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The development of children's feet is a gradual process that begins at birth and continues throughout their early years. At birth, babies have flat feet, with arches forming as they grow and begin to walk. By age 3, most children will have developed more defined arches, and by age 6 or 7, their feet should resemble those of an adult in structure. Encouraging healthy foot development involves promoting physical activities that strengthen the feet, such as walking, running, and climbing. These activities help build muscle and improve coordination. Good foot hygiene is also essential, as regularly cleaning and drying the feet can prevent infections. Additionally, properly fitting footwear that provides adequate support can prevent issues like flat feet or other deformities. If your child's feet hurt, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can offer treatment solutions, and educate you on additional knowledge about your child’s foot growth.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Causes of Foot Pain in Children

While children can experience many of the same foot problems as adults do, some foot problems may be more common during childhood. 

Causes of foot pain in children can include:

• Deformities that are present from birth, such as flat feet or clubfoot

• Sever’s disease, which is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone

• Various sports injuries, such as sprains and fractures 

• Ingrown toenails

• Athlete’s foot

• Plantar warts

Prevention

It is important to look after the health of children’s feet in order to prevent future problems from arising. Keep your child’s feet clean and dry, trim their toenails regularly, ensure their shoes fit properly, and keep a watchful eye on any symptoms of foot pain, such as limping. If you notice any symptoms or if your child complains of foot pain, a chiropodist can help. 

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.

Severe athlete's foot is a fungal infection that can lead to significant discomfort and complications. Common symptoms include intense itching, burning sensations, and peeling skin, particularly between the toes. In severe cases of athlete's foot, blisters may form, causing pain and inflammation. Risk factors include wearing tight, damp shoes, which create an ideal environment for fungal growth, as well as frequent communal areas such as swimming pools and locker rooms. There are different types of severe athlete's foot, including plantar athlete's foot, which affects the soles and can lead to thickened skin and scaling. Vesicular athlete's foot is characterized by the formation of fluid-filled blisters, often causing severe itching. If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can determine which type it is, and offer appropriate treatment methods.

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Athlete’s Foot? 

Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include: 

• Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet

• Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet

• Scaly, red rash on the foot

• Blisters 

• Foul odor

Treatment

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both. 

Prevention

Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices. 

You can prevent athlete’s foot by:

• Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day

• Wearing shoes when walking in public areas

• Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others

• Wearing shoes and socks made out 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.

Foot pain in the elderly can stem from various underlying health issues, significantly impacting mobility and quality of life. One contributing factor is kidney disease, which can lead to fluid retention and swelling in the feet, causing discomfort. Neurological disorders may also play a role, as conditions such as neuropathy can result in altered sensations and pain due to nerve damage. Additionally, thyroid disorders can affect metabolism and circulation, leading to symptoms that manifest in the feet. A lack of vitamin D, essential for bone health, can also result in weakness and discomfort, particularly in the lower extremities. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can determine what the cause is, and offer effective treatment options.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

• Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

• Heel pain

• Arch pain

• Toe pain

• Ball of foot pain

• Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

• Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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.

Ankle sprains can affect anyone, although some people are at a higher risk of injury than others. If you have a history of ankle sprains, you may be more prone to future sprains, because weakened or stretched ligaments can lead to chronic ankle instability. People involved in sporting activities that require frequent jumping or quick direction changes, such as basketball or soccer, also face a higher likelihood of incurring this type of injury. Anyone with loose joints, known as ligamentous laxity, has a greater chance of ankle sprains resulting from flexible ligaments. A high-arched foot structure can further increase risk, as this foot type often makes inward rolling easier, predisposing the ankle to injury. Weak muscles surrounding the ankle can also contribute to sprains, as these muscles provide stability during high-risk movements. A chiropodist can assess your foot structure, joint stability, and muscle strength, recommending exercises or supports to reduce your injury risk. If you believe you have sprained your ankle, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for advice and guidance.

