What Happens During A Medical Pedicure?

January 18, 2021

A pedicure is a wonderful thing to treat yourself to when you’re in need of a little self-care and relaxation! We’re all aware that many people enjoy a standard cosmetic pedicure from a spa or nail salon, as they’re a good way to pamper yourself. While this is true, did you know that There is such as a thing as a medical pedicure? That’s right! A procedure performed by a licensed Chiropodist, there are numerous benefits to this specialized service, and we’re here to give you the lowdown on how our downtown Toronto foot experts perform a medical pedicure!

So, what exact is a medical pedicure? Starting with a brief description, a medical pedicure is a pedicure performed by qualified foot specialist. It involves shaping of the nails, cleaning of the nail beds, smoothing of any calluses, and a thorough moisturizing session. There are more steps involved to this service, however, and we’ve outlined those below! Be sure to also keep reading to learn how a medical pedicure is a great way to treat yourself, while still promoting foot health. We’ll be sure to let you know why we recommend them. Likewise, we’ll explain these benefits, which include information on how they can prevent foot conditions that affect our toes, toenails and other areas of our feet.

What Happens During A Medical Pedicure?

Initially, your chiropodist will thoroughly examine your feet. This will allow them to pinpoint any foot conditions that may be in the early stages, such as fungal infections, Warts and Calluses. Your chiropodist may ask if you currently have any underlying foot conditions.
Utilizing alcohol, your chiropodist will carefully clean your feet so they can proceed with a cleansed base.
With a rounded tool, your chiropodist will cut straight across each toenail. This is a measure that will ward off ingrown toenails and eliminate jagged edges. Essentially, they will start with trimming down your nails.
Next, your chiropodist will clean underneath your nails, eliminating any onychophosis. Haven’t heard that word before? It refers to the Buildup of skin(hyperkeratotic tissue) in the nail folds and cuticles.
The next step is filing the nails with a nail file, ensuring smooth and even edges to your toenails.
In the case that you have calluses (pale, yellow hardened skin on the feet that can resemble Corns), your chiropodist may use a scalpel to remove them, or will simply soften them.
The final step is to thoroughly moisturize your feet! Leaving them soft to the touch. Moisturizing your feet can also Help ward off several skin conditions.
Now you can enjoy your healthy and refreshed feet!

What Are The Health Benefits Of A Medical Pedicure?

A medical pedicure leaves your feet looking clean and fresh! While this is great, there are many more important benefits for your foot health that come with them:

They can prevent ingrown toenails. Ingrown toenails can be very painful, cause swelling, and even lead to an infection if left ignored.
Since a medical pedicure involves toenail shaping, this can be extra helpful if you have any cracked toenails, or a split toenail.
Due to the meticulous cleaning and moisturizing involved, medical pedicures can help stave off unpleasant Foot odour.
The first step, the examination process, gives your chiropodist the opportunity to detect any foot conditions you may not have been aware of. Similarly, they could provide information about the current condition of your feet, and if they think certain conditions may arise in the future. For example, they may notice you have a flat arch, or something else concerning the shape of your feet. It can be an educational experience that gives you the opportunity to ask questions!
Similarly, the quality time spent with a qualified foot specialist will allow you to gain insight into your foot health. Your chiropodist may also notice something on your feet you may not have noticed, like a small cut or laceration.
There will be specialized focus on calluses and corns.
They are more hygienic than a standard, cosmetic pedicure. A medical pedicure appointment ensures that your foot specialist is entirely focused on you, whereas a cosmetic pedicure can take place in a busy, hectic salon. The tools used are sterilized more thoroughly, and the private environment can make it safer to be barefoot.

pexels-andrea-piacquadio-3756167 — Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels – thank you!

Your Solutions Live Here!

Medical pedicures are a wonderful way to pamper yourself, while also being keen to the importance of your foot health! We’ve given you a general breakdown of the steps, but you may have more questions or concerns. If that’s the case, we’re here to help! Located at our Bloor west foot clinic, our Toronto foot specialists are on hand 6 days a week. If you’re interested in medical pedicures or any of the steps involved, or if you have any other concerns, you can call us to ask about actionable steps towards your foot health goals today!

