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.
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.
January 4, 2021
Winter has made its first appearance. With a blast of snow blanketing our fair region, I shoveled not one but two driveways and have the aches to prove it. My greatest fear as the snow begins to fall is its companion, ice.
The thought of slipping and falling (since I have done it so many times) is a rational fear of mine. That instant shock that is so jarring to the body starts with losing your footing and depending on how you land, I hope it's somewhere on your body that has a little extra cushioning.
Having proper winter footwear is crucial, especially in these Canadian winters of ours. Luckily Feet First has your feet covered! Browse our product catalogues and feel free to connect with us over our current stock. We will help you to ensure you find boots that not only have a proper tread but keep your feet warm and comfy.
During these winter months upon us, it is crucial to exercise proper judgment and mobility when you are outside. If you are more prone to the cold hitting your fingers like me but have a lifelong aversion to gloves, at the very least wear a toque. When I was out shoveling, the snow was surprisingly dense. Ideal for making a snowperson (to be politically correct) but not so great if you're hustling to clear the driveway before others get home. I knew the best thing I could do for myself to alleviate future pain was to fully engage my core and keep my feet as firmly planted as possible. That way, even if I am torquing my back around, I know that I am supporting that movement as best I can.
Let's say you are outside playing with the kids and they want you to come into their snow fort with them. When they fall, the impact is much lighter, but if an adult falls, it's "timber!" Down goes the old oak tree. So you want to ensure your footwear at least offers you a little more support and connectivity with the slippery ground beneath you. What if you are out walking your dog? And they pull a little too strong when seeing a squirrel on your next step? If you are wearing a good tread, that likelihood lessens, and for your sake, I hope you have a smaller breed.
On that note, as we move into the season of giving, though here at Feet First we believe that giving is to be marked on every day on the calendar, we want to take a moment to shout out The Canadian Courage Project. The mission this non-profit organization has is to support Toronto homeless youth and their four-legged companions. Through compassion and understanding of financial burdens and mental health issues faced, we understand the importance of animals from a therapeutic perspective, but also how they deserve to receive unconditional love. The project aims to offer donated food, funds for vaccinations, hygiene products, and essential items to all animal companions.
As an animal lover, I can attest to how important my two pampered cats are to me, especially when I'm feeling down. I am the type of person that out in the world stops and yells "dog!" Every. Single. Time. So as I was out shovelling today and I was waving hello to the two dogs next door who were catching snowflakes in their mouths, I was strategizing a safe passage to go roll around with them. I forgot, just for a moment, how I could not feel my fingertips. Surely the warmth of their fur under my hands would save me and it would have all been worthwhile. So to be a person fortunate enough to have pets I love, and we all have a warm place to feel safe, learning of The Canadian Courage Project today after my morning of shovelling felt pertinent to support and share. You can donate to them directly on their website. We can look out for our own and others this time of year and all year round!
Looking for New Winter Boots for Your Necessary Outdoor Activities?
We have a great selection that offers both reliability and fashion statement. If you are averse to the winter weather, add a little bounce in your step with some boots!
Call us today at 416.769.FEET (3338) and book your appointment or inquire about our inventory!
December 28, 2020
Did your feet just go from a size 8 to an 8.5? What gives?
Swelling in your feet happens to everyone from time to time to varying degrees. Swollen feet are often caused by standing for long periods of time, or after extending exercise such as walking or running. When your on your feet, gravity pulls blood towards your feet and there can be certain degrees of pooling.
The actual source of swelling (known by its medical term edema) is attributed to your small blood vessels leaking fluid into nearby tissues.
Causes of Swollen Feet
Like many foot conditions, possible causes are wide-ranging. If you find your feet ballooning, and are concerned, look out for any of these causes:
Pregnancy: A common symptom of late pregnancy is for feet and ankles to swell. This swelling comes from fluid retention and increased pressure on the veins.
Sedentary lifestyle: A lifestyle with little exercise means that excess fluid accumulates in the feet.
Being overweight
Wearing ill-fitting shoes: Wearing tight shoes can put pressure on your feet and reduce circulation to the area. This pressure can encourage pooling of fluid in your legs rather than the blood flow you want to aim for in reducing swollen feet and legs.
Hot weather: In fact, studies show that Google search trends for ankle swelling are greatest in spring and summer indicating a pattern among the general population. This is due to greater liquid retention in hot weather. In fact, the study found that, "Internet searches for information on ankle swelling are highly seasonal (highest in midsummer), with seasonality explaining 86% of search volume variability." Although this is not directly related to cases of ankle swelling, it's well-documented that Internet searches accurately reflect trends in the population.
