September 4, 2023
Teachers spend long hours on their feet, so choosing comfortable and supportive shoes is essential to prevent foot fatigue and discomfort. From standing at the front of the classroom, traveling to or from work, or walking between classrooms, teachers put their feet to the test every day.
The best shoes for teachers offer a combination of cushioning, arch support, stability, non-slip soles, and durability. The right pair of shoes can make a difference in a teacher's daily life, providing comfort, support, and style that keeps up with their fast-paced roles. The Ontario Physical Activity Safety Standards in Education suggests that "appropriate footwear is a shoe designed for athletic activities with a sole that provides traction and is secured to the foot."
Without the proper footwear, teachers are at greater risk of developing two common foot conditions: plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis. In this guide, we list our recommendations for the best shoes for teachers to maximize comfort and keep your feet feeling great all day.
Saucony
Saucony has a wide range of footwear, including athletic, athleisure, and sport-specific shoes. With a strong focus on running shoes, Saucony caters to various running styles and preferences and is known for its durability, support, and cushioning. For teachers, we recommend the Saucony Triumph 21 for those looking for a more athletic shoe or the Saucony Shadow Original and Jazz Triple for a more casual appearance.
Asics
ASICS shoes are amongst the most popular in the world. The brand's GEL cushioning system makes them a great choice to protect your feet and keep them feeling their best. They have great shoes for walking and standing, like the Asics Gel-Nimbus 25 (for people with neutral gaits or high arches), the Asics Novablast 3 for those seeking a rocker sole, and the Asics Gel-Kayano for those requiring a stability shoe.
Apex
Apex shoes provide ample support, cushioning, and ergonomic design to promote proper alignment and alleviate common foot ailments. From orthotic-friendly features to diabetic footwear options, APEX aims to accommodate diverse needs, ensuring individuals with conditions like plantar fasciitis, arthritis, or diabetes can experience improved comfort and mobility. Look at the Apex Boss Runner Active Shoe for a supportive and comfortable option on the job.
Anodyne
Anodyne footwear specifically caters to those with diabetes, neuropathy, and other foot-related sensitivities. Their footwear features extra depth and roomy toe boxes to provide ample space for toes and accommodate custom orthotics. In addition, Anodyne shoes also often incorporate seamless interiors to minimize irritation and pressure points. The Anodyne No. 75 or No. 72 Casual Sport shoes are excellent for teachers mixing comfort and style.
Mephisto
Mephisto shoes strongly emphasize quality and feature the brand's soft-air midsole technology. Their shoes prioritize shock absorption and cushioning, which reduces impact on joints and promotes a smoother walking experience. Mephisto offers both casual and dressier options like the Mephisto Wing or Majestro.
ara Shoes
ara Shoes blend of fashion and functionality appeals to individuals seeking versatile footwear that combines style and comfort. Look at the Ara Leigh footwear line from Ara Shoes for a solid shoe choice for teachers' working hours.
Portofino
Portofino shoes are backed by Italian craftsmanship and offer a premium footwear line for a more formal look. Whether it's delicate stitching, exquisite leather, or refined silhouettes, Portofino Shoes blend traditional artistry and contemporary aesthetics. Consider the Portofino DY-5068 model if you're a teacher in the market for new shoes.
Clarks
Clarks shoes combine form and function. They're also backed by close to 200 years of innovation. The Clarks Unstructured Line is excellent lightweight footwear with flexible soles, ideal for long days on your feet. We recommend the Clarks Nalle Lace or the Clarks Court Lite Wally outside the Unstructured line.
August 24, 2023
Most are thrilled when the temperatures warm up. But for some people, the summer and swelling feet are a dreaded yearly occurrence. Foot inflammation in hot weather happens when sweltering heat causes our blood vessels to dilate, leading to fluid pooling in the legs and feet. This is also called heat edema.
Those with underlying health or foot conditions can be more prone to foot inflammation in the summer. Still, young and healthy adults who exercise in high temperatures or gyms without proper ventilation can also experience it.