Call us at 416-769-FEET (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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November 20, 2023

Unraveling the Mysteries: Skin Peeling on Feet and Effective Remedies

Skin peeling on the feet is a common issue many individuals experience at some point. The sight of flaky, peeling skin on your feet can be unsightly and uncomfortable, often leaving you wondering, how can I stop this? Well, you've come to the right place. In this guide, we delve into why skin peels on your feet and provide practical solutions to keep your feet looking and feeling their best. Understanding the mysteries behind skin peeling on your feet is the first step towards finding the right solutions, whether due to dryness, friction, or more complex factors. Why does skin peel on your feet? Dry Skin One of the most frequent culprits behind skin peeling on the feet is dry skin. The skin on your feet is naturally predisposed to drying out, and environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, and insufficient moisturization can exacerbate the issue. Improper Footwear Uncomfortable shoes or excessive walking can lead to constant rubbing or pressure, causing the skin to peel. Blisters, corns, and calluses are typical consequences of this friction. Fungal Infections Athlete's foot and other fungi can trigger peeling of the skin between the toes and on the soles. Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp environments, often found inside sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and shared showers. Eczema or Psoriasis Chronic skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, target the feet, resulting in peeling, redness, and itching. Effective remedies for skin peeling on feet Hydration is Key Start by ensuring your body is well-hydrated. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining soft, supple skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated to stave off dry, peeling skin. In general, it's recommended to drink about nine cups of liquid per day. Drinking liquids throughout the day is especially important for older adults. Moisturize Regularly Apply a nourishing foot cream or lotion daily, paying extra attention to dry areas. Seek products containing ingredients like urea, shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid for deep hydration. Exfoliation To remove dead skin cells and encourage skin regeneration, gently exfoliate your feet. A pumice stone or foot scrub can help, but be careful not to overdo it to prevent further irritation. The gentler, the better when removing dead skin cells, or you risk going too deep. Additionally, you can supplement exfoliation with soaking your feet in warm water to soften the skin and alleviate discomfort. Enhance the experience by adding Epsom salt, essential oils or a foot soak like Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath. Proper Footwear Proper footwear can help prevent blisters and skin peeling caused by ill-fitting footwear. A proper shoe should: fit properly, provide ample support, and not cause excessive friction. Foot Powders & Antifungals If a fungal infection is the cause of your skin peeling, you should see your chiropodist. They can recommend products, like foot powders to absorb excessive moisture, prescribe antifungal ointments, and provide proper foot care. If you have a fungal infection, it's very important to adhere to the treatment regimen recommended by your health care professional; fungal infections can take a long time to clear up, so consistency is key. Good Foot Hygiene Keep your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Fungi thrive in damp conditions, so thorough drying is essential after bathing. Good foot hygiene also means protecting your feet from the sun. Regularly apply sunscreen, even if your feet are not in the sun. Your feet will thank you. Medical Pedicures As part of a medical pedicures, a foot specialist will safely (and gently) debride and remove any dry, hardened or peeling skin. They will also apply an intense moisturizer with high-quality medical-strength moisturizing products. Moisturizing strengthens the skin, restores elasticity and can help ward off several skin conditions. Prescription Creams If eczema or psoriasis is responsible for your skin peeling, consult a doctor for prescription creams or ointments to help manage these conditions. As you've learned, skin peeling on your feet can result from various factors, but identifying the root cause is the first step toward effective treatment. By adopting these remedies and practices, you can address the issue of skin peeling, restore the health of your feet, and confidently step forward towards a more comfortable and beautiful stride.

