Toronto Foot Care

Athlete's foot is a dermatological condition that affects the skin of the feet and can also spread to the toenails. This infection flourishes in warm and humid, which is why it's often contracted in places like swimming pools and changing, hence its name. Keep reading to learn how to recognize and treat athlete's foot effectively.

Tinea pedis, commonly known as athlete's foot, is a fungal infection that affects the skin of the feet. It causes itching and peeling, particularly between the toes, but it can also affect other areas of the foot. While rarely serious, tinea pedis can pose a risk to those with a weakened immune system, making prompt treatment essential. People with diabetes are particularly vulnerable to complications, as the fungus can create openings in the skin that can become infected with bacteria. The athlete's foot can also spread to the hands and other parts of the body through contact with contaminated surfaces or materials. Therefore, it is...

A diabetic foot is a condition that makes diabetic patients very vulnerable to foot lesions and injury. Fortunately, there are ways to prevent the onset of diabetic foot problems and treat diabetes foot pain. Here are the causes of diabetic foot, diabetic feet symptoms, and the solutions offered in podiatric clinics by chiropodists.

Diabetic foot is a condition that occurs when the nerves and blood vessels of the foot are damaged by too much sugar in the blood. Blood circulation is altered, so wounds do not heal as quickly. Poor blood circulation prevents tissues from healing. A diabetic foot is, therefore, very susceptible to injuries, which can degenerate into ulcers and become infected. The situation is further complicated because an absence or significant decrease in the sensation in the foot prevents the patient from understanding the severity of a wound. In extreme cases, poor management of a diabetic foot can lead to amputation. 

Is this a...

Unlike a hollow foot, a flat foot has a collapsed arch. Sometimes, people can live with flat feet and not suffer from pain. However, when debilitating symptoms occur, a visit to a podiatric clinic is the best way to relieve problems associated with flat feet. What causes flatfoot? How to fix flat feet?  Read on to learn all about flat feet. 

A foot that does not have a formed arch is called a flatfoot. Flat feet can be congenital or develop over time. In infants and young children, their feet are flat by default. The arch only deepens as kids learn to walk. After age six, on average, flat feet should be treated if a child complains of pain while walking or avoids running. Adults may live with a congenital flatfoot without suffering from it. However, acquired flat feet, meaning that they have developed over time, can cause pain and affect posture. Several factors can cause arch collapse, some of which are indicators of underlying pathologies.

Is...

With its complex structure of more than 30 joints, the foot is often the first part of the body to be affected by arthritis and osteoarthritis. This condition affects most adults over the age of fifty. Fortunately, solutions exist to relieve pain and limit the effects of joint deformity. Here is what a chiropodist can offer as foot arthritis and osteoarthritis treatment.

Foot arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease that causes the breakdown of joints and related tissues, such as tendons and ligaments. Arthritis in the foot often results from a failure of the person's immune system, which attacks healthy joint tissues. What does arthritis in the foot feel like? Foot arthritis symptoms often mean people experience stiffness in their movements and pain; their joints may be swollen. Their range of motion and mobility are affected. Foot arthritis can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and mood. 

What is the difference between...

Because they are under constant pressure, the feet are a vulnerable part of the body to deformations. These changes can be visible to the naked eye. But when they are not immediately noticed, the consequences can interfere with the patient's quality of life. Knee, pelvis or back pain can gradually set in. To avoid these complications, here is how to recognize foot deformities and the solutions to treat them.

Foot deformities occur when one or more bones deviate from their normal positions. Some people may be born with slight deformities or have acquired minor ones but do not feel pain. Others, however, may experience balance problems and pain. Foot deformities often occur in the toes and arch of the foot. There are many reasons, ranging from ill-fitting shoes to a poorly healed injury. Certain inflammatory and neurological diseases can also cause changes in the shape of the toes or foot. 

Acquired flat or hollow feet and toe bunions (hallux valgus)...

Hallux Rigidus is a condition that affects many people, often causing discomfort and impacting daily activities. As a form of degenerative arthritis, it is essential to understand the risk factors and early signs associated with this ailment. By being aware of the condition, individuals can seek appropriate intervention and maintain mobility and quality of life.

Hallux Rigidus is a form of osteoarthritis of the big toe, causing joint stiffness, deformity, and pain. Over time, the cartilage that cushions the joint wears away, leading to bone-on-bone contact and resulting in inflammation and discomfort.

Is it a common problem?

