Toronto Trails for Winter Hikes

February 22, 2021

With proper footwear and outdoor gear to keep you warm, a little snow (but maybe a little ice on some days) shouldn’t keep you away from the hiking trails this winter! With restrictions on life at present, it is still possible to spend some time outside. Refuel your spirit with some time out in nature. The Greater Toronto area has some great trails that are worthy of exploration.

Evergreen Brickworks

Located in the Don Valley, it is one of the best markets I’ve been to over the years. I love the beautiful integration of the outdoors into the building’s architecture, representing their mandate for sustainable living. The trail itself will take you about 20 minutes to get to the top with stunning views. It’s a magical place, where under normal circumstances you can enjoy a nice warm drink and a little shop at the facilities afterward.

Humber River Recreational Trail

This 8.2 km paved trail is an ideal distance on a sunny afternoon. It’s a good option for those who live northwest in the city. It is also approachable by transit, and there is free parking. Given its location, it can be a bit busy, so it is worth considering times that may be a little quieter.

High Park Area Trails

Partially paved and partially dirt, this can get a little mucky in the snow. However, if prepared with the proper footwear, and perhaps you have a four-legged friend up for an adventure, these trails will do the trick. With just over 5 kilometers available for exploration, and minimal elevation within the well-known park, it offers easy accessibility to all.

High Park is also conveniently close to the Feet First Clinic, located in Bloor West Village. This would be a great place to roam around after your appointment or try out your new boots!

Scarlett Mills Park

A 3.5 km trail with moderate elevation in terrain, this trail is great for a quick hike! It is also great for snowshoeing and biking. Located in Etobicoke, it’s a great location for a little bit of a challenge in it’s terrain, giving opportunity to try out different winter activities on this trail.

Beltline Trail

Not too far from the Brickworks trail mentioned above, the Beltline is an 8.9 km out and back trail. It’s a mainly flat path, so the terrain isn’t too treacherous for explorers of all levels. It’s a great multi-activity trail for this reason too. A bit of a longer jaunt, if you are looking to keep warm, make sure you keep yourself heated up by layering or moving quickly! Don’t forget to enjoy the scenic views of course.

Looking to be fully equipped for your winter hikes?

At Feet First we can assess your needs for proper foot health and make sure you have on footwear for safety and comfort! Call us today at 416.769.FEET (4338) and book your appointment or inquire about our boot inventory!

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 Heart Health and Your Feet

NextNext Simple Hacks To Prevent Cracked Toenails

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)

April 8, 2024

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Back pain is common among adults, with up to 80% of people experiencing back pain at least once in their lifetime. While the causes of back pain can vary, one often overlooked factor is the type of footwear we wear. Believe it or not, the shoes we put on our feet can significantly impact our spinal health. This article will explore the connection between footwear and back pain and provide insights into choosing shoes to support a healthy back. The alignment connection Our feet are the foundation of our body's alignment, and our shoes play a crucial role in maintaining proper alignment from the ground up. When we wear shoes with inadequate support or that don't fit properly, it can throw off the alignment of our feet, leading to a chain reaction of misalignment throughout the body, including the spine. This misalignment can cause strain on the muscles and ligaments of the back, leading to discomfort and pain. High heels and back pain One of the most well-known culprits of back pain is high heels. While they may be fashionable, high heels can wreak havoc on the spine. The elevated heel alters the spine's natural curvature, increasing pressure on the lower back and making the muscles to work harder to maintain balance. Over time, this can lead to muscle imbalances, postural issues, and chronic back pain. Flat shoes and lack of support Conversely, flat shoes with inadequate support can also contribute to back pain. Shoes that lack proper arch support don't provide necessary shock absorption and stability, leading to increased stress on the spine. Additionally, shoes with worn-out soles or insufficient cushioning can exacerbate back pain by failing to provide adequate protection against impact forces. Choosing the right footwear So, what can we do to prevent back pain and promote spinal health through our footwear choices? Here are some tips for selecting the right shoes: Opt for shoes with adequate arch support to maintain the spine's natural curvature. Look for cushioned soles that provide shock absorption to reduce impact on the spine. Choose shoes with a supportive heel counter to stabilize the foot and ankle. Ensure proper fit by wearing shoes and walking around to assess comfort and support. Consider orthotic inserts or custom-made orthotics to address specific foot issues and improve overall alignment. When it comes to back pain, every step counts. By paying attention to our shoes and choosing footwear that supports spinal health, we can take proactive steps to prevent discomfort and promote overall well-being.

