Items filtered by date: January 2024

Safety footwear and leg protection worn in workplaces serve a vital role in safeguarding employees from various physical hazards. These hazards encompass scenarios such as falling or rolling objects, objects that can pierce or crush, and exposure to extreme heat or cold. It is important to note that different types of footwear and legwear are designed to protect against specific hazards, so their selection should be based on the particular risks present at a worksite. If you work in a profession that exposes your feet to risk, it is strongly suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist to discuss what type of footwear would be most protective for your job, and to provide advice on other ways to safeguard your feet.

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 Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist 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.

Hyperhidrosis, a prevalent condition, is characterized by excessive sweating that can affect various parts of the body. Typically, it impacts areas like the soles of the feet, with both feet usually experiencing equal perspiration. While hyperhidrosis does not usually pose serious health risks, it can be distressing, embarrassing, and adversely affect one's quality of life, often leading to feelings of depression and anxiety. Determining what constitutes normal sweating can be subjective, but if excessive perspiration starts to interfere significantly with daily life, it may indicate hyperhidrosis. Symptoms include avoiding physical contact due to self-consciousness, refraining from activities for fear of worsening sweating, and work-related challenges. Additionally, there may be difficulties with daily tasks, excessive time spent managing sweating, and social withdrawal. Hyperhidrosis can be primary, often without an apparent cause, or secondary, triggered by factors such as pregnancy, anxiety, medications, low blood sugar, thyroid issues, or infections.

Plantar hyperhidrosis is a medical condition that causes excessive sweating of the feet. This problem is not only embarrassing but can also cause a variety of foot health problems if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many effective treatments available for plantar hyperhidrosis. If you have very sweaty feet, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Signs & Symptoms

• Excessive foot sweat

• Sweating from both feet

• Slipping out of shoes due to sweat

• Damp footprints

• Ruined shoes

• Frequent foot infections

• Friction blisters

• Whitish foot color

• Wrinkly, pruney feet

• Cold feet

• Strong odor

Treatment Options

• Topical antiperspirants - Powders, creams, or gels that are applied directly to the feet to prevent sweating; can be over the counter or prescription strength

• Oral medications - Pills taken by mouth to reduce sweating temporarily

• Iontophoresis - A procedure that uses a mild electrical current conducted through water to reduce activity in hyperactive sweat glands

• Botox - Injected into the feet to prevent activation of sweat glands

In addition to these treatment options, footwear modifications, such as wearing shoes and socks made of breathable or moisture-wicking materials, are also suggested. 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.

Many individuals frequently contend with the discomfort of cold feet, often attributing it to inherited traits or variations in body composition. Research suggests that when the body's core temperature drops, the small blood vessels in hands and feet constrict, particularly affecting those individuals with less body fat. However, persistent cold feet may signal underlying health issues. Raynaud's syndrome, a condition where small blood vessels overreact to cold temperatures, can cause feet to feel cold and appear discolored. Consulting a chiropodist can help to manage Raynaud's symptoms. Decreased circulation in the extremities, often due to atherosclerosis, poses another cause for cold feet. Arteries narrowed by fatty deposits impede blood flow, resulting in blue or purple feet when sitting and pale or white feet while lying down. Nerve damage, or neuropathy, also can disrupt temperature sensation, causing a person to feel cold even when the feet do not register as cold to the touch. While cold feet are a common occurrence, persistent symptoms warrant attention. It is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for early detection and personalized care.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist 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.

Toe arthritis, a common but often overlooked ailment, arises from a combination of factors that impact the delicate joints in our toes. The primary cause is the wear and tear of cartilage, the protective cushioning between bones, leading to friction and inflammation. Overuse, joint instability, and genetic predisposition can also contribute to its development. As the cartilage diminishes, the bones in the toes begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. Toe arthritis manifests through subtle signs, such as morning stiffness and a gradual decrease in joint flexibility. The affected toes may appear swollen, and the pain often intensifies during or after movement. Understanding these various symptoms and recognizing the underlying causes are critical steps in managing toe arthritis. If you have pain in your toes, it is suggested that you speak with a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat arthritis in the feet and toes.

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 Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist 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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs

Fitting a child for shoes is important for their foot development and overall comfort. A chiropodist can provide invaluable assistance in this process. They can measure the child's feet for both length and width, ensuring a fit that accommodates natural growth and movement. They will suggest shoes with a firm heel counter for support, flexible soles for ease of walking, and enough room to allow toes to move freely. A chiropodist can also identify any unique needs, such as flat feet or high arches, and recommend shoes or custom orthotics accordingly. If you want to fit your child for shoes well, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist. By involving this type of health professional, you can ensure the chosen footwear supports healthy foot development and reduces the risk of future foot problems.

Finding the right shoes for you can ensure your comfort and help maintain proper foot health. If you suffer from foot pain and need help finding the right shoes for you, please consult with Paul A. Scotti, D.Ch from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Tips to Find Great Shoes 

Finding shoes that are well-fitting, supportive, and comfortable can be key in maintaining your overall foot health, but can sometimes seem like a monumental task. 

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when shopping for shoes. 

• Shop in a brick and mortar store - Your shoe size can change throughout your lifetime. You will be able to try on shoes before you buy them to ensure a proper fit. A salesperson can also provide recommendations on what shoes best serve your specific needs.

• Try shoes on at the end of the day - Your feet swell throughout the day. By trying shoes on in the evening when the feet are at their largest, you ensure a good fit and shoes that are comfortable all day.

• Have your feet measured - Find the right fit by having your feet measured at the shoe store. A salesperson can help by measuring both feet with a Brannock device to determine your true size. 

• Opt for comfort and support - Some shoes, such as high heels and flip flops, may look great but can cause damage to the feet over time. Look for shoes that have a low heel, adequate arch support, a wide toe box, and are made 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.