Items filtered by date: April 2023

Having swollen feet is uncomfortable, and it can happen for a variety of reasons. Research has shown varicose veins to be a common reason to have swollen feet. This condition may cause blood and fluids to remain in the lower part of the legs, and may become worse after sitting or standing for long periods of time. Additionally, the majority of pregnant women develop swollen ankles. This is partially due to the added weight that is gained that nourishes the growing fetus. The uterus also exerts pressure on the veins, and mild relief may be found when the feet are frequently elevated. Existing medications may cause some people to experience swollen feet. These can include medicine for diabetes, hormone therapy, or possibly antidepressants. If you have noticed your feet have become swollen, it is suggested that you confer with a chiropodist who can determine what the cause is, and offer you relief options.

Foot pain can have many causes. To receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment for your foot pain, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Causes

There are a variety of different conditions that can cause foot pain, including: 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Deformities, such as bunions or hammertoes

• Injuries to the muscles, bones, tendons, or ligaments in the feet

• Arthritis

• Flat feet

• Ingrown toenails

Symptoms

The type and location of your foot pain can help determine what may be causing it and what type of treatment options are best for you. 

Common types of foot pain include: 

• Heel pain

• Arch pain

• Toe pain

• Ball of foot pain

• Pain that has a stabbing, burning, or tingling quality

• Pain that is constant, intermittent, or that gets better or worse depending on the situation 

Diagnosis

A thorough medical history and physical examination of your feet will be required to determine a diagnosis. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs may be performed to rule out or confirm certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause of the pain. Common treatments for foot pain include resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot, wearing orthotics, or taking anti-inflammatory medications. 

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.

Many people suffer from having cold feet during the winter months, despite the amount of extra clothing worn. This can be a result of constricted blood vessels in the feet, which is the body’s natural response to a temperature drop. Additionally, there may be existing medical conditions that can cause cold feet, including poor circulation, diabetes, and thyroid disorder. Cold feet during the winter months may be reduced by staying physically active, which is beneficial in improving circulation. It can help to wear socks, and soaking the feet in warm water may relax them. Some people find it is beneficial to use a heating pad or a hot compress on the feet before sleeping. This may also help to reduce any muscle soreness. If you suffer from cold feet during the winter months, it is suggested that you speak with a chiropodist who can help you to feel more comfortable.

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 Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician 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.

As a senior citizen, you are at an increased risk of suffering from a fall, which can wreak havoc on the health and vitality of your feet. One place in which a senior might fall is in the workplace or the office. There are several steps that a senior might consider taking to reduce their risk of tripping at work. For example, closing file cabinets and drawers instead of leaving them open. Also, a senior can lookout for signs indicating wet areas of the floor or spills. Lastly, to help prevent falls in the office, senior citizens could consider having loose wires and cables around their desks firmly secured to the ground. If you are a senior or are caring for one, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment and advice.

Falls are a major cause of injury among the elderly. To learn more about preventing falls or to get treatment following a foot or ankle injury caused by a fall, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Falling is one of the leading causes of injury among the elderly. It is said that about 50% of falls that result in hospitalization occur in the home. Fortunately, there are steps that you can implement to reduce your risk of falling in the home. 

Tips to Prevent Falls at Home:

• In the bathroom - Place non-slip mats in the shower or tub, install grab bars near the toilet and bath, and wipe up any moisture or spills as soon as possible. 

• In the living rooms and bedroom - Remove loose wires, cords, or other objects that may be an obstacle to moving around safely. Make sure that you have good lighting throughout the home so that you can always see where you are going. Get rid of any rugs or mats that are not firmly anchored or that may cause you to trip. When walking around the home, move slowly. 

• In the kitchen - Store food and supplies in easily accessible areas, store heavy items in lower cupboards, and wipe up any spills immediately to prevent slipping. 

• On the stairs - Make sure that the stairs are well-lit and have secure handrails. Walk slowly when ascending or descending the stairs.  

• Outside - Keep walkways well-lit and clear of snow, ice, leaves, and man-made tripping hazards.

Maintaining your overall health, including the health of your feet, can also help to prevent falls. Eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and wear well-fitted, comfortable, and supportive shoes. If you have a mobility device, such as a cane, use it while walking.  

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.

Spring is the season of renewal. Many people choose to lose the winter blues by buying a few pairs of new shoes and possibly starting a good foot care routine. This can begin with soaking the feet in warm water, and many people enjoy adding coconut oil and epsom salt. This can be followed by using a pumice stone to remove existing dead skin, and the routine can be completed by applying a good moisturizer. It is important to properly trim the toenails regularly, and polishing the nails can enhance the appearance of the feet. The feet may slightly change sizes between seasons, and it is beneficial to have them measured before purchasing new shoes. If you have questions about additional foot care procedures, it is suggested that you consult with a chiropodist who can provide you with the information you are seeking. 

Springtime is the season that many people use to get back into exercising and sports. It’s also a time when foot and ankle injuries may be more common. If you have a foot or ankle injury, please consult with Chiropodist Stephanie Poupore from North Bay Foot & Ankle. Our clinician can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Common Foot and Ankle Problems in Spring 

• Plantar fasciitis

• Achilles tendonitis

• Shin splints 

• Strains

• Sprains

• Fractures

• And more

Avoiding Injury

• Increase physical activity slowly and gradually

• Wear comfortable, well-fitted shoes and socks

• Take time to rest following a workout 

• Recognize and treat any injuries promptly 

Treatment at Home

• Rest the injured foot

• Apply ice to reduce swelling

• Compress the injured foot with a bandage 

• Elevate the foot to prevent swelling

Serious, chronic, or particularly painful injuries require medical care by a professional. 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.