Poor Wound Healing and Diabetes

Poor wound healing, especially on the feet, is a common complication of diabetes. The decreased sensation in the lower limbs that often accompanies diabetes, called peripheral neuropathy, can make it difficult to detect cuts, scrapes, and sores on the bottom of the feet. Poor circulation, another condition associated with diabetes, can cause wounds to heal very slowly. Left unnoticed and untreated, wounds on the bottom of the feet can become infected. If you have diabetes, it is important to take steps to prevent wounds and to practice proper wound care should one develop. Wounds may be prevented by properly managing your blood glucose levels, washing and drying the feet thoroughly, wearing comfortable supportive shoes, and performing daily foot inspections to look for any cuts or sores. If you find a wound, treat it promptly by cleaning the wound and covering it with a bandage. If a foot wound is healing poorly or showing signs of infection, it is strongly suggested that you find a chiropodist who can help take care of your feet.

Wound care is the process of treating and preventing wounds on the feet. This is especially important if you have diabetes, as diabetic foot wounds are common and can lead to serious complications when left untreated. To learn more about proper wound care, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Why Is Wound Care Important for Diabetics?

While wound care is important for maintaining the health of your feet, it is especially important for people with diabetes. This is because diabetics often suffer from poor blood circulation, causing foot wounds to heal very slowly or not to heal at all. Diabetics also frequently suffer from neuropathy or nerve loss. This means no matter how big or little the wound, they might not feel it on their foot. If the wound becomes severely infected, amputation may be necessary. This is why it is imperative that diabetics complete daily foot checks.

Wound Care Basics

The best way to care for wounds is to prevent them in the first place. It is recommended that people with diabetes perform a daily examination of their feet to locate cuts, scrapes, sores, or wounds. Early detection allows for ample time to treat the wounds and prevent further complications. If you notice a wound at home, you can clean it using water, apply an antibiotic ointment, and cover the wound with a clean bandage. Seeing a chiropodist, who can examine your feet thoroughly and treat any existing wounds, can also help you maintain proper foot health. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Treatment Options for Foot Pain

Foot pain can result from overuse, wearing poor footwear, injury, or underlying conditions, such as arthritis or plantar fasciitis. The discomfort may range from mild soreness to sharp pain that limits daily activities. Identifying the cause is the first step toward finding effective relief. Treatment often begins with simple measures, including rest, elevation, and wearing supportive shoes. Stretching and other targeted exercises may be recommended to improve strength and flexibility. Orthotic inserts can help correct foot alignment and reduce pressure in painful areas. For more severe cases, medication or advanced therapies may be necessary. Preventive care, including proper footwear and regular foot checkups, also plays an important role in long-term relief. If you are struggling with ongoing foot pain, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan.

Foot pain is a common problem treated by chiropodists. If you have foot pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist 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 Toronto, ON

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Stretching Exercises That Support Recovery from Plantar Fasciitis

Stretching plays a key role in relieving pain and improving function for those individuals with plantar fasciitis. This condition, caused by inflammation of the thick tissue band that supports the arch, often leads to sharp heel pain and stiffness, especially in the morning. Targeted stretching helps restore flexibility in the toes, arch, and heel, while also improving foot strength and coordination. Exercises that gently lengthen the plantar fascia, Achilles tendon, and calf muscles can reduce strain and promote better motion throughout the foot. Over time, consistent stretching improves overall stability and comfort, leading to faster recovery and fewer recurrences. Combined with supportive footwear, rest and professional care, stretching provides a simple yet effective way to enhance healing and restore pain-free movement. If you have persistent pain from plantar fasciitis, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist who can provide treatment and recommend specific exercises best suited to your needs.