For those wanting to prevent foot inflammation this summer, there is hope. Let’s check out several ways you can keep your feet cool and comfortable.
Photo Source: Photo by brgfx on Freepik
Exercises and Stretches
PHoto by FreePik
Boosting your blood circulation with movement and activities can reduce foot swelling (not to mention the other foot health benefits you can enjoy). Try a solid, low-impact exercising and stretching routine, performing a few sets twice daily.
Compression Stockings
Compression socks place pressure on the feet and legs so fluids cannot pool as easily. They also boost blood flow. That said, compression stockings are generally not recommended for diabetes patients. If your swelling feet are a diabetes symptom, you should seek other relief methods.
Compression socks can also be uncomfortable during the summer, so make sure you wear them indoors in cool spaces. You can also try lighter, sheer hosiery instead of knee-high socks.
Orthopedic Shoes
Wearing the right shoes can help accommodate larger, swollen feet and prevent your heat edema from worsening. Look for orthopedic shoes and medical shoes with extra cozy and protective features, such as more width and depth, stretchy fabric, easy adjustability (like velcro and buckle closure straps), and removable insoles you can replace with orthotics if needed.
Summer and Swelling Feet: At-Home Foot Care Tips for Preventing Foot Inflammation
Chiropodists and other healthcare professionals recommend the following tips for reducing heat-related foot swelling:
Eat magnesium-rich foods or take supplements. Studies show that foot swelling is often a result of magnesium deficiency.
Lower your sodium intake.
Stay hydrated.
Soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath.
Stay in cool, air-conditioned areas and avoid hot temperatures when possible.
Photo by FreePik
June 12, 2023
If you're looking for a new pair of running shoes this summer, Asics offers some of the best footwear. Asics offers a wide range of shoes with advanced cushioning systems, stability support, durability, and comfort.
They also offer various models for runners, including neutral runners, overpronators, and those seeking lightweight shoes. Many of their lines are well past their 20th editions, meaning the shoe has undergone over 20 different iterations and improvements. Every year, shoes become more advanced and cater better to runners' needs.
Summer is also a perfect time to get outside and enjoy running. Find your perfect pair this summer with our top-7 picks. Note that there is no one best shoe. Instead, finding the right running shoe is about finding your match.
Asics Gel-Nimbus 25
Best cushioned shoe for long-distance running
The Gel-Nimbus is a premium cushioned running shoe designed for long-distance running. It features Asics' Gel cushioning technology in both the forefoot and rearfoot for exceptional shock absorption and comfort. Of all ASICS shoes, the Gel-Nimbus has the most cushioning and is best suited for neutral runners with normal arches and supinators with high arches.
Asics Gel-Kayano 29
Best for stability
The Gel-Kayano 29 is a stability running shoe with excellent support and cushioning. It incorporates Asics' Dynamic DuoMax support system to help correct overpronation and enhance stability. Of all ASICS stability shoes, the Gel-Kayano offers the most stability, support and cushioning.
Asics Gel-Cumulus 25
Best neutral shoe and the most versatile
The Gel-Cumulus 25 is a versatile neutral running shoe with balanced cushioning and responsiveness. It features Asics' Gel technology and a lightweight midsole for a comfortable and smooth ride.
Asics Trabuco Max 2
Best for trail running
The Asics Trabuco Max 2 is a rugged, plush running shoe for off-roading thanks to its thick cushioning and rubber treads. If you enjoy running on more challenging terrain, the Trabuco Max 2 is a new shoe on the market and could fit your trail running needs well.
Asics GT-2000 11
Best for overpronators and wide feet
The GT-2000 11 is a stability shoe designed for runners who need extra support. It utilizes Asics' Dynamic DuoMax system and Guidance Line technology to provide stability and a smooth transition. It is specially engineered for people who overpronate and do a lot of physical activity, providing the ideal combination of stability and flexibility.