Alcohol: Since your body retains more water when drinking, alcohol consumption can cause swollen feet. If you find your feet are consistently swollen when consuming alcohol, it could be a sign that you're drinking too much (or too often), or it could be a sign of problems with your liver or kidney.
Blood clots: Blood clots in the lower legs can trap fluid in the foot and ankle area as it limits the return flow to other parts of your leg and body.
How Do You Reduce Swelling In The Feet?
Fortunaely there are many DIY methods for treating swollen feet. Even better, some of these at-home methods are inexpensive, and highly effective. These include:
Soak your feet in cool water.
Drink plenty of water.
Wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe and move freely.
Rest with your legs elevated.
Wear compression stockings/compression gear.
Do a few minutes of walking and simple leg exercises: If you sit for long periods of time, make an effort to get up once an hour for a short walk. Even if this is to refill your water bottle or go to the washroom, these regular breaks help with circulation and reduce the pooling in your lower legs.
When Should I Be Concerned About Swollen Feet?
Generally, if you can trace swollen feet back to a specific activity, like hot weather, or standing, then there is little cause for concern. If swelling is a perpetual problem, then you may want to seek medical help to determine the root cause of the condition.
There are a number of foot conditions that can be a greater cause for concern than basic edema.
Types of edema
Peripheral edema. It could be a sign of problems with your circulatory system, lymph nodes, or kidneys.
Pedal edema.It’s more common if you’re older or pregnant. It can make it harder to move around in part because you may not have as much feeling in your feet.
Lymphedema. This type of edema is often causes damage to your lymph nodes, which are tissues that that help filter germs and waste from your body. The damage may be the result of cancer treatments like surgery and radiation.
Blood clots
Blood clots are of great concern. Not only do blood clots cause swelling in your legs (and in other parts of your body), these clots can be life-threatening. If not addressed, a blood clots can travel to the heart and lungs and be fatal. Watch for specific signs of blood clots including swelling in one leg, a low-grade fever, and even possible changes in colours to your affected legs. Call your doctor immediately if you suspect this foot condition, even if it's just to be safe.
Can high blood pressure cause swollen feet?
Swollen feet can be a side effect of certain drugs meant for treating diabetes. For example, calcium-channel blockers for treating high blood pressure may be a culprit. You may want to ask your doctor about dosage and the type of medication if you find that the swelling is out of control or bothersome. (Swollen feet can add not insignificant weight to your body, and make walking difficult.)
People with diabetes also have an increased risk of infection, which can cause swollen feet.
Reduce Swollen Feet With Expert Advice
We pride ourselves in effectively communicating your concerns and needs as comfortable as possible. Call anytime to ask about your specific concern and we’ll make sure to provide actionable steps towards getting your feet as happy and healthy as possible!
Call us at 416-769-3338 or Click Above to Book Your Assessment Today!
December 14, 2020
Were you once a size 8 and now you're a size 9? No, your mind isn't playing tricks on you. And your memory hasn't disappeared. This change is actually quite common.
After all, your feet absorb a lot of impact. Decades of it, in fact. It should come as no surprise that this shock absorption can alter our feet, albeit quite subtly. More likely than not, you will only notice this change over months, if not years. A drastic change in shoe size shouldn't happen overnight (if it does, you should seek medical advice).
Generally, ageing has a number of effects on our feet, including changing its size and shape. Our feet typically stop growing in our early 20s (depending on when you started and finished puberty), but in our later years, our feet may grow again.
Why Do My Feet Change Size?
A number of factors can result in changes to our shoe size over time. Some are age-related, others are more event-related including pregnancy or as the result of a condition. Below you'll find some of the contributing factors.
Flat Feet
As we age, our feet flatten. Time and gravity widen and lengthen our feet naturally as the body absorbs years of impact. Ligaments and tendons begin to weaken over time as well causing flatter and larger feet. Imagine if you had higher arches when you were younger. If those arches begin to collapse over time, there is less upward range of your feet, and your feet get longer.
Foot and Toe Deformities
Additionally, adults can develop foot conditions and deformities over time that change the foot's anatomy. Bunions, or hallux rigidus, for example, either add volume or change the width of the foot which may require larger footwear. If not larger footwear, many brands also offer wide variations of their most popular lines of shoes. These have wider toe boxes, and otherwise are true to size.
Body Changes
Slower metabolism, or changes in your diet can mean either weight gain or weight loss. These greater changes to your body have effects on your feet. Weight gain, for example, means greater pressure on your feet. Additionally, the fat pads on the base of your feet diminish over time.
Diabetes and Arthritis
These conditions can affect our feet. Diabetes and arthritis can impact the amount of swelling in your feet as well as blood flow which can greatly change the shape of our feet.
Pregnancy
Bigger feet during pregnancy is 100% normal. This is likely temporary and a direct result of your feet swelling. In some cases, this increase may be permanent, but only if the ligaments and tendons in your feet weaken to the point where they don't recover post-pregnancy.
What Time of Day Should I Try on Footwear?
You want to account for your feet at their largest. Since feet swell throughout the course of the day, trying on footwear is best done in the late afternoon or evening. If your schedule restricts you to try on footwear in the morning, remember to account for the difference in your feet between morning and night.
Always try shoes on with both feet. Not all feet are created equally, and you can even have as much as a half-size difference between your left and right feet.
Get Your Feet Measured by Professionals
Ill-fitting shoes that are the leading cause of foot pain and foot problems and eight out of 10 people’s shoes fit incorrectly.
Follow these tips when trying on a new pair of shoes or winter boots.
Try on footwear later in the day to ensure a proper fit.
Try on both shoes, and use the larger foot to dictate the size of shoe you buy.
Stand up while measuring your feet.
Stand and walk for a few minutes before determining proper fit. Take your time.
Try on different brands, and models of shoes.
Try on different size shoes including 0.5 sizes.
Wear the socks or garment you would normally to mimic real-world conditions.
Here at Feet First Clinic, we offer every customer a comprehensive footwear assessment free of charge to ensure that you invest in the healthiest footwear for your unique feet. Our footwear specialists and chiropodists will help match your foot shape, structure, and alignment to specific shoes and footwear features that answer to your corrective, supportive, or accommodative needs.
Customize Your Shoe Size
If you find your shoes fit well, but they could fit better, consider shoe stretching.
Shoe stretching is best suited to expanding shoes that are close to the right size but barely too tight. Stretching your shoes can increase:
Width: Increase of up to one size widthwise
Length: Increase of up to 1” inch lengthwise
Toebox: Increase of up to 1” in the height of the toe box
Instep: Increase of up to 1/2” in the vamp and instep area
This fine-tuning can give you that extra bit of room in your shoe to ensure the fit is just right. Most types of footwear can be stretched, and we offer this service here at Feet First Clinic, located at 2481 Bloor St W. Whether it's buying shoes, measuring your feet, or stretching shoes you already own, we're your one-stop shop for all of your footcare needs.
Your Footwear Solutions Live Here
All under one roof! Our team is trained to handle any and all your foot health concerns. From mild, to critical, we cover all sides of the foot needs spectrum. Call us to ask about actionable steps towards your solution today!
Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!
October 9, 2020
Numb toes are an intriguing phenomenon. Unlike so many foot conditions where pain is the symptom, numbness is the absence of feeling. And while a numb sensation may not be cause for concern, there are certain instances where it can be damaging.
The most common cause of numb toes is compression. By this, compression means the act of pressing something into a smaller space or putting pressure on it. Typically, ill-fitting footwear or a narrow toe box can put undue pressure on your toes. Given the fact that we wear shoes for hours on end, one can understand how continuous compression can have a negative effect.
Toe numbness can be a cause of concern, but rarely a medical emergency. If you experience numb toes on isolated occasions, continue to monitor your feet. If, however, a numb sensation is a regular occurrence, contact a medical professional for possible causes.
Numb Toes: Why/How Do They Occur?
There are a number of causes to a numbing sensation in your toes. From improper footwear to a serious disease like diabetes, there is a broad range of factors to consider. Below you'll find a comprehensive list to why you may be experiencing numbness to your toes.
Are Numb Toes A Sign Of Diabetes?
High sugar and fats in your blood can cause your toes to go numb. Poor circulation to your toes causes a numbness sensation as it limits blood supply to the region. The condition that causes damage to your nerves as a result of diabetes is called diabetic neuropathy.
First and foremost, ask your doctor to check your blood sugar levels to see if diabetes is the cause. Additionally, you can
Check your toes regularly (i.e.: daily);
Moisturize your feet;
Take care of your toenails, and consult a podiatrist for a plan of action;
Wear proper footwear.