When one or more ligaments in the ankle overstretch or tear due to injury, an ankle sprain occurs. If you would like to learn more about ankle sprains, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms of an ankle sprain vary depending on the severity of the injury, but may include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Tenderness

• Difficulty walking

• Ankle instability

• A reduced range of motion in the ankle 

Treatments for an ankle sprain may consist of: 

• Resting the injured ankle

• Applying ice

• Elevating the ankle

• Compressing the ankle

• Over-the-counter pain medications

• Ankle braces or other devices to take weight off of the ankle

• Ankle exercises 

• Surgery (in rare cases) 

It’s important for the sprained ankle to heal correctly and fully in order to avoid repeated injury. 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.

Cracked heels are not only a cosmetic concern but can also indicate underlying health issues, including vitamin deficiencies. Essential vitamins, particularly vitamins A, E, and B, play a vital role in maintaining skin health. A deficiency in vitamin A can lead to dry and flaky skin, making the heels more susceptible to cracking. Vitamin E, known for its antioxidant properties, helps in skin repair and hydration. Additionally, B vitamins contribute to overall skin health, and their lack can exacerbate dryness and irritation. Hydration and proper nutrition are essential for skin integrity, and ensuring an adequate intake of these vitamins can help prevent cracked heels. Cracked heels can be painful, and may cause difficulty in completing daily activities. If this applies to you, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can help you manage this condition.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing

• Wearing open-back shoes

• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels

• Living in a cold or dry climate

• Taking long, hot showers

• Not moisturizing the heels

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Palmoplantar keratoderma

• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet

• Exfoliating with a pumice stone

• Moisturizing the heels

• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels

• Avoiding prolonged standing 

• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers

• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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.

Painful foot disorders are prevalent among the elderly population and can significantly impact daily life. Conditions like arthritis, plantar fasciitis, and neuropathy often cause discomfort, limiting mobility and independence. These disorders may manifest as persistent pain, swelling, or stiffness, making accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment. Without a proper diagnosis, underlying issues may go unaddressed, leading to worsening symptoms and complications. A thorough evaluation by a chiropodist can help determine the root cause of foot pain and guide appropriate interventions. Treatment options may include orthotic devices or medication to alleviate discomfort and improve function. If you are elderly and have developed a foot condition, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can diagnose it and offer effective treatment methods.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin

• Calluses and corns

• Blisters

• Ingrown toenails

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

• Fungal infections

• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

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.

Cuboid syndrome is characterized by pain and discomfort on the outer edge of the foot, often caused by a dislocation or subluxation of the cuboid bone. This condition frequently affects athletes and can result from acute injury or repetitive strain. Relief techniques for cuboid syndrome include specific therapeutic exercises such as the cuboid whip and cuboid squeeze. The cuboid whip involves gently mobilizing the cuboid bone to restore its proper position, while the cuboid squeeze helps alleviate pain by applying pressure to the area. Additionally, foot taping can support and stabilize the affected area, reducing discomfort during movement. Using orthotic inserts can also improve foot alignment and distribute pressure more evenly. If you have pain in this part of your foot, it is suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can effectively treat this condition.

Cuboid syndrome, also known as cuboid subluxation, occurs when the joint and ligaments surrounding the cuboid bone in the foot become injured. If you think that you may have cuboid syndrome, please consult with one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

The cuboid bone is one of the seven tarsal bones located in the foot. Cuboid syndrome develops when the cuboid bone moves down and out of alignment with the other bone (calcaneus bone) in the joint of the foot. Cuboid syndrome can be the result of a sudden injury like an ankle sprain, or it may develop slowly over time from repetitive tension through the bone and surrounding structures. 

Symptoms

The most common symptom of cuboid syndrome is pain on the outside of the foot which may worsen with activity. 

Other possible symptoms include: 

• Difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot

• Swelling

• Sensitivity on the bottom of the foot

• Reduced range of motion  

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can diagnose cuboid syndrome based on your medical history and a physical examination of the foot. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, often fail to show the dislocated cuboid. 

Treatment

Treatment often includes resting, icing, compressing and elevating the affected foot, taping, wearing orthotic inserts, and taking anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain. The chiropodist may also be able to manipulate the dislocated bone back into alignment.

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.