shoes for 2023. Common foot conditions in children include: Pediatric Flat Feet: Most kids have flat feet in their toddler years before arches form by age 5. However, some kids struggle with flat feet for much longer. Arch support is extremely important for little ones with flat feet. Studies show that kids who wear footwear with added arch support enjoy less physical foot pain, improved mobility and even bonuses like faster stair ascent time (although kids shouldn't be running on the stairs at school!). A stability shoe like the ASICS GT-1000 runner, or custom orthotics, are highly recommended for kids with flat feet as the GT-1000 series is for people who overpronate (meaning the foot lands on the outside of the heel, which transfers weight incorrectly and causes pain over time). Sever's Disease: This disease occurs when the growth plate on the back of the heel becomes inflamed. It is common in growing kids, especially young athletes. One of the major risk factors of Sever's disease is having an overactive child exert energy without considering the proper shoe recommendations. Choosing school shoes with a deep-heel cup can help relieve pain. Osgood-Schlatter Disease / Growth Spurts: Running and jumping kids can develop Osgood-Schlatter disease in the knee, which feels like swelling and pain below the cap. It can also sometimes be attributed to growing pains and spurts. You can soothe symptoms by suiting your kids up with shoes with good shock absorption. Shock absorption dilutes the hard ground and gym floor's effect on your child's joints. Pigeon-toeing: Children who walk with their feet pointing inward are pigeon-toeing or in-toeing. Dealing with pigeon-toeing can be tricky because some specialists suggest you shouldn't use corrective shoes until the child is around nine or 10 so they have a chance to naturally grow out of it. ASICS GT-1000 for grade school kids. image credit: asics website Invest in Orthotics From flat feet to growing pains, custom orthotics help with most musculoskeletal foot conditions common in children. School floors are notoriously hard and flat, so the extra arch support, shock absorption and cushioning can help with a pre-existing condition and keep it from progressing into more painful territory by putting more strain on vulnerable areas. Get the Right Shoes Quality footwear can make the difference between a painful day at school and a day with some relief and comfort. But how do you know what school shoes to buy for your kids? It may depend on their foot type: Kids with low arches and flat feet that persist after age five should consider a stability shoe like the ASICS GT-1000 for kids. It will correct the overpronation we discussed earlier with extra support in the midsole and arch area and prevent their abnormal gait pattern from causing more discomfort. You should also consider the needs of children with neutral gaits. The ASICS Novablast is built to accommodate growing feet and may be a solid choice for its extra cushioning and energetic bounce underfoot. ASICS Novablast for kids. Image credit: Asics Website Sizing, Sizing, Sizing Some kids may need to attend a shoe fitting before returning to the classroom. To ensure shoes fit for the whole school year, leave half an inch of room from the toe to the end of the toe box to account for growth spurts. If your child feels like their toes are being squished on the sides, look for shoes with added width. Prepare for Gym Change Rooms We all know schools are a breeding ground for the common cold. But your child can also contract highly contagious foot conditions like warts, athlete's foot and toenail fungus if they don't protect their feet in the locker rooms and change rooms. To prevent this, ensure your kid heads to school with flip-flops, shower shoes or sandals in their gym bag. Get Ready for the Elements Hopefully, your child already has a pair of the Saucony Peregrine from their camp adventures. But if not, it’s never too late! Your kids should always be prepared for mud, rain, sudden light snowfalls, and other weather events. The Peregrine ice is perfect for the fall months leading into winter and shields your child’s feet from moisture while offering an excellent grip on the ground and slippery pavement. Saucony Peregrine for Kids. Image Credit: Saucony Website

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3 Ways To Treat Your Feet Right

Why Supportive Footwear Is So Important

Your Footwear Options