Items filtered by date: July 2024

Corns, or clavus, develop when skin is subjected to prolonged pressure or friction, often from wearing ill-fitting shoes. These hardened areas primarily appear on toes and the soles of the feet. Initially, a callus forms, which can evolve into a painful corn if the stress persists. Corns on the feet are easily identifiable by their raised, yellowish-beige appearance and their often painful central core. Moist areas, such as between toes, may produce softer, whitish corns. Contributing factors include wearing tight shoes, having foot deformities, joint diseases, or dry skin, which make skin more vulnerable to friction. Those with impaired nerve function might not detect early stages, leading to worsened conditions. Without intervention, corns can thicken and cause deeper tissue pain and inflammation. Treatment focuses on reducing the source of pressure. This can include wearing well-fitted shoes, using protective corn pads, and soaking and gently filing the corn. Individuals with higher injury risks, such as those with diabetes, should seek professional help instead of self-treating. If you have developed a problematic corn on your foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for treatment options.

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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Plantar fasciitis leads to heel pain due to damage done to the thick tissue known as the plantar fascia, that connects your heel bone to your toes. This condition can arise from overstretching or overusing your foot, often in activities like running, dancing, or aerobics. It can also be related to having flat feet, high arches, and being overweight. Pregnant women who stand for long periods may be at risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Symptoms typically include sharp or dull pain under the heel, which worsens with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged activity. Swelling and a burning sensation may also occur. Diagnosis involves an examination of your symptoms, physical activity, and lifestyle, potentially supported by X-rays or other imaging tests. Relief options include wearing supportive shoes or custom orthotic inserts. Additionally, performing specific exercises to stretch the plantar fascia is also beneficial. If you have heel pain related to plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam.

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, 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 Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

• Stabbing pain near the heel

• Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest

• Pain that increases after exercising

• Swelling

• Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

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.

Swelling in the feet, ankles, and lower legs, also known as edema, occurs when fluid builds up in the surrounding tissues. This fluid retention can be caused by several factors. Prolonged standing or sitting, particularly in hot weather, can lead to fluid pooling in the lower extremities. High salt intake and being overweight are also common contributors. Pregnant women often experience swelling due to hormonal changes. Certain medications, such as those for high blood pressure, corticosteroids, and NSAIDs, can result in fluid retention. Injuries like ankle sprains may cause localized swelling. Chronic conditions, such as heart, kidney, or liver disease, can also lead to edema. Women may notice swelling prior to menstruation due to hormonal shifts, and those taking oral contraceptives with estrogen may be more prone to fluid retention. Poor circulation in the legs can result in chronic venous insufficiency, causing blood to pool and lead to swelling. If you have swollen ankles, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an exam, diagnosis, and treatment options.

Caring for your feet is not just something done at the chiropodist’s office. Good foot care starts at home. If you would like to learn more about daily foot care practices, 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 many things that you can do at home to help care for your feet, including: 

• Wearing shoes and socks that fit properly

• Washing the feet daily with soap and water

• Drying the feet thoroughly

• Applying moisturizer to the soles and heels of the feet

• Taking a walk and exercising the feet regularly 

• Doing foot stretches and strengthening exercises 

A chiropodist can help figure out a manageable foot care routine for you to keep your feet healthy. 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.

Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole to touch the ground. This condition can be congenital or develop over time due to factors like aging, injury, obesity, or prolonged standing. Flat feet are common in children, but many outgrow the condition as their arches develop. In adults, flat feet are less likely to improve without intervention. For those experiencing discomfort, flat feet can cause pain in the arch and heel, swelling along the inside of the ankle, and difficulty standing on tiptoes. This discomfort arises from the strain on the muscles and ligaments, improper alignment, and uneven weight distribution. Treatment for flat feet includes wearing supportive, well-fitting shoes, using orthotic inserts to provide arch support, and performing exercises to strengthen the foot muscles. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. If you are experiencing persistent pain or mobility issues due to flat feet, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for a thorough evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, 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 Are Flat Feet? 

Flat feet are feet that do not have a well-defined arch in the middle of the sole of the foot. Flat feet may be flexible or rigid. Flexible flat feet have an arch when there is no pressure put on the foot, such as when one is sitting, but the arch disappears upon standing. Rigid flat feet lack an arch regardless of whether one is standing or not. 

Causes

Flat feet can be present from birth or acquired over time due to a weakening of the ligaments in the arch. Sometimes flat feet are caused by illnesses, injuries, or pregnancy. 

Symptoms

Flat feet often cause no noticeable symptoms. However, some people may experience pain and discomfort due to their flat feet. 

Symptoms associated with flat feet include:

• Pain in the arch, heel, ankle, or along the outside of the foot

• Overpronation of the foot

• Shin splints

• Aching or fatigue in the feet or legs

• Pain in the knees, hips, or lower back

Treatment 

In cases where flat feet cause symptoms, there are various treatments available. Wearing orthotic inserts in your shoes to provide more arch support, performing stretches, and taking medications may improve your symptoms. If you are overweight, losing weight can help relieve pressure on the feet. In severe cases, surgery may be considered. 

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.

Achilles tendon injuries are common among athletes and active individuals. Symptoms typically include pain and stiffness in the back of the heel, especially after physical activity. Swelling and tenderness in the affected area are also common, sometimes accompanied by a popping sound during injury. Causes of Achilles tendon injuries can include sudden increases in physical activity, lack of proper warm-up, and wearing improper footwear. Tight calf muscles and a history of tendonitis can also contribute to the risk. Preventing Achilles tendon injuries involves regular stretching of the calf muscles, gradual increases in activity levels, and wearing supportive footwear. Ensuring proper warm-up and cool-down routines are essential for maintaining tendon health. If you have endured this type of injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can guide you toward the most appropriate treatment method.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf 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. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

• Repetitive stress or overuse

• Sudden increase in activity levels

• High impact injury

• Calf muscle tightness or weakness

• Altered foot biomechanics

• Heel bone spurs

• Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

• Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise

• Chronic heel and calf pain

• Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf

• A popping or snapping sensation

• Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon

• Ankle and calf stiffness

• Decreased range of motion in the affected foot

• Swelling

• Difficulty walking 

Treatment

• Resting the affected leg

• Applying ice 

• Compressing the foot and ankle

• Elevating the injured leg 

• Wearing orthotics

• Low impact exercises

• Stretches

• Strengthening exercises 

• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications

• Cortisone injections

• Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. 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.