April 20, 2023
Since women are more likely to experience foot pain and conditions, a significant focus of women's health should always be foot health. According to Foot Health Facts, narrow footwear that cramps the forefoot and squeezes the toes is the primary reason women are prime targets for foot health issues. Furthermore, common foot problems in women can arise after years of wearing shoes with little arch support and unstable heels. Today's article will discuss the most common foot problems women struggle with and prevention and treatment options.
Common Foot Problems in Women
Bunions
Plantar fasciitis
Arthritis
Hammertoes
Plantar Fasciitis
Medical News Today notes women risk developing plantar fasciitis more than men. This may be due to post-pregnancy foot changes and the effects of wearing unsupportive footwear for years; both can lead to plantar fascia strain and subsequent stabbing heel pain. The best way for women to prevent and treat this painful condition is to only wear high heels on special occasions and choose comfortable heels with cushioning and a stable heel. For daily activities, opt for shoes with sufficient arch and heel support (most important) and thick soles and cushioning. But it's also important to find shoes with that create a healthy environment for your feet (i.e.: enough room in the toe box, breathability, etc.) to prevent other conditions.
Maintaining a healthy weight can also prevent too much pressure on the plantar fascia. To help, women can stretch their feet and perform daily exercises that work the plantar fascia and calf muscles (see an example below!). And lastly, orthotics with arch support can distribute the pressure on your feet more evenly.
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908317/
Bunions
Again, low-quality shoes are the main culprit behind women developing bunions, but genetics may also play a role. Bunions may also be at their worst during menopause or pregnancy.
Some women may require intervention from a surgeon to eliminate severe bunions. But many can try non-invasive methods like bunion pads, inserts and orthotics, and frequent rest periods with compression and ice packs. The most worthwhile preventative measure is changing your shoes and giving your feet the support and room they deserve. Ensure all shoes have enough room in the toe box (cramped toes are a major risk factor for bunions) and are not too narrow.
Arthritis
Research suggests post-menopausal women suffer more from osteoarthritis than men because of estrogen fluctuations. There may be a connection between pre-menopausal estrogen levels and joint and cartilage health.
Targeted exercises are one of the best ways to prevent and treat most types of arthritis (not just osteoarthritis!). Moreover, Feet First Clinic's beginner's guide to exercises for arthritis Part 1 and Part 2 outline beneficial exercises, the steps involved and why they're so useful. These routines also consider that arthritis can be very limiting and ensures all movements are manageable. Other forms of treatment include braces or canes (in severe cases), anti-inflammatory pain relievers, orthotics that support the ankle and the foot (also good for prevention), physiotherapy and orthopedic footwear.
Hammertoes
Like bunions, hammertoes affect women because they are more likely to wear excessively tight and unsupportive shoes, causing the toes' middle joints to bend more and more over time.
To avoid and manage pre-existing hammertoes, ensure your shoes have at least half an inch of room between the toes and the end of the shoe. Additionally, women should avoid high heels on most days and only wear them if the heel is a "reasonable" height. It may also be wise to buy shoes with stretchy fabrics and avoid excessive fabric layers. They can force your toes into uncomfortable positions and make it difficult to accommodate pre-existing hammertoes. Inserts and pads can also be helpful for women by positioning the toes and feet more favourably. Furthermore, a chiropodist can use a splint or some tape to fix your toe in the proper, straight position.
Several medical devices can help with toe conditions
March 16, 2023
If you suffer from Rheumatoid arthritis, chances are you're already scheduling regular appointments with a chiropodist. And if you aren't, you may be overdue. This serious condition requires assistance and guidance from a healthcare professional.
That said, it's truly amazing what practicing foot care on your own time can help you achieve. The two main goes of foot care for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) are pain management and avoiding complications.
Today we will discuss how lifestyle factors such as shoe choices and exercises can help you structure your life around RA with less discomfort. But first, let's break down everything we'll discuss today:
What is Rheumatoid arthritis?
Best shoes for Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis and exercises
Additional foot care practices for RA
What is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease that wreaks havoc on your joints by mistakenly targeting the body's healthy cells, leading to inflammation. It most commonly affects the feet, hands, wrists and knees.
It's critical to take Rheumatoid arthritis seriously. If you don't pay attention to foot care and neglect regular check-ups, you may be putting yourself at risk of developing complications. These include osteoporosis, an increased body mass index (BMI), heart and lung problems, and a compromised immune system that leaves you more vulnerable to infections.
Click here to read more on RA, including symptoms, treatments from a chiropodist, and helpful medications.