Asics Novablast 3
Best overall for cushioning and under pronators
The Asics Novablast 3 is a new but popular running shoe with plush cushioning for neutral runners and runners under pronating. The Novablast is the best overall mix of weight, cushioning, price, and versatility. It also has a mid-rocker sole to alleviate foot pain.
Asics Noosa Tri 14
Best for triathlon-specific training
The Noosa Tri 14 is a triathlon-specific running shoe built for speed and quick transitions. It offers a lightweight, breathable design with a grippy outsole and seamless upper.
With so many shoes on the market, finding the right one for you on the first attempt takes time. We recommend a shoe fitting with a footwear assessment to help you find the right shoe. We recommend also trying the shoe on a treadmill to ensure you like the feel and fit.
June 5, 2023
Cold sweats are episodes of excessive sweating involving feelings of coldness, clamminess, and a drop in body temperature. Our feet are particularly prone to cold sweats due to their position (away from the heart) and function.
This blog post discusses the causes, symptoms, and ways to manage cold sweats.
Causes of cold sweats
There are several possible causes of cold sweats, including medical conditions, medication side effects, and emotional triggers. Learn more about the common cause of cold sweats in feet below:
Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is the common term for excessive sweating. If you experience cold and sweaty feet without exercising or temperature changes, you may have hyperhidrosis. The underlying cause is an overreaction of your body's sweat glands. Stress and anxiety can also disrupt your body's sweat glands. There is an overall increased risk of infection in the presence of hyperhidrosis, including fungal, bacterial, and viral infections
Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
Peripheral Arterial Disease is a condition of the body's lower extremities. The leg's blood vessels become blocked or narrowed, restricting blood flow between your lower legs and heart. Fatty plaque in the arteries is often the culprit. You may be at greater risk of PAD if you have diabetes, are over 60, or have elevated blood pressure and cholesterol.
Menopause
A common cold sweats culprit is menopause. Blood circulation can increase or decrease based on hormonal changes, triggering sweats.
Overactive thyroid
A thyroid disorder can cause plantar hyperhidrosis (excessive foot sweat) while deregulating body temperature. An overactive thyroid also messes with our blood circulation, giving the feet and skin only a quarter of the blood supply they usually need.
Raynaud's disease
Raynaud's disease causes cold hands and feet and numb toes. The condition decreases blood flow in certain body parts because of the blood vessels spasming in the area.
Body temperature
Sudden changes in core body temperature can trigger cold sweats. For instance, when sleeping, you may want to experiment with adjusting the room temperature up or down or even sleeping with your feet outside the blankets to thermoregulate your core body temperature.
Other causes of cold sweats
Wearing small shoes or shoes without proper ventilation: Shoes without proper breathing properties may trap in heat and cause your feet to sweat or have a cold sweat sensation.
Neuropathy: Nerve damage, typical in diabetes patients, can cause excessive sweating and disrupt your average body temperature.
Exercise: If you exercise and your feet continue to sweat or be moist afterwards, you may experience cold feet.
Symptoms of cold sweats
The top symptoms of cold sweats in the feet include
Excessive sweating
Feeling cold or clammy
Shivering
Paleness
In addition to the symptoms in your feet, you may also experience these bodily feelings:
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Nausea or vomiting
Weakness
How to manage cold sweats
The management of cold sweats will depend on the underlying cause. Here at Feet First Clinic, we recommend several treatment options, including:
Foot deodorants, creams and sprays.
Talk to your doctor about taking certain types of medications. For instance, antidepressants may lower triggers like stress and anxiety, which cause you to sweat more.
Manage stress. Practice stress-reducing techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Ensure you're getting enough rest. A lack of sleep can trigger cold sweats, so try to get enough restful sleep.
Daily foot hygiene practices. Keep feet clean and dry, regularly change socks, etc.
Regularly air out your feet.
Breathable footwear.
Dress in layers. Removing or adding layers will stabilize your core body temperature and prevent significant shifts.
Moisture-wicking socks.
Schedule regular foot assessments to check for conditions that thrive in moist environments, like athlete's foot.
