October 30, 2023
Sometimes your foot health depends on orthopedic shoes. For people with bunions, hammertoes, flat feet, arthritis, and other foot deformities, orthopedic footwear can make the difference between a painful day and a day where you can manage simple activities. Let’s take a look at the benefits of orthopedic shoes, the best practice for selecting orthopedic shoes, and how to use them.
Photo by iStock
Benefits of Orthopedic Shoes
Orthopedic shoes come with a wide array of qualities that promote foot health and tackle foot conditions. Here are some of the most notable:
Studies show that orthopedic footwear can improve the ability to maintain continuous walking in people with chronic foot and ankle injuries.
Many patients report their foot pain diminished after using orthopedic shoes for 1-2 years.
Orthopedic shoes can help you manage bunions so they don’t get worse and require surgery later.
They can help with proper foot alignment for people with plantar fasciitis and flat feet.
They usually provide extra heel cushioning and arch support.
To accommodate wide feet, orthopedic shoes often come with features like adjustable straps, extra wide toe boxes, and flexible fabric.
Photo by iStock
Selecting Orthopedic Shoes
Since choosing orthopedic shoes can be difficult, you should schedule a foot assessment with your chiropodist who will then prescribe orthopedic footwear. That said, here are three of the most important tips for finding the right orthopedic shoes for you:
Since your foot size can over time, especially with age, you should always triple check that your shoes fit snugly.
Make sure your new shoes are designed to best support your specific concern. For example, shoes with adjustable straps are good for wide bunions.
Consider your lifestyle and daily needs. Search for orthopedic sneakers if you’re trying to be more active, or orthopedic dress shoes if you need something for work.
Ensure any accessories like socks or custom orthotics fit properly with your shoes.
Usage of Orthopedic Shoes
You should use orthopedic shoes for activities they are designed for. For instance, if you have orthopedic dress shoes, use them for work and special occasions.
Furthermore, after wearing your shoes for some time, schedule a check up with your chiropodist so they can assess your progress and make any necessary adjustments or recommendations.
Photo by iStock
October 26, 2023
Do you need wide shoes for fall? If you have bunions, hammertoes or another condition, or you’re getting older or experiencing a life changing event like pregnancy, your feet can change in size and often become wider. That’s why it’s important to measure your feet or attend a proper shoe fitting and update your shoe size — don’t just assume you were the size you were when you were a teen or young adult!
Luckily, fall footwear trends are considering people with wide feet and there are several comfortable shoes and fashionable footwear choices available this fall season! Let’s explore your top options. And don't forget to keep reading (you'll find some tips for finding wide shoes at the end!).
APEX Sierra Trail Runner
For both your adventure and wide shoe needs, the APEX Sierra Trail Runner has men and women covered. It has a high, wide toe box and provides increased stability control for those who overpronate, or in other words, those with flat feet who walk with their arch collapsing downward or inward. Overpronation can put avid hikers at serious risk of sustaining a foot injury. Other features for this shoe include a rubber outsole for traction on slippery surfaces, a breathable open air mesh and leather upper, and 5/16” removable depth in two layers for fitting flexibility.
APEX Sierra Trail Runner for men. Source: APEX
Clarks Wave Range AP
This wide shoe is designed with weatherproofing materials, making it a waterproof shoe which is highly valuable during the fall months. Like the APEX trail runner, it’s designed for excursions and exploring. It also features smart WaveWalk technology (rocker sole) which uses a heel kicker to ensure smooth forward motions and a concave heel for excellent shock absorption to prevent the impact of the ground from damaging your joints.
Clarks Wave Range for women. Source: Clarks
Clarks Wave 2.0
For strolling around the city on brisk fall days, the lightweight yet sturdy and protective Wave 2 gives you the pedestrian power you need. The waterproof dark brown oil leather and textile upper keeps your feet dry and safe from the cold rain, and the removable footbed absorbs impact and shock, but also allows you to replace it with prescribed orthotics. Other notable features include the EVA midsole, and the internal full-grain leather sock that provides extra comfort.
