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.
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 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 11, 2023
The words “pedicure” and “treatment” may seem like a strange combination. But when you’re talking about medical pedicures, the perception changes. When it comes to treating foot conditions, the effectiveness of medical pedicures is clear, and they’re drastically different from cosmetic pedicures. Not only can they help manage skin and toenail conditions, but they shine as a preventative measure against future issues.
Medical Pedicures: Prevention and Treating Foot Conditions
While medical pedicures make your feet look amazing, the real benefit of a medical pedicure is foot health. The nails are properly cleaned and trimmed, and your chiropodist also smoothens calluses, moisturizes and cleans your feet, cleans your cuticles and keenly inspects your feet for abnormalities that can signal a problem. The latter is extremely helpful for people with diabetic neuropathy, who need an extra set of eyes and expertise to treat minor problems before they become critical (ulceration, gangrene, etc).
Medical pedicures also treat the following skin conditions:
Calluses and corns
Cracked heels
Blisters
Athlete’s foot
And of course, toenail conditions:
Ingrown toenails
Cracked toenails
Discoloured toenails
Fungal / thick toenails
Please note, if you have a severe toenail infection, you may need to use medicinal ointments or take oral medications before getting a medical pedicure.
Medical Pedicure Effectiveness Against Skin Conditions
Chiropodists use medical-grade equipment during medical pedicures to remove dead skin on the feet, which can often become painful when left ignored and ultimately turn into large calluses. Chiropodists may also gently buff down or completely remove pre-existing calluses and corns during medical pedicures.
Furthermore, the thorough moisturizing session that occurs during a medical pedicure can fight dry skin, especially during the winter months. Dry skin can lead to painful cracked heels. In some cases, dry skin also poses an ulcer risk. Moisturized feet are also less prone to blisters.
Image source: iStock
Medical Pedicure Effectiveness Against Toenail Conditions
When it comes to ingrown toenails, chiropodists carefully trim the affected nail during a medical pedicure, ensuring it is properly shaped to prevent further irritation and discomfort. They will clean the area to reduce the risk of infection, and safely remove jagged edges from cracked toenails so they can regrow properly.
While you may need medicine to treat a fungal toenail infection, medical pedicures can be useful as well. Chiropodists can carefully reduce the thickness caused by the fungal infection, clean the nail and surrounding area, and provide additional guidance on how to wipe out the infection.
Image source: iStock
November 20, 2023
Skin peeling on the feet is a common issue many individuals experience at some point. The sight of flaky, peeling skin on your feet can be unsightly and uncomfortable, often leaving you wondering, how can I stop this? Well, you've come to the right place.
In this guide, we delve into why skin peels on your feet and provide practical solutions to keep your feet looking and feeling their best. Understanding the mysteries behind skin peeling on your feet is the first step towards finding the right solutions, whether due to dryness, friction, or more complex factors.
Why does skin peel on your feet?
Dry Skin
One of the most frequent culprits behind skin peeling on the feet is dry skin. The skin on your feet is naturally predisposed to drying out, and environmental factors like cold weather, low humidity, and insufficient moisturization can exacerbate the issue.
Improper Footwear
Uncomfortable shoes or excessive walking can lead to constant rubbing or pressure, causing the skin to peel. Blisters, corns, and calluses are typical consequences of this friction.
Fungal Infections
Athlete's foot and other fungi can trigger peeling of the skin between the toes and on the soles. Fungal infections thrive in warm, damp environments, often found inside sweaty shoes, locker rooms, and shared showers.
Eczema or Psoriasis
Chronic skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis, target the feet, resulting in peeling, redness, and itching.
Effective remedies for skin peeling on feet
Hydration is Key
Start by ensuring your body is well-hydrated. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining soft, supple skin. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated to stave off dry, peeling skin. In general, it's recommended to drink about nine cups of liquid per day. Drinking liquids throughout the day is especially important for older adults.
Moisturize Regularly
Apply a nourishing foot cream or lotion daily, paying extra attention to dry areas. Seek products containing ingredients like urea, shea butter, glycerin, or hyaluronic acid for deep hydration.
Exfoliation
To remove dead skin cells and encourage skin regeneration, gently exfoliate your feet. A pumice stone or foot scrub can help, but be careful not to overdo it to prevent further irritation. The gentler, the better when removing dead skin cells, or you risk going too deep.
