Category Archives: Chiropody

Foot Care Myths vs. Facts: What You Should Know About Healthy Feet

When it comes to foot care, we’ve all heard some questionable advice. From old wives’ tales to well-meaning but misguided tips, there are a lot of myths circulating about what’s good for our feet. The truth is, your feet deserve better than outdated assumptions, they play a major role in your overall health and well-being. Whether you’re trying to deal with blisters, calluses, or foot pain, separating fact from fiction can help keep your feet in top shape.

In this blog post, we’ll debunk some of the most common foot care myths and provide expert insights from chiropodists (podiatrists) on what you should know for healthy, happy feet.

Myth #1: “Blisters Are Harmless and Don’t Need Treatment”

Fact: Blisters may seem like a minor nuisance, but they can lead to bigger problems if left untreated. While they’re often caused by friction (like new shoes), they can become infected if the skin breaks open. Blisters can also lead to painful sores or infections if not managed properly.

Chiropodist Tip: If you get a blister, avoid popping it. Keep it clean and cover it with a sterile bandage to reduce the risk of infection. If the blister does burst, gently clean it with antiseptic and apply a sterile dressing. If you’re prone to blisters, ensure your shoes fit properly and choose moisture-wicking socks to reduce friction.

Myth #2: “Calluses Are Just Part of Aging, So I Don’t Need to Worry About Them”

Fact: Calluses are often thought of as a normal part of getting older, but they’re actually a sign that your feet may be under extra pressure. They form when the skin thickens in response to repeated friction, usually caused by ill-fitting shoes or improper walking habits.

Chiropodist Tip: While calluses themselves aren’t harmful, they can lead to painful foot problems if ignored. Regular foot care, such as exfoliating and using a pumice stone, can keep calluses from getting too thick and causing discomfort. If calluses become painful or start to crack, it’s time to see a chiropodist for professional care.

Myth #3: “It’s Fine to Ignore Toenail Problems, They’ll Fix Themselves”

Fact: Ignoring toenail problems, like ingrown nails, fungal infections, or thickened nails, can lead to infections, pain, or long-term damage. Problems like ingrown toenails, where the nail grows into the surrounding skin, can get worse over time, becoming infected and requiring more invasive treatments.

Chiropodist Tip: If you notice pain, redness, or swelling around your nails, it’s essential to get them checked out by a chiropodist. Early intervention can often prevent more serious issues like infections or the need for surgery.

Myth #4: “Walking Barefoot is Always Bad for Your Feet”

Fact: While it’s true that walking barefoot on hard surfaces like concrete can put strain on your feet, there are situations where going barefoot can actually be good for you. Walking barefoot on natural surfaces, like grass or sand, helps to strengthen the muscles in your feet and improve balance.

Chiropodist Tip: If you choose to go barefoot, do so on soft surfaces like grass or sand. Avoid walking barefoot on hard or rough surfaces, as this can lead to injuries, cuts, or blisters. Additionally, people with conditions like diabetes or neuropathy should be especially cautious and avoid going barefoot altogether to prevent unnoticed injuries.

Myth #5: “You Only Need to See a Chiropodist if You Have Severe Foot Problems”

Fact: While seeing a chiropodist for severe foot pain or injuries is important, regular visits for preventative care can save you from bigger problems down the road. Chiropodists don’t just treat injuries, they can also help with routine foot health, such as trimming toenails, managing corns and calluses, and giving advice on footwear and posture.

Chiropodist Tip: Don’t wait for your feet to hurt before seeking help. Regular check-ups can catch minor issues before they become major problems. Especially for people with diabetes or those prone to foot issues, seeing a chiropodist regularly can help maintain foot health and prevent complications.

Myth #6: “Shoes Should Only Be Chosen for Fashion, Not Comfort”

Fact: While stylish shoes may look great, they’re not always great for your feet. Poorly fitted shoes can cause a range of problems, including bunions, corns, and plantar fasciitis. In fact, shoes that don’t fit well or provide the right support can lead to long-term foot damage and discomfort.

Chiropodist Tip: Choose shoes that offer a good fit and proper arch support. Look for shoes with a comfortable toe box (so your toes aren’t squished), a cushioned sole, and adequate heel support. If you have specific foot problems, such as flat feet or high arches, consider orthotics to help distribute pressure and provide additional comfort.

Myth #7: “Foot Pain Is Normal and You Just Have to Live with It”

Fact: Foot pain is not something you should just put up with. Chronic foot pain, whether it’s from conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis, is a sign that something is wrong. Ignoring pain can lead to more severe issues, including difficulty walking and an overall decrease in mobility.

Chiropodist Tip: If you’re experiencing ongoing foot pain, make an appointment with a chiropodist. They can diagnose the root cause of your discomfort, recommend appropriate treatment (like stretching exercises or custom insoles), and help you manage pain effectively. Don’t wait for the pain to go away on its own—it could indicate an underlying issue that requires professional attention.

Myth #8: “Foot Care Is Only Important for Older People”

Fact: Foot care is important at any age! While it’s true that feet may become more prone to issues like bunions and calluses as we age, foot problems can affect people of all ages, including children and athletes. In fact, regular foot care from an early age can help prevent problems from developing later on.

Chiropodist Tip: Start taking care of your feet as early as possible—learn to choose the right shoes, practice good hygiene, and check your feet regularly for any signs of irritation or injury. If you’re an athlete or an active person, see a chiropodist for advice on preventing foot injuries and maintaining foot health.

Take Your Feet Seriously

Your feet are the foundation of your body, so they deserve proper care and attention. By debunking these common foot care myths and adopting better habits, you can avoid unnecessary pain, discomfort, and long-term issues.

If you have concerns about your feet or are experiencing pain, don’t wait – consult a chiropodist for personalized advice and care. Healthy feet make for a healthier you, so start taking care of them today!

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today to schedule your chiropody appointment!

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Flip Flops Are Over: The Best Transition Shoe for Fall, According to Chiropody Experts

As we approach towards the end of August, it’s time to say goodbye to flip flops. While they’re great for the beach and poolside lounging, flip flops offer minimal support and can lead to a range of foot problems, especially when worn beyond their seasonal stay.

At Palermo Plus Physiotherapy and Wellness Center we often see a spike in foot pain as the seasons shift. Many patients arrive with heel pain, arch fatigue, and even stress injuries brought on by months of walking in flat, unsupportive sandals. As fall approaches, now is the perfect time to transition to a more supportive shoe, one that keeps your feet comfortable, protected, and pain-free.

So, what should you be wearing this fall?

The Best Transition Shoe for Fall: Supportive Sneakers

If there’s one shoe we recommend across the board as a post-summer transition essential, it’s a supportive sneaker.

Here’s why:

  • Arch support: Unlike flip flops, good sneakers provide structured arch support, which helps distribute pressure evenly and prevents overuse injuries.
  • Shock absorption: Sneakers with cushioned soles help reduce the impact on your heels and joints, particularly important on harder surfaces like pavement.
  • Foot stability: A firm heel counter and snug fit help stabilize the foot and reduce risk of ankle sprains — a common issue when wearing loose sandals.
  • Versatility: Today’s sneakers are stylish enough to wear casually but functional enough for long walks and daily errands.

Chiropody Tip:

Look for sneakers labeled as motion control or stability shoes if you overpronate, or neutral cushioning if you have a normal gait. Brands like New Balance, Brooks, Asics, and Hoka consistently score high for support and comfort.

What About Slip-Ons or Loafers?

If you’re not ready to fully commit to athletic footwear, a structured slip-on or loafer with arch support can also be a great fall transition option. Choose models with:

  • A firm sole
  • A deep heel cup
  • Removable insoles, so you can swap in your custom orthotics if needed

Avoid thin-soled ballet flats or soft moccasins, they’re the fall equivalent of flip flops when it comes to lack of support.

Don’t Ignore Fall Foot Pain

As temperatures drop and we shift our routines, new footwear and colder weather can reveal or aggravate hidden foot issues. Plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and bunion pain all tend to flare during this season of change.

If you’re experiencing discomfort, don’t wait for it to get worse. Book a consultation with your chiropodist to assess your gait, footwear, and overall foot health. Often, a small change, like switching to a better shoe or adding a custom orthotic, can prevent months of chronic pain.

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today to schedule your chiropody appointment!

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Foot Pain After Vacation? Why Walking Barefoot May Be the Cause

The sand, the sun, the strolls… and now the sore feet.
If you’ve just returned from a relaxing vacation but are now experiencing heel pain, sore arches, or stiff ankles, you’re not alone, and the culprit might be simpler than you think:

Walking barefoot too often.

At Palermo Physiotherapy & Wellness Centre, we frequently see an uptick in foot and ankle pain during late summer and just after long weekends or vacations. While going barefoot may feel natural and freeing, especially at cottages, pools, beaches, and hotels, it can silently trigger foot strain, inflammation, and injury.

Let’s break down why your post-vacation foot pain might not be a coincidence and how we can help.

Why Walking Barefoot Feels Good, But Can Hurt You

When you’re walking barefoot, especially on hard or uneven surfaces like tile, hardwood, concrete patios, docks, or even gravel, your feet are doing more work than usual to support and stabilize your body. Here’s what happens:

  • No arch support → leads to strain on the plantar fascia (tissue under your foot)
  • No shock absorption → increases pressure on heels, forefoot, and tendons
  • Instability on uneven surfaces → increases risk of micro-tears and tendon fatigue
  • Sudden increase in activity → especially if you’re walking more on vacation than you normally do

This combination often leads to overuse injuries, especially when feet aren’t conditioned for barefoot walking.

Common Issues We See After Barefoot Walking

1. Plantar Fasciitis

A sharp, stabbing heel pain, especially in the morning or after sitting. This condition is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of tissue running along your foot arch. Barefoot walking stretches this tissue more than it can handle.

2. Achilles Tendonitis

Pain in the back of the heel or lower calf. Without a heel lift from shoes, the Achilles tendon absorbs more strain, especially on uphill paths or stairs.

3. Metatarsalgia

Burning or sharp pain in the ball of the foot, often from walking barefoot on hard floors for long periods.

4. Fat Pad Atrophy Aggravation

As we age, the natural cushioning in our feet thins out. Walking barefoot exposes that area to more direct pressure and discomfort.

Why It Doesn’t Happen Right Away

You might have felt great walking barefoot during your vacation, but now, days later, your foot hurts. This is because many overuse injuries develop gradually and silently. You may not feel pain during the activity, but the inflammation builds over time and becomes noticeable once you’re back to routine.

How We Can Help at Palermo Plus

The good news? Most of these conditions can be effectively treated when caught early.

– Physiotherapy

Our physiotherapists can assess your foot mechanics and treat pain using:

  • Manual therapy and soft tissue release
  • Targeted strengthening and stretching
  • Taping or orthotic support recommendations

– Chiropody (Foot Specialist Care)

Our chiropodist can:

  • Diagnose structural issues, inflammation, or early tendon problems
  • Provide treatment for nail and skin conditions (from barefoot friction or fungus)
  • Recommend and fit custom orthotics to restore foot balance
  • Monitor chronic issues like bunions, corns, or diabetic foot care

– Custom Orthotics (If Needed)

Orthotics can help redistribute pressure, support the arch, and reduce recurrence of pain. They’re especially useful if you’ve returned to walking on hard indoor floors after a barefoot summer.

Prevention Tips for Next Time!

  • Limit barefoot walking on hard surfaces
  • Choose supportive sandals (with arch support, cushioned sole, heel cup)
  • Stretch your calves and feet before/after long walks
  • Don’t ignore early morning heel pain, it’s an early warning sign!!

Ready to Feel Good on Your Feet Again?

Whether you’ve just returned from a beach holiday or a cottage escape, don’t let foot pain follow you home. Our team of physiotherapists and chiropodists will get to the root of your discomfort, and help you walk comfortably again.

Contact us!

Take the first step towards recovery by contacting us today to schedule your appointment!

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6 Common Summer Foot Problems and How Chiropody Can Help

As temperatures climb, people spend more time on their feet, in sandals, on hot pavement, and barefoot on the beach. While summer can feel freeing, it also exposes your feet to stress, heat, and infections. Chiropody is essential for identifying and managing these seasonal issues before they ruin your summer plans.

Let’s look at 6 common summer foot problems and how a chiropodist can help you treat and prevent them.

1. Cracked Heels (Heel Fissures)

The problem: Open-back sandals, flip-flops, and dry air often lead to callused, cracked heels. These fissures can be painful, bleed, or become infected if left untreated.

How chiropody helps:

  • Debriding (safely removing) thickened skin
  • Recommending intensive heel balms and protective footwear
  • Treating any infections caused by deep cracks

2. Plantar Warts

The problem: Walking barefoot in public places like pools, gyms, or hotel showers increases your risk of contracting the HPV virus, which causes plantar warts on the soles of your feet. These can be painful and spread easily.

How chiropody helps:

  • Diagnosing plantar warts (often confused with calluses)
  • Offering safe, professional treatments such as cryotherapy, salicylic acid applications, or needling
  • Educating on prevention strategies

3. Fungal Infections (Athlete’s Foot & Fungal Nails)

The problem: Sweaty feet and moist environments are ideal for fungal growth. Athlete’s foot and fungal toenails are more common in summer when feet are frequently wet or confined in tight shoes.

How chiropody helps:

  • Identifying the specific fungal strain
  • Prescribing topical or oral antifungal treatments
  • Trimming and thinning fungal nails for comfort and hygiene
  • Preventing reinfection with hygiene advice

4. Blisters & Friction Burns

The problem: New or unsupportive summer footwear can cause friction, leading to painful blisters on toes, heels, and the balls of your feet.

How chiropody helps:

  • Draining blisters safely when necessary
  • Applying dressings and recommending friction-reducing products
  • Advising on proper footwear for walking or sports

5. Sunburned Feet

The problem: The tops of feet are often forgotten during sunscreen application. A sunburn here can be painful and increase your risk of skin damage or even skin cancer.

How chiropody helps:

  • Identifying skin damage and checking for abnormalities (especially in high-risk patients)
  • Recommending appropriate sun protection for feet
  • Monitoring changes in moles or skin spots

6. Swollen Feet (Heat Edema)

The problem: Heat causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lead to swelling in the feet and ankles. This is especially common in older adults and people who stand or walk a lot during the summer.

How chiropody helps:

  • Checking circulation and ruling out serious causes
  • Advising on compression socks, proper hydration, and elevation techniques
  • Recommending footwear that supports swollen feet without restricting circulation

Don’t Wait Until It Hurts

Many people ignore foot discomfort until it becomes a serious problem. A chiropodist can identify early signs of trouble and help you avoid painful complications, especially during the high-activity summer months.

Healthy feet mean a happier, more active summer. Take the first step today.

Contact us!

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

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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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