Heel spurs are bony growths that develop on the underside of the heel, often extending toward the arch of the foot. They can cause sharp pain when standing in the morning and a dull ache throughout the day. Swelling, heat in the heel, and tenderness that makes walking barefoot uncomfortable are other symptoms. Not everyone with a heel spur experiences symptoms. Risk factors for developing heel spurs include frequent running or jumping, walking