Additionally, you can supplement exfoliation with soaking your feet in warm water to soften the skin and alleviate discomfort. Enhance the experience by adding Epsom salt, essential oils or a foot soak like Gehwol Fusskraft Herbal Foot Bath.
Proper Footwear
Proper footwear can help prevent blisters and skin peeling caused by ill-fitting footwear. A proper shoe should: fit properly, provide ample support, and not cause excessive friction.
Foot Powders & Antifungals
If a fungal infection is the cause of your skin peeling, you should see your chiropodist. They can recommend products, like foot powders to absorb excessive moisture, prescribe antifungal ointments, and provide proper foot care. If you have a fungal infection, it's very important to adhere to the treatment regimen recommended by your health care professional; fungal infections can take a long time to clear up, so consistency is key.
Good Foot Hygiene
Keep your feet clean and dry, especially in between the toes. Fungi thrive in damp conditions, so thorough drying is essential after bathing. Good foot hygiene also means protecting your feet from the sun. Regularly apply sunscreen, even if your feet are not in the sun. Your feet will thank you.
Medical Pedicures
As part of a medical pedicures, a foot specialist will safely (and gently) debride and remove any dry, hardened or peeling skin. They will also apply an intense moisturizer with high-quality medical-strength moisturizing products. Moisturizing strengthens the skin, restores elasticity and can help ward off several skin conditions.
Prescription Creams
If eczema or psoriasis is responsible for your skin peeling, consult a doctor for prescription creams or ointments to help manage these conditions.
As you've learned, skin peeling on your feet can result from various factors, but identifying the root cause is the first step toward effective treatment. By adopting these remedies and practices, you can address the issue of skin peeling, restore the health of your feet, and confidently step forward towards a more comfortable and beautiful stride.
November 16, 2023
When it comes to self-care and pampering, we often focus on treating ourselves to facials, massages, or spa days while neglecting one of our body's hardest working and overlooked parts: our feet.
Enter the world of medical pedicures, a rejuvenating and therapeutic experience that goes beyond the typical nail salon visit. In this blog post, we look at medical pedicures and uncover the many benefits they offer for the health of your feet.
Whether seeking relief from foot-related ailments or well-deserved self-care, a medical pedicure might be the secret to the happy and healthy feet you've been waiting for.
What's a medical pedicure?
A medical pedicure, also known as a medi-pedi, is a specialized foot treatment performed by a trained medical professional, typically a podiatrist or chiropodist.
Unlike a cosmetic pedicure you might receive at a spa or nail salon, a medical pedicure focuses on the medical aspects of foot care - there is no nail polish or foot soaking. It ususally involves the following:
Examination and consultation. Before the procedure, a chiropodist assesses your feet, discusses any concerns or foot-related issues you may have, and creates a treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Nail and callus care. A chiropodist trims and shapes your toenails, carefully avoiding ingrown toenails. They will also remove calluses and corns to relieve discomfort and prevent further complications.
Hygiene. A medical pedicure places a strong emphasis on hygiene. The instruments used are sterilized (or disposable) to prevent the risk of infection.
Skin and cuticle care. Your provider will moisturize and care for the skin on your feet, paying particular attention to dry or cracked areas. They will also address overgrown or problematic cuticles.
Why should I get a medical pedicure?
Only you can decide whether you need a medical pedicure, but we want to lay out the benefits to help you make an informed decision. There are several reasons why you may need one:
Treatment of Specific Foot Conditions
Medical pedicures are not just about pampering but about addressing specific foot conditions. Whether you're dealing with fungal infections, plantar warts, ingrown toenails, or thickened and discoloured nails, your healthcare specialist can offer treatments and recommendations for future care.
Proper Nail Care
While traditional pedicures focus primarily on nail aesthetics, medical pedicures focus on nail health. Sure, they will properly trim and file your toenails, but they'll also go the extra mile in preventing ingrown toenails and addressing any nail conditions like toenail fungus.
Healthy Skin
The skincare aspect of a medical pedicure involves moisturizing and nurturing the skin on your feet. Dry, cracked, or rough skin patches will be taken care of. Plus, we can provide product recommendations to help you maintain healthy, soft feet between appointments.
Education and Guidance
A significant part of a medical pedicure is education. You'll receive valuable guidance on proper foot care practices. In addition, with conditions like recurring calluses or ingrown toenails, the chiropodist can determine whether there could be any biomechanical factors at play. These insights empower you to take better care of your feet daily, reducing the likelihood of future issues.