January 2024

Corns on the feet are often triggered by chronic pressure or friction. They arise from factors like wearing poorly fitting shoes or foot deformities, and can lead to discomfort and inflammation. A corn is a lesion with a central conical core of keratin. There are two subtypes of corns, which are hard and soft corns. The hard corn, the most common type, appears as a dry, horny mass with a hard central core, often found on the side of the pinky toe or on the joints of the lesser toes. On the other hand, the soft corn results from excessive moisture absorption, presenting as a macerated lesion that commonly develops between the fourth and fifth toes. Both hard and soft corns are frequently associated with a hammertoe deformity. Treatment approaches vary, with conservative measures like cushioned pads being effective for young individuals with a fixed deformity. Surgical correction may be considered for nonresponsive cases, especially in older patients with fixed deformities. If persistent discomfort is experienced from corns, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for personalized guidance and effective management.

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 specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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.

Within the intricate architecture of the human foot, a symphony of joints and bones collaborates harmoniously to support our daily movements. The foot's foundation comprises 26 bones, meticulously arranged to form arches and curves that absorb the impact of each step. These bones are connected by a network of joints, facilitating flexibility and mobility. The ankle joint, a pivot point, enables the foot to flex and extend, while the subtalar joint beneath it allows for side-to-side movement. Ligaments, acting as sturdy bands, connect bones and provide stability. The metatarsophalangeal joints at the ball of the foot permit weight distribution during propulsion, allowing for a smooth transition from heel to toe. This intricate interplay ensures the feet's adaptability to various surfaces and activities, highlighting the remarkable biomechanics that comprise our every stride and step. If you are seeking additional information about the intricacies of the bones, joints, and ligaments in the feet, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist.

The biomechanics of your feet play an important role in your foot health. To learn more, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. 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.

Sharp foot pain can stem from various causes, with ill-fitting shoes being a primary factor. Investing in well-fitted footwear is essential. High heels, in particular, exert excessive pressure on the toes, potentially leading to sharp foot pain. Medical conditions that contribute to sharp foot pain, including diabetes, leg deformities, and neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy or Parkinson's disease. Pushing your body beyond its limits through excessive exercise is another underestimated cause of sharp foot pain. Plantar fasciitis, a common source of sharp foot pain, involves inflammation of the tough fibrous tissue, the plantar fascia, resulting in discomfort, especially during the morning and in the bottom and front of the heel. This condition may lead to heel spurs, bony projections that can increase the pain. Seeking immediate attention from a chiropodist when you experience sharp foot pain is important, especially when dealing with conditions like plantar fasciitis and heel spurs. Diagnosis through X-rays and appropriate treatments can help alleviate sharp foot pain and restore mobility. For assistance in dealing with foot pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot 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. 

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.

Obesity exerts a profound influence on the health of our feet, a fact often underestimated in the broader conversation about weight-related health issues. The excess body weight borne by those individuals who are obese places an extraordinary burden on the feet, subjecting them to increased pressure and stress. This heightened load on the feet can lead to a range of debilitating conditions, ranging from arch collapse and plantar fasciitis to osteoarthritis. The intricate network of bones, muscles, and ligaments in the feet can gradually succumb to the relentless strain, possibly resulting in chronic pain and reduced mobility. Moreover, obesity amplifies the risk of developing conditions like diabetes, further compounding the toll on foot health. If you have developed foot pain as a result of being overweight, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can help you to manage this condition. 

Being obese affects every part of your body, and your feet are no exception. Because they bear the full weight of your body as you go about your daily life, your feet are under a lot of pressure. Carrying excess weight can strain the feet and cause a variety of unpleasant side effects. If you are obese and concerned about your foot health, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Obesity can:

• Cause foot pain

• Increase the risk of foot and ankle injuries

• Reduce mobility

• Make the feet wider 

• Flatten the arch

• Make gout more likely

• Make arthritis more likely

• Increase the risk of diabetes

Your chiropodist may suggest lifestyle changes to address foot and ankle problems that are caused by or affected by obesity. These may include changes to your diet, exercise, and footwear, as well as wearing orthotics. The treatments for specific injuries or health problems will vary depending on what they are, but weight loss is often suggested to decrease strain on 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.

Athlete's foot is a common fungal infection that can cause itching, burning, and discomfort. Prevention is key to keeping this irritating condition at bay. Firstly, keeping your feet clean and dry is essential. Wash them daily with soap and water, ensuring they are dried thoroughly, especially between the toes. Fungi thrive in damp environments, so maintaining dry feet is your first line of defense. Choosing the right footwear is equally important. Opt for shoes made of breathable materials and moisture-wicking socks to help keep your feet fresh and dry. It is beneficial to refrain from walking barefoot in public places, especially in locker rooms, swimming pools, and communal showers. Wearing flip-flops or shower shoes can protect your feet from infection. It is helpful to avoid sharing socks or towels. Fungal infections can spread through contact, so avoid borrowing or lending these items. If you have developed athlete’s foot, it is strongly suggested that you contact a chiropodist who can offer you successful treatment options, in addition to effective prevention techniques. 

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.