Items filtered by date: January 2025

Running is a high-impact activity that often results in foot and ankle injuries due to repetitive stress. Plantar fasciitis, a common issue, causes pain in the heel and arch, often due to overuse or wearing improper footwear. Achilles tendonitis, marked by inflammation in the tendon connecting the calf to the heel, is another frequent running injury, typically caused by increased training intensity. Sprained ankles, one of the most common running injuries, occur when the ligaments surrounding the ankle are overstretched, often from uneven surfaces or missteps. Stress fractures in the foot, which are tiny cracks in the bones, can develop from repeated impact without adequate rest. A chiropodist can assist by evaluating your foot mechanics, recommending custom orthotics to distribute pressure evenly, and providing guidance on appropriate footwear and stretching routines. This can also help reduce recovery time and prevent recurring injuries, ensuring that you can run safely. If you need guidance dealing with a running injury, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Some common running injuries include:

• Achilles tendonitis

• Shin splints

• Ankle sprains

• Stress fractures

• Plantar fasciitis

• Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

• Train slowly and gradually

• Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run

• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot

• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete

• Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs

• Warm-up prior to a run

• Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

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.

Cold feet are a common concern during winter, often due to the body’s natural response to colder temperatures. When exposed to the cold, blood vessels in the extremities constrict to keep the body’s core warm, which reduces circulation to the feet. While this is a normal bodily reaction, persistent cold feet may be a signal of underlying issues, such as anemia, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or peripheral artery disease, known as PAD. Anemia results from insufficient red blood cells, affecting oxygen delivery and causing cold sensations. Diabetes can impair circulation and nerve health, while hypothyroidism slows metabolism, impacting blood flow and temperature regulation. PAD occurs when narrowed arteries limit circulation, particularly to the feet. If cold feet are accompanied by symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or changes in skin texture, a chiropodist can evaluate your foot health and provide guidance on ways to improve circulation. If you need help managing chronic cold feet, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist.

The winter months can bring about new or worsening foot and ankle problems. If you’re suffering from foot or ankle pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Winter Foot Problems

• Cracked heels - Dry, cracked skin on the heels of the feet that is associated with cold, dry weather

• Athlete’s foot - A fungal infection on the skin of the feet

• Blisters - Fluid-filled bubbles of skin that usually form in response to friction 

• Fractures - Broken bones in the feet or ankles 

• Metatarsalgia - General foot pain

• Chilblains - Spasming of the small blood vessels in the toes in response to exposure to cold weather 

• Raynaud’s disease - Numbness, pain, and color changes in the toes due to cold weather 

Prevention

• Wear warm socks and shoes

• Avoid prolonged exposure to the cold

• Moisturize the heels regularly

• Keep your feet clean and dry 

• Walk carefully in areas that may be icy 

• Wear non-slip shoes 

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 stem from various conditions, with two common causes being plantar fasciitis and osteoarthritis. Plantar fasciitis occurs when the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, becomes inflamed. This condition often leads to sharp pain in the heel, especially when taking the first steps in the morning or after long periods of rest. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that affects the cartilage in the joints. When it affects the foot, it typically causes pain in the toes, midfoot, or ankle, accompanied by stiffness and swelling. Both conditions can make walking or standing for extended periods difficult. If you have foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose and treat various foot conditions.

Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

When you are experiencing foot pain, it’s important to note the type of pain and its location, as this can help determine a diagnosis. 

Pain in the top of the foot may be caused by:

• Stress fractures

• Sinus tarsi syndrome

• Extensor tendonitis

• Tibialis anterior tendonitis

• Gout

• Athlete’s foot

• Ganglion cysts

Pain in the bottom of the foot may be caused by:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Foot cramps

• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

• Plantar fibromatosis

• Posterior tibial tendonitis

• Stress fractures

• Flat feet

Pain on the side of the foot may be caused by:

• Ankle sprain

• Cuboid syndrome

• Peroneal tendonitis

• Stress fractures

• Bunions

• Corns or calluses

• Posterior tibial tendonitis

Heel pain may be caused by:

• Plantar fasciitis

• Achilles tendonitis

• Bone spurs

• Heel fractures

• Retrocalcaneal bursitis

• Sever’s disease 

Pain in the toes may be caused by:

• Gout

• Hammertoe

• Turf toe 

• Bunions

• Ingrown toenails

• Blisters 

• Arthritis

These and many more conditions can be treated 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.

Running and walking shoes are designed to meet the unique needs of each activity, offering distinct features for performance and comfort. Running shoes generally have more cushioning and impact absorption to handle the intense forces of each foot strike. Walking shoes provide more flexibility and support for a smooth, natural stride. The outer soles of running shoes are typically designed for higher traction to provide stability during quick, dynamic movements. Walking shoes focus on a more even tread for steady contact with the ground. Weight also varies. Running shoes are often lighter to reduce strain during fast-paced activity, while walking shoes may be slightly heavier for better overall support. Choosing the right shoe for each activity ensures proper foot alignment, reduces the risk of injury, and maximizes comfort. If you have endured a foot or ankle injury or want help choosing the right shoes, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist. 

Finding the right shoes can sometimes be a major hassle, especially if you intend to work out in them. There are shoes on the market designed specifically for running and walking, but it can be difficult to differentiate between the two and find the right shoes for you. If you’re having trouble finding the right shoes, please consult with Cynthia Chan, B.Sc., D.Ch from Healthy Advantage Foot & Orthotic Clinic. Our practitioner can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What are the differences between running and walking shoes? 

These two types of shoes vary along several parameters.

• Cushioning: Runners need more cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas of the shoe, while walkers can get away with less cushioning.

• Heel height: Runners need a higher heel to provide them with stability, but the ideal height of the heel for runners varies depending on their running gait. Walkers generally don’t need a built-up heel.  

• Heel flare: Flared heels can help provide extra stability for runners with certain gaits, while walkers may benefit from a flared heel to control the motion of their foot. 

• Flexibility: Both runners and walkers need shoes that are flexible. 

For more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, and to figure out which shoes may be right for you, please consult with a chiropodist. Feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.