May 29, 2023
Ingrown toenails are the most common nail problem. And with toenails being put under pressure when running, combining the two can be challenging, but not totally out of the question.
Although running with ingrown toenails can be uncomfortable and increase the risk of infection, it is doable. There are steps you can take to manage the discomfort and reduce the risk of complications.
This article discusses tips on managing the pain associated with running with an ingrown toenail and ways to prevent infection. Don't let an ingrown toenail stop you from your running routine; read on to learn more!
Can I run with an ingrown toenail?
Yes. If the ingrown toenail is mild, and you take the proper precautions, you can safely run. The key is to manage discomfort and do your best to reduce the risk of complications or infection. However, there is a difference between whether you can run versus should run, and you should weigh the pros and cons outlined below.
First, it's important to note that running with an ingrown toenail can worsen the condition and increase the risk of complications. If the pain is severe or you experience signs of infection, like redness, swelling, or discharge, seek medical attention immediately.
If the ingrown toenails worsen, see a chiropodist or other healthcare professional. They may recommend antibiotics, specialized treatment or surgery to remove part of the affected nail.
How to manage discomfort when running with an ingrown toenail
To enjoy running with ingrown toenails, you must take steps to control the discomfort, reduce the risk of complications and keep the pain at bay. Here are some tips:
Monitor pain and symptoms: There's no denying that physical activity can aggravate ingrown toenails. Sports with ground forces due to athletic activity, obesity or constricting footwear aid overlapping lateral nail fold penetration.
Trim the toenail properly: If the ingrown toenail is mild, you can trim it yourself. Use a clean pair of nail clippers and cut the nail straight across without rounding the edges. Cutting straight across prevents the nail from growing into the adjacent skin. If your ingrown toenail is more persistent, inflamed or painful, you should see a chiropodist for treatment to prevent any risks and complications.
Trim the toenail using toenail clippers: Avoid using fingernail clippers for your toenails. The strength and thickness of our toenails demand a more rigid tool to trim effectively.
Wear proper shoes: Wear shoes that fit correctly and provide enough room for your toes to move freely. Tight or narrow shoes can crowd the toes and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
Take pain medication: Pain relievers can help to manage the discomfort associated with ingrown toenails.
See a chiropodist for professional treatment: If your ingrown toenail is painful, inflamed, or has persisted for a long time, you should book an appointment with a chiropodist to have it properly and safely treated. This will reduce the risk of infection and allow you to resume running pain-free.
How to avoid infection when running with an ingrown toenail?
To prevent your ingrown toenail from worsening while running, taking the proper measures to avoid infection is vital. You can take steps to manage the discomfort and reduce the risk of complications when running with ingrown toenails. Here are some tips:
Keep the affected toenail clean: Wash the affected toe with soap and water daily, and keep it dry. A clean and dry site will help to prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
Apply topical treatments: You can use over-the-counter antiseptic or antibiotic ointments to the affected area to help prevent infection.
Use clean toenail clippers (and maybe one from our top picks): Don't use someone else's nail clippers; clean them off before use. Bacteria are invisible to the eye, so be safe with what you put your feet in contact with. For instance, you wouldn't want to risk catching the fungus that causes athlete's foot.
Apply a bandage over the ingrown toenail: Once you've cleaned the affected toenail, apply a bandage over the toenail before starting your run. This will help prevent any outside bacteria from penetrating the nail and surrounding skin.
May 8, 2023
Bunions can be a debilitating condition, but there is still plenty of hope to manage it and reduce the pain it causes.
Bunions are joint deformities located at the base of the big toe. You may see bony bumps on the foot's inner side, which can be painful and uncomfortable. Bunions can also affect the alignment of the foot and cause the big toe to point inward toward the other toes. (They can also exist along the outer edge of the foot at the base of the little toe. These are known as bunionettes.)
Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment methods can help spot bunions early and get you back to feeling better soon. Below you'll find a comprehensive guide to understanding and treating bunions.
