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Pregnancy is a transformative journey marked by various bodily changes, and one common occurrence that many expectant mothers encounter is swelling in the ankles and feet. This phenomenon, known as edema, is primarily attributed to the body's increased blood and fluid volume during pregnancy. As the uterus expands, it exerts pressure on the pelvic veins, hindering the normal return of blood from the legs. This leads to a buildup of fluid in the lower extremities, causing swelling. Hormonal shifts also play a role, promoting water retention and contributing to the overall expansion of bodily fluids. Additionally, the growing baby puts pressure on surrounding blood vessels, exacerbating fluid accumulation. While generally a normal part of pregnancy, managing edema involves staying hydrated, elevating the legs, and incorporating gentle exercises. If your feet and ankles have become swollen during pregnancy, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can offer you additional relief tips. 

Pregnancy can affect your feet in many ways, often causing pain or discomfort, as well as reduced mobility. If you are pregnant and experience 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. 

During pregnancy, your belly isn’t the only part of your body swelling. The whole body may experience swelling, especially in the feet and ankles. Since they carry the weight of both your body and the baby’s, caring for your feet during pregnancy is very important. 

Common Foot Conditions During Pregnancy

Various foot conditions can develop during the course of a pregnancy, including: 

• Swelling of the feet and ankles

• Fallen arches, leading to acquired flat feet

• Plantar fasciitis 

• Aching, sore feet

• Changes in the toenails

Caring for the Feet During Pregnancy

Some things that you can do to help maintain the health of your feet during pregnancy include: 

• Wearing comfortable shoes

• Resting and elevating your feet

• Icing sore areas, such as the arch

• Keeping your toenails trimmed

• Soaking and massaging the feet

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.

Working in cold weather poses unique challenges, especially when it comes to safeguarding the health of our feet. Cold temperatures can lead to decreased blood flow, making our extremities more susceptible to frostbite and other cold-related injuries. To protect your feet in frigid conditions, it is imperative to invest in quality insulated footwear that shields against the cold weather while providing adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup. Layering socks is another effective strategy, ensuring proper insulation without compromising circulation. Be mindful of the fit, as tight footwear can restrict blood flow, exacerbating the risk of cold-induced ailments. Additionally, opting for moisture-wicking socks helps keep feet dry and reduces the likelihood of frostbite. Regular breaks to warm up, proper hydration, and staying vigilant for early signs of cold stress are critical elements in a comprehensive approach to foot protection in cold weather, ensuring both comfort and safety on the job. If you would like additional information about what specific types of shoes to buy for foot protection during the cold months, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist.

If you stand all day, you may be at an increased risk of developing various foot conditions. If you are experiencing foot pain of any kind, 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 Foot Problems Are Caused by Standing?

Standing all day at work may increase your risk of developing foot or ankle problems.

Some common foot conditions that may arise from spending all day on your feet include: 

• Foot pain

• Blisters

• Corns and calluses

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Bunions

• Sprains 

• Athlete’s foot

Prevention

If you stand for prolonged periods of time for work, taking preventative measures to preserve the health of your feet is strongly recommended. 

Measures you can implement to help prevent foot problems include: 

• Wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well - these shoes should be made of breathable materials and provide you with arch support and cushioning. It is best to avoid shoes that have heels or narrow toe boxes.

• Taking breaks to rest, walk, and stretch your feet throughout the day

• Maintaining good foot hygiene - wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day

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.

Sever's disease is a common cause of heel pain in growing children and adolescents, particularly those who are physically active. It occurs when the growth plate at the back of the heel, known as the calcaneal apophysis, becomes inflamed. This inflammation is typically caused by repetitive stress or microtrauma due to athletic activities combined with the heel's growth spurt. Symptoms include pain at the back of the heel, which may worsen with activity, and relief with rest. This affliction is diagnosed primarily through clinical evaluation. A chiropodist will consider a child's history and symptoms and conduct a physical examination. During the exam, they may squeeze the sides of the heel, which typically produces pain in a child with Sever's disease. While X-rays are not used to diagnose the condition itself, they may be ordered to rule out other causes of heel pain, such as fractures. If your child complains of heel pain, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and treatment options.

Sever’s disease typically affects young children and teenagers. If your child complains of 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. 

What Is Sever’s Disease? 

Sever’s disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is an inflammation of the growth plate in the heel bone. It is typically caused by overuse due to repetitive activities such as running, jumping, and playing certain sports. This condition most frequently affects children between the ages of 8 and 14. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of Sever’s disease include: 

• Pain in the back or bottom of the heel

• Pain when the sides of the heel are squeezed

• Limping or walking on tiptoes to avoid putting pressure on the heel

• Difficulty running, jumping, or participating in usual activities

• Fatigue 

Diagnosis

Sever’s disease is diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history and performing a physical examination. Imaging studies, such as an X-ray, can help rule out other injuries like a fracture. 

Treatment

Sever’s disease typically heals without any long-term complications. Treatment involves resting the affected foot by reducing typical activities, wearing orthotics to support the foot, immobilizing the affected foot, taking medications to reduce pain and inflammation, and stretching the foot. 

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.

