Items filtered by date: March 2024

Hiking can exert significant stress on the feet, leading to various issues if precautions are not taken. Prolonged walking on uneven terrain can cause blisters, calluses, corns, and conditions like plantar fasciitis or stress fractures. To help mitigate these risks, hikers should wear appropriate well-fitting footwear with good arch support and break in new shoes before embarking on long hikes. Additionally, using moisture-wicking socks that are regularly changed may help prevent blisters. A chiropodist can offer valuable assistance in several ways. They can provide personalized advice on footwear selection and fitting, prescribe custom-made orthotic inserts to provide additional support and cushioning and assess and treat any foot problems that arise during or after hiking. If you participate in hiking and you are concerned about your feet or have sustained an injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance on foot care techniques, in addition to exercises that can strengthen the feet and prevent future injuries.

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.

Choosing the right shoes is essential for maintaining foot health and overall well-being. Properly fitted shoes with adequate cushioning and support can reduce the risk of foot injuries and discomfort. When selecting footwear, consider factors such as activity type, foot shape, and existing foot issues. Athletic shoes should be chosen based on the specific demands of your sport or activity, and it is important to prioritize comfort, fit, and functionality. Ensure your shoes have enough room for your toes to wiggle and provide proper support for your arches and heels. Inspect the soles for durability and grip, especially for sports or outdoor activities. Investing in the right shoes is an investment in your foot health and overall comfort. If you are experiencing foot pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can assess your feet and provide personalized recommendations.

Finding the right shoes for you can ensure your comfort and help maintain proper foot health. If you suffer from foot pain and need help finding the right shoes for you, 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. 

Tips to Find Great Shoes 

Finding shoes that are well-fitting, supportive, and comfortable can be key in maintaining your overall foot health, but can sometimes seem like a monumental task. 

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when shopping for shoes. 

• Shop in a brick and mortar store - Your shoe size can change throughout your lifetime. You will be able to try on shoes before you buy them to ensure a proper fit. A salesperson can also provide recommendations on what shoes best serve your specific needs.

• Try shoes on at the end of the day - Your feet swell throughout the day. By trying shoes on in the evening when the feet are at their largest, you ensure a good fit and shoes that are comfortable all day.

• Have your feet measured - Find the right fit by having your feet measured at the shoe store. A salesperson can help by measuring both feet with a Brannock device to determine your true size. 

• Opt for comfort and support - Some shoes, such as high heels and flip flops, may look great but can cause damage to the feet over time. Look for shoes that have a low heel, adequate arch support, a wide toe box, and are made of breathable materials. 

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.

Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, manifests differently among individuals, with approximately 25% experiencing typical symptoms, over half displaying atypical signs, and 20% reporting no symptoms. Despite this variability, all PAD patients face heightened cardiovascular risks. Left untreated, PAD can lead to complications such as ulcers, infections, and even limb amputation. Common symptoms include intermittent muscle pain, characterized by leg pain or cramping during movement that subsides with rest, often felt in the calf but may occur in other areas. Additional signs encompass diminished toenail and leg hair growth, temperature discrepancies between feet, skin discoloration, and numbness. In severe cases, critical limb ischemia manifests as pain at rest. Ulcers or slow-healing wounds on the legs, feet, or toes signify advanced PAD stages, potentially leading to severe complications if neglected. Early recognition and treatment are vital for managing PAD and preventing associated complications. If you have PAD, it is strongly suggested that you make regular appointments with a chiropodist for examinations and care.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a serious condition that can increase your risk of having a stroke or heart attack. If you have symptoms of PAD, 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 Is Peripheral Artery Disease?

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the lower limbs narrow and harden due to a buildup of arterial plaque. PAD causes a reduction in blood flow to the legs and other extremities. 

Symptoms

Often, people with PAD experience no symptoms, especially in the early stages. If PAD continues to worsen, the first sign of PAD may be claudication, pain and cramping in the legs while walking, caused by the reduction of blood supply to the muscles of the legs. 

Other potential symptoms include: 

• Numbness or weakness in the legs

• Coldness in the legs or feet

• Slow-healing sores or wounds

• Skin discoloration or hair loss on the legs

• Slow growth of toenails

Diagnosis

Most often chiropodists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to the blood pressure in your ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Vascular tests look at the blood flow in the legs and are generally painless and non-invasive. 

Treatment

Lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help limit further arterial plaque buildup. Taking your prescribed medications can reduce your risk of stroke and heart attack. In some cases, surgery may be required to improve blood flow. 

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.

Blisters on the feet are often triggered by friction, pressure, burns, freezing, and contact dermatitis. Blisters can become excruciatingly painful and pose a challenge to manage. The constant pressure and movement of the feet make them susceptible to blister formation, which can hinder mobility and cause discomfort. While minor blisters can often be managed at home with proper care and hygiene, persistent or severe cases may require professional attention. If you are struggling with recurrent blisters or if a blister pops and becomes infected despite self-care measures, it is suggested that you seek assistance from a chiropodist. This foot specialist can provide tailored treatment, recommend suitable footwear, and offer ways to alleviate pain.

Blisters can usually be treated at home, however, if you have recurring blisters or experience significant discomfort or pain, 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 Is a Blister? 

A blister is a small pocket of fluid in the upper skin layers and is one of the body’s natural responses to injury or pressure. Blisters can also result from burns, fungal or viral skin infections, and the feet are particularly prone due to ill-fitting footwear and friction. Friction on the skin causes the upper layer of skin to separate from the lower layers. The space that this separation creates then becomes filled with a liquid called serum, which protects the lower layers of skin. 

Treatment 

If you notice a blister on your foot, you can cover it with a soft bandage or dressing to protect it. Popping the blister is discouraged. Doing so exposes the raw skin underneath it to bacteria and also raises the risk of infection. If a blister pops naturally, let it drain before covering it with a bandage. Blisters usually heal on their own or with home treatment, however, if your blister is recurring, very painful, or appears infected, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can help to prevent blisters by wearing comfortable, well-fitted shoes. Keep your feet dry by wearing moisture-wicking socks and dust your feet with talcum powder if they tend to get sweaty. If you have areas on your feet that are more susceptible to blisters, you might be able to prevent the blister from forming by covering it with a pad. 

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.