November 16, 2023

Medical Pedicure: What It Is and Why You Might Need One

When it comes to self-care and pampering, we often focus on treating ourselves to facials, massages, or spa days while neglecting one of our body's hardest working and overlooked parts: our feet. Enter the world of medical pedicures, a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience that goes beyond the typical nail salon visit. In this blog post, we look at medical pedicures and uncover the many benefits they offer for the health of your feet. Whether seeking relief from foot-related ailments or well-deserved self-care, a medical pedicure might be the secret to the happy and healthy feet you've been waiting for. What's a medical pedicure? A medical pedicure, also known as a medi-pedi, is a specialized foot treatment performed by a trained medical professional, typically a podiatrist or chiropodist. Unlike a cosmetic pedicure you might receive at a spa or nail salon, a medical pedicure focuses on the medical aspects of foot care - there is no nail polish or foot soaking. It ususally involves the following: Examination and consultation. Before the procedure, a chiropodist assesses your feet, discusses any concerns or foot-related issues you may have, and creates a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Nail and callus care. A chiropodist trims and shapes your toenails, carefully avoiding ingrown toenails. They will also remove calluses and corns to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications. Hygiene. A medical pedicure places a strong emphasis on hygiene. The instruments used are sterilized (or disposable) to prevent the risk of infection. Skin and cuticle care. Your provider will moisturize and care for the skin on your feet, paying particular attention to dry or cracked areas. They will also address overgrown or problematic cuticles. Why should I get a medical pedicure? Only you can decide whether you need a medical pedicure, but we want to lay out the benefits to help you make an informed decision. There are several reasons why you may need one: Treatment of Specific Foot Conditions Medical pedicures are not just about pampering but about addressing specific foot conditions. Whether you're dealing with fungal infections, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or thickened and discoloured nails, your healthcare specialist can offer treatments and recommendations for future care. Proper Nail Care While traditional pedicures focus primarily on nail aesthetics, medical pedicures focus on nail health. Sure, they will properly trim and file your toenails, but they'll also go the extra mile in preventing ingrown toenails and addressing any nail conditions like toenail fungus. Healthy Skin The skincare aspect of a medical pedicure involves moisturizing and nurturing the skin on your feet. Dry, cracked, or rough skin patches will be taken care of. Plus, we can provide product recommendations to help you maintain healthy, soft feet between appointments. Education and Guidance A significant part of a medical pedicure is education. You'll receive valuable guidance on proper foot care practices. In addition, with conditions like recurring calluses or ingrown toenails, the chiropodist can determine whether there could be any biomechanical factors at play. These insights empower you to take better care of your feet daily, reducing the likelihood of future issues.

November 2, 2023

Battling Fall Dryness: Essential Foot Care in Colder Months

As the leaves begin to fall and the air grows crisp, many of us look forward to the cozy comforts of autumn: sweaters, changing colours, and pumpkin spice. However, with the arrival of fall comes a less welcoming guest: dry feet. The air dries as temperatures drop, leading to dry, cracked skin, itchiness and other foot-related issues. This guide explores common causes of dry feet during the fall and offers practical tips and remedies to help you maintain soft, healthy feet as you navigate the season's challenges. Whether preparing for brisk walks through fallen leaves or cozy evenings by the fireplace, taking care of your feet is a crucial component of embracing the beauty of autumn without the discomfort of dry skin. Here are some tips to help you maintain proper foot care during the fall and winter months: 1. Stay hydrated While we often focus on external solutions, it's essential to remember that healthy skin starts from within. Staying well-hydrated is the foundation of soft, supple skin, including your feet. When your body is adequately hydrated, it helps your skin maintain its natural moisture balance. So, sip on those warm beverages synonymous with the season, and remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. 2. Use rich foot creams Autumn is the perfect time to upgrade your skincare routine, and your feet deserve special attention. Invest in a high-quality foot cream with nourishing ingredients like urea, shea butter, cocoa butter, or hyaluronic acid. Apply your cream daily to lock in moisture and protect your feet from the drying effects of the season. 3. Regularly exfoliate As the weather transitions, your skin may accumulate dead cells, making it harder for moisturizers to penetrate. To overcome this, indulge in a gentle exfoliation routine. Use a foot scrub or a pumice stone to remove dead skin, but be cautious not to overdo it – gentle is better. A medical pedicure can also help revive your dry skin in the fall, as the chiropodist will safely remove any dry, dead skin and then apply a medical-grade moisturizer during your treatment. 4. Soak your feet What could be cozier than a warm foot soak on a chilly evening? Soaking your feet in warm water relaxes you and helps rehydrate your skin. Enhance the experience by adding a lavender or tea tree for extra relaxation and antimicrobial benefits. 5. Pick the proper footwear Footwear plays a significant role in maintaining foot health. When heading out into the cool fall weather, opt for insulated, water-resistant footwear that protects your feet from moisture and potential frostbite. Ensure your shoes are also the right size to avoid constriction and discomfort, a common cause of dry, cracked skin. 6. Practice proper nail care Pay attention to your toenails. Trim them straight across, not too short, to prevent ingrown toenails. A good-quality nail clipper can make this task a breeze. 7. Ask a professional If you're dealing with severe dryness, deep cracks, or persistent foot problems, it's wise to seek advice from a foot specialist, like a chiropodist. They can offer personalized solutions and treatments tailored to your specific needs. 8. Keep moving Exercise is not only good for your overall health but also for your feet. Regular physical activity improves circulation, which, in turn, benefits your feet. However, make sure to choose appropriate footwear for your chosen activities. 9. Welcome and embrace indoor comforts Slip into soft, cushioned slippers to shield your feet from the cold, hard floors at home. It's a small change that can make a big difference. 10. Control your environment indoors If your home has central heating, use a humidifier to add moisture to the air. Centralized heating systems can dry out the air, which, in turn, can contribute to dry skin. By incorporating these ten practices into your autumn routine, you can prevent dry feet and embrace the season's delights with the comfort and confidence of healthy, moisturized skin.