Clarks Wave 2.0 for men. Source: Clarks
Anodyne No. 55 and No. 56
The Anodyne 55 (for women) and 56 (for men) trail boots keep your feet from feeling fatigued during hiking adventures. They are also intentionally designed to accommodate widening issues like swelling, bunions, hammertoes, and more. Compared to standard shoes, Anodyne trail shoes run half a size to a full size bigger. Other features include a protective toe box and easy-to-use hook and loop closure.
Anodyne No. 55. Source: Anodyne
Tips for Finding Wide Shoes
Get a Shoe Fitting: Get fitted by a professional at a foot clinic. Your feet might not be the same size, and the width can vary too. Sizes also vary from brand-to-brand, so don't just go by measurements.
Understand Shoe Sizing: Shoe width is indicated by letters. For instance, "W" may indicate wide, and "N" may indicate narrow for the same shoe style (this may vary so double check). Don't accidentally buy a narrow version of a shoe!
Adjustable Features: Look for shoes with adjustable features like straps, laces, or buckles. These allow you to customize the fit according to the width of your feet.
Consider Materials: Choose shoes made with soft, flexible materials that can stretch a bit to accommodate wider feet.
Visit Your Chiropodist: They can offer personalized advice and might be able to recommend specific shoes.
June 22, 2023
The human foot has 26 bones, 39 joints, and over a hundred muscles, tendons and ligaments that keep it working properly. Let's learn about the most important bones of the foot, what they do, and their role in foot health.
Understanding the Bones of the Foot
Tarsal Bones
Metatarsal Bones
Phalanges
Treatment Options for Bone-Related Foot Pain Causes
Photo by macrovector on Freepik
Tarsal Bones
Mount Sinai notes the tarsal bones in the foot are responsible for ankle movement and make up the rear of the foot. There are seven tarsal bones in total:
The Talus Bone: This is a small bone, sometimes called the ankle bone, that helps you stand and keeps your ankle moving smoothly.
The Calcaneus Bone: Also called the heel bone, this is a large, strong bone at the back of the foot that transfers body weight to the ground.
The Tarsals: Five bones that work together to form the midfoot arch. The formation of these bones may pronounce your arch (high arches) or flatten it (flat feet). The height of your arch determines the level of arch support you need from your shoes or custom orthotics.
Tarsal bones also act as critical attachment points for various leg and foot muscles.
Metatarsal Bones
Five tubular bones in the middle and the top of the foot (the forefoot) connect the tarsal bones to the phalanges. Metatarsal bones look similar to each other and are numbered one to five, or from medial to lateral, by healthcare professionals. Each bone contains the following parts:
Proximal base: Connects to the tarsal bones
Slender shaft: Extends along the forefoot.
Distal head: Connects to the phalanges in the toes
Metatarsal bones are the most vulnerable to blunt-force foot injuries. Their main function is to support body weight, help with balance and walking, and they play a role in forming foot arches.
Phalanges
The phalanges are 14 bones that make up the toes. The big toes and other toes consist of different phalanges:
Big toe: Consists of the distal (joint close to the top of the toe) and proximal (joint in the middle of the toe) phalanges
Other toes: Consist of three smaller phalanges called sesamoids, which look like pea-shaped bones
Phalanges bend your toes properly and help with lateral movements, navigating strange surfaces, and balance.
Image by brgfx from Freepik
Treatment Options for Bone-Related Foot Pain Causes
Foot pain often correlates with the bones of the foot, namely blunt force trauma (stubbing your toes, dropping an object on your foot, etc.) and stress fractures. Here are some additional common issues:
Osteoarthritis: Causes inflammation and pain via degradation of the cartilage in the joints
Bunions: Associated with arthritic changes in the bones of the foot
Sesamoiditis: Pain and inflammation in sesamoid bones in the toes
Hallux Rigidus/Limitus: Decreased range of motion and stiffness in the big toe joint
Hammertoes: Bent and contracted toes caused by arthritic changes
Practicing foot care by performing stretches and exercises before and after all activities can help with many of these problems. Gentle exercises can also be a part of the rehabilitation process for healing fractures and trauma. However, if your injury is acute, you should practice the RICE method from home (rest, ice, compression elevation) before beginning rehab.
Other treatment options include wearing proper footwear and inserts, taking a safe amount of anti-inflammatory medications, splinting, bracing and taping methods, aligners, and potentially shockwave therapy. You may need surgery if your condition is considered prolonged and severe.
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.
