What's a Cheilectomy? - Feet First Clinic

June 13, 2024

One such surgical procedure to treat hallux rigidus is a cheilectomy. This article will explore what a cheilectomy is, its benefits, risks, and the recovery process.

What is a cheilectomy

A cheilectomy is a surgical procedure that alleviates pain and restores motion in the big toe joint affected by hallux rigidus. This procedure removes bone spurs (osteophytes) and diseased tissue from the top of the metatarsal bone, which reduces pain and allows the joint to move more freely.

Cheilectomy: The procedure

A cheilectomy is usually done under local or general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the top of the affected joint and then carefully removes the excess bone and tissue and smooths the joint surface. This frees up more space for joint movement. In some cases, the surgeon may do additional procedures, such as joint capsule release or cartilage repair, to improve the outcome.

Cheilectomy: The benefits

Pain relief: A cheilectomy can significantly reduce pain and discomfort associated with hallux rigidus by eliminating bone spurs and diseased tissue.
Improved motion: The procedure frees up space around the big toe joint, which gives it more room to move around and restores the toe’s flexibility and range of motion. This makes walking, running, and other activities more comfortable.
Preservation of joint function: Unlike more invasive procedures like joint fusion, a cheilectomy aims to preserve the natural mechanics of the big toe joint, which helps maintain its function and stability.

Cheilectomy: Risks and considerations

While cheilectomy is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. These include infection, bleeding and nerve damage. There are also many factors that can affect the outcome, such as the severity of the condition, age, and the patient’s overall foot health. If you’re considering a cheilectomy, it’s important to discuss the risks and the benefits with your healthcare provider so that you can manage your expectations properly assess with a cheilectomy is right for you.

Cheilectomy: What’s the recovery?

Following a cheilectomy, it’s normal to experience discomfort and swelling. You can manage this with pain medication and elevation. You’ll also need to do physiotherapy during the recovery process to restore the strength and flexibility in the toe joint.

Most patients are fully weight-bearing immediately after the surgery, and can usually return to light activities within a few weeks; however full recovery takes several months. Stitches are typically removed 2 weeks after the procedure. It’s important to follow post-operative instructions from the surgeon and to attend routine follow-up appointments to monitor the progress.

Prioritize your foot health at Feet First Clinic

Your journey to improved foot health starts with knowledge and proactive care. Feet First Clinic offers many solutions if you’re noticing pain in your big toe joint, such as orthopaedic footwear, footwear modifications, over-the-counter insoles and custom orthotics. To see what’s causing your foot pain, call to book a foot assessment or book an appointment online!

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September 8, 2019

All You Need To Know About Bone Spurs

A bone spur is an abnormal bone growth. Bone spurs, also referred to as osteophyte, can occur throughout the body, and along bone edges. Common sites include the spine, neck, and in the foot, specifically in the heel and toes (as pictured in this blog post). What is a bone spur? Osteophyte is bony outgrowth at the intersection of your bones. Osteophyte occurs because of damaged joints and develops when the body tries to heal itself from injury. A bone spur can be visible in the form of a hard bump. In other cases, it may not be apparent at all that you have a bone spur. What can cause a bone spur? Osteophyte forms when the body tries to repair itself, so there are underlying causes to how and why a bone spur forms. Osteoarthritis is a leading cause. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis and occurs when the cartilage between your bones begins to wear down. Because joint cartilage cannot be repaired, the problem often gets worse if not treated or addressed correctly. In response, your body forms extra bone to stabilize the damaged joint. One can develop osteoarthritis, and thus a bone spur, because of overuse - running, ballet, and any other sport that puts enormous pressure on your feet - as well as an acute injury, obesity or being overweight, and wearing tight shoes. Overuse can result in osteophyte because of ligament damage and your body attempts to fortify itself by building calcium deposits. Symptoms Symptoms of osteophyte include pain, stiffness, tenderness, loss of flexibility, grating sensations, swelling, and seeing bony projection itself. You may experience loss of flexibility as your joints lose their full range of motion, as well as swelling due to the damaged tissue being inflamed. You may also hear and feel grating due to the bones rubbing together. A bone spur on the top of the big toe. These symptoms are particularly prevalent in athletes who participate in high-impact sports. Those who run, or do gymnastics and ballet are particularly prone, as are older people. Symptoms may get worse over time if not addressed. Plus, you may experience any combination of these symptoms. Typically, if you have a heel spur, you will notice a bony projection on the underside of the foot. Meanwhile, if you have a bone spur in your metatarsal or toe, there may be a protrusion on the top of your foot. If the growth is serious enough, you may need new shoes to accommodate the growth. Treatment Treatment isn't always necessary, since a bone spur may not cause you any pain or reduce your quality of life. If you experience pain, visit a professional to get a proper diagnosis and treatment. It should be noted that you cannot remove the bone spur without surgery. But, if you fix the problem at its root, and take certain precautionary steps, bone spurs won't necessarily be painful, and surgery won't be necessary. In any case, surgery is a short-term solution as a bone spur can re-develop. Certain treatments include weight loss, changing shoes, hot and cold therapy to reduce inflammation, and anti-inflammatories. If you do require surgery, the course of action is to either remove the bone spur entirely or to fuse the bones together. Recovery time can vary, and as always, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis. Prevention of bone spurs To prevent bone spurs, in essence, you want to reduce your risk of osteoarthritis. Common preventions include: Orthotics, which can help support your feet if you have high or low arches. Avoid wearing shoes tight in the toe and heel region, and find footwear that best suits your foot type by visiting a specialist. Our foot clinic is open six days a week and offers a large selection of supportive and cushioning footwear. Follow the RICE method - rest, ice, compression, and elevation - after intense exercise to allow your body and feet to recover. Visit a doctor if you notice early signs of a bone spur, or osteoarthritis. Visit us at 2481 Bloor St. W, Toronto or call us at 416.769.3338(FEET) to book an appointment for your foot care needs and treatment.