October 23, 2023

Can Menopause Lead to Foot Problems?

Menopause and foot health have an indirect relationship. In other words, the symptoms and body changes you experience during this time can eventually cause foot conditions. On the bright side, foot problems during menopause are usually not serious and within one’s control. This is a relief for women who have enough to deal with during this challenging time! Today we’ll investigate what happens to your feet during menopause and what prevention strategies and foot care routines you can master to keep your feet feeling happy and healthy. Photo by iStock Hard and Dry Skin Studies show that estrogen aids in the prevention of skin aging by retaining moisture. So when menopause hits and estrogen levels drop, the padding on the heel of the feet can become hard and dry over time. This may lead to cracked heels, which may become progressively more painful if you don’t treat them. What You Can Do Practice a healthy self-care / foot care routine with an emphasis on moisturizing at least twice per day. Try Gehwol medicinal products with added urea. Burning Feet While hot flashes and night sweats are not always fully understood by medical experts, for those going through menopause they are very real. Somewhat related are the burning sensations also felt in the feet, which may be caused by poor circulation and dropping estrogen levels. What You Can Do Submerge your feet into a nice, warm (not too hot!) foot bath to help with circulation. Make the most of it by adding a Gehwol bath salt product to the water. You can also work on improving your circulation by practicing easy, low-impact foot exercises. Photo by Macrovector From freePik Plantar Fasciitis Plantar fasciitis and heel pain in menopausal women starts with collagen reduction, according to Foundation Podiatry. This causes less elasticity in the plantar fascia and the resultant pain. Furthermore, menopausal weight gain can cause you to place excessive pressure on the feet and change your walking patterns, causing even more discomfort. What You Can Do Orthopedic shoes and custom orthotics can help correct your walking patterns and ease the symptoms of menopausal foot pain. Photo By iStock Corns, Blisters and Calluses Abnormal gait patterns, placing pressure on vulnerable parts of the feet due to weight gain, and less healthy skin can all lead to more painful little nuisances for your feet. Years of wearing ill-fitting shoes are also not doing you any favours when it comes to skin issues for your feet. What You Can Do A chiropodist can remove and smooth corns and calluses, and treat painful blisters. You can also try products like corn and blister pads. Most importantly, you should ensure you always wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes (a shoe fitting can set you up with the right pair). Photo by FreePik

October 12, 2023

Black Spot on Toenail: Should You Be Worried?

Generally speaking, you don’t have to worry about a black spot on the toenail. Incidents like . In many cases, you can let your toenail heal naturally, but if you have a fungal infection or severe pain, you should schedule an appointment with your chiropodist. Often, incidents like stubbing your toe can cause a black toenail, but they can also be a symptom of an underlying health condition you are already aware you have. Source: istock Causes of Black Toenail If you see a full black toenail or a black spot on your toenail, it is likely for one of the following three reasons: Trauma (injury) Natural pigmentation changes Fungal toenail In some (rarer) cases, a serious illness like heart disease, diabetes or melanoma can cause a black toenail. Trauma (Injury) Sometimes our foot health takes a turn for the worse when we injure ourselves. Dropping a heavy object on your toe or stubbing your toe on a piece of furniture can cause a subungual hematoma, or bleeding and bruising under the nail. This gives it a black appearance and it is usually tender to the touch. There are certain medical procedures (like drainage and decompression) that treat black toenails caused by injury, but for minor cases, resting and using ice while elevating your injury is sufficient. Source: istock Natural Pigmentation Changes For people with darker skin tones, black patches can sometimes appear underneath the toenails over time. Medical News Today notes that this will usually happen to matching toes on each foot. So if your black spot is happening on corresponding toes, this may be the reason. Fungal Toenail Fungal toenail infections usually cause yellow or brown discolouration and thickening of the nail. But when debris builds under the nail bed, it can appear black. There are topical and oral antifungal medications you can take to treat fungal toenail. In some cases, you can even have your nail removed. But prevention is just as important when it comes to contagious foot conditions. Proper toenail care like keeping your nails (and the rest of your feet) clean can ward off infections, and for extra peace of mind, you can enjoy regular medical pedicures with your chiropodist. Source: istock. While Fungal Toenail usually looks thick and yellowish brown, there can aslo be black spots caused by debris build up.

October 9, 2023

Cracked Heels in 2023: Causes and Finding Solutions

The look and state of our feet can tell us a lot about their health. You may have cracked heels if they appear flaky, dry, or dull in colour. Cracked heels are not just a cosmetic concern. The "cracked" description refers to the skin drying and cracking, akin to a desert landscape filled with cracks and crevices. Cracked heels can be a painful and unpleasant experience. The condition affects people of all ages. The good news is that you're not alone in facing this common foot problem; even better news is that there are solutions to help you heal and restore your feet to their soft, supple self. This guide explores the causes behind this ailment, its impact on our overall well-being, and, most importantly, the effective ways to treat and prevent it. Causes of cracked heels Cracked heels are typically a result of your surrounding environment but can also signal an underlying condition. Below, you'll find a variety of causes for cracked heels. Dry skin Dry skin is a leading cause of cracked heels. When the skin lacks moisture, it becomes less flexible and more prone to cracking. Lack of proper foot care A lack of foot hygiene or moisturizing your feet can contribute to cracked heels. Standing for prolonged periods People who stand for long hours, especially on hard surfaces, are at a higher risk of developing cracked heels. When standing for long periods, your heel absorbs the weight and pressure, causing the skin to expand. Over time, overloading your heel can cause your skin to crack. Improper footwear Wearing open-back shoes or sandals that do not provide proper support can cause the fat pad under the heel to expand sideways, leading to cracks. Sudden weight gain Excess body weight can pressure the heels, causing them to crack. Medical conditions Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, psoriasis, and eczema can contribute to dry skin and cracked heels. Climate Dry and cold climates can strip the skin of natural moisture, increasing the likelihood of cracked heels. For instance, you may feel your skin dry in a cabin with a wood stove or a climate known for its dry weather (like in the desert). Solutions for cracked heels The key to finding a solution for cracked heels is recognizing the symptoms and addressing the cause. Fortunately, there are plenty of practical solutions for cracked heels. Hydration Keeping your feet well-hydrated is the most critical step in preventing cracked heels. Moisturizer is a significant component of primary daily skin care. Regularly apply a thick moisturizer or foot cream that contains ingredients like urea, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid to lock in moisture and keep your feet hydrated. Exfoliate and Moisturize Use a pumice stone or a foot scrub to exfoliate your heels to remove dead skin cells. This helps promote smoother skin. After you exfoliate, apply your moisturizer. We recommend using a thick moisturizer like Gehwol Lipidro Cream. Some moisturizers contain skin-softening agents that can also help remove dead skin. (Note they may cause slight stinging or irritation in the short term.) Soaking Soaking your feet in warm water for 10-15 minutes can help soften the skin. Add a few drops of essential oils or Epsom salt to the water for added benefits and a soothing feeling. You can also use a foot bath like Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Bath, which will both exfoliate and sooth tired muscles. Proper Footwear Choose shoes that provide proper support and cushioning, and avoid open-back shoes that expose your heels to friction and pressure. Maintain a Health Diet A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids can improve overall skin health. Specifically, Vitamin E, Vitamin B-3, and Vitamin C are all considered to help improve the condition of our skin. Stay Hydrated Drink plenty of water to keep your body and skin hydrated from within. Avoid Harsh Soaps Use mild, moisturizing soaps when washing your feet to avoid further drying out the skin. Medical Pedicure A medical pedicure can address cracked heels. A chiropodist will debride and remove any dead skin around the heel. They can then apply a special tape to any fissues. At the end, they'll perform a moisturization treatment with high-quality, medical-strength moisturizing products. Beyond helping cracked heels, a medical pedicure can restore elasticity and ward off various skin conditions.

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What Happens During A Medical Pedicure?

What Happens During A Medical Pedicure?

What Are The Health Benefits Of A Medical Pedicure?