April 1, 2024

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

As the seasons transition and we bid farewell to the winter chill, it's time to update our footwear game for the vibrant days of spring. This year, the trends are about combining style with functionality, ensuring your feet look and feel good. From casual sneakers to rugged hikers, here are the top trendy shoes for spring footwear trends for 2024 that will elevate your style while keeping you comfortable and prepared for whatever the season throws. Sneakers Sneakers, particularly those embodying Converse style, combine timeless fusion and a bit of flair. Pair them with jeans for a laid-back vibe, or dress them up slightly for an elevated look. Ara Fusion Lilly First up on our list of trendy shoes for spring 2024 are the Ara Fusion Lilly sneakers in a sleek grey hue. These sneakers blend style and comfort effortlessly, making them perfect for the transitional period before summer arrives. Their classic sneaker silhouette and subtle grey colour are versatile enough to pair with any outfit, from jeans and a tee to a casual sundress. Plus, their stretchable, breathable construction is perfect for accomodating bunions and hammertoes, so your feet stay relaxed and comfortable all day. Slip-ons Slip-on sneakers allow individuals to slide them on and off effortlessly with no fuss. Wear slip-ons to run errands or to more casual outings without sacrificing comfort and style. NAOT Okahu Slip-ons are a must-have for any spring wardrobe, and the NAOT Okahu in black is a stylish choice that ticks all the boxes. These sleek slip-ons feature a minimalist design with a comfortable footbed that moulds to your feet for a personalized fit. Whether running errands or meeting friends for brunch, these shoes will keep you looking effortlessly chic while providing the support your feet need. They're perfect for those days when you're on the go. Transitional sneakers Transitional sneakers are another one of our top spring footwear trends. Their adaptable nature allows wearers to effortlessly go from work, to errands, to city strolls, complementing a range of outfits and lifestyles with their understated yet contemporary allure. Clarks Nalle Lace For a versatile shoe that seamlessly transitions from day to night, look no further than the Clarks Nalle Lace. These sneakers feature a classic lace-up design with a modern twist, making them perfect for the in-between period before summer arrives. Their lightweight construction and breathable materials ensure your feet stay comfortable all day, while their sleek silhouette adds a touch of sophistication to any outfit. Whether heading to the office or out for a night on the town, these sneakers have you covered. Clarks Craft Swift Men, step up your shoe game this spring with the Clarks Craft Swift. These casual shoes combine style and functionality, making them perfect for everyday wear. Whether running errands or meeting friends for a casual outing, these shoes will keep you looking sharp and comfortable. Their durable construction and supportive footbeds ensure long-lasting wear, while their classic design adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. Their versatile black colour makes them easy to pair with any outfit. GORE-TEX sneakers Engineered with GORE-TEX membrane, these sneakers offer exceptional waterproofing and breathability, keeping feet dry and comfortable in any weather. ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX For adventurous souls who love to explore the great outdoors, the ASICS Gel-Sonoma GTX hikers are a must-have for spring 2024. Thanks to their GORE-TEX construction, these rugged shoes are designed to tackle any terrain, from rocky trails to muddy paths, while keeping your feet dry and comfortable.

