Oh, my aching feet! If that’s a common refrain around your house, here are some ways to soothe your soles (note that if you are experiencing severe foot pain, be sure to see a chiropodist as soon as possible). Most aching feet are the result of standing, walking or running for too long. If your foot seems warm to the touch, it may be inflamed or swollen. Try icing it, because adding heat will open the capillaries further, increasing blood flow and adding to the inflammation. Remember to place a towel or cloth over your skin before applying an ice pack to it, and limit the time to about 15 minutes. Conversely, if your feet are tired and aching, but cool to the touch, a warm foot bath could be just the thing to gain some relief. After drying your feet thoroughly, you may wish to apply soothing lotion while also giving your feet a little massage. This will improve circulation and stimulate your foot muscles. Avoid massages if your feet are swollen or injured. If you believe you may have a serious foot injury, be sure to consult a chiropodist as soon as possible for a complete examination and diagnosis.

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 Scarborough, ON . 

There are several bones in the ankles, and if one of them breaks, it is considered to be an ankle fracture. A simple fracture may be uncomfortable, but many patients are able to walk on the affected foot. If the ankle is fractured in multiple spots, it is most likely that the patient is unable to walk, and the ankle may appear deformed. Some of the symptoms that are associated with a broken ankle can include severe pain, swelling, and a change in the shape of the ankle. Many people find the swelling may diminish when the foot is elevated. This can help to stabilize the ankle and reduce some of the pain. A walking boot or cast may be necessary to further stabilize the ankle, and this may help to accelerate the healing process. Many broken ankles heal in approximately six weeks and may take longer if the fracture is severe. If you have symptoms of a broken ankle, please consult with a chiropodist who can help you with proper treatment methods.

test template

Running and walking are both excellent forms of exercise. Both are usually done while wearing sneakers, but did you know that there are different types of sneakers? Running shoes are specifically designed for running. They have more cushioning, tend to be the most flexible at the arch or midfoot and have a higher heel height. Walking shoes are usually less cushioned, less flexible, and have a lower heel. Walking shoes are also usually harder to find in stores. While you can certainly walk in running shoes, doing the opposite — running in walking shoes — is not a great idea, as walking shoes lack the cushioning and flexibility needed to support the feet as they hit the pavement. For more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, and how to find the best shoes for you, please consult with 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. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Scarborough, ON .