Blog

Diabetes can significantly affect the feet due to poor blood circulation and nerve damage, known as diabetic neuropathy. High blood sugar levels can lead to decreased blood flow, making it harder for the body to heal wounds and fight infections. This can result in foot ulcers, infections, and even amputations if left untreated. Diabetic neuropathy can cause loss of feeling in the feet, making it difficult for individuals to detect injuries or sores. To care for diabetic feet, it is important to inspect them daily for cuts, blisters, or redness. Keeping the feet clean and dry, wearing comfortable shoes that fit well, and avoiding walking barefoot are important preventive measures. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help you manage this serious condition.

Diabetes can cause serious problems in the lower limbs if proper preventive measures are not taken and diabetic wound care is not performed. If you would like to learn more about caring for diabetic feet, 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. 

Diabetes can lead to a host of foot and ankle complications, including: 

• Poor circulation

• Peripheral neuropathy

• Diabetic foot wounds and ulcers

• Infection 

• Corns and calluses

• Dry, cracked skin

• Nail disorders 

• Hammertoes 

• Bunions

• Charcot foot

If you have diabetes, you must be vigilant of any changes in your foot health. This is best done through daily foot inspections. Using a mirror to help you if necessary, look for any: 

• Cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds

• Bruising or discoloration 

• Swelling

• Rash

• Foul odor

• Nail changes 

• Hair loss 

• Warmth and inflammation

• Deformities 

• Lower limb pain

• Strange sensations (numbness, tingling, burning, pins, and needles)

If you detect anything unusual, seek the care of a chiropodist as soon as possible. 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 pain can stem from various underlying conditions and disrupt daily activities. Identifying the cause is essential for effective treatment and lasting relief. Osteoarthritis, often called wear-and-tear arthritis, breaks down the cartilage in toe joints, leading to stiffness, swelling, and aching. This condition is common in older adults or those with repetitive stress on their feet. Gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis causes sudden, intense pain in the big toe. It occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joint, triggered by diet, dehydration, or genetic factors. Sesamoiditis, an inflammation of the small bones under the big toe, results from repetitive pressure usually affecting dancers and athletes. It feels like a deep ache, worsening with movement. If you are experiencing toe pain, it is strongly suggested that you see a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment solutions.

Toe pain is common and can have a variety of causes. Causes can range from a broken toe to an ingrown toenail. Many types of toe pain can be corrected, but any toe pain that inhibits your activities for an extended period should be discussed with a chiropodist. If you suffer from toe pain, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists can help you maintain the health of your feet.

Common Causes of Toe Pain 

• Trauma or fracture
• Cuts, sores, or bruises
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Gout
• Turf Toe
• Morton’s neuroma
• Blisters
• Corns
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Ingrown toenails
• Plantar warts
• Athlete’s Foot

Symptoms of Toe Pain

• Toe deformity
• Burning
• Numbness
• Toenail deformity
• Wart or ulcer
• Swelling
• Redness

When to See a Chiropodist

• Bleeding or severe swelling
• Trauma, such as a broken bone
• Discoloration or extreme swelling
• Inability to bear weight
• Persistent pain
• Wounds that won’t heal

Diagnosis of Toe Pain

A chiropodist can conduct a thorough examination of the painful toe or toes in order to determine the best course of treatment. The exam may include assessing the tenderness of the area, taking an X-ray or other diagnostic test, or assessing your gait and range of motion. A discussion of what led to the advanced pain issue may follow. Included will likely be a health history, as well as a list of medications you are taking and other previous injuries you may have sustained.

Treatment for Toe Pain

With such a wide range of possible causes for toe pain, treatment can be varied in scope and length. Sometimes, the chiropodist will recommend lifestyle and activity changes. In cases of trauma or other injuries, X-rays or imaging tests will likely be used to determine the severity of the problem, particularly if any bones have been broken. Treatment may also include injections of pain-relief medication or anti-inflammatory drugs. Certain injuries will require the splinting, bracing, or wrapping of injured toes. Orthotics or special shoes may be prescribed in cases of bone deformities and gait issues. Removal of warts, calluses, and corns may be needed. In other cases, such as with patients who have diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis, ongoing treatment may be required to avoid more serious problems. 