Best Shoes for Rheumatoid Arthritis
One way to practice foot care and pain management with RA is to be extremely vigilant about your shoes.
Medical News Today notes that people with RA should look for shoes with a wide-toe box, rocker bottoms and cushioning with arch support. Adjustable straps and breathable materials can also be beneficial to maximize comfort levels.
Rocker bottoms: Also called rocker soles, this shoe feature can reduce pain and help with mobility and activity limitation in RA patients. They are designed to reduce pressure under the ball of the foot and excessive toe motion.
Wide toe box: Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to foot deformities in the form of severe bunions, claw toes and hammertoes. It can also cause severely flat feet, and a widened forefoot, sometimes called splay foot. Rheumatoid nodules (firm bumps of tissue) can also pop up anywhere along the affected area. Wearing shoes with a wide toe box is imperative for maintaining a certain comfort level and accommodating these deformities.
Adjustable straps: When you have Rheumatoid arthritis, having more room in the entire shoe to accommodate stiff joints and deformities can be a major plus.
Breathable materials: A 2019 study highlighting important features of retail shoes for women with RA found that breathable materials (such as soft mesh uppers) were crucial for most patients.
Cushioning and arch support: The same study reported that most women found shoes with adequate rearfoot and forefoot cushioning most comfortable. Women said the same about longitudinal arch support.
The Clarks Wave 2.0 has a rocker sole
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise
An exercise routine can help most people with arthritis in the lower extremities. We're not talking about exerting energy levels you aren't comfortable with or practicing difficult workouts and training. We know that mobility constraints will always be an issue.
Exercises should simply work the muscles in your feet and lower half to prevent atrophy from a lack of use and help with pain management and mobility.
Here are some multi-purposeful exercises that can also help with RA:
Toe Flex and Raise
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908317/
Ankle Circles / Alphabet
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922798992582/
Calf Stretch on a Stair
https://www.pinterest.ca/pin/782007922800908193/
Be sure to also check out our two-part series on the best exercises for arthritis!
Part 1
Part 2
Additional Foot Care Practices for RA
The RICE Method: Sometimes, your pain may flare up to the point where all you can do is be patient and wait until it passes. Luckily the magical combination of rest, ice (or heat), compression, and elevation can help you accommodate severe pain and swelling.
Summer footwear: During the warm months, wear sandals with open toes.
Warmth: Keep your feet as warm as possible, as cold air can worsen joint pain. A heating pad can also be very helpful for loosening stiff muscles.
Foot baths: The warm water in foot baths can loosen up stiff joints. Try adding Gehwol foot bath products for added comfort!
Meditation: Stress can often trigger RA flare-ups, so reducing anxiety via healthy, quiet rumination can be a wonderful preventative measure. Other stress-reducing lifestyle habits include taking walks (when physically able) and listening to soothing music.
February 9, 2023
Toe pain can be mysterious. There are numerous causes, and sometimes you can live your life assuming you know why it's there, only to be completely wrong! Case in point: a lesser-known toe condition called capsulitis.
Capsulitis is an overuse injury that mainly targets the second toe and the surrounding area. Today we'll thoroughly dive into the topic by addressing the following:
What is capsulitis?
Symptoms of capsulitis
Causes of capsulitis
Treatment and prevention
Complications
What is Capsulitis?
Capsulitis, also known as frozen toe, hallux rigidus or turf toe, is a foot condition characterized by joint inflammation in the area where the base of the toe meets the ball of the foot. The specific area affected is called a "capsule" and is technically a dense ligament structure found at the base of the joint. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, capsulitis in the feet usually targets the second toe. However, it can sometimes affect the big toe and the third and fourth toes. Another technical term for capsulitis in the toe is metatarsophalangeal synovitis (MTP joint pain).
Healthline also notes that capsulitis is often confused with Morton's Neuroma since pain radiates toward the ball of the foot in both conditions. However, Morton's Neuroma results from compressed nerves and capsulitis from inflammation. A chiropodist can help you tell the difference between the two conditions.
Symptoms of Capsulitis
Capsulitis often worsens as time progresses. This means that symptoms can vary depending on the stages of development. It's important to be in tune with your foot health and seek help if you notice the following:
Pain in the ball of the foot.
A persistent feeling that something is "bunched up" in your shoe or the feeling that you're walking on a pebble or marble.
Swelling in the base of the affected toe.
Discomfort while wearing shoes.
Pain that worsens when you're barefoot.