Corns are small circles of thickened skin on the feet with a hard center that can be painful, affecting your comfort with each step you take. Corns commonly develop on the top or side of the toes, and sometimes on the sole of the foot. Wearing ill-fitting shoes takes the lead in causing corns. Footwear that is too loose permits your foot to slide and rub. Meanwhile, high-heeled shoes exert undue pressure on specific foot areas, which can foster corn development. These issues intensify on bony feet that lack natural cushioning, making them more susceptible to corns. Further, corns may indicate an underlying foot problem, such as bunions or hammer toes. Addressing these root issues is important for effective corn treatment, as the thickened skin will not improve until the source of pressure is eliminated. View corns as symptoms, rather than isolated problems. Self-treatment is only advisable when the cause is understood and discussed with a chiropodist. Simple solutions like corn plasters are available, but caution is needed. Individuals with diabetes, circulation problems, or fragile skin should consult a chiropodist for tailored treatment options. Treating corns means more than managing symptoms. It is also about addressing underlying causes for lasting relief. If you are uncertain about the best course of action in managing painful corns on the feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist. 

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 one of the chiropodists from The Footcare Centre. Our chiropodists 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.

Common peroneal nerve dysfunction, also known as common fibular nerve dysfunction, results from damage to the peroneal nerve. This condition causes loss of movement and sensation in the foot and leg. The peroneal nerve, a branch of the sciatic nerve, is responsible for lower leg, foot, and toe function. Causes of dysfunction include fibula fractures, long-term leg constriction, habitual leg crossing, or pressure during deep sleep. It is more common in individuals with anorexia nervosa, autoimmune diseases, diabetes, and alcohol misuse. Symptoms include a decreased sensation or tingling in the leg, foot drop, toe dragging, and walking difficulties. Diagnosis involves physical exams, electromyography, nerve conduction tests, an MRI, and a nerve ultrasound. Recovery depends on the severity of nerve damage, and severe cases may lead to permanent disability. If you suffer nerve damage symptoms as described above, it is strongly suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist as quickly as possible which may help to prevent further complications.

Neuropathy can cause permanent nerve damage if left untreated. If you are experiencing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, 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 Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves of the peripheral nervous system, which provide sensation to the limbs. The feet are often affected. Peripheral neuropathy can have many different causes, but it is most commonly associated with diabetes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Pain

• Numbness or tingling sensation

• Burning sensations

• Weakness

• Loss of balance

Diagnosis

Peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed based on medical history and physical examination. Various tests performed during physical examinations can help determine the type of peripheral neuropathy you may have and what is causing it. 

Treatment

Treatment for peripheral neuropathy will depend on what is causing it. For example, if your peripheral neuropathy is caused by diabetes, then managing your blood sugar, exercising regularly to strengthen the legs and feet, and taking pain medications may be recommended as treatments. 

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, a nuanced tapestry of discomfort, can emanate from various structures within the foot, leading to a spectrum of problems. The plantar fascia, a band of tissue supporting the arch, may ignite pain when strained, giving rise to conditions like plantar fasciitis. Achy joints and inflammation often signal arthritis, affecting the foot's intricate network of bones and ligaments. Nerve entrapment, as seen in conditions like Morton's neuroma, generates sharp, localized pain. Bunions, a result of misalignment in the joint at the base of the big toe, cause persistent pain and deformity. Toe deformities such as hammertoes, can contribute to discomfort due to irregular pressure on joints. Stress fractures are microcracks in bones and are often triggered by repetitive impact, which can manifest as localized pain during activity. Understanding the structures involved in foot pain equips individuals to identify and address specific foot problems promptly. If you have foot pain, and would like to know more about the anatomy of the foot, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

The biomechanics of your feet play an important role in your foot health. To learn more, 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. 

Foot biomechanics refers to the study of the structure, function, and motion of the feet. The feet and ankles are a complex system consisting of many bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons that work together to move your feet. Understanding the unique biomechanics of your own feet can help you and your chiropodist make informed decisions about your foot health care. This includes decisions about the best preventive measures to avoid foot pain, the best treatment options for various foot problems, and finding the best shoes for your feet. 

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 is a condition that occurs when the fibrous attachment that connects the toes to the heel becomes irritated and inflamed. This band of tissue is medically known as the plantar fascia and is essential in supporting the foot's arch and biomechanics during activities, such as walking and running. Excessive tension and stress can lead to damage and inflammation of the plantar fascia. The primary cause of plantar fasciitis is overuse, resulting from daily activities or intense physical exertion. This overuse can lead to inflammation, which causes swelling, tenderness, and pain primarily in one foot, though both feet can be affected simultaneously. Contributing factors to plantar fasciitis can include a sudden increase in physical activity, prolonged standing on hard surfaces, and walking barefoot. In addition, inadequate foot support from ill-fitting shoes, certain medical conditions, and rheumatoid arthritis may result in plantar fasciitis. Further, obesity, flat or high-arched feet, and lack of warmups before exercise may be factors. Regular use of high-heeled shoes, and wearing worn-out footwear are also known causes. Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing plantar fasciitis. Overweight individuals experiencing heightened pressure on the plantar fascia ligaments are more susceptible. Wearing unsupportive footwear, such as high heels, further elevates the risk. To reduce or eliminate the pain of plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can offer treatment options. 

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 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 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.