It is a widespread issue, affecting millions of individuals worldwide. It is estimated that up to 2-10% of the population may experience its symptoms at some point.

The causes of hallux Rigidus are primarily linked to the wearing down of the protective cartilage in the metatarsophalangeal joint of the big...

Hallux valgus is one of the most common foot deformities seen in podiatric clinics. This foot pathology is easily identified with the naked eye. Despite its common nature, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional quickly at the first signs of discomfort. A foot bunion treated early is less likely to develop complications. Here are the causes of hallux valgus, typical hallux valgus symptoms, and how to prevent foot bunions.

Hallux valgus, the medical term for a bunion on your foot, is a forefoot deformity of the base of the big toe. A bunion on a big toe is a condition that can be present at birth or develop over time.  

Hallux valgus deformities come in three stages. The first stage, which is considered normal, is a visible deviation of the big toe; it appears as a bump on the outside of the foot. This stage can remain painless and manageable. In the second stage, the deviation is more apparent and can be painful. It can even...

Heel pain can arise due to many factors. However, if you experienced localized throbbing, the heel bone is most likely the cause. A heel spur, also known as Lenoir's spur, is a condition that often goes hand in hand with plantar fasciitis. What exactly is a heel spur? What are the most common heel spur symptoms? What are the best options for heel spur treatment? We explain it all in the following article.

A heel spur is a bony growth that forms at the junction where the heel bone attaches to the plantar fascia. This growth appears when the fascia (the membrane that supports the foot arch) is overstressed. It is your body's reaction to compensating for tension in the arch of your foot. This natural adaptation can sometimes go unnoticed. However, when the tension becomes too strong, it causes pain in your heel. The pathology that appears is called Lenoir spur (heel spur).

Is heel spur pain common?

Heel spurs are a common problem for people who...

Functional Hallux Limitus, or Hallux Limitus, is a relatively common condition where the range of motion (dorsiflexion) of your big toe joint is limited, making it difficult to perform activities that require bending or pushing off with your foot. 

Essentially, the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, where your big toe (also known as the hallux) meets your foot, becomes stiff, inflexible and doesn't move properly. This can cause pain and discomfort in the foot, changing your gait and impacting your ability to engage in certain activities like walking, running or jumping.

To understand the difference between functional hallux Limitus becoming Hallux Rigidus, it is important to understand the functioning of your big toe. A big toe with a normal range of motion means that you can lift your big toe to reach an angle of at least 65 degrees and bend it. 

With functional Hallux Limitus, your big toe cannot move through its full range of...

Onychocryptosis (the ingrown toenail medical term) is a common and sometimes painful condition experienced when a toenail grows into the surrounding flesh. Understanding the factors that contribute to its development can help prevent it. However, when the pain becomes unbearable, you'll need to visit a foot health professional. This article outlines the condition's symptoms and causes while providing insight into how to treat an ingrown toenail.

Onychocryptosis is a common infection caused by skin growing over the toenail. This condition typically affects the big toe, especially if the nail is cut too short. Although it can occur in people of all ages, it's most common in teenagers and older people. While ingrown nails are usually benign, they can become problematic if the infection spreads or the affected person has underlying health issues. In such cases, it's recommended to schedule a visit with a chiropodist.

Are ingrown toenails common?

In...

Circulatory disorders can affect any part of the body. However, the legs are more vulnerable to leg venous insufficiency disorders due to the size of our lower limbs and the number of veins they contain. What are the symptoms of venous insufficiency, also known as venous stasis? Is chronic venous insufficiency a disability? In this article, you’ll learn more about chronic venous insufficiency and the treatments available to curb its effects.

The veins contain small valves; they maintain good blood circulation from the limbs to the heart. When these valves are no longer able to perform their function, blood accumulates: this is called leg venous insufficiency. Since blood flow is reduced, the heart has to work harder to pump it. Pressure increases in the arteries and veins, leading to high blood pressure or sometimes damage to the veins. Over time, hypertension weakens this entire system, putting a person at risk for serious diseases, such as thrombosis, a...

Lumbago – another word for lower back pain – is a prevalent condition affecting the lumbar region of the spine. Experiencing lower back pain can be a frustrating and debilitating issue for many. Let’s look at this ailment and its causes, symptoms, and possible treatment options.

Lumbago can range from mild discomfort to agony, making it difficult for individuals to carry out daily activities and maintain a good quality of life. This pain can originate from various sources, including muscles, ligaments, nerves, or intervertebral discs.

Is it a common problem?

