Ringworm of the foot is also known as athlete’s foot. The medical term is called tinea pedis, and it is considered to be contagious. It is a common foot condition, affecting approximately 25 percent of the population. The fungus that causes this foot condition lives in warm and moist environments, such as shower room floors, public swimming pools, and surrounding areas. The noticeable symptoms that most people notice with athlete’s foot can consist of itchy skin between the toes, and the bottom of the foot may be red and scaly. In severe cases, small blisters may develop, and prompt medical attention is often sought for relief. Athlete’s foot may lead to developing cracked heels, or fissures, which may bleed or become infected. Successful preventive measures can include wearing appropriate shoes such as flip flops or water shoes while in these types of areas. Additionally, it is helpful to refrain from sharing shoes, socks, or towels, and it may help to wear shoes that are made with breathable materials. If you have developed athlete's foot, it is suggested that you consult with a chiropodist who can offer you effective treatment options.

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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.

It is beneficial to pay close attention to your child's feet as they go through growth spurts. Research has shown it is beneficial to measure them approximately every two months until they are two years old, followed by increasing the time to every three months. Children are born with flexible and soft feet, and may have heightened sense of touch during this time. It is beneficial to refrain from putting shoes on their feet, and this can give them the opportunity for their feet to become stronger as the muscles are used. Many parents choose to have their children wear shoes when it is time to walk outside, which is helpful in protecting the feet. The first pair of shoes are often lightweight, fitting snugly surrounding the heel area. It is important to ensure there is adequate room for the foot to naturally move, in addition to having laces or velcro closures. If you would like to know more about the development of your child’s feet, it is suggested that you speak with a chiropodist who can provide you with the information you seek.

If your child is experiencing foot or ankle pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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.

Arthritis is an inflammation of joints that become stiff, painful, and swollen. There are three types of arthritis, among many, which are likely to affect the feet and ankles. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, and it can gradually erode the cartilage of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, possibly causing foot problems and pain. Post-traumatic arthritis, like osteoarthritis, can occur after a fracture or other injury has happened to the feet. All types of arthritis affecting the feet can cause mobility issues and interfere with comfortable functioning. When arthritis is present, it can help to engage in regular physical activity which may reduce pain and promote strength, flexibility, and endurance. Exercise can also help to maintain a healthy body weight, which will lessen pressure on the feet. Other helpful tips for coping with foot arthritis include inspecting the feet daily which can help the patient to notice any problems that may be developing. It is beneficial to wear properly fitted shoes, with ample room for the toes to wiggle in, in addition to having good arch support. If you have arthritis and it is affecting your feet, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for relief options.  

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 specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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 . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs