Dedicated runners know that some form of injury to the foot, toe, or ankle is in their future. Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, and ankle sprains are the most common running injuries. Preventing any of these becomes an important part of the runner’s daily practice. Experts believe that warming up before a run is essential to preventing injury. This can be done by taking an easy jog and performing a series of stretches. It is also thought wise to increase the time, distance, and intensity of a run gradually, limiting increases to about 10 percent a week. Running through the pain of an injury is frowned upon and can lead to more serious problems and chronic pain. Resting the foot or ankle, stopping the activity, and following a treatment plan are suggested by experts. Running on softer surfaces is a good safeguard against injury to the many joints in the toes, feet, and ankles, which absorb the force of your weight with each step. If you have sustained a running injury, is it suggested that you consult a chiropodist for an examination before resuming activity.

Although running is a wonderful exercise to keep you in shape, it can wreak havoc on your feet and ankles if you don’t take preventive measures. If you have sustained a foot and ankle injury from running, 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. 

Some common running injuries include:

• Achilles tendonitis
• Shin splints
• Ankle sprains
• Stress fractures
• Plantar fasciitis
• Bursitis 

What causes injuries? 

These injuries are usually caused by overtraining, wearing the wrong shoes, running on hard surfaces, having tight and inflexible muscles, or having biomechanical issues in the feet or ankles. 

What can I do to prevent injuries? 

• Train slowly and gradually
• Give yourself plenty of time to recover following a run
• Wear shoes that fit properly and support your foot
• Avoid running on hard surfaces, like concrete
• Stretch and strengthen the muscles of your lower legs
• Warm-up prior to a run
• Have your gait analyzed and your feet examined by a chiropodist to determine if there are any biomechanical problems that need to be treated 

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

There are professions that require standing for most of the day resulting in foot pain.  This foot pain may be avoided when proper measures are taken to protect the feet. People who work on their feet find it helpful to stand on a stress mat to possibly prevent cracked heels and plantar fasciitis from developing. Wearing thick socks can add an extra layer of cushioning, helping to avoid irritation. It is crucial to make sure the shoes fit properly to prevent uncomfortable conditions such as blisters from developing. It is beneficial to take regular breaks, and resting and elevating the feet may help to reduce existing aches and pain. Research has shown it is wise to replace shoes after walking approximately 200 miles, which may help to provide adequate support for the body. If your career involves standing for several hours per day, it is suggested that you consult with a chiropodist who can provide you with additional tips on how to protect your feet.

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 . 

The bones that are in each toe are small and delicate. There are two or three bones that are found in each toe, and they may easily become fractured as a result of their size. Additionally, they are located at the end of the body, so they can be broken when stubbed on furniture or another object.  They are also at risk if a heavy object falls on them. Common symptoms that are associated with this foot injury can include immediate bruising, swelling, and difficulty walking. A severely broken toe may bleed and have a bone protruding from it, which needs prompt medical attention. Toes that are mildly fractured may heal by using the buddy taping method. This is done by taping the broken toe to the toe next to it, which is often successful in providing stability as the healing process occurs. if you have fractured your toe, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can provide you with the treatment option that is best for you.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, 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

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Cracking sound at the time of injury
• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe
• Difficulty walking
• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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

Interestingly, foot and ankle injuries are on the rise for cheerleaders, especially those between the ages of 12 and 17. Increased acrobatic skill and lack of knowledge of proper safety requirements seem to be the culprits of these injuries. Attention to technique and having spotters for tumbling in cheerleading are necessary. An example of a preventable injury in cheerleading is when a flier is allowed to drop to the ground. Since cheerleading has come to include height and motion as part of the sport, there is more of a risk of injury. Additionally, cheerleading is often performed on surfaces designed for an entirely different sport, such as basketball or football. If your child is involved in cheerleading, it is important for you and your child to become familiar with the risks of participation and safety procedures. It is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for a thorough explanation of how to prevent foot and ankle injuries in this sport.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, 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. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries
• Ankle strains or sprains
• Plantar fasciitis
• Fractures
• Turf toe
• Joint dislocations
• Sever’s disease
• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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