Quite common, it affects millions of people worldwide. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NIH), approximately 80% of individuals will experience some form of lumbago.

Lumbago can be classified into common and symptomatic (or specific). Common lumbago is not directly related to inflammation, infection, tumor, or trauma. Instead,...

Morton's Neuroma is a benign condition that can cause discomfort at rest and during activity. Although this foot neuroma may not present any symptoms in some cases, it is important to treat it as soon as initial pain appears in the nerves of your foot. Here's how to identify, prevent and treat Morton's Neuroma.

Morton's neuroma, also known as foot neuroma or Morton’s toe, is a localized pain between the toes that can be felt under the forefoot. It is caused by a thickened nerve (the neuroma), which is irritated by a deformation of the foot, repeated impact, or trauma. Generally, this nerve is located between the third and fourth toes. The sharp stinging pain in your toes can be intermittent. The pain in the nerves of your foot can resemble an electrical discharge, and you may experience burning or numbness. Morton's neuroma is often felt in one foot, but sometimes both feet are affected. Seeing with the naked eye can be challenging, but sometimes you can see...

Plantar fasciitis is a condition causing pain under the foot, usually experienced after a long period of rest or high-intensity activity. What sets it apart from other forms of discomfort is that plantar fasciitis can lead to long-term heel pain (Heel spur). Fortunately, the symptoms can be identified and treated at your local chiropodist clinic.

Plantar fasciitis, or plantar aponeurosis, is the inflammation of tissue supporting muscles and ligaments at the foot's arch (the fascia). It manifests as stiffness and pain spreading from heel to toe. Pain can intensify when the heel is raised (often during sporting activities), and those affected may find it difficult to put their feet flat when they get out of bed. These unpleasant sensations often result from an overstressed fascia, a part of the body that must remain flexible enough to support your weight. When untreated, plantar fasciitis can result in a tear or become extremely painful. 

How common is...

A painful compression of the tibial nerve is what characterizes a tarsal tunnel syndrome.

The tibial nerve extends from the back of the calf to the heel and sole of the foot and is encased in the tarsal tunnel, a fibrous canal.

When the tissues around this canal become inflamed, they might expand and compress it, causing the tarsal tunnel syndrome pain.

Let's take a look at the signs and symptoms of this foot problem, as well as the remedies available.

Have you ever wondered, “Why are my feet tingling?” You could have tarsal tunnel syndrome, a condition characterized by the compression of the tibial nerve, which runs from the back of the calf to the heel and the sole of the foot. This compression occurs within a fibrous tunnel called the tarsal tunnel. Inflammation and swelling of the tissues near the tarsal tunnel can lead to the characteristic pain associated with this syndrome. The pain can vary from mild to severe and may...

A plantar wart is a benign tumour on the surface of the skin. Caused by the papillomavirus, it often looks like a lesion on the bottom of the foot. Unlike warts found elsewhere on the body, plantar warts produce growths inside the skin rather than on the skin's surface. It's common for them to be mistaken for corns or calluses, and sometimes they're so inconspicuous that they go entirely unnoticed. Conversely, they can show up on pressure points of the foot, producing pain or discomfort from infected cells below the skin's surface. It's often these infected cells that lead to a consultation. Overall, plantar warts are safe for people without specific health problems. Podiatry clinics offer several ways to remove plantar warts.

There are essentially two types of plantar warts, both highly contagious. They can be identified by their shape and the degree of discomfort they produce. The most common of the two is Myrmecia. These warts have their bases deeply embedded...

Mobility is essential to your quality of life, whether to stay in shape, do your daily tasks, or fulfill your obligations. Like fractures, the dislocation of a bone in the foot can affect all aspects of your life. Fortunately, cuboid syndrome is an easily preventable and curable condition. Interested in learning what cuboid syndrome feels like and how to treat cuboid syndrome? Find out more about this problem. The treatments that chiropodists can offer and how you help your cuboid syndrome heal itself. 

Cuboid syndrome, also known as a subluxed cuboid, means that a bone in your foot is partially dislocated but still in contact with the surrounding bones. Subluxation of the cuboid bone is, therefore, a displacement of this bone from its normal anatomical position. 

Where is the cuboid bone located? This small cuboid bone is found in the set of bones that make up the back of the foot: the tarsus. The tarsus comprises seven bones, including the three...

Biomechanics is a concept that refers to how biological structures work together. These structures can be composed of tissues, bones, ligaments and muscles. A biomechanical exam for orthotics is often required to detect pathologies, misalignments or deformities. It is a valuable tool for the chiropodist to determine a treatment plan. Here is what a biomechanical exam consists of and the benefits it offers to patients.