Causes of bunions
Various factors, including genetics, foot shape, and footwear, cause bunions. Family history can dictate the likelihood of bunions due to inherited foot shape. People with foot shape abnormalities or imbalances like flat feet, low arches, or loose joints are also at a greater risk of developing bunions as these underlying conditions put more pressure on your big toe and surrounding areas. All of these risk factors are quite common; roughly six percent of Canadians yearly have foot injuries, bunions, and flat feet or fallen arches.
Additionally, external factors like tight or narrow shoes or high heels can squeeze your toes together, which adds pressure and restricts movement across the toes. Over time, your big toe joint may shift, causing it to protrude outwards. Shoes with narrow toes can trigger and catalyze developing bunions, but footwear alone is not solely to blame.
Symptoms of bunions
The most prominent symptoms of bunions are pain and discomfort in your big toe. You may also experience swelling and redness and have a large bony protrusion at the base of your big toe. Due to the outgrowth and irritation, the skin over the bunion may become thickened and callused.
The toe may become rigid and difficult to move in more severe cases. You may also experience difficulty wearing your regular footwear as the protrusion (resulting from your bones shifting) increases your feet's surface area. The rigidness of the big toe makes the big toe more susceptible to strain and over-exertion. Lack of flexibility further imbalances the weight across your feet and toes. This causes a vicious cycle that can further aggravate the bunion.
Treatment for bunions
Although bunions can be painful, not all hope is lost. You can do plenty to recognize bunions early or treat them via surgical or non-surgical methods to improve your quality of life. Depending on the severity, you can slow the progression of bunions or find ways to manage the discomfort effectively.
The exact treatment typically depends on the severity of the bunions, a person's lifestyle demands, and their age. Milder cases may be managed and treated with non-surgical treatments, including specific devices, such as bunion splints or custom orthotics, or physical therapy. The more severe cases may require surgery, which in and of itself has its pros and cons.
Non-surgical treatments for bunions
Non-surgical treatment for bunions focuses on limiting further aggravation of the affected joint and slowing the bunion's progression. This in turn decreases pain and improves quality of life. Such treatments include:
Alter your footwear: Wear shoes with a wide and deep toe box to reduce pressure on the bunion. Avoid wearing high heels or shoes with pointed toes.
Use padding and taping: Apply a pad or cushion to the bunion to reduce pressure and protect the skin. Taping can also help to keep the foot in a more natural position. You can also try bunion splints and bunion aligners to properly align the joint as you go about your daily activities.
Custom-made orthotic inserts or generic inserts like Superfeet may help to redistribute pressure and support the foot. Padding or cushions to protect your feet may also help.
OTC pain relievers like ibuprofen can help reduce and keep swelling and inflammation at bay.
Stretching and strengthening exercises can improve the flexibility and strength of the foot and ankle. Strengthening the muscles around the joint also halts the vicious cycle of bunion growth.
Maintain a healthy weight to prevent sudden impact on your feet and toes.
If non-surgical treatment for bunions hasn't improved the condition, you can explore surgical treatments, which we dive into below.
Surgical treatments for bunions
More than 100 different types of surgeries for bunions exist. An orthopedic surgeon or podiatrist may perform the surgery, depending on the nature and type of procedure. With surgery, the goal is physically to eliminate the bunion. However, surgical treatments have risks, and a bunion may still return in the future, so you should consult a medical professional. No one surgery is perfect for everyone; it's highly individual.
Some of the more common surgeries for bunions are:
Bunionectomy is a surgical procedure in which the bony bump is removed from the joint. The goal is to realign the joint with the rest of the foot to improve the position.
Osteotomy is a procedure that involves cutting a portion of the bone to improve the toe's position.
Arthrodesis (commonly known as joint fusion surgery) is a procedure that adjoins joints together.
Resection arthroplasty is a procedure that removes the damaged joint. The joint is then rebuilt during the procedure.
Artificial implant insertion is a procedure where an implant replaces the deformed first metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint.
