Category Archives: Chiropody

Chiropody Orthotics and Compression Stockings For Better Foot Health

When it comes to maintaining optimal foot health, two essential tools often come into play: chiropody orthotics and compression stockings. Both are key components in managing various foot and leg conditions, providing comfort, support, and enhancing overall mobility.

What Are Chiropody Orthotics?

Chiropody orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to support, align, and improve the function of the feet. Unlike generic insoles, orthotics prescribed by a chiropodist are tailored to an individual’s specific needs, addressing particular foot-related issues such as:

  • Flat Feet: Lack of natural arch support can lead to pain and imbalance. Orthotics help in distributing pressure evenly across the feet.
  • Plantar Fasciitis: This condition causes pain in the heel due to inflammation of the plantar fascia. Orthotics provide cushioning and support to alleviate discomfort.
  • Bunions and Hammertoes: Misalignments like bunions or hammertoes can cause severe pain. Orthotics help in correcting posture and reducing friction.
  • Overpronation and Supination: These conditions involve the improper rolling of the foot during walking or running. Orthotics correct these motions, preventing injuries and strain.
How Do Chiropody Orthotics Work?

Chiropody orthotics work by redistributing weight across the feet, providing necessary support where it is most needed. They can relieve pressure points, reduce strain on ligaments and tendons, and correct gait abnormalities. By improving the alignment of the feet, orthotics can also have a positive impact on the knees, hips, and lower back, reducing pain and discomfort in these areas.

What Are Compression Stockings?

Compression stockings are specially designed hosiery that applies pressure to the legs, helping to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. They are commonly used to manage conditions such as:

  • Varicose Veins: These swollen, twisted veins can cause pain and discomfort. Compression stockings prevent blood from pooling in the veins, reducing symptoms.
  • Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI): In CVI, the veins struggle to return blood to the heart, leading to swelling and ulcers. Compression stockings promote circulation, helping to manage this condition.
  • Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This is a serious condition where blood clots form in deep veins, often in the legs. Compression stockings help prevent clots by improving circulation.
  • Edema: Fluid buildup in the legs, often caused by heart failure, kidney disease, or prolonged periods of inactivity, can be managed with compression stockings.
How Do Compression Stockings Work?

Compression stockings work by applying graduated pressure to the legs, which means they are tighter at the ankle and gradually loosen up the leg. This pressure helps veins to work efficiently by pushing blood back up to the heart, reducing swelling and preventing blood clots. They are available in various levels of compression, which are prescribed based on the severity of the condition being treated.

Benefits of Using Chiropody Orthotics and Compression Stockings

  1. Pain Relief: Both orthotics and compression stockings can significantly reduce pain associated with foot and leg conditions.
  2. Improved Mobility: By addressing issues such as improper foot alignment or poor circulation, these tools help enhance mobility and overall function.
  3. Prevention of Further Complications: Orthotics prevent the progression of foot deformities, while compression stockings reduce the risk of developing serious venous issues.
  4. Enhanced Quality of Life: Regular use of these tools can lead to a more active and comfortable lifestyle, allowing individuals to engage in daily activities with greater ease.

When Should You Consider Chiropody Orthotics or Compression Stockings?

If you are experiencing persistent foot pain, swelling, or discomfort, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional such as a chiropodist. They can assess your condition and determine whether orthotics or compression stockings are suitable for you. Early intervention with these tools can prevent more severe issues and provide long-term relief

Chiropody orthotics and compression stockings are invaluable in maintaining foot and leg health. Whether you are dealing with chronic pain, swelling, or simply looking to improve your mobility, these tools can provide the support and relief you need. By incorporating them into your daily routine, under the guidance of a professional, you can step forward with confidence and comfort.

If you’re considering chiropody orthotics or compression stockings, book your initial chiropody appointment today to get assessed today to explore your options and take the first step towards better foot health.

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today or using our online booking system to schedule your initial chiropody assessment and treatment

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Understanding Common Foot Problems and the Role of Chiropody

Our feet, often overlooked and underestimated, play a crucial role in our daily lives. From supporting our body weight to enabling movement, our feet bear a considerable burden.