Crossover toe: as degradation of the ligament progresses, the joint in the second toe can fail to stabilize (stay in the right position). This can cause your second toe to move towards the big toe and lay on top of it.
What are Some Causes of Capsulitis?
Capsulitis is technically an overuse injury that targets the ball of the foot. And as with many foot conditions, one issue can often be a risk factor in developing another.
The following may lead to capsulitis development:
There is a connection between severe bunions and capsulitis. Other prominent foot deformities like hammertoes can also be a risk factor. Both conditions can lead to too much pressure on the ball of the foot and subsequent inflammation.
Abnormal foot mechanics can put you at risk. It's important to note that this is not the same as a severe foot deformity. It simply means any mild structural factors that lead to excessive weight-bearing pressure in the ball of the foot underneath the toe.
If your second toe is longer than your big toe, you may experience capsulitis.
An unstable foot arch, like high arches and flat feet, can contribute to capsulitis.
Excessive bending of the toes. This can happen if you wear poorly designed shoes or high heels.
Capsulitis Treatment and Prevention
It's relatively easy to tackle early-stage toe capsulitis. You can purchase many items from a pharmacy, general store or foot clinic that can relieve the pain. A chiropodist can also use their unique expertise to ensure the condition improves.
Here are some effective treatment methods:
Ice or heat packs. Compression can help reduce swelling, and applying heat or ice (while resting with your foot elevated) can help with pain management.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.
Supportive footwear with proper arch support and strong soles. Rocker bottom-sole shoes can be especially helpful as they offset pressure away from the ball of your foot.
Custom orthotics can lessen excessive pressure on the weight-bearing foot areas.
Toe taping can align the second toe and prevent crossover toe.
Complications
Unfortunately, if crossover toe is present, it usually means that the second toe will never revert to its natural position without intervention. If this is the case, you may need surgery from a foot and ankle surgeon.
November 10, 2022
Your plantar plate plays a critical part in the anatomy and makeup of our feet. The plantar connects your feet with the joints in your toes.
Given the constant wear and tear of your feet, the joints and muscles can often become overworked or strained. The plantar plate is particularly susceptible to injury because of its location on the foot. This also makes it especially vulnerable to several other foot conditions. For example, having bunions or a hammer toe may increase the risk of a plantar plate tear.
But worry not. In this article, learn more about the plantar plate as a body part, plantar plate tear symptoms, causes, and treatment methods for the foot condition.
First, let's explore the physiology of the plantar plate itself.
What's your plantar plate?
The plantar plate is rigid fibrocartilage (a dense, whitish tissue with a distinct fibrous texture) which connects the phalanges to the metatarsal head. In other words, the plantar plate joins the toes (phalanx bones) with the forefoot (metatarsal bones). As the mediator, the plantar plate stabilizes the toes and prevents them from shifting side-to-side or overextending.
Next, let's look at the why of plantar plate tears.
Plantar plate tear: Causes
Overloading the metatarsophalangeal (MPJ) joint is the most common cause of plantar plate issues. Overloading the MPJ leads to strains and tears. The result? Pain and instability of the plantar plate.
In most cases, plantar plate damage occurs incrementally over time. However, you can acutely injure the plantar plate.
See below for a comprehensive list of plantar plate tear causes:
Bunions: Bunions - a deformity affecting the joint that connects the big toe to the foot - put pressure on the plantar plate by forcing the big toe to push against the 2nd toe.
Biomechanical abnormalities (metatarsal length): If your 2nd metatarsal is longer than your 1st (which it often is), you're at a greater risk of a plantar plate tear at that site. You're at a greater risk of this tear at the site because your 2nd metatarsal bears more weight than the "big" toe (1st metatarsal) when it's longer.
Biomechanical abnormalities (overpronation): When you overpronate, your foot bears much impact when running or walking. Typically, flat feet are a leading contributor to overpronation.
Cortisone injection: Cortisone shots can have the side effect of thinning and weakening the plantar plate ligament.
Specific activities/sports: Sports or movements that put excessive pressure on the toes and ball of the foot increase your chances of developing a plantar plate tear. Be cautious when dancing, running, jumping, or climbing stairs, especially if the balls of the foot are regularly sore or sensitive.
Hammertoes: A hammertoe deformity occurs when the toe's middle joint bends abnormally a toe deformity in which the middle joint in the toe bends abnormally.
In the next section, you'll learn how to recognize plantar plate tears.
