March 21, 2024
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 7, 2024
Foot health directly correlates with our overall wellness. Seniors, in particular, can learn a lot about their general health when they start to understand the biomechanics of healthy feet. How feet look, how they feel, and how they function can be a sign of a serious health issue. This is also true in reverse — neglecting foot health can lead to conditions and other problems. Let’s take a look at how our feet act as a mirror to our holistic health. Here are the two main topics we'll break down today: How our feet can signify poor health How neglecting foot health affects overall wellness How Our Feet Can Signify Poor Health Your feet will often try to warn you that you need to visit your family doctor or foot specialist. Some of these warning signs include: Cold feet Feet that are cold to the touch and don’t seem to warm up can be a sign of a blood circulation or heart issue. Icy cold feet can also be a sign of peripheral artery disease, which is the narrowing or blockage of blood vessels in the lower extremities, or a thyroid condition. Sores and wounds that don’t heal Diabetes is arguably the medical condition most notorious for damaging our feet. Elevated blood sugar levels can make our feet more susceptible to wounds. Even the tiniest blister, cut, or callus that doesn’t bother the average person can become a major concern. Wounds that do not heal can become infected and lead to devastating problems like gangrene and amputation. Numbness and tingling Bizarre foot sensations are also often a tell-tale sign of diabetes. They warn us that diabetes has progressed to the point of neuropathy (when the disease causes nerve damage). Foot swelling (edema) Injuries, medications, heart and kidney problems, and more can all cause fluid to accumulate in the tissues. Edema can also be a sign that you need to eat less salty foods. Foot pain From plantar fasciitis to Morton’s neuroma, painful feet can be a sign of many conditions, and it’s tough to really narrow down the cause. Sometimes it may be from simply ignoring foot care for years (wearing unsupportive shoes, not using inserts or orthotics, etc), but sometimes it may be a sign of age-related joint deterioration, like osteoarthritis, or weight gain. Strange colouring Toes that turn red, white or blue may be a sign of Raynaud’s disease (this can also make your feet very cold). This condition often causes blood vessel “spasms” due to their narrowing, and may be connected to stress and cold weather. How Poor Foot Health Affects Overall Wellness Taking care of your feet plays an imperative role in an overall healthy lifestyle. Everyone should practice foot care, but foot health tips for seniors are extra important as we age. Outside of foot pain and the common foot conditions we all know about, here are some other ways poor foot health can affect you: Back, knee and hip pain Foot issues may contribute to pain and discomfort in the back, knees, and hips due to altered gait and poor posture. This happens when you adopt unusual walking patterns to make up for the fact that your normal stride is painful. Remember, the musculoskeletal system is all connected! Heightened injury risk Weaker feet = more likely to fall and do some serious damage. Ignoring things like strengthening exercises and wearing proper footwear can lead to vulnerable feet. Infections Don’t ignore skin and toenail issues and assume they will magically go away! We already touched on how important this is for diabetes patients, but brushing off problems like fungal conditions can lead to painful infections that may even harm your immune system. This is true for everybody.
February 8, 2024
As the golden years unfold, maintaining an active and pain-free lifestyle should be a priority for seniors. One often overlooked aspect of overall well-being is foot health. Our feet, the unsung heroes of a lifetime of steps, require special attention to ensure comfort and mobility. This article delves into practical foot care tips for seniors, empowering you to stride into each day pain-free and with a zest for life. Choose supportive footwear The foundation of pain-free feet lies in the shoes we wear. Opt for supportive footwear with cushioning, proper arch support, and a comfortable fit. Also consider wearing supportive footwear indoors to provide support and protect against slips and falls on slippery surfaces. Read our complete guide to senior foot care in this blog post. Regular foot inspections Make it a habit to inspect your feet regularly. Look for any changes in colour, swelling, or unusual growth. Recognizing early signs of issues can prevent more significant problems, ensuring your feet remain a source of strength - not pain. Gentle foot exercises Keep those joints and muscles limber with gentle foot exercises. To do this, add lower leg exercises to your daily routine to maintain and improve mobility. Exercises like ankle circles, toe flexes, and heel lifts can improve flexibility and strength, promoting pain-free movement. Moisturize and combat dry skin Seniors often contend with drier skin, leading to cracks and discomfort. Combat this by moisturizing your feet regularly, paying particular attention to the heels and soles; Well-hydrated skin is more resilient and less prone to issues. You may also consider regular foot care appointments with a chiropodist, who specialize in senior foot care. Elevate your feet to reduce swelling After a day of activity, give your feet a break. Elevate them when resting to reduce swelling and promote healthy blood circulation. This simple practice can significantly affect how your feet feel after a busy day. Address foot pain promptly Don't ignore foot pain or discomfort. Consult with a chiropodist or healthcare professional to address any issues promptly. Early addressing can help combat the development of chronic conditions and ensure that your feet remain pain-free. Consider an annual foot assessment for a comprehensive check-up on the health of your feet. Studies show that physical examination of the feet as part of the routine assessment of older adults is imperative to detect foot problems. A foot assessment includes: Circulation and blood flow to your feet Neurological status Changes or concerns with the skin and toenails Your foot type (i.e., flat feet, normal arches or high arches) Biomechanical abnormalities (i.e. limited or excessive range of motion in joints, areas of pain, overpronation, etc.) Low-impact exercises for overall health Staying active is vital to a vibrant lifestyle. Engage in low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or tai chi to promote cardiovascular health without putting excessive strain on your feet and joints. Custom orthopedic inserts Enhance comfort and support by considering custom orthopedic inserts for your shoes. These inserts provide additional cushioning and support for your arches, reducing the risk of foot-related discomfort. Prioritize circulation Good circulation - the rate at which your blood flows to and from various body parts - is vital for overall foot health. Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing, and consider simple exercises to promote blood circulation. Compression stockings can also benefit you by improving your blood circulation. Your feet will thank you for the improved oxygen and nutrient supply. Maintain a holistic approach to health Remember that foot health is interconnected with your overall well-being. Maintain a balanced diet, manage your weight, and stay hydrated. A healthy lifestyle reflects positively on your feet and contributes to your ability to stay active.
January 18, 2024
Diabetes and foot health will always have a close connection. People with diabetes need to pay attention to every step, every minor cut, and every moment of discomfort very closely. That’s why investing in diabetic footwear that gives you peace of mind is an essential piece of the diabetic foot care puzzle. Let’s investigate what your shoes should do for you, and give you some tips on choosing diabetic footwear. What Should Diabetic Footwear Do? Foot care for people with diabetes involves choosing the perfect pair of shoes for daily life. Comfortable diabetic shoes should do the following: Protect the pressure points on the feet and prevent minor cuts, scrapes, corns, blisters or calluses as much as possible. Pople with diabetes are especially vulnerable to dry feet and the buildup of calluses. These seemingly innocent wounds can become serious foot ulcers when diabetic neuropathy(nerve damage) is present. Help pepole with diabetes avoid injury. Decreased sensation from neuropathy adds an extra layer of risk to foot injuries, and can lead to complications, infections and even amputation. Preserve and boost blood circulation. Proper blood flow supplies damaged nerves with more oxygen and nutrients. In a nutshell, protective shoes for diabetes should set you up for a healthier future. Diabetic