June 18, 2024

Comfortable Heels and Wedges for Wedding Season

Foot-friendly shoes and comfortable heels as wedding guest footwear? Who knew there could be such a thing! Say goodbye to the days where you have to switch shoes halfway through the wedding reception and say hello to stylish comfort shoes, pain-free heels and podiatrist-approved footwear. Today’s article will guide you towards discovering brands that make comfortable wedges and heels for when you want to attend an exciting summer wedding, but don’t want to deal with dreaded foot pain! Brands That Make Comfortable Wedding Season Footwear Check out some foot clinic recommendations for wedding guests, bridal parties and bridal shoes! These brands are available at Feet First Clinic - your favourite local Toronto one-stop-shop for all things foot health! Ara Ara combines the perfect fit with sleek style, making the ideal shoe. They have plenty of pumps, sandals, and other shoes with a short-to-moderate heel height that will help you maintain your balance and stability at the wedding, in addition to preventing nagging foot pain. They use the same comforting shoe technologies and materials as their walking shoes. NAOT NAOT is another ideal choice for comfortable heels and wedges. Whether you're walking down the aisle or dancing the night away, you'll find a good combination of fashion and comfort with their sandals, booties and other shoes. If you're more into fun shoe designs and prefer a short heel with minimal elevation, they might be a good choice for you. The NAOT Pixie might be a good choice for a wedding guest who wants a very short heel that still has some elevation. Clarks Clarks has always been innovative in shoemaking, introducing technologies that make you feel like you’re stepping on a cloud. This also applies to their chunky wedges, heeled sandals, boots, booties, and more — all perfect for summer weddings! Emphasizing proper fit and comfort with cushioned insoles and ergonomic designs and high-quality materials such as soft leathers, Clarks ensures that every pair minimizes foot pain as much as possible. Give our Toronto foot clinic a call for the most up-to-date shoes from Ara, NAOT and Clarks in stock! You can also stop by our Bloor West location for a shoe fitting. A Final Note on Heels and Wedding Season in 2024 It’s tough to find the right balance between high heels and foot health. We recommend avoiding them if you have certain foot conditions like severe bunions, hammertoes, joint pain caused by arthritis, amongst others. But then again, if you like heeled shoes, there should be a way to stay true to yourself, especially for a special occasion. Look for: Wide-toed shoes: Opt for heeled shoes with a wide and deep toe box. Low heels: Select heels that are no higher than 2 inches to reduce strain. Soft materials: Look for shoes made from soft, flexible materials like leather or suede that can stretch and conform to the foot shape. Cushioned and removable Insoles: Shoes with cushioned insoles can provide extra comfort. Removing them and inserting your own custom orthotics or insoles for your foot type is also a wise move. Remember: if your shoes exacerbate your condition, don’t wear them, even if you’ve followed these guidelines. Walking shoes and orthopedic shoes can look lovely at a wedding too! Many brides wear them to add a fun, casual spin to their wedding look. Check out this blog on balancing elegance with foot health for even more tips on selecting the right wedding shoes this summer.

June 13, 2024

What’s a Cheilectomy?