Symptoms
Wonder what are the signs of a plantar plate tear? Well, look out for these symptoms commonly associated with plantar plate tears:
Toe alignment changes: The toe changing position, which occurs gradually as the tear increases, usually to the side or upwards
Pain: Discomfort usually stems from the ball of the foot, either as severe pain or a dull ache. If you find you're walking with very little cushioning under your toes, it may be because of a plantar plate tear.
Swelling: You may notice swelling underneath the ball of the foot extending between the start and end of one of the multiple toes.
Plantar plate tear: Diagnosis
You have a few options in terms of diagnosis:
Treat the pain yourself if it's not severe and the discomfort has just begun
X-rays
MRIs
Finally, in the last section, you'll learn more about how to treat plantar plate tears.
Plantar plate tear: Treatment
Pinpointing a plantar plate tear as the source of discomfort can be challenging. The foot is a complex network of muscles, tendons, and bones that are so intertwined that isolating the condition can be difficult. However, it's not a hopeless task.
Several DIY treatment methods exist for mild symptoms, as well as options for severe cases of plantar plate tears.
Visit a chiropodist
Our team of dedicated licensed chiropodists is committed to providing quality care and services for all your foot and ankle needs. They can diagnose, treat and help manage various foot conditions, from callus removal to ingrown toenails to bunions.
RICE (Rest, Icing, Compression, and Elevation)
The RICE method is a universal treatment for many foot conditions, including plantar plate tears. The RICE method, when combined, helps relieve pain, reduces inflammation, keeps swelling at bay, and allows for ample recovery for your muscles, tendons, and in this case, for your plantar plate.
Taping
Taping, the wrapping of a joint for added stability, can help hold your toes in position. Stabilizing the joint with tape can help correct any worsening abnormalities associated with plantar plate tears. It also prevents your toes from moving too far side-to-side, which can help encourage plantar healing and to avoid re-aggravation. A chiropodist can perform splinting, bracing, or taping for you.
Orthotics
Orthotics are a treatment method for the underlying causes of plantar plate tears. Custom foot orthotics are effective for bunions, hammertoes, and flat feet. You can also use shoe inserts with hardened plastic under particular toes for extra support.
NSAIDs
Anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen or Advil can combat pain associated with plantar plate tears.
Surgery
Surgery is a last resort option for plantar tears. There are two standard surgical procedures for plantar tears. The hat-trick procedure helps realign the metatarsal bone, while other surgeries are available for associated conditions like hammertoes, bunions, or other ancillary operations to balance the toe.
November 7, 2022
Feet come in different shapes and sizes, and some people go through life with wide feet.
You could simply be born with wide feet, or your feet may increase in width as you get older. Wide feet can also be caused by a foot deformity (like bunions and hammertoes) or a temporary condition like pregnancy.
Whatever the reason is behind your wide feet, shoe shopping can be an ordeal. Wide shoes are certainly available, but many people make the mistake of wearing ill-fitting shoes that heighten discomfort levels. In terms of managing wide feet, hunting for the proper footwear is key. Let's look at some tips you can use to find shoes for wide feet!
How to Find Shoes for Wide Feet
Don't trust the listed size
Look for wide and extra wide widths
Buy shoes with laces
Search for shoes with removable insoles
Check the toe room
Try shoe stretching services
Don't Trust the Listed Size
Sometimes, people with wide feet just go for one of the largest sizes and trust it will fit. This can be more common for people who tend to shop online.
But this isn't wise. Many shoe companies don't focus on the importance of wide shoes and simply list shoe options as narrow, wide, long, etc., with a standard numerical size (these refer to the length of the shoe, not the width).
But with wide feet, you need extra information to trust that the shoe will fit properly. Don't simply assume a basic "wide" description will be enough to comfortably accommodate your feet. Furthermore, you should always shop for shoes in person when you have larger feet.
Look for Wide and Extra Wide Widths
Try to find shoes that list width options. For example, a shoe may have a "B" width size as a "standard" option. But width options may also extend to "D - Wide, 2E - Extra Wide, and 4E - XX-Wide."
Pay attention to shoe manufacturers that list these options. And as we've mentioned before, don't try to go up a size and assume it will fit. Buying a larger will size will leave you stuck with a longer shoe, not a wider one.
Buy Shoes with Laces
Lots of different shoes come with laces, even heels. Opting for shoes with laces allows you to adjust according to your foot's width and loosen them up if needed. Lacing can also enhance the functionality of your footwear and can boost comfort levels after going for a long walk.
To maximize space, try using the eyelets that are closest to the ankle and leave the eyelets closest to the toes empty. You'll be able to tighten your laces without restricting the front of the shoe, where the foot is the widest.