However, many of us neglect their care until they start causing discomfort or pain. This is where the expertise of chiropodists becomes invaluable.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into some common foot problems and explore how chiropody can help alleviate them, promoting overall foot health and well-being.

Understanding Common Foot Problems:

  1. Bunions: A bunion is a bony bump that forms on the joint at the base of the big toe, causing it to bend towards the other toes. This condition can be painful and worsen over time if left untreated.
  2. Ingrown Toenails: Occurring when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, ingrown toenails can lead to pain, swelling, and even infection if not properly managed.
  3. Plantar Fasciitis: This is one of the most common causes of heel pain, characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia—a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot. Plantar fasciitis often results in stabbing pain with the first steps in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
  4. Athlete’s Foot: A fungal infection that usually begins between the toes, athlete’s foot can cause itching, burning, and peeling of the skin. It thrives in warm, damp environments such as locker rooms and swimming pool areas.
  5. Corn and Calluses: These are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to friction or pressure, often caused by ill-fitting shoes or repetitive movements. While they’re not usually harmful, they can be uncomfortable and unsightly.
  6. Flat Feet (Pes Planus): Flat feet, or fallen arches, occur when the arches of the feet collapse, causing the entire sole of the foot to come into contact with the ground. This can lead to foot pain, swelling, and an altered gait pattern.

The Role of Chiropody:
Chiropodists, also known as podiatrists, are healthcare professionals specializing in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of foot. They play a crucial role in promoting foot health and mobility, addressing a wide range of issues including those mentioned above.

Here’s how chiropodists can help:

  1. Diagnosis: Chiropodists are trained to accurately diagnose various foot conditions through physical examination, medical history review, and, if necessary, diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound.
  2. Treatment: Once a diagnosis is made, chiropodists employ various treatment modalities tailored to each individual’s needs. This may include orthotic devices to correct foot alignment, custom-made footwear, physical therapy, or minor surgical procedures to alleviate pain and improve function.
  3. Orthotics: Orthotics are custom-made shoe inserts designed to support and realign the feet. Chiropodists often prescribe orthotics for conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and bunions to provide cushioning, stability, and biomechanical correction.
  4. Preventive Care: Beyond treating existing foot problems, chiropodists also emphasize preventive care to reduce the risk of future issues. This may involve education on proper foot hygiene, footwear selection, and techniques to prevent injury during physical activity.
  5. Collaboration: Chiropodists often collaborate with other healthcare professionals, such as physiotherapists to ensure comprehensive care for their patients.

Our feet are remarkable structures that deserve attention and care to maintain optimal function and comfort. Chiropody offers a specialized approach to addressing common foot problems, helping individuals regain mobility, alleviate pain, and improve their overall quality of life. Whether you’re experiencing acute foot discomfort or simply seeking preventive advice, consulting a chiropodist can be a proactive step towards ensuring the health and well-being of your feet for years to come.

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today or using our online booking system to schedule your initial chiropody assessment and treatment

“Your feet are your foundation. Take care of them, and they’ll take care of you.”

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Diabetic Chiropody Treatment: Protecting Your Feet, Preserving Your Health

For individuals living with diabetes, foot care is not just a matter of comfort – it’s a critical aspect of overall health management. Diabetes can lead to various foot complications, ranging from neuropathy to ulcers, which, if left untreated, can result in serious consequences, including amputation. That’s where diabetic chiropody treatment steps in. In this post, we explore the importance of diabetic foot care, the role of chiropody in managing foot complications, and how specialized treatment can help individuals with diabetes maintain healthy feet and lifestyles.

Understanding Diabetic Foot Complications:

Diabetes affects the body in numerous ways, including its impact on circulation, nerve function, and immune response. These systemic effects can significantly increase the risk of foot problems in individuals with diabetes, leading to conditions such as:

  • Neuropathy: Diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage, can cause tingling, numbness, or loss of sensation in the feet, making it difficult to detect injuries or wounds.
  • Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Diabetes can impair blood flow to the feet, resulting in poor circulation, slow healing, and an increased risk of infection.
  • Foot Ulcers: Reduced sensation and compromised healing capacity can lead to the formation of foot ulcers, which, if left untreated, can become infected and may require amputation.