Morton's Neuroma
Morton’s Neuroma is a type of nerve compression syndrome which involves nerves in the smaller toes. The pressure on that nerve may cause pain in the ball of your foot. Nerve compression can also lead to numb toes.
Like metatarsalgia (see below), common ways to reduce and prevent Morton's neuroma include proper orthopaedic footwear, custom foot orthotics, rest (from any repetitive activity like running and jumping), and icing.
Metatarsalgia
Metatarsalgia, a term used for any pain found in the ball of the foot, can bring a numb sensation in the toes. Typically, pain starts in the ball of the foot, but like with many foot conditions, the end result can be in another part of the foot. In this case, the toes.
Causes of metatarsalgia are typically specific to overuse. For example, long-distance runners often suffer from metatarsalgia because of the constant pressure to the ball of the foot. However, the shape of your foot may also play a role. High arches, bunions, and curled toes can be a primary, or secondary cause of metatarsalgia.
How do I get rid of numbness in my toes?
Swap out shoes
Custom foot orthotics
Rest
Icing
If numbness or pain persists, contact us to book an appointment.
Raynaud's Phenomenon
Raynaud's Phenomenon is a condition of discolouration of the toes after exposure to changes in temperature (cold or hot) or emotional events. This condition is apparent because of its visibility. Your toes may turn white, then blue, and then red as blood flow diminishes, and then resumes.
According to WebMD, there are two types of Raynaud's Phenomenon: primary and secondary. Primary occurs by itself, and the cause is unknown. Primary is usually harmless. But secondary Raynaud's is linked to diseases that affect your autoimmune system, like Rheumatoid Arthritis or lupus.
Why does discolouration occur? There is an abnormal spasm of the blood vessels causing diminished blood flow to the toes.
Frostbite
It's around that time of year again. Temperature plummets, and the risk of Frostbite does the opposite—skyrockets. Frostbite is an injury caused by freezing of the skin and underlying tissues. Your toes are particularly susceptible to frostbite, which begins when your skin becomes cold and red, then numb, then hard and pale.
The challenge with frostbite is that it starts out as frostnip. Numbness reduces sensation in the toes, and hides discomfort and nerve damage. If not addressed, frostnip can lead to superficial frostbite followed deep frostbite, the most severe of the three stages.
To prevent frostbite from occurring, taking the following precautions:
Wear moisture-wicking socks that fit correctly, and have insulation
Change out wet socks as soon as possible
Watch for early signs of frostbite like red skin, or numbness
Keep moving: encourage blood flow to the area
Check out our complete guide on How To Protect Your Feet This Winter.
Beriberi
Beriberi is a disease caused by a vitamin B-1 deficiency, also known as thiamine deficiency, according to Healthline.com. Specifically, dry beriberi is a concern for your toes, as the condition damages the nerves. The primary cause of beriberi is low thiamine. Those with a rich and well-balanced diet aren't at risk; those with an alcohol disorder, for example. are at higher risk.
Common symptoms include decreased muscle function, pain and tingling, and loss of feeling in the toes. Fortunately, one can prevent beriberi by following a vitamin-enriched diet, if thiamine deficiency is the cause.
Peroneal Nerve Injury
Peroneal nerve injury and its association with numb toes is a fantastic example of treating the cause, not the symptom. The peroneal nerve branches from the sciatic nerve and provides sensation to the front and sides of the legs and to the top of the feet. However, what you may not know is that the nerve controls the muscles in the leg that lift the ankle and toes upward, according to John Hopkins Medicine.
An injury to the peroneal nerve can affect its ability to control the muscles in the toes, leading to a numbing sensation. Or worse, a sharp pain. Typically, injuries to the nerve include trauma to the knee: fractures, sprains, dislocations, and surgery. Common symptoms of a peroneal nerve injury include:
An inability to point the toes upward or lift the ankle up
Numb or tingling toes
Reduced ability to move the foot
If you think you may have an injury to your peroneal nerve, consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.
Toe Deformities
Toe deformities, like Bunions, can also put uneven pressure on your toes. This skeletal deformity for example can put pressure on the outside of your feet.
Experiencing Numb Toes? Have No Fear!
We have all your solution under one roof. Open 6 days a week, we’ll be happy to help inform you and solve all your concerns any day at your convenience! Call us at 416-769-3338 or Book Your Assessment Today!