Search for Shoes with Removable Insoles
While shoe shopping, try to find shoes where you can take out the footbed. Not only do removable insoles allow you more wiggle room, but having the option to replace them with custom orthotics or specialized insoles will give you added protection from foot pain.
Check the Toe Room
Assessing the toe room can indicate if you need to go up in width or both size and width. A good way to do this is to see if you have a finger's width of room between your toe and the end of the shoe. If you do, but the shoe still feels tight, you only need to go up in width.
Try Shoe Stretching Services
At Feet First Clinic, shoe stretching services are available by walk-in --- no appointment necessary. That said, it's important to note that this only works if your shoes are already close to the proper size and just feel a little tight. Shoe stretching also only works if you have a pair of shoes made of leather or natural material.
Foot clinic staff can expand the width of the shoe by one full-width size.
August 25, 2022
The term "shockwave therapy" can sound highly intimidating. It can conjure images of pain and torture, but fortunately, there is no need to worry! Shockwave therapy is a gentle and effective treatment method that can help reduce your pain and promote healing.
Keep reading to learn more about shockwave therapy and how it can benefit you!
What is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is a non-invasive treatment method that uses soundwave pulses. While the name may cause you to assume electrical impulses are at work, this therapy actually uses a very mild frequency of acoustic waves. These soundwaves penetrate through the skin at the site of an injury, which triggers your body to amp up its healing abilities. Very little (if any) pain is involved in the process.
Shockwave therapy was initially developed based on the same technology used to penetrate deep within the body to break down kidney and gallstones. The waves used in shockwave therapy are much lower in frequency, but their results have been just as amazing! Many people who undergo this therapy begin seeing results after just a few sessions.
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How Does Shockwave Therapy Work?
Also known as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), this modality is becoming increasingly common in physiotherapy and foot clinics. Studies have shown that it is highly beneficial in helping many different conditions and injuries that deal specifically with tendons and ligaments. Shockwave therapy is best-suited for people with chronic, long-lasting conditions that don’t seem to respond to other treatment methods.
Shockwave therapy sends soundwave pulses through the skin to the injured area. It causes microtrauma to the tissue and prompts your body to speed up the healing process. This causes the body to send more blood and nutrients to the area which allows your body to heal itself naturally.
What to Expect During a Shockwave Session
Your chiropodist will take some time to assess your situation and determine if shockwave therapy is right for you. A gel-like substance will be applied to the affected area, and a small wand (similar to an ultrasound device) will be used to transmit the soundwaves to the affected area.
You will feel a slight pulsing sensation as the soundwaves are applied. Some people may experience very mild discomfort. If this occurs, inform your therapist and have them adjust the intensity of the shockwave machine. Each session will last approximately five to ten minutes, and most people require one weekly treatment for four to eight weeks.
Afterward, you will feel fine to go about your normal daily activities. You shouldn't have any lingering discomfort.
After your treatment, you should avoid taking anti-inflammatories or applying ice or heat to the area. Doing so will inhibit the body's healing response and may slow down your recovery time.
What Conditions can Shockwave Therapy Help?
Shockwave therapy is an excellent treatment method for any type of pain or injury affecting the connective tissue in the body, like tendons, ligaments or muscle tissue. Shockwave therapy can help if you suffer from any of the following conditions:
Plantar Fasciitis
Heel Spurs
Achilles Tendonitis
Shin Splints
Patellar Tendonitis
Tennis Elbow
Rotator Cuff Issues
Hip Bursitis
What are the Benefits of Shockwave Therapy?
If you are suffering from an injury that involves your tendons or ligaments, there are many benefits that shockwave therapy can provide:
It is non-invasive and causes minimal discomfort, both during the procedure and throughout the healing process.
Has very few side effects and a fast recovery time.
Can help relieve your pain after just one session.
Requires a short duration of therapy. Most people only need one shockwave therapy session per week for an average of four to six weeks.
Is relatively inexpensive when compared to other treatment methods.
Has an excellent recovery rate, especially in those who suffer from chronic pain and have not found relief from other methods.
Doesn’t require any sedation or medication.
Does Shockwave Therapy have any Side Effects?
This treatment method has few side effects; however, anyone suffering from circulatory problems or nerve or bone disorders should speak to their healthcare practitioner before accepting treatment. It should also be avoided by pregnant women.
Are you Considering Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave therapy is an excellent option for anyone suffering from foot pain, plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, or other conditions affecting your connective tissues. It can provide many benefits, most notably its ability to help your body heal and significantly reduce your pain and discomfort.