The Role of Diabetic Chiropody Treatment:

Diabetic chiropody treatment offers specialized care tailored to the unique needs of individuals with diabetes. Our chiropodists trained in diabetic foot care can provide:

  • Comprehensive Foot Assessments: Chiropodists conduct thorough examinations to assess circulation, sensation, skin integrity, and biomechanics of the feet, identifying any potential risk factors or existing problems.
  • Preventive Care: Regular chiropody appointments focus on preventive measures to minimize the risk of foot complications, including nail care, callus reduction, and footwear advice.
  • Wound Management: In the event of foot ulcers or wounds, chiropodists employ advanced wound care techniques to promote healing, prevent infection, and reduce the risk of amputation.
  • Custom Orthotics: Chiropodists may prescribe custom orthotic devices to relieve pressure points, improve alignment, and reduce the risk of developing foot deformities or ulcers.

Benefits of Diabetic Chiropody Treatment:

  • Early Detection: Regular foot assessments by a chiropodist can detect problems at their earliest stages, allowing for prompt intervention and prevention of complications.
  • Individualized Care: Diabetic chiropody treatment is tailored to each patient’s specific needs, addressing underlying risk factors, and promoting optimal foot health.
  • Improved Quality of Life: By maintaining foot health and preventing complications, diabetic chiropody treatment helps individuals with diabetes lead active, independent lifestyles with reduced risk of disability or amputation.

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today or using our online booking system to schedule your initial chiropody assessment and treatment


“Feet are the foundation of the body. When your foundation is unstable, everything above it is affected.”
– Dr. Brandy Menefee

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Balancing the Body’s Harmony: The Ancient Art and Modern Science of Acupuncture

Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular, yet many people remain reluctant to use it as a form of treatment. So, what exactly is it, and how can it help you? We answer these and more below!

What Is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is a therapeutic technique of inserting fine, one-time-use pre-sterilized needles into very specific points along the body to assist in pain management and healing of injuries. Patients often ask us if acupuncture is painful. The needles used for acupuncture therapy are extremely fine – patients likely feel a small poke but once the needle is inserted, most patients do not feel much pain.

How Does It Work? – Traditional Chinese Medicine

Acupuncture was developed more than 3,000 years ago in China. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), injuries or illnesses are believed to be the results of an imbalance of energy within the body, specifically within meridians, which are channels of energy flow throughout the body. Acupuncture is used to help restore energy balance by placing fine needles at specific points along these meridians.

How Does It Work? – The Gate Control Theory of Pain

Although acupuncture is an ancient practice in Eastern medicine, its use in Western medicine is relatively recent. Though the exact reason why it works is not totally clear, Western medicine has several different theories as to how acupuncture helps with injury recovery. One of those is the Gate Control Theory of Pain.

The Gate Control Theory of Pain outlines how pain signals reach the brain from the spinal cord. In simple terms, if the ‘gate’ is open at the level of the spinal cord, a pain signal can pass through, reaching the brain where the pain is perceived. If the ‘gate’ is closed, a pain signal cannot pass through, and therefore the brain does not perceive pain. So, using this theory, applying a non-painful stimulus when someone experiences a painful stimulus can activate the closing of the gate and decrease the pain signal to the brain. An example of this would be if someone bangs their knee against a hard surface. Usually, our first instinct is to rub the knee (a non-painful stimulus), which helps us feel less pain.

What Injuries Can Be Treated With Acupuncture

Acupuncture can help in the healing process of many muscle and joint injuries. However, it is important to note that it won’t exactly heal these injuries. For example, if a muscle is torn, acupuncture will not repair the tear. However, it can assist in the symptoms associated with the tear, primarily by decreasing pain. Acupuncture has been used to aid in the recovery of a number of injuries, such as rotator cuff tendonitis, tennis elbow, and mechanical neck and back pain.

What Are The Risks Associated With Acupuncture?

The risks associated with acupuncture treatment are relatively minimal. The most common side effect is soreness and/or bruising in the region where the needles are inserted. The risk of infection is extremely LOW since the needles are pre-sterilized and used once. Some people might feel light-headed or dizzy after acupuncture treatment, so it is important to make sure you are well-hydrated and have eaten before your treatment session. If you are pregnant or have had other medical conditions (ex., cancer, stroke, etc.), there are certain points or areas that your practitioner will avoid. This is why it is extremely important to be thorough when reporting your medical history to your practitioner.