foot ulcer stages and complications Best Footwear for Diabetics Medical shoes and orthopedic shoes for diabetes come with specific features that you should prioritize while shoe shopping. Extra Depth and Removable Insoles These features accommodate orthotic inserts, which people with diabetes may use to reduce pressure on sensitive areas. Depth also helps accommodate the swelling you may experience due to poor circulation, neuropathy, and fluid retention. Shock-Absorption and Cushioning While these features are important for everyone, they are especially important for people with diabetes to prevent the dangerous injuries that post such a risk. Cushioning can also prevent friction and help you avoid skin problems (blisters, cuts, etc). Adjustable Closures and Stretchable Uppers These ensure a snug fit and can help you adapt to foot size fluctuations caused by swelling. Wide Toe Box and Extra Width Options The wide toe box prevents toe friction, crowding, rubbing and the resultant skin problems. Extra width options help with swelling and gives you a better fit. Seamless Protective Interior The interior seams in footwear can cause excessive friction and rubbing for people with diabetes. That's why diabetic footwear is constructed with as few seams as possible in order to minimize potential friction-related concerns like calluses and blisters. Extra soft and breathable interiors provide additional wound protection. Extra deep shoe from Anodyne (with adjustable straps)
January 15, 2024
At some point, we've all experienced the discomfort of a pesky ingrown toenail. It occurs when the nail plate grows into the surrounding skin and causes inflammation. Ingrown toenails are among the most common toenail conditions and are particularly common in the big toe. Whether it's a result of a stubbed toe, improper nail-trimming habits, or the perils of snug footwear, ingrown toenails can quickly turn into a painful ordeal. In this article, we'll delve into the causes behind these troublesome toenail invaders, explore effective home remedies to ease the discomfort, and discuss when to seek professional help for a more permanent solution. Causes of Ingrown Toenails Improper nail trimming Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. The skin surrounding the nail should not be higher than the toenail as this may cause the nail to grow into the skin instead of on top of it. Instead, cut the nail to the skin's edge and not any deeper. Ill-fitting shoes Tight or narrow shoes can pressure the toes, causing the nails to grow abnormally. Injury or trauma Stubbing your toe or other injuries can lead to ingrown toenails. Genetics Some people may have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails. Poor foot hygiene Not keeping the feet clean and dry can affect the skin around the nail bed, and contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. At-home remedies for Ingrown Toenails At-home remedies are an option while you wait for professional treatment. Note: Never attempt to cut the ingrown toenail yourself. Warm soaks Soak the affected foot in warm water for 15-20 minutes daily to reduce inflammation. Cotton ball or dental floss Gently lift the ingrown edge of the nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss underneath to encourage the nail to grow above the skin. Antibiotic ointment Apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Wear proper footwear Choose shoes with enough room for your toes, and avoid tight-fitting footwear. Avoid aggravating activities If possible, avoid activities that put extra pressure on the toes. Professional treatment remedies for Ingrown Toenails At-home treatment is only so effective. When in doubt, it's best to consult a professional for proper care and treatment. A chiropodist or foot specialist may perform any number of the following professional treatments: Proper toenail care and trimming Cutting toenails too short or at the wrong angle can cause ingrown toenails. A chiropodist can properly trim and cut your toenails in a way that promotes proper nail growth. They can trim to treat an existing ingrown toenail, or trim your toenails preventatively, for example, during a medical procedure or nail care appointment. A chiropodist can also soften the skin, lift the edge of the nail from the skin, and then prop the corner of the nail over the skin edge until the skin heals. Finally, as it relates to toenail care, a specialist may apply a freezing gel or a Lidocaine to remove the ingrown portion of the toenail. Onyfix Onyfix is a special composite material that the chiropodist applies it in a band across the nail. It acts like a nail brace to correct the nail's growth. Partial nail avulsion (PNA) A local anesthetic first numbs the toe. A narrow vertical strip is then removed from the edge of the affected side of the nail down the entire length. Antibiotics and a dressing are applied to the exposed nail bed to prevent infection. This surgical procedure is performed if other treatment options do not work. Total nail avulsion (TNA) Total nail avulsion is similar to a partial nail avulsion, except the whole nail is removed. This surgical procedure is performed if other more conservative approaches are insufficient. Phenol This chemical is applied to the nail's root beneath the cuticle