Did you know that the joint at the base of our big toe bears about 40% of our bodyweight when we move? It plays a significant role when we walk and run, and because of the weight it bears (literally), it's prone to arthritis. This condition is called hallux rigidus (often referred to as "stiff big toe") and it causes the joint to lose its range of motion. While a "stiff joint" may seem small, it actually can significantly alter our biomechanics and can cause pain and difficulty walking and running. While non-surgical treatments such as medication, orthotics, and physical therapy can help in the early stages, more severe cases may require surgical intervention. One such surgical procedure to treat hallux rigidus is a cheilectomy. This article will explore what a cheilectomy is, its benefits, risks, and the recovery process. What is a cheilectomy A side-by-side of two feet: on the left is the post-surgical foot with a surgical shoe. On the right is the equivalent surgical reference for where the surgery is done and the incision size. A cheilectomy is a surgical procedure that alleviates pain and restores motion in the big toe joint affected by hallux rigidus. This procedure removes bone spurs (osteophytes) and diseased tissue from the top of the metatarsal bone, which reduces pain and allows the joint to move more freely. Cheilectomy: The procedure A cheilectomy is usually done under local or general anaesthesia. The surgeon makes an incision over the top of the affected joint and then carefully removes the excess bone and tissue and smooths the joint surface. This frees up more space for joint movement. In some cases, the surgeon may do additional procedures, such as joint capsule release or cartilage repair, to improve the outcome. Cheilectomy: The benefits An aerial view of a bone spur above the first MTP joint (left foot, right of image). Pain relief: A cheilectomy can significantly reduce pain and discomfort associated with hallux rigidus by eliminating bone spurs and diseased tissue. Improved motion: The procedure frees up space around the big toe joint, which gives it more room to move around and restores the toe's flexibility and range of motion. This makes walking, running, and other activities more comfortable. Preservation of joint function: Unlike more invasive procedures like joint fusion, a cheilectomy aims to preserve the natural mechanics of the big toe joint, which helps maintain its function and stability. The same foot with the bone spur above the first MTP joint removed. Cheilectomy: Risks and considerations While cheilectomy is generally considered safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks. These include infection, bleeding and nerve damage. There are also many factors that can affect the outcome, such as the severity of the condition, age, and the patient's overall foot health. If you're considering a cheilectomy, it's important to discuss the risks and the benefits with your healthcare provider so that you can manage your expectations properly assess with a cheilectomy is right for you. Cheilectomy: What's the recovery? Following a cheilectomy, it's normal to experience discomfort and swelling. You can manage this with pain medication and elevation. You'll also need to do physiotherapy during the recovery process to restore the strength and flexibility in the toe joint. Most patients are fully weight-bearing immediately after the surgery, and can usually return to light activities within a few weeks; however full recovery takes several months. Stitches are typically removed 2 weeks after the procedure. It's important to follow post-operative instructions from the surgeon and to attend routine follow-up appointments to monitor the progress.

April 29, 2024

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Heel pain is a common complaint affecting individuals of all ages and lifestyles, from athletes to office workers. It can be frustrating and debilitating, whether it's caused by plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or Achilles tendonitis. Fortunately, you can take steps to prevent heel pain and keep your feet happy and healthy. This blog post explores practical tips and exercises for preventing heel pain and maintaining optimal foot health. Causes of heel pain Before diving into prevention strategies, it's essential to understand the common causes of heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, the inflammation of the band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, is one of the leading causes of heel pain. Other culprits include: Heel spurs Bony growths on the heel bone Achilles tendonitis Inflammation of the Achilles tendon at the back of the heel Factors such as improper footwear, overuse, obesity, and poor foot mechanics can contribute to the development of heel pain. Heel pain prevention tips Choose supportive footwear. Invest in shoes that provide adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability. Look for options with a slightly elevated heel to reduce strain on the Achilles tendon and plantar fascia. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put added pressure on the feet and exacerbate heel pain. Maintain a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise to reduce the risk of developing heel pain. Gradually increase activity. Avoid sudden increases in physical activity, such as jumping into a rigorous exercise routine or increasing mileage too quickly. Gradually increase activity levels to allow your feet time to adapt and prevent overuse injuries. Stretch regularly. Incorporate stretching exercises into your daily routine to improve flexibility and prevent tightness in the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Focus on stretching the calves, hamstrings, and plantar fascia to alleviate tension and reduce heel strain. Practice good foot mechanics. Pay attention to your foot mechanics when walking, running, or participating in sports. Avoid overpronation or excessive rolling inward of the feet, as this can strain the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon. Heel pain exercises Calf stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other, keeping the back leg straight and the heel on the ground. Lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the calf of the back leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Plantar fascia stretch. Sit on the floor with one leg extended before you. Loop a towel around the foot and gently pull the toes towards you until you feel a stretch along the bottom of the foot. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Achilles tendon stretch. Stand facing a wall with one foot in front of the other. Place your hands on the wall at shoulder height and lean forward, bending the front knee until you feel a stretch in the back of the lower leg. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Heel pain can be debilitating and impact daily activities and quality of life. Incorporating these prevention tips and exercises into your routine can reduce the risk of developing heel pain and keep your feet healthy and pain-free. Remember to listen to your body and seek professional medical attention if you experience persistent or severe heel pain.