A biomechanical exam consists of observing the patient's musculoskeletal structure in movement and static position. This exam considers constraints exerted by the ground and gravity on the body, including the feet. A chiropodist can assess the pressure points, the axis of the articular movements, the flexibility of the patient and the amplitude of their movements. All these aspects can be recorded with sensors placed on the floor and using cameras with the patient. The chiropodist can also take measurements of the patient. Depending on the results...

It is estimated that the structure of children's feet and legs stabilizes between the ages of four and six. A children’s chiropodist experienced in podopediatrics can assess kids’ feet from the earliest stages of their lives. The advantage of routine checks is that they allow for a quick resolution of problems early. The bone and muscle structure of children is more malleable than that of adults. A children’s chiropodist’s gentle care techniques will stabilize your child's lower extremities. Evaluating children’s feet prevents small misalignments from becoming more complex problems.

Running, walking, jumping: Young children and teenagers are often more active than adults. Therefore, their foot health must be monitored to avoid injuries and complications. Evaluating children's feet involves observing them in static and dynamic positions to check for biomechanical dysfunctions. Children’s chiropodists use sensors to record their movements and the...

It's not uncommon to see children walking on their toes. Sometimes, their gait may seem wobbly, and their knees turn inward. It's important to know that certain foot and posterior chain disorders can affect toddlers from the moment they take their first steps. To play it safe, you can always make an appointment with a children's chiropodist to see if a podiatric treatment is required.

Chiropody care for children with foot conditions can begin before the little one's first birthday. Flat feet, club feet, or (for children of walking age) pain in the feet and legs are all possible pathologies. The sooner you seek out chiropody care for your child, the easier and quicker it will be to restore a good balance. Treatments in podopediatrics are mostly gentle and non-intrusive. Strapping is sometimes prescribed to relieve pain and restore the proper bone and muscle position. You can seek advice from a children's podiatrist about the best shoes for your child or the need...

To treat your foot pain, whether it is caused by pathology or deformity, your chiropodist will begin using gentle, non-invasive methods. Most podiatric cases can be treated with manual therapy, rehabilitation exercises, splints, or custom orthotics. Nevertheless, some pain can be persistent and considerably reduce your quality of life. In this case, cortisone injections can be administered to your foot.

Cortisone is a glucocorticoid hormone found naturally in the human body. It is a molecule that results from the breakdown of cortisol, a steroid hormone (i.e., from the lipid class), by the kidneys. It is common to refer to cortisol as the stress hormone. However, this is not its only function. It plays a crucial role in transforming fats and proteins and managing the blood sugar balance (hence its name, glucocorticoid). It is also involved in the proper functioning of the immune system. When we talk about cortisone in the pharmaceutical field, we refer to the...

Laser treatment for feet, like ultrasound treatments, is a lesser-known podiatric solution among the public. However, it's an interesting alternative to invasive treatments. Quick to perform and yielding long-lasting results, foot laser treatments may interest you if you suffer from acute or chronic foot pain.

Many patients approach laser therapy with a slew of questions: What is laser treatment? How does laser therapy work? And, most importantly, are laser treatments safe? The first thing to know is that these types of lasers differ drastically from industrial lasers—so there's no need to worry about pain or injury. The entire process is extremely safe.  

So, what exactly is laser treatment? Simply put, laser treatment for the feet involves applying light beams to the afflicted area of the body. The light emitted is powerful enough to penetrate superficial layers of the skin to reach the affected tissue that needs...

Foot care can take many forms. For example, therapeutic massages, callus debridement and Shockwave treatments are all types of foot care. Chiropodists offer a wide range of foot care. Let’s look into the world of foot care and why foot care is essential.

Foot care is a term used to describe any treatment that helps to heal a condition that creates pain or discomfort. These ailments can be related to bones, joints, internal soft tissue, skin, and nails. Depending on the area affected, treatment may consist of manipulating the patient's foot or prescribing medication. But that's not all: a chiropodist can also treat pathologies with orthotics.

When a patient's condition lends itself to it, chiropodists favour non-invasive care. Physical foot care, such as rehabilitation exercises or manual therapies, is the most widely spread treatment. However, there are times when medication is required. This information is particularly accurate for skin and nail...

There are many possible sources of foot pain: a pathology, deformity, or posture problem. FootNetwork chiropodists offer a wide range of foot pain treatments for any condition. Let’s look into how you can get foot pain relief.