March 25, 2024

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

In the realm of fashion, footwear often takes center stage. However, finding stylish footwear for sensitive feet that provides comfort can seem like an elusive quest. Fear not: whether you're dealing with conditions like bunions, plantar fasciitis, or have feet that demand extra care, we'll explore a range of footwear brands that cater to sensitive feet without compromising style. Best for cushioning Mephisto Mephisto is renowned for its commitment to crafting footwear that marries fashion with function. Their shoes feature advanced cushioning and support systems, making them ideal for individuals with sensitive feet. Their footbeds are made of cork, a natural material that is naturally shock absorbent and anatomically contoured for the foot. From sleek sneakers to sophisticated loafers, Mephisto offers various styles to suit various tastes and occasions. The Mephisto Hester sandal features a cushioned cork footbed with a deep heel cup and strong arch. It is perfect for summertime outings, casual strolls or as an indoor slipper. Asics While Asics is primarily known for its performance-oriented athletic shoes, the Gel-Nimbus line caters to those seeking superior comfort and support. The Gel-Nimbus utilizes innovative gel cushioning technology to provide excellent shock absorption. They're excellent for individuals with sensitive feet who lead active lifestyles, whether you're hitting the gym or running errands. Best footwear for width and fit Clarks Clarks have long been synonymous with comfort footwear, and its commitment to quality and craftsmanship shines through in every pair it produces. With a focus on ergonomic design and premium materials, Clarks' shoes relieve sensitive feet without compromising style. Some of their shoes are also available in different widths, from narrow to wide, like the Nalle Lace. This stylish sneaker is available in width with and also comes with a zipper to make it easier to take on and off. Clarks also makes a variety of high-end dress shoes, which are a great option for the style-conscious. Ara Ara is another brand renowned for its dedication to comfort and innovation. Their shoes feature cushioned footbeds, flexible outsoles, and adjustable closures, making them an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and support. The Ara Lilly has a soft cushioned footbed with a stretchable woven upper. It provides maximum comfort and sophistication for any occasion. Portofino Portofino specializes in crafting footwear that seamlessly blends fashion-forward design with orthopedic support. Their shoes feature anatomically shaped footbeds and shock-absorbing soles, catering to the needs of individuals with sensitive feet without compromising on style. Additionally, Portofino offers shoes in H width, which are slightly wider, providing more room and comfort. They also have a more comprehensive tread depth. For instance, the DY-5068 is a favourite. It features a removable insole, allowing you to insert your orthotics, and a zipper for in-and-out ease. Best seamless footwear Seamless footwear is excellent for sensitive feet as fewer friction points come in contact with the foot. Anodyne Anodyne is dedicated to providing therapeutic footwear solutions for individuals with foot ailments. Their shoes feature extra-depth designs, seamless interiors, and accommodative toe boxes, making them an excellent choice for those with sensitive feet seeking relief without sacrificing style. They also accommodate foot sensitivities for people with diabetes. The Anodyne No. 23 is designed with comfort in mind. It features a roomy toe box and plush cushioning, ensuring all-day comfort without compromising style. APEX APEX specializes in crafting shoes that cater to the unique needs of individuals with foot conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, and neuropathy. Their shoes feature innovative technologies such as pressure-relieving insoles and stretchable uppers, providing unparalleled comfort and support for sensitive feet. The APEX Ambulator Conform Oxford is engineered for comfort and stability. This Oxford-style shoe features adjustable closures and a removable orthotic insole, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive feet seeking style and functionality. Best footwear with natural materials Certain materials in shoes can aggravate sensitive feet. If you have skin sensitivities or allergies, you may develop contact dermatitis, which can cause a red rash and itchiness, and even skin blisters. Possible allergens in footwear that can lead to contact dermatitis include rubber, the glue that binds your shoes together, a nickel buckle on a sandal, chromates, formaldehyde, or paraphenylenediamine (a type of dye). If your shoes give you a rash or redness, you can try footwear with natural materials. Our picks include: NAOT Shoes crafted from natural materials have garnered widespread acclaim for their comfort, sustainability, and timeless appeal. Among the pioneers in this domain stands NAOT, renowned for its innovative use of cork beds in crafting footwear that melds impeccable comfort with eco-consciousness. NAOT's cork beds are ingeniously designed to conform to the wearer's foot contours, providing unparalleled support and cushioning. Sourced from renewable cork oak trees, this material delivers superior comfort and embodies the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility. One such option for summer is the NAOT Amadora, which is wrapped in suede and moulds to the shape of the foot with each wear. Mephisto Similarly, Mephisto has carved a niche in natural-material footwear, prioritizing comfort and style. Embracing premium leathers, cork footbeds and other natural textiles, Mephisto integrates advanced technologies into its designs to deliver optimal support and flexibility. Whether strolling through urban streets or traversing rugged terrain, Mephisto shoes offer a harmonious blend of form and function, appealing to the discerning consumer seeking quality craftsmanship and sustainable elegance. The Mephisto Izae is a casual-looking sneaker with optimal comfort, fit and a leather lining.