to prevent regrowth. It may be used during a PNA or TNA to prevent nail regrowth. When to seek professional help for Ingrown Toenails It can be challenging to differentiate what's serious versus not. Sometimes, minor ingrown toenails can be treated at home in their early stages. Other times, you should seek professional help. Here are a few scenarios that should have you consider seeking professional help: Any signs of infection If there is increased redness, swelling, or drainage of pus, it may indicate an infection that requires medical attention. Moderate to severe pain Seek professional help if the toenail pierces the skin or if you experience moderate to severe pain. Persistent ingrown toenails If ingrown toenails are a recurring problem, seeing a chiropodist for a more permanent solution may be necessary. Underlying medical conditions Individuals with diabetes or circulatory disorders should seek professional care for ingrown toenails at any stage. It's essential to address ingrown toenails promptly to prevent complications. If you're unsure how to treat an ingrown toenail or suspect an infection, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or podiatrist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
December 21, 2023
Diabetes is a chronic condition experienced by millions of people worldwide, including 11 million Canadians. Chances are, diabetes affects you, or someone you're close with. Diabetes can have a significant impact on various aspects of your health, including your feet. Foot health is a top priority for individuals with diabetes, as the condition can lead to a range of complications that affect the lower extremities. Understanding the connection between diabetes and foot health can help you address the condition and thwart potential issues. In this blog post, you'll learn more about how diabetes and foot health concerns are intertwined. The link between diabetes and foot health Diabetes is known to cause problems related to blood circulation and nerve function, and these issues can take a toll on your feet. Here are some key factors to consider: 1. Poor blood circulation Diabetes can damage blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the feet. This diminished blood circulation can result in slower wound healing and an increased risk of infection. 2. Neuropathy Diabetes often causes peripheral neuropathy, a condition characterized by nerve damage that predominantly affects the feet and legs. Neuropathy can lead to numbness, tingling, or a loss of foot sensation. Reduced sensation makes it difficult to detect injuries, blisters, or sores. This lack of sensation increases the risk of complications. 3. Foot ulcers Diabetes patients are prone to developing foot ulcers due to reduced sensation and delayed healing. Ulcers may become infected and become more severe if not addressed promptly. 4. Calluses and corns Diabetes can alter foot anatomy, leading to abnormal pressure points on the feet. These pressure points can form calluses and corns, causing foot discomfort and an increased risk of ulcers. 5. Fungal infections Diabetes is thought to cause dysfunction of the immune response. A weakened immune system fails to control the spread of invading pathogens. As a result, those with diabetes are at a greater risk of fungal infections, like athlete's foot and toenail fungus. 6. Reduced ability to heal Elevated blood sugar levels can impair the body's ability to heal wounds. Even minor cuts, blisters, or abrasions can become problematic if improperly managed or untreated. How to care for your feet when you have diabetes Proper foot care is critical for individuals with diabetes. To maintain good foot health and minimize the risk of complications, consider the following tips: Regular foot inspections Perform daily foot checks to look for any signs of injury, blisters, sores, or changes in colour and temperature. Early detection is critical to preventing more significant problems. You can also schedule annual foot assessments at Feet First Clinic, during which a chiropodist will thoroughly examine your feet and your foot health history. Maintain healthy blood sugar levels Aim to keep your blood sugar within the target range your healthcare provider recommends. Controlling your blood sugar levels will help your overall health, including your feet. Choose appropriate footwear Opt for comfortable, well-fitting shoes that reduce the risk of pressure points and provide adequate support. We carry a wide range of footwear and orthapedic footwear here at Feet First Clinic. See more in our complete guide on how to choose the perfect pair of shoes for you and your feet. Moisturize your feet Keep your skin hydrated to prevent dryness and cracking. Avoid applying lotion between the toes to prevent fungal growth. Trim your nails carefully Trim your toenails straight and avoid cutting them too short to prevent ingrown nails. People with diabetes should avoid nail salons. Instead, you should see a chiropodist for routine diabetic foot care. That way, you feel comfortable knowing the trimming is performed correctly. Stay active Engage in regular physical activity to promote better circulation. If you have trouble being physically active, consider low-impact activities like swimming, stationary cycling, or walking.