May 30, 2024
As summer approaches, our feet emerge from the confines of socks and boots, ready to step into sandals and flip-flops. However, after months of neglect and hiding, our feet may not be in the best condition to be on display. This is where medical pedicures come in—a treatment that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Let's delve into the benefits of medical pedicures and why they should be on everyone's summer to-do list.
Professional attention to foot health
Unlike traditional pedicures, medical pedicures are performed by trained professionals called chiropodists. They prioritize foot health, ensuring your feet are healthy and feel good. Chiropodists are equipped to address various foot conditions such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and fungal infections. They can also notice and diagnose other things that may be cause for concern, like poor circulation, warts, flat feet, and other foot conditions that may be affecting you. Most importantly, chiropodists can provide professional tips and advice on foot care.
Preventative foot and nail care
Regular medical pedicures can help prevent many standard foot problems before they even start. Addressing issues like calluses and ingrown toenails early on can avoid more severe complications. In addition, toenails grow faster in warm weather, so a medical pedicure in the summer is timely.
Customized treatment
Medical pedicures are tailored to your specific foot needs. Whether you have dry, cracked heels, thickened toenails, or sensitive skin, the treatment can be adjusted to address your concerns effectively. Chiropodists will assess your feet and recommend the appropriate action, ensuring you receive personalized care at every step.
Hygiene and safety
One of the primary benefits of medical pedicures is the emphasis on hygiene and safety. Sterilized instruments, disposable blades and discs, and stringent cleanliness protocols are standard practice in foot clinics. All cleaning protocols are regulated by Health Canada and the College of Chiropodists of Ontario. This reduces the risk of infection and ensures a safe, worry-free experience, especially those with compromised immune systems or diabetes.
Stress relief
It's worth remembering the relaxing aspect of a medical pedicure. Beyond the therapeutic benefits for your feet, the experience can be incredibly soothing for your mind and body. Taking time out of your busy schedule to pamper yourself can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.
May 23, 2024
One thing many of us forget about until it hits is the annoyance of having hot feet in the summer. The blazing sun, your enclosed running shoes, and spending hours outside can really crank up the heat on your feet, making them feel downright uncomfortable. That's where summer foot care comes in handy. You'll definitely want some cooling foot treatments ready for when your feet get hot, and luckily, we’ve got you covered.
Best Summer Foot Care Cooling Foot Treatments
Foot Soaks
Foot Creams
Foot Gels / Aloe Vera
Cold Towel Wraps
Ice Packs
Foot Ice Pack Wrap
Foot Massagers
Cold Water Soaks
Foot Soaks
On a hot summer day, refreshing foot soaks are always the way to go! Prepare your foot bath with relaxing lukewarm water (hot water can be damaging to the skin, and your feet are too warm for that anyway!) and add your foot soak product of choice for added benefits. Try Gehwol’s Herbal Foot Bath for the most well-rounded experience! This will also soothe tired, aching feet.
Foot Gels / Aloe Vera
Gels may also be exactly what your stifled feet need. You can try gels with aloe vera, which is naturally hydrating due to its high water content. Aloe vera also evaporates quickly when applied to the skin, providing fast relief.
Cold Towel Wraps
Sometimes you have exactly what you need waiting for you at home! To cool down, soak a towel in cold water, wring it out, and wrap it around your feet. This method is simple and can be very refreshing.
Foot Creams
One of the best foot pampering tips is moisturizing your feet with high-quality creams. Not only do these products protect against dry skin, foot odour, calluses, corns, cracked heels, and more, but the cream also has a pleasant cooling effect. Look for creams with eucalyptus or menthol, which both have added cooling and soothing capabilities. Gehwol’s Extra Universal Foot Cream contains those two additional ingredients.
Ice Packs
Ice packs aren’t just for pain relief! You can use a cold ice pack, gel pack, or frozen water bottle to cool your feet during the hot summer days and nights. Wrap these items in a towel first to avoid making a mess!
Foot Ice Pack Wrap
These are essentially ice packs that cover your whole foot and have the appearance of a shoe, slipper or ankle brace. They may work for cooling hot feet, but also treating painful foot conditions.
Foot Massagers
Some electric foot massagers come with a cooling option that can help relax and cool your feet simultaneously. To get the same effect, you can use a small fan and position it so it faces your feet!
Cold Water Soak
Foot baths are generally used with warm to lukewarm water, but combining cold water with Epsom salt or your favourite foot soak product in a basin can have a more cooling effect than warm water, the latter of which is better suited for boosting blood circulation and pain management.
May 13, 2024
Summer foot care and pedicures - can you name a more iconic duo? Showing off a sleek pedi is one of the best ways to enjoy the warm months. But safe pedicures differ greatly from your run-of-the-mill cosmetic pedicure, so it’s important to be on the lookout for the safest way of avoiding pedicure infections. We’ve got 3 pedicure safety tips you should follow before you hit the salon!
Top 3 Pedicure Safety Tips
Choose clean salons or foot clinics
Avoid certain tools
Practice aftercare
Choose Clean Salons or Foot Clinics
Only visit nail salons that demonstrate good practices. Be on the lookout for:
An organized workspace.
Equipment sanitization protocols. An autoclave with steam sterilization is best.
Employees visibly maintaining hygienic standards.
Employees using disposable liners in the foot baths, and cleaning and filtering them between uses.
Fresh linens (if applicable).
Clean floors and surfaces.
Clean uniforms on employees.
Clear labels on products.
Clients wearing protective footwear when walking around.
Another good tip is visiting your nail salon when they first open in the morning, when everything is cleanest!
Pedicures at Feet First Clinic
Foot clinics are where you can get a medical pedicure, which tends to be safer than a cosmetic pedicure.
Appointments don’t happen in communal areas, unlike salons, so you’re already in a safer environment with less people spreading contagious fungal infections. And although you’ll be skipping the polish (you can always apply it yourself afterwards!) and foot bath (again, you can do this at home - foot baths at nail salons are not hygienic, especially if the bath has jets), you’ll be enjoying so much more than you can get from many salons. This includes:
Guaranteed use of sterilized, safe tools.
A thorough cleaning of the entire foot with alcohol.
An inspection of your feet from a chiropodist who can recognize foot conditions.
Thorough cleaning of dead skin(onychophosis) under the nails.
Callus softening or removal.
Learn more about what happens during a medical pedicure and the differences between a cosmetic vs. a medical pedicure.
Avoid Certain Tools
Nail technicians in salons use many tools, but you should kindly request they skip some of them. One of these is the foot rasp or “grater” they use to scrape the bottom of the feet. It can be overly abrasive and damage the skin, leading to irritation and cuts. Strong skin is a barrier for contaminants, and damaged skin welcomes dirt and infections.
To protect your feet even more, you can skip tools that don’t appear to be properly sanitized or cleaned between uses, or avoid tools with visible signs of wear and tear.
Practice Aftercare
After getting your pedicure, it’s up to you to keep on top of proper foot care! Here’s what to do:
Avoid tight shoes that crowd the toes. This can cause ingrown toenails.
Wash your feet every day with gentle soap before thoroughly drying.
If you must cut your own toenails, only trim straight across, avoiding shaping.
Moisturize and exfoliate your feet.
Wear clean cotton socks and change them frequently.
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.