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 14, 2024

Yoga for Feet: Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises

Yoga is a respected form of healthy, low-impact exercise. It fosters physical strength, mental well-being, and helps with flexibility training. But what you may not know about is what yoga can do for your feet. Yoga and foot health have a close connection. Your feet serve as the base for most exercises, so almost every famous yoga pose doubles as a foot strengthening exercise in some way! Specifically, studies show that yoga can help with musculoskeletal problems in the lower extremities. Whether it’s toe yoga exercises, yoga for ankle strengthening, or yoga for arch support, most poses work wonders for the feet. Today we’ll talk about the top four, how you should perform them, and what they do for your foot health. Top Yoga Foot Strengthening Exercises Downward-facing dog Tree pose Warrior pose Cat-cow pose Downward-Facing Dog This well-known pose provides a nice calf stretch, in addition to being a good ankle and foot strengthening exercise due its ability to target the smallest, stabilizing muscles in the feet. Try this yoga pose to protect against foot injuries, promote arch support, and help manage conditions like Achilles tendonitis. How to: Start in a tabletop position (this is a foundation pose for many yoga exercises, and basically just means being on your hands and knees) Lift your hips towards the ceiling, straightening your legs and arms. Form an inverted "V" shape with your body, keeping your hands shoulder-width apart and feet hip-width apart. Press your palms into the mat, lengthen your spine, and draw your heels toward the floor. Hold the position, breathing deeply, and feel the stretch in your hamstrings and shoulders. To release, bend your knees and return to the tabletop position. Tip: To liven up your downward-facing dog pose, you can incorporate toe raises (during step 4 and 5), where the body is supported by just your toes instead of the entire foot. This can do more when targeting conditions like flat feet and bunions. Cat-Cow Pose The cat-cow pose is praised for the way it engages your spine and helps manage back pain. But you can modify the traditional version to strengthen and stretch your feet more. Let’s take a look at the traditional way to perform the pose, and add our modifications so you can give your feet more attention. How to (traditional): Start on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. Inhale, arch your back, lift your head, and drop your belly (cow pose). Exhale, round your spine, tuck your chin to your chest (cat pose). How to (modified): While in the cow pose, press the tops of your feet into the mat and actively curl your toes, engaging the muscles in your feet. While in the cat pose, purposely point your toes away from you, stretching the tops of your feet and creating a gentle stretch in the ankles. Tree Pose Like downward-facing dog, the tree pose strengthens the small muscles in the ankles and feet. But another perk is how it can help you improve your balance, which people with foot and toe deformities, like bunions and hammertoes, and different types of arthritis, often need to focus on. The tree pose also helps strengthen the arches of the feet, providing support and stability for those with flat feet. How to: Stand on one leg, shifting your weight to the same foot as the leg you choose. Bring the sole of your other foot to the inner thigh or calf. Bring your palms together in front of your chest or reach them overhead. Hold the pose, maintaining balance as best as you can. Repeat on the other leg. Warrior II Pose Due to its wide stance, the Warrior II pose provides a balance challenge, calf engagement, and can be a solid means of targeting ankle stability. Also, as you ground the outer edge of your back foot and press down through the inner arch, you engage the muscles in the arch of the foot. The best part? This is one of the easiest yoga poses to master, and makes you feel confident and powerful! How to: Start in a standing position with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your right foot out 90 degrees, aligning the heel with the arch of your left foot. Extend your arms parallel to the floor.

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:

Toronto Trails for Winter Hikes

Evergreen Brickworks

Humber River Recreational Trail

High Park Area Trails

Scarlett Mills Park

Beltline Trail

Here’s to Many More Years of Foot Care!

Related Services & Conditions

Newsletter Signup

Related Posts

The Role of Nutrition in Foot Health

The Link Between Footwear and Back Pain: What You Need to Know

Spring Footwear Trends 2024: What’s Hot for Healthy Feet

Fashionable Footwear for Sensitive Feet: Style Without Sacrifice

The Importance of Foot Hygiene: Tips and Tricks

Yoga for Feet: Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises

Useful Links

About Us

Our Newsletter

Carolina Charles

Patient Relation Coordinator (She/Her)