Seniors often experience falls due to a combination of age-related factors. Reduced muscle strength, impaired balance, and slower reflexes can make it difficult to prevent or recover from a fall. Health conditions such as arthritis, neuropathy, or vision impairment can increase the risk of tripping or losing balance. Foot problems, including bunions or deformities, can contribute to instability, while wearing improper footwear may lead to slips. To protect the feet and reduce the risk of falls, seniors should wear shoes that provide proper support and cushioning. Foot care, including regular checks for sores, calluses, or changes in skin appearance, is essential. Strengthening exercises, balance training, and maintaining a safe home environment can also significantly reduce the likelihood of falls and help seniors maintain mobility and independence. If you have sustained a foot injury from falling, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can offer effective treatment solutions.

Falls are a major cause of injury among the elderly. To learn more about preventing falls or to get treatment following a foot or ankle injury caused by a fall, 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. 

Falling is one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly. It is said that about 50% of falls that result in hospitalization occur in the home. Fortunately, there are steps that you can implement to reduce your risk of falling in the home. 

Tips to Prevent Falls at Home:

• In the bathroom - Place non-slip mats in the shower or tub, install grab bars near the toilet and bath, and wipe up any moisture or spills as soon as possible. 

• In the living rooms and bedroom - Remove loose wires, cords, or other objects that may be an obstacle to moving around safely. Make sure that you have good lighting throughout the home so that you can always see where you are going. Get rid of any rugs or mats that are not firmly anchored or that may cause you to trip. When walking around the home, move slowly. 

• In the kitchen - Store food and supplies in easily accessible areas, store heavy items in lower cupboards, and wipe up any spills immediately to prevent slipping. 

• On the stairs - Make sure that the stairs are well-lit and have secure handrails. Walk slowly when ascending or descending the stairs.  

• Outside - Keep walkways well-lit and clear of snow, ice, leaves, and man-made tripping hazards.

Maintaining your overall health, including the health of your feet, can also help to prevent falls. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and wear well-fitted, comfortable, and supportive shoes. If you have a mobility device, such as a cane, use it while walking.  

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.

A child’s weight can have a major impact on their foot health. Extra weight means more pressure on the feet, which can make movement and balance harder. Obese children often experience similar sensitivity across their entire foot, which limits the natural feedback their feet would normally send to help them stay stable. With added pressure, the foot can struggle to properly support their body. This increases the risk of discomfort, pain, and conditions like flat feet or fallen arches. Children with these issues also might be more prone to foot injuries, especially during activities that involve a lot of standing or movement. A chiropodist can help manage these concerns by assessing your child’s foot health. More supportive footwear, specific exercises, or custom orthotics are among the treatments available to ease foot pressure and improve comfort. If your child is experiencing foot pain that may be related to their weight, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

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.

The aging foot endures tremendous stress over a lifetime, often covering around 110,000 miles by age 80. With age, many experience foot issues such as toenail disorders, bunions, hammertoe and corns, in addition to calluses, ankle arthritis, gout, and diabetic ulcers. These problems can contribute to falls, frailty, and a shift from independence to dependence, particularly if left unaddressed. Unfortunately, many elderly individuals avoid seeking treatment, assuming these issues are inevitable or trivial. However, regular foot care can make a significant difference in comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Having a chiropodist as part of one's healthcare team helps ensure prompt management, from toenail trimming to more complex interventions. Effective elderly foot care can reduce fall risk, relieve pain, and maintain independence. If you are elderly or taking care of an elderly person, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist as consistent foot care can support seniors in staying active, independent, and less vulnerable to falls and complications.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, 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 Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin

• Calluses and corns

• Blisters

• Ingrown toenails

• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes

• Fungal infections

• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer 

• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails

• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility

• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury

• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

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.

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can result from improper nail trimming, wearing tight footwear, or trauma to the toe. When an ingrown toenail becomes infected, the area surrounding the nail may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch. Pus or fluid may drain from the infected area, and the pain can worsen. Risk factors for developing ingrown toenails include having naturally curved nails, excessive sweating, or engaging in activities that put pressure on the feet. It is important to address an ingrown toenail early to avoid complications, such as a deeper infection or permanent nail damage. If you have developed an ingrown toenail, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can effectively treat this condition.

Ingrown toenails may require medical attention. If you have significant pain or notice signs of infection from an ingrown toenail, 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 an Ingrown Toenail? 

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edges of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The toenails of the big toe are usually affected, however, an ingrown toenail can happen on any toe. Sometimes, the area can become infected leading to potentially serious complications. The ingrown toenail may be caused by improper trimming of the toenail, wearing ill-fitting shoes, or injury to the nail.

Symptoms

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail include: 

• Pain

• Swelling

• Redness

• Warmth

• Pus or drainage from the affected nail or a fever may indicate an infection of the area. 

Treatment

Treatment depends on the severity of the ingrown toenail. In less severe cases, home treatment may be adequate. Soaking the affected foot in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin with a piece of clean cotton can help. In more severe cases, you may need to use topical or oral antibiotics to treat an infection. Surgical removal of the ingrown toenail may be required if more conservative treatments fail. 

Ingrown toenails may be prevented by wearing well-fitted shoes and properly trimming the toenails. Toenails should be trimmed straight across and not too short when using nail clippers. 

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.

Buddy taping is a common method used to treat a broken toe, where the injured toe is taped to its neighboring toe for support and stabilization. This technique helps keep the broken toe in position while it heals. The process involves gently aligning the broken toe with the adjacent toe and using medical tape or adhesive strips to bind the two together. The tape should be applied in a way that provides enough support without causing excessive pressure or restricting blood flow. It is important to leave enough space between the toes to avoid discomfort or skin irritation. Buddy taping can help prevent further injury by limiting movement, but it is essential to seek medical advice from a chiropodist to ensure it is done correctly and to determine if additional treatment is necessary for proper healing. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you contact this type of healthcare professional who can guide you toward proper healing techniques.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, 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. 

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain

• Swelling

• Bruising

• Cracking sound at the time of injury

• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe

• Difficulty walking

• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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 can arise from various conditions affecting different parts of the foot. Joint pain often results from arthritis, which causes inflammation and stiffness, making movement uncomfortable. Another common issue is bursitis, which leads to swelling and pain due to irritation of the bursae, small fluid-filled sacs. Gout is another source of pain, typically affecting the big toe, caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals. Ingrown toenails occur when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing localized pain and inflammation. Additionally, Morton's neuroma can lead to discomfort between the third and fourth toes, resulting from thickening of the tissue around a nerve. If you have any type of foot pain, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can determine what the cause is, and offer appropriate treatment solutions.

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.

Diabetes can significantly affect foot health, with cracked heels being a common issue for those living with the condition. Elevated blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage and reduced circulation, resulting in dry skin and decreased sensation. As skin loses moisture, it becomes more susceptible to cracks and fissures, increasing the risk of infections. Regular foot care is essential for individuals with diabetes to prevent complications. Visiting a chiropodist allows for professional assessment and treatment of foot issues before they escalate. A chiropodist can provide personalized advice on proper foot hygiene, recommend suitable footwear, and offer treatments for dry or cracked skin. By prioritizing foot care with this specialist, individuals can maintain better foot health, reduce discomfort, and lower the risk of serious complications. If you have diabetes, it is strongly suggested that you are under the care of a chiropodist who can help offer effective treatment for cracked heels.

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, 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. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing

• Wearing open-back shoes

• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels

• Living in a cold or dry climate

• Taking long, hot showers

• Not moisturizing the heels

• Eczema

• Psoriasis

• Palmoplantar keratoderma

• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet

• Exfoliating with a pumice stone

• Moisturizing the heels

• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels

• Avoiding prolonged standing 

• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers

• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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.