Items filtered by date: January 2024

If you're an avid runner, you've likely encountered the occasional blackened toenail, a common woe for those who log many miles. The likelihood of developing black toenails increases with the intensity and duration of your runs. Those running shorter distances a couple of times a week are less prone to blackened toenails than those who engage in more rigorous training, like consistent 5K runs. The primary cause of black toenails in runners is repetitive trauma resulting from the mechanics of running. The pressure exerted during each stride, especially when wearing ill-fitting shoes or tight socks, can cause toes to strike the insides of your running shoes repeatedly. Downhill running intensifies this trauma, pushing the foot forward with each stride and increasing the risk of black toenails. Additionally, running in hot weather may lead to swelling, and heightening pressure in the shoe. Black toenails, which typically affect the big and 2nd toe, can become painful. When the discomfort becomes significant, seeking the expertise of a chiropodist is suggested. A chiropodist can alleviate the pain by draining blood from the affected nail, reducing pressure, and promoting a speedier recovery.

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, 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. 

Some common running injuries include:

• Achilles tendonitis

• Shin splints

• Ankle sprains

• Stress fractures

• Plantar fasciitis

• Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

• Train slowly and gradually

• Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run

• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot

• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete

• Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs

• Warm-up prior to a run

• Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Embarking on winter hikes demands a strategic approach to ensure feet remain snug and warm amidst the frosty trails. Begin by selecting insulated footwear designed to shield against the cold's relentless bite. Opt for moisture-resistant materials to prevent dampness, a common culprit for chilly discomfort. Employ thick, woolen socks as an additional layer of defense, promoting insulation without compromising breathability. Consider gaiters, which act as a barrier against snow infiltration, maintaining a dry and toasty environment for your feet. Watch for proper shoe size to allow for circulation, preventing constriction that can lead to frosty toes. Embrace the power of quality insoles, providing extra padding and insulation against the frigid ground. By integrating these measures into your winter hiking routine, you will effortlessly preserve the warmth of your feet, allowing you to relish the beauty of snowy landscapes without the distraction of cold discomfort. Hiking during the winter months is enjoyed by many people. If you are interested in pursuing this type of activity, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for additional information for tips about appropriate footwear.

The winter months can bring about new or worsening foot and ankle problems. If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, 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. 

Winter Foot Problems

• Cracked heels - Dry, cracked skin on the heels of the feet that is associated with cold, dry weather

• Athlete’s foot - A fungal infection on the skin of the feet

• Blisters - Fluid-filled bubbles of skin that usually form in response to friction 

• Fractures - Broken bones in the feet or ankles 

• Metatarsalgia - General foot pain

• Chilblains - Spasming of the small blood vessels in the toes in response to exposure to cold weather 

• Raynaud’s disease - Numbness, pain, and color changes in the toes due to cold weather 

Prevention

• Wear warm socks and shoes

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold

• Moisturize the heels regularly

• Keep your feet clean and dry 

• Walk carefully in areas that may be icy 

• Wear non-slip shoes 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Fungal toenail infections, medically known as mycosis, stem from fungi that breach the body's resistance barriers. Fungi thrive in dark, moist conditions, making human feet an ideal breeding ground. Fungal nail infections often originate from fungal skin infections, such as athlete's foot, where the toes become particularly susceptible. Individuals with compromised health, including diabetes, poor circulation, or weakened immune systems, face an increased risk of developing fungal nail infections. Moreover, damaged nails are more susceptible to infection. Thickened, discolored nails with a green-yellow hue are common indicators of fungal toenails. As the infection progresses, nails may become soft, crumble, and eventually fall off. Fungi thrive in shared spaces like showers, towels, and footwear, spreading easily from person to person. Fungal toenail infections can be stubborn and sometimes take from 12 to 18 months to go away. Following the treatment directions of a chiropodist is essential, and good foot hygiene remains paramount in eliminating the infection. For help with a fungal toenail infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Toenail fungus can be uncomfortable and unsightly. If you have diabetes or a compromised immune system, it may also be dangerous. To learn more about treatment options, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like? 

A fungal infection of the toenail may cause the affected nail to become thickened, brittle, crumbly, and yellowish or brown in color. Sometimes the toenail may separate from the nail bed, become deformed, emit a foul odor, or cause pain or discomfort. 

What Causes Toenail Fungus? 

Toenail fungus is caused by a fungus that infects the nail bed. The fungus lives and thrives in warm and moist environments and is also contagious. Athlete’s foot, which is a fungal infection of the skin, may spread to the nails and cause toenail fungus. 

What Treatments Are Available? 

Potential treatments for toenail fungus may include oral antifungal medications, topical antifungal medications, such as medicated nail polishes that are applied directly to the affected nail, and laser therapy. Sometimes, a combination of treatments is prescribed. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Cycling related foot pain can be a nuisance, but there are methods to alleviate it. Many cyclists suffer from discomfort, especially during long or hot rides when their feet tend to swell. Sometimes, cycling shoes can be too tight, leaving little room for feet to expand. Opting for wider cycling shoes can often solve this problem. If shoe fit is not the issue, other factors like improper bike setup, biomechanics, or muscular imbalances could be causing foot pain. Foot pain in cyclists can manifest in various ways, including hot feet, arch pain, and ball of the foot pain. Preventing foot pain in cycling involves finding well-fitting shoes, using orthotics and insoles as needed, adjusting the saddle height correctly, and performing foot strengthening exercises. If you cycle for fun or sport and experience foot pain as a result of this activity, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an evaluation and discussion of what you may do differently to enjoy pain-free rides.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries

• Ankle strains or sprains

• Plantar fasciitis

• Fractures

• Turf toe 

• Joint dislocations

• Sever’s disease

• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Heel pain is a common concern, and understanding its causes is helpful for effective management. The heel, which features a cushion of fatty tissue, bears the strain of body weight and movement. Factors contributing to heel pain include obesity, where excess weight stresses the heel, and wearing ill-fitting shoes that lack proper support or conform to the foot's natural shape. High-impact activities like running or jumping on hard surfaces can lead to wear and tear, causing inflammation and discomfort. An abnormal walking style, characterized by an uneven distribution of weight, may strain the heel and induce pain. Injuries, such as sudden impacts or repetitive stress, can damage the heel and result in persistent discomfort. Certain diseases including arthritis or neuropathy, are also associated with heel pain. Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, involves inflammation of the foot's ligament due to overstretching. Heel spurs, although generally non-painful, are bony growths that may make underlying issues, like plantar fasciitis, worse. At risk are middle-aged and physically active people, those who are overweight, and those individuals who spend extended periods of time standing. For help in managing heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, 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 it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs

• Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness 

• Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time 

• Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking

• Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.