If you would like to learn more, ask your practitioner to discuss whether it would be an appropriate option for you, or book an initial assessment with us here!

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Is it Sciatica?

Chances are, if you’ve had back pain or leg pain, you’ve heard the term Sciatica.

So what is it?

Sciatica refers to an injury to or compression of the Sciatic Nerve. This is a very large nerve that originates in the lower back and runs down the back of each leg.

To give a bit of background detail… nerves innervate our whole bodies, and via electrical impulses, provide both power to the muscles and sensation to the skin. When a nerve is injured or compressed, we can experience symptoms of pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling.

Symptoms of Sciatica:

Pain that can go down the back of the leg (from the gluts, down into the back of the thigh, into the calf, and into the top or sole of the foot)

Numbness along the same area

Weakness in the leg with certain movements (e.g., does your foot get caught tripping as you walk? Are you able to walk on your toes?)

Tingling along the same area

Causes of Sciatica?

Disc bulges or herniations in the lumbar spine (the disc can press on the nerve)

Spinal stenosis (the canal through which the Sciatic nerve travels has narrowed due to arthritic changes and that can cause pressure on the nerve)

Piriformis syndrome (muscles in the glut area can get tight and compress the nerve as well)

If you are experiencing any Sciatic symptoms and they are not improving/worsening after 2-3 days, then Physiotherapy can likely help!

We do a thorough assessment to find the source of the nerve compression and provide:

Manual therapy techniques to relax tight muscles and help the nerve glide more easily

Additionally, manual therapy techniques can help take the pressure off from disc bulge or herniation and improve joint mobility

Exercise therapy to strengthen the back and core, stretch the tight musculature, and glide the nerve more freely

There are exercises we can show you that also help take the pressure off the nerve if the compression is happening in the spine

PT Kristina performing the slump test

If you’re not sure, you can always give us a call and ask one of our physiotherapists!

Other recommendations in the meantime:

Performing gentle stretches like the image above can help relieve symptoms!

Try ice or heat on your back or gluts

Speak to your primary physician regarding pain management options

Avoid exclusive backrest

If you are doing any exercises that aggravate your symptoms, STOP them temporarily

Reduce your general activity i.e. “take it easy” for the first few days

Alternate positions (sit, stand, walk) rather than doing one for a prolonged time

Do not lift anything heavy, e.g. >20 lb, especially from the floor

Do not ignore this issue for weeks because it likely WILL get worse and it will then take longer to heal…

If you would like to learn more or book your initial physiotherapy assessment along with treatment, book your appointment now.

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If you Have RA a Chiropodist is an Important Part of your Team

RA or Rheumatoid Arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis where the immune system attacks the tissues of the joint lining. This can cause painful inflammation during “flairs” and stiffness.

It is common for many people with RA to develop these symptoms in the joints of the foot and ankle. It can be painful and swollen in the joints of the toes, ankle and even ligaments of the feet. Nodules, or lumps can occur on the heel, ball of the foot or the achilles tendon.

If left untreated deformities of the toes and feet can occur such as hammertoes or claw toes. Cartilage between joints can break down and cause changes in the shape of the foot, toes and ankles. It can be a cycle of pain and stiffness and visible changes.

A Chiropodist as Part of your RA Team:

In addition to managing your inflammatory levels with the help of a rheumatologist and possibly other health care practitioners such as a Naturopathic Doctor, a Chiropodist can help you protect your feet. Working closely with a Chiropodist allows them to help manage pressure, and prevent joint breakdown and deformity.

Custom Orthotics and guidance on proper footwear help support the joints of the foot and ankle. Orthotics will also help support joints above that can also be affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis, such as knees and hips. Custom orthotics help manage joint pressure as well as joint alignment.

oakville physio clinic for joint replacement rehab and physio

Most private benefits cover visits / assessments with Chiropodists (foot specialists) as well as Custom Orthotics.

Contact us to book your consultation / assessment with one of our North Oakville / Halton Chiropodists.

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Osteoarthritis & Physiotherapy

As Physiotherapists, RMT’s, Chiropodists and Yoga Therapists we see many people who have osteoarthritis. We may or may not be treating them for issues directly related to the arthritis.

What is Osteoarthritis?

There are many different types of arthritis. Some affect the joints, some affect the tendons, muscles and ligaments. Some affects specific areas, and some affect the whole body.

The most common type of arthritis is Osteoarthritis or “OA”. This is a type of arthritis that affects a persons synovial joints. In OA, the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones may have changes or be worn away. Joint changes in OA can (but not necessarily) cause pain, stiffness, inflammation and trouble with movement.

OA refers to the classic “wear and tear” of the joints. It is commonly seen in the knees, hips, low back, neck, the joints of the fingers and the big toes. The pain generally stays locally in the joint that it is affected by.

Risk Factors of Osteoarthritis Include:

  • Age
  • Female Gender
  • Obesity
  • Anatomical Factors
  • Muscle weakness
  • Previous joint injury (eg. sports or occupation related etc)
Low back pain at oakville physio

Primary versus Secondary OA

Primary OA refers to normal “wear and tear” of the joints. It generally starts showing in people between 55 and 60 years of age. Everyone is different in how they experience symptoms and IF they have pain and limitations. The above risk factors also play a role in this.

Secondary OA refers to a specific injury or trigger that may accelerate cartilage breakdown. Injury, obesity, a history of certain diseases like diabetes, marfan syndrome and other connective tissue disorders,

Signs and Symptoms of OA:

People with osteoarthritis may come into our Oakville clinic looking for treatment from one of our Physio’s, RMT’s or Chiropodists due to one or a combination of the following issues.

There may be a precipitating event that flairs up symptoms of OA like a fall or injury. A person may complain of local pain. The intensity of the pain may be variable. A joint with OA may have stiffness or a decreased range of motion. This can be from a combination of the joint as well as the soft tissue structures around it, over time.

A person with OA may hear clicking or cracking with movement of a joint that may or may not decrease as they move more. The noises may or may not be associated with pain. There may also be mild swelling around a joint with osteoarthritis.

Imaging and Arthritis:

In addition to the signs above some family doctors like to send people for X-rays to confirm their suspicions. X-rays show the joint surfaces and the space between the joints. This will show the thickness and smoothness of the cartilage.

X-rays can sometimes be a red herring.This means that sometimes there may be pain in an area and the imaging shows no joint changes or someone may not have any pain but X-rays show more significant arthritis.

Physiotherapy for knee pain caused by osteoarthritis / OAarthritis

Management of Osteoarthritis:

If you have OA and or the above symptoms, a physiotherapist is a key member of your health care team.

The treatment and education they will provide you should be focussed on your specific limitations, your lifestyle and your goals.

If a joint replacement like a total knee replacement (THR) or total hip replacement (THR) is in your future, we (physiotherapists) can BOTH help get you ready and help you with your recovery. Hopefully you will access physiotherapy early enough that we will help you delay or even prevent needing these surgeries!

Physiotherapists will help you with specific ways to add strength and mobility in an area. This will help with activities of daily living and pain. Fall prevention activities are very important in people with OA as there is a 30% increased falls risk in people with OA. Some of this may have to do with pain medications frequently prescribed. Physiotherapists can help both with a persons pain and pain management as well as longer term pain management strategies.

Massage Therapists can also help with pain and mobility in stiff joints.

Chiropodists can help with the joint alignment from the bottom up through the use of custom orthotics. This can help with both hip, knee and low back OA.

How WE can help!

Having Osteoarthritis does not mean you are destined for years of pain and problems. There is a lot that can be done conservatively to take action.

Oakville Physio showing exercise prescription

Our team at North Oakville’s Palermo Physio and Wellness centre is here to help not only with your aches and pains but also with prevention.

Our Registered Massage Therapists can work on joints and muscles that are stiff and uncomfortable. Many people book in for massage when they have pain and find value in booking massages at regular intervals.