You can examine your child's feet from the first months of life. Some foot pain may be congenital, such as clubfoot. Others can occur as soon as your child starts to walk. A toddler who complains of foot pain after an activity or has an unsteady gait may have flat feet. Fatigue and discomfort are often symptoms that should be taken seriously. A podiatry consultation will allow a chiropodist to check the alignment of your child's lower limbs and any postural problems. The earlier treatment begins, the greater the chances of avoiding complications in adulthood. One of the most common solutions is custom-made foot orthotics, which effectively correct imbalances.  

Some skin or toenail problems can be easily treated...

Foot taping, also known as therapeutic taping, is the application of an adhesive strip to a part of the body to treat it. It is a method used by physiotherapists, kinesiologists and chiropodists. It allows for gently treating injuries or conditions. For example, conditions such as plantar fasciitis, tendonitis or lower extremity imbalances can be treated with foot taping. Several types of foot tapes can be used. Athletic foot tapes help to guide the movement of the foot. Neuroproprioceptive foot tapes (Kinesio Tape) limit the inflammatory reactions of the tissues to be treated. All-purpose foot tapes help relieve tension in certain areas.

Therapeutic taping improves foot mechanics, including regaining a good posture and stabilizing a limb. Foot tape’s function is to restore the range of motion to the foot and ankle and support the regeneration of injured tissue. However, while there are different types of foot tape, depending on the required treatment, they have...

Chronic pain and injuries can be treated with ShockWave therapy. Indeed, the treatment may sound intimidating at first, but ShockWave therapy for the feet is a non-invasive method that works by stimulating the body's natural healing responses. It's a preferred treatment for those who want to avoid surgery and medication. Here's a rundown of the therapy to help you make an informed decision

n some cases, boosting the tissue's inflammatory response can encourage healing. And while inflammation may not produce the most comfortable sensation, it's the immune system's natural response to infection or injury. When not chronic or extreme, inflammation can be quite beneficial, and it's this principle that ShockWave foot therapy is based upon.

So, what is ShockWave therapy exactly? Simply put, vibrations produced by the ShockWave therapy machine propagate through the skin into underlying tissue. These radial acoustic waves (waves from a single source that spread...

Toenail care, as part of overall foot care, is one of the services offered by chiropodists. Ingrown toenails, which can be very uncomfortable, require professional care to avoid complications. Here are the ingrown toenail treatments offered in a podiatric clinic to fix ingrown toenails permanently. 

An ingrown toenail is a nail that grows abnormally into the flesh, creating inflammation. The big toe is most often affected. An ingrown toenail is painful; walking and wearing shoes can worsen if left untreated. Indeed, the pressure and friction created by an ingrown toenail can cause lesions. In an advanced stage, an ingrown toenail can become infected, and the pain can radiate into the foot. This is one of the risks that people with diabetic foot have, as their weakened immunity makes them more vulnerable. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can develop into an ulcer. For all these reasons, it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional when ingrown...

Plantar warts are common skin lesions that can cause discomfort, pain and aesthetic issues. It is essential to seek treatment to prevent their spread and avoid complications. In this article, you will learn about various treatment options for plantar warts and get expert guidance on preventing their recurrence.

A plantar wart is a skin growth caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They typically appear on the sole of the foot and can be painful when subjected to pressure. There are several types of plantar warts, each with distinct characteristics and appropriate treatments.

Are plantar warts contagious?

Yes, they are indeed quite contagious. They spread through contact with infected skin or contaminated surfaces, such as shared footwear or public shower floors. It is essential to practice good hygiene to minimize the risk of spreading this infection to others.

What are the different types of plantar warts?

There are...

A foot orthosis is a specialized insole designed to treat gait disorders. These therapeutic inserts can correct balance and posture, prevent and relieve pain, and improve overall comfort. Foot orthotics are available in two main types: over-the-counter or custom-made. Custom-made orthotics can be further divided into accommodative or functional orthotics. The shape, flexibility, and length of the orthotic can vary depending on the specific needs of the individual. If you're wondering how foot orthotics work or what benefits they can offer, this article aims to answer some of the most common questions about them. Additionally, if you're looking for appropriate foot orthotics near you, we can help you find a qualified provider in your area.

Over-the-counter insoles, usually found in pharmacies, offer general comfort and thermal insulation, but their effects are limited due to their generic design. On the other hand, custom orthopedic insoles are molded to the shape of...