Toe arthritis can make each step painful by limiting movement in the joints. Symptoms include stiffness, swelling, and soreness. Although walking can feel uncomfortable, it can actually help to keep the joints moving while supporting mobility. Walking also can reduce stiffness and help build and maintain foot strength. A chiropodist can examine the toes, assess walking patterns, and identify joint changes. Treatment options include custom orthotics that redistribute pressure and limit painful movement. They can also recommend well-fitting shoes with firm soles, a roomy toe box, and proper support. Certain shoe designs help the foot roll forward smoothly when walking. This reduces strain on the arthritic toe. Padding can protect tender areas and reduce rubbing inside the shoe. A chiropodist can suggest a walking routine based on the symptoms. If you have arthritis that is affecting your toes, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for diagnosis and treatment.

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, 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 Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Swelling in or around the joint
• Restricted range of motion
• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Niagara Falls, ON . 

Fungal toenails develop when fungus grows beneath the nail and spreads into the nail bed. Toenails are affected more often than fingernails because they spend more time in warm, moist shoes that do not allow enough airflow. Risk increases with age, diabetes, and poor circulation. Walking barefoot in public pools, showers, and changing rooms also increases exposure to fungus. Symptoms include white, yellow, or brown discoloration, thickened nails, and brittle or crumbling edges. In some cases, the toenail separates from the nail bed and causes pain when walking. The infection can begin after a damaged nail is exposed to the fungus. A chiropodist can assess the affected nails, arrange laboratory testing to confirm the diagnosis, and provide professional care to improve comfort and nail appearance. Regular monitoring also helps track healthy nail growth and response to treatment. If you have symptoms of toenail fungus, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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 one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists 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 Niagara Falls, ON . 

Flat feet, also called fallen arches, develop when the arch on the inside of the foot rests close to or against the ground while standing. Many people have flat feet without discomfort, but others experience pain in the feet, ankles, or lower legs. Some people also notice tired feet after activity or shoes that wear out unevenly. Flat feet can affect children and adults. Causes include family history, an injury, or changes in the supporting tissues of the foot. A chiropodist can examine your feet, identify the cause of your symptoms, and assess how your feet move while walking. Treatment includes custom orthotics to improve foot support, advice about choosing shoes that provide proper support, and professional care to reduce pain and improve comfort. Early assessment can also help lower stress on the feet and ankles while supporting better movement. If you have problems related to flat feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and effective relief and management tips.

Flat feet are a common foot condition. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort due to flat feet, 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 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 Niagara Falls, ON .