April 25, 2024

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

Foot reflexology benefits are becoming a hot topic. Studies show that published scientific articles on the subject are increasing, piquing public interest. But is there a reason to subscribe to holistic foot care? Can foot reflexology techniques truly benefit our health or treat common foot conditions? And if so, how does reflexology for health work? Let’s answer all of these questions today! How Does Foot Reflexology Work? Foot reflexology is a holistic practice. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, known as reflex points, which correspond to various organs, glands, and parts of the body via an energetic connection. By stimulating these points, the goal is to help with a wide variety of ailments and health concerns. For example, the toes may correspond with the head and brain, the ball of the foot with the diaphragm and arms, and the area of the foot between the ball and heel corresponds with the small intestine. Check out this detailed chart from Healthline for more. How Reflexology May Help With General Health Problems Reflexology may be a good option for you if you experience any of the following: Premenstrual symptoms: A significant study demonstrated that foot reflexology could effectively reduce cramping and hormonal side effects. Participants were observed after 8 foot reflexology sessions. Blood pressure: Reflexology can sometimes reduce blood pressure in hypertensive patients. Don’t forget, your feet and your heart are connected in other ways too! Mental illness: Holistic foot care may reduce anxiety and depression symptoms in adults. Chemotherapy side effects: Foot reflexology may help reduce shortness of breath in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. Can Foot Reflexology Treat Foot Conditions? Be sure to talk to your chiropodist if you are interested in trying new foot care treatments; this applies to reflexology or any type of unfamiliar service. It’s worth researching holistic foot care if you have any of these conditions: Plantar fasciitis: Reflexology techniques involving pressure points and trigger point release may reduce heel pain. Heel spurs: See note on plantar fasciitis above. Osteoarthritis: Holistic foot care may stimulate blood circulation, mildly relieving joint stiffness. Diabetic neuropathy / Diabetes Mellutis: Studies indicate that foot reflexology may help increase skin sensation and reduce blood sugar levels.

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 18, 2024

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

Innovation has always been important in the healthcare world, with chiropody and innovative foot treatments being no exception! These days, with advanced foot care, you can enjoy pain management and comfort without resorting to a time-consuming ordeal like surgery. Let’s explore the services you can participate in thanks to innovation and great ideas! Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024 Confusing and lengthy procedures can cause you to neglect the foot condition you may be struggling with, so modern treatments should save you time and put you at ease! Here are some of the best innovative treatments available today: Shockwave therapy Custom orthotics Video gait analysis Onyfix Splinting and taping Shockwave Therapy Healthcare professionals have been using shockwave therapy to address musculoskeletal conditions since the 1980s. While the term “shockwave” can be off-putting, it’s a totally non-invasive procedure and most patients report very mild discomfort and no pain. Shockwave therapy is quickly shaping up to be one of the best Achille’s tendonitis, Morton’s neuroma, and plantar fasciitis solutions. It works by targeting injured tissues, boosting blood circulation and stimulating a natural healing response in our bodies. To learn more about shockwave therapy, click here. Custom Orthotics Orthotics date back to ancient civilization when humans started to realize their feet needed more support! As the centuries passed, they have become one of the most innovative treatments because now chiropodists and manufacturers can mold them to fit your specific needs. Custom orthotics treat a wide range of conditions and help correct your gait. To learn more, click here. Video Gait Analysis A video gait analysis uses technology and visuals to determine what type of unique gait (walking pattern) you have. Think of it as a much more advanced version of walking on a treadmill! It gives your chiropodist the insight they need to help you correct it and avoid pain as much as possible. To learn more, click here. OnyFix Imagine if you could alter your nail growth pattern without using invasive tools? Primarily used as an ingrown toenail treatment, OnyFix uses composite material to ensure your nails grow evenly and correctly! It’s one of the newest chiropody treatments and only became popular in North America within the past decade or so. To learn more, click here. Splinting, Taping and Correction Tapes, splints and other devices can help people manage foot deformities without surgeries. For example, patients often experience bunion relief with bunion correctors, which are both affordable and comfortable and put your toes in an optimal position. Splinting and taping can also do the same for various conditions! To learn more, click here.

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What’s a Cheilectomy?

What is a cheilectomy

Cheilectomy: The procedure

Cheilectomy: The benefits

Cheilectomy: Risks and considerations

Cheilectomy: What’s the recovery?

Prioritize your foot health at Feet First Clinic

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All You Need To Know About Bone Spurs

Comfortable Heels and Wedges for Wedding Season

What’s a Cheilectomy?

Preventing Heel Pain: Tips and Exercises

Exploring Foot Reflexology: Benefits for Overall Health and Well-being

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

Innovative Treatments for Common Foot Problems in 2024

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