Our Chiropodists provide thorough biomechanics assessments and gait analysis. They can give advise on footwear and measure and fit you for the best custom orthotics for you and your lifestyle and needs.

Our Physiotherapists will work with you to help you get stronger, move better and to work towards your goals. You deserve to have an amazing quality of life and we are here to help!

Contact us to see how we can help!

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What is your Achilles Tendon?

Tendons, bones, muscles, nerves, ligaments, cartilage….

There are so many terms and word to sort through when it comes to our bodies. Skeletal muscles are contractile. They contract and shorten to produce movement. They contract to hold and joint in place. They lengthen under force as well eccentrically (picture lowering down stairs).

Ligaments connect bone to bone and help secure your different joints.

Cartilage covered the joint surfaces between joints. It provide shock absorption and helps with smooth movement.

Your tendons are an extension of the skeletal muscles that connect muscles to bone. They act with a pulley and lever system to help produce movement.

Forces in and on your body don’t take place in a vacuum. These structures as well as the bones help move you, stop you and absorb forces.

Your achilles tendon is the strongest and largest tendon in the body. It is vulnerable to injury due to its limited blood supply, age related changes and specific activities.

Foot Care, Oakville, Milton, Foot clinic, podiatrist

Injury to the Achilles Tendon:

Tendonitis

Tendonitis is the acute inflammation of the tendon. In this case the achilles tendon connecting he calf muscles to the heel bone becomes irritated and inflamed. This is often associated with overuse. This is often from doing more or too much too quickly for our bodies to adapt. For many people there is a sudden increase in exercise activity or intensity.

Achilles tendonitis can cause local pain and stiffness. The first steps after sitting or laying down may cause pain in the achilles area. Walking down stairs can also sometimes be painful or stiff feeling in the area of the achilles tendon.

Achilles tendonitis can be common in athletes like runners, soccer, basketball, and volleyball athletes with running and jumping repetitively. Sudden increases in volume as well as a persons body structure can play a role. It can be helpful to have the area looked at by a Physiotherapist and / or Chiropodist to provide specific treatment.

This type of treatment may include things to address the inflammation and pain in the short term. It will also likely include long term suggestions of strengthening, footwear modifications and possibly custom orthotics.

Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is a longer term overuse injury of the achilles and excessive chronic stress. Due to the chronic nature of this issue, there may be a range of changes to the tendon. These changes are more likely to happen when there are repeated bouts of tendonitis that are not treated, managed or prevented.

Higher risk factors are obesity, high blood pressure, sudden load changes to the achilles tendon, Type II diabetes, prolonged steroid use, inappropriate footwear, and a family history.

Calf massage for treatment of heel pain and sever's disease at oakville Physio, chiropody, and massage clinic

Rupture

Rupture or tearing of the achilles tendon is the most common rupture in the lower body. It its most common in those aged 30 to 50. Patients often describe this injury as feeling like someone has kicked them. They may hear a “pop” or “snap” sound.

Achilles tendon ruptures, like many injuries are multifactorial.

Achilles tendon ruptures are most common in people who are active “on occasion”. This could mean mild activity during the week and some weekends playing a couple games of floor hockey or soccer. There is a small percentage of people (~10%) that report having tendinosis prior to the rupture.

Ruptures tend to happen around 2-4cm from where the tendon attaches to the heel bone.

Achilles tendon ruptures may happen from sudden and forced plantar flexion (pointing), direct force on the area or longstanding tendinosis.

Foot and ankle position as well as systemic factors can predispose someone to achilles tendon issues. It is important to treat and have best control of all factors for best healing of the area. Some system issues predisposing a person to achilles issues are diabetes, renal failure, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, thyroid issues etc.

cast on leg showing North Oakville Physio for broken bone , fracture, RMT, massage therapy

If you have been having heel or achilles pain that is ongoing, progressing or off and on, one of our North Oakville Physiotherapists or Chiropodists would be happy to assess you. They will take your health history, watch how you stand, move and walk and assess the area.

This thorough and individualized assessment will provide them an idea of factors leading to your achilles pain / dysfunction and allow them to give you individualized advice and treatment. Most insurance benefits cover physiotherapy and/or chiropodist assessments and treatments. At our Oakville clinic we are able to provide direct billing to most insurance companies.

Contact us to book your in person physio or Chiropody appointment at our North Oakville Clinic or virtual physiotherapy appointment.

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Winter Foot Care Tips from an Oakville Foot Clinic

It has been COLD in Oakville and Halton lately!

it is easy to remember to care for your feet in the summer months because we see them more, but is just as important to look after your feet in the winter!

Here are some Chiropodist tips from our North Oakville foot clinic on how to care for your feet in the winter.

Keep your feet warm

Proper footwear and socks are vital in the cold weather.

Your shoes and boots should be covered all around and have a thick sole. The treads of your sole should be deep and ridged to help with grip and prevent slipping on snow and ice. There are also grippers that fit over your soles should you need to leave the home in more slippery conditions.

Wear warm socks that still breath. Wool socks are excellent for temperature regulation and wishing sweat away to prevent dampness.

People who have circulation issues, diabetes and other sensory issues are more likely to have issues in the winter months. If you have been having problems it is important to seek a solution and work with your Chiropodist to maintain your foot health.

Protect your feet from the elements

Wearing proper winter boots in cold and wet / slushy conditions is impotent to stay warm and for the health of your feet. Running shoes in slushy weather can be not only cold, but dangerous.

Your boots should also provide good ankle support. For more time on your feet, try to stay away from trendy soft walled “boots” that cause your ankles to collapse inwards.

Our Oakville Chiropodists can help you choose footwear that is best for you and your feet.

Inspect your feet regularly

After a shower or bath, before and after bed, are all great times to look at your feet. Look around your toenails, between your toes, and on the bottoms of your feet. Use a mirror or a cell phone if you can get to some of these places!

Look for redness, cuts, calluses or anything out of the ordinary. If you aren’t sure bring it to the attention of your doctor or book in with your Chiropodist / foot specialist.

Keep your feet and toenails clean and kept

It can be easy in the winter months to neglect your feet. Try and maintain a basic schedule for yourself. The regular foot look over will be helpful with this.

Cold weather can dry out your feet and cause cracks. Also, when your feet are in moist and dark places (like boots), fungus may grow and thrive. This can cause athletes foot and toenail fungus. Wearing proper socks and doing regular maintenance / foot care can help prevent this.

It is much easier and healthier to care for your feet regularly and have routine foot care visits with your chiropodist, than play catch up and treat ongoing or advanced issues.

Our Oakville Chiropodists are here to help with your foot health. We treat patients from all over Oakville, Halton, Burlington and Milton in our North Oakville foot clinic.

Contact us to book your appointment.

Compression socks from an oakville foot clinic
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New Year New Shoes?!

The New Year or beginning of the month is a great time to check on your shoes!

How do you know when it is time to switch out your old pair of shoes for a new pair?

Follow along and our Oakville Chiropodist will give you some tips!

How long have you had the shoe?

Your shoes should last you between 500 to 800kms of use. Depending on your training or exercise that is roughly 6 months to one year.

Look at the bottom

Turn your shoe over and look at the bottom are the treads evenly worn?

Are there any holes?

Are there any treads left?

The bottom on the shoe is a key indicator of when it is time to change your shoes up. Wearing a shoe that has worn unevenly or is very worn in general can lead to wear and tear type pain and injuries. There may be less cushioning for the feet and joints above. There may be less grip and your walking or running pattern changes unconsciously to adapt. Wear you put weight through your foot and joints may change if your shoe is worn unevenly.

It is always better to transition to new shoes before it is a problem.

Book in with an Oakville Foot Specialist!

A Chiropodist can discuss with you what shoes are best for you, your foot, how you walk/run and for the activities you use them for.

Bring your old shoes with you your foot clinic appointment. The Chiropodist / foot specialist will gain so much information from looking at you wearing the shoes, and looking at the bottoms of the shoes. They will be able to give you recommendations on shoes that will be ideal for you.

foot pain and custom orthotics in an oakville physio clinic

You do not need to be in pain to access foot clinic services. Prevention is so important. When many people are looking to begin new activities or transitioning with gym closures investing in a great pair of shoes is a great thing to do.

Most private benefits cover foot care appointments with a Chiropodist.

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