Plantar warts form on the bottom of the feet from a strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV). These warts are most often found on the feet of children and teens, as well as those with lowered immune systems.  They are also common among dancers, gymnasts, and swimmers because they are more apt to go barefoot in communal areas. These warts often feel hard and rough to the touch. They can be raised or flat and sometimes a black dot is visible in the center. These warts can appear alone or in groupings of warts and may cause pain when walking. Plantar warts are contagious when caused by the HPV virus and can spread, especially in warm, wet environments. Because they can be confused with corns or calluses on the feet, it is suggested that a chiropodist be consulted for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Plantar warts can be uncomfortable or even painful. If you’re suffering from warts on your feet, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What Does a Plantar Wart Look Like? 

Plantar warts are fleshy growths that generally have a rough, grainy texture. They may look and feel like a callus and are usually small and can grow individually or in clusters. Plantar warts may have small, black dots at their center that are actually tiny blood vessels. Warts interrupt the natural lines of your skin. 

Treatment Options

• Salicylic acid - A chemical solution applied directly to the wart
• Cryotherapy - Freezing the wart off with liquid nitrogen
• Minor surgery - Removing the wart through excision
• Laser treatment - A concentrated beam of light is used to remove the wart
• Wearing comfortable shoes and socks to avoid irritating the wart
• Over-the-counter medications for pain relief
• Patches to keep pressure off the warts

Plantar warts can go away on their own, but this may take several months to years. If your plantar warts are bothering you, seeking medical treatment is suggested. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Your feet work hard day in and day out, bearing the weight of your entire body as they carry you through your life. At the end of the day, your feet can be sore and achy. Massaging the feet for a few minutes each day may be beneficial. Foot massages purportedly help reduce foot pain and stiffness, improve circulation, and relax the muscles of the feet. Foot massages may also reduce swelling in the feet, which is particularly common among pregnant women. To learn more about foot massage, please consult with a chiropodist. 

If you have sore feet or are recovering from an injury, then you may need foot therapy. For more information about foot therapy, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.

Physical therapy is often helpful for those who suffer from foot pain or injury, and may include:

• Stretching - Increases the feet’s flexibility and mobility
• Strengthening Exercises - Help muscles in the injured area build strength
• Massage - Activates and relaxes muscles

Physical therapy can optimize healing and increase one’s chances of full recovery following an injury. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Whether you are an experienced runner or just beginning your running journey, the importance of finding the right running shoes cannot be overstated. The right footwear can often mean the difference between smooth, comfortable runs and discomfort, foot pain, and injury. Factors that you should consider when looking for running shoes include the type of running you will be doing (long-distance, sprinting, etc.), the type of terrain you will be running on, and your individual foot needs. It is best to go shoe shopping later in the day when your feet are naturally at their largest. A store associate can help you find the right size and recommend shoes that suit your needs. A chiropodist can analyze your gait, diagnose any foot problems, and suggest what types of running shoes may be best for you. For more information, please consult with a chiropodist. 

The right running shoes can sometimes be difficult to find. With so many options on the market, it’s important to know the unique needs of your feet prior to buying running shoes. If you require assistance, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When looking for running shoes, take into consideration:

• The type of running you will be doing
• The terrain you plan to run on
• Your gait or running pattern
• Your arch type
• Other unique foot needs

A chiropodist can help by examining your feet and your gait to determine what types of shoes may be best for you. Some runners may require motion control shoes, which prevent your foot from rolling too far inward while you run. Others may need stability shoes, which offer more balance, cushioning, and support. When shopping for shoes, make sure that they are the right size, fit comfortably, and are made of breathable materials. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Corns are small bumps of thickened skin that can appear on the foot. They usually occur in response to excessive friction from ill-fitting footwear. There are several different types of corns. Hard corns are typically found on the tops of toes and are characterized by a hard center surrounded by inflamed skin. Soft corns are typically found between the toes. They are soft due to their exposure to sweat. There are also seed corns, tiny bumps on the soles of the feet that typically occur in multiples. Seed corns are often asymptomatic, but hard and soft corns can cause pain and discomfort, especially if the affected area experiences frequent pressure, friction, or irritation. If you have painful corns, it is suggested that you seek the care of a chiropodist. 

Corns are small bumps or dry, hardened skin that can arise on the feet, usually in response to friction. Corns can be asymptomatic, or they can be uncomfortable or painful. If you have corns that are bothering you, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

There are three types of corns:

• Hard corns
  • Often occur on the tops of toes
  • Feature a hard core surrounded by dry, irritated skin
  • Can be painful
• Soft corns
  • Often occur in between the toes
  • Soft due to constant exposure to sweat
  • Can be painful
• Seed corns
  • Tiny
  • Often occur on the soles of the feet
  • Usually asymptomatic

Corns can be prevented by wearing shoes that fit properly. They are typically benign and don’t require medical treatment. However, if your corns are causing you pain or discomfort, don’t hesitate to reach out to a chiropodist near you for treatment options. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON .