Blog

A broken toe can be painful. The majority of people will experience immediate swelling, bruising, and discomfort after they have broken their toe. Conversely, some people are unaware they have broken their toe and it is often addressed as the pain level increases. A common reason to endure a broken toe may be stubbing it into a piece of furniture or dropping a heavy object on it. If the fracture is severe, a bone may protrude and will need to be realigned into its normal position. For mild breaks, many people find the buddy-taping method to be successful. This is done by taping the affected toe to the toe next to it to provide the stability that is needed as the healing process occurs. It is beneficial to keep weight off of the foot and this can be done by using crutches or wearing a protective boot. If you have broken your toe, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can effectively diagnose and treat a broken toe.

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.

Skin fissures are cracks in the skin that are caused by dry and thickened skin. These can also come from underlying conditions and lifestyle factors. A common place to get such fissures is on the heels of the feet. The skin needs nutrients and food, such as proteins, vitamins, and fatty acids to remain healthy and maintain moisture. Skin conditions that result in inflammation, itching, and dryness, like eczema and psoriasis can lead to heel fissures. A fungal infection, like athlete’s foot, can have the same result. Those with diabetes frequently have neuropathy which inhibits sweating, thus causing dryness and can cause fissures. Some lifestyle factors that can contribute to heel fissures include wearing open-backed shoes, using harsh soaps on the feet, and not drinking enough water. The fissures can be shallow or deep, bleed, and be painful. Irritants and bacteria can enter the cuts in the skin and become infected. If not treated, fissures can turn into ulcers. It is important to check the feet regularly and keep them clean, dry, and moisturized. Wearing insoles or heel pads in shoes can help with the discomfort of this condition. If you have heel fissures, it is highly suggested that you visit a chiropodist for treatment.

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.

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

The skin on the heels of the feet can become dry and cracked, which can turn into deep, painful fissures. Cracked heels are unattractive and can be uncomfortable. Cold weather and lower humidity can cause this kind of cracking, in addition to hot showers, harsh soaps, and dehydration. Diabetic patients are prone to having foot problems, including cracked heels. With nerve damage common among people who are diabetic, it is difficult for them to retain natural skin oils and moisture in their feet. Without medical attention, cracked heels in diabetics can result in infection and other complications. Proper foot care can help alleviate cracked heels. This includes regularly examining the feet, and washing, drying, and moisturizing the feet each day. If you have diabetes and have cracked heels or other foot problems, it is strongly suggested that you visit a chiropodist for an examination and treatment plan.

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.

If you experience heel pain after running, this could indicate that you have developed plantar fasciitis. Known as runner’s heel, this condition can cause sharp pain in the heel and arch the morning after a run. Symptoms include increased pain after sleeping, difficulty lifting the toes off the ground, and reduced pain when running again. Other conditions that cause heel pain may include a pulled muscle in the arch, wearing running shoes that fit improperly and pronounced overpronation. Common causes of heel pain in runners is increasing the time, length, and running distance too quickly. Finding running shoes with the proper cushioning and support can help to alleviate pain or injury from running. In some cases custom orthotics, or shoe inserts, may be helpful in addressing specific foot conditions that contribute to heel pain. For details about how to deal with heel pain after running, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist who can evaluate your gait and discuss treatment options.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer from heel pain, 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. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs

• Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness 

• Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time 

• Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking

• Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. 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 foot condition that is known as plantar hyperhidrosis can be uncomfortable. This ailment is characterized by excessive sweating of the feet and affects approximately five percent of the population. This condition falls into two categories. The hands, feet, and underarms are affected by primary hyperhidrosis. This usually occurs during the day and does not occur while sleeping. Sweating that affects larger areas of the body can fall into the category of secondary hyperhidrosis, which may be caused by taking a specific medication. Having feet that sweat profusely may lead to developing other foot conditions. These may include fungal infections, dermatitis, or blisters. If you have plantar hyperhidrosis, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can offer you treatment options that are best for you.

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 one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists 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.