Plantar fasciitis can be painful and interfere with your daily activities. If you are experiencing foot or heel pain and believe you may be afflicted with plantar fasciitis, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar fasciitis refers to the inflammation of the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot and connects the heel bone to the toes. Repetitive activities, such as running or jumping, can injure the plantar fascia over time. Plantar fasciitis can also be caused by flat feet, high arches, pregnancy, and activities that put excessive pressure on your feet, like standing all day for work. When the plantar fascia becomes inflamed, it causes pain and discomfort. 

Symptoms

Typical symptoms of plantar fasciitis include:

  • Stabbing pain near the heel
  • Pain that is worst in the morning or after a period of rest
  • Pain that increases after exercising
  • Swelling
  • Tightness in the Achilles tendon

Diagnosis

Plantar fasciitis is typically diagnosed via medical history and physical examination. 

Treatment

Treatments for plantar fasciitis include resting and icing the affected foot, stretching the foot, taking medications to reduce inflammation, and wearing orthotics. In severe cases where pain does not improve with conservative treatments, injections or surgery may be recommended. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Supportive Devices for a Broken Foot

A broken foot occurs when one or more bones in the foot crack or fracture, often caused by falls, sports injuries, accidents, or repetitive stress. Pain, swelling, and difficulty walking are common signs. Treatment may involve a splint, which is a supportive device that holds the foot in place while it heals, or a surgical boot, which provides stability and protection during recovery. A chiropodist can diagnose the severity of the injury, recommend appropriate treatment, monitor healing progress, and guide you on safe steps back to activity. If you have broken your foot, it is suggested that you seek professional care promptly from a chiropodist, who can provide effective treatment solutions.

A foot fracture is a crack or break in a foot bone, often caused by repetitive stress on the foot or a high-impact foot injury. If you’re suffering from foot pain, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Tenderness
  • Swelling
  • Difficulty walking
  • Deformity

Causes

  • Repetitive overloading of the foot
  • Having a previous fracture
  • Abnormal foot biomechanics
  • Changing training surfaces suddenly
  • Poor footwear
  • Osteoporosis
  • High-impact injury 

Treatments

  • Rest
  • Ice
  • Elevation
  • Pain medication
  • Braces or other orthotics
  • Casts
  • Crutches
  • Surgery in more severe cases 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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Standing at Work and Foot Pain

Spending long hours standing at work can put excessive strain on the feet, often leading to pain, swelling, or fatigue. This is common in roles where sitting is not an option, such as retail workers, hospitality staff, healthcare professionals, and assembly line workers. When people remain stationary while standing, blood flow to the lower legs may be reduced, which can contribute to leg discomfort, muscle fatigue, or even swelling in the ankles and feet. Footwear that lacks adequate support or compressive heels may increase stress on joints and ligaments. Over time, prolonged standing at work can increase the risk of developing plantar fasciitis, flat feet, or lower back pain. A chiropodist can assess foot structure, observe gait mechanics, and recommend inserts or footwear adjustments to reduce pressure on key areas. They can also help manage discomfort linked to overuse and improper load distribution. If you experience foot pain after standing for long periods of time. it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for expert advice and guidance.

If you stand all day, you may be at an increased risk of developing various foot conditions. If you are experiencing foot pain of any kind, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Foot Problems Are Caused by Standing?

Standing all day at work may increase your risk of developing foot or ankle problems.

Some common foot conditions that may arise from spending all day on your feet include: 

  • Foot pain
  • Blisters
  • Corns and calluses
  • Arthritis
  • Flat feet
  • Bunions
  • Sprains
  • Athlete’s foot

Prevention

If you stand for prolonged periods of time for work, taking preventative measures to preserve the health of your feet is strongly recommended. 

Measures you can implement to help prevent foot problems include: 

  • Wearing shoes that are comfortable and fit well - these shoes should be made of breathable materials and provide you with arch support and cushioning. It is best to avoid shoes that have heels or narrow toe boxes.
  • Taking breaks to rest, walk, and stretch your feet throughout the day
  • Maintaining good foot hygiene - wash and dry your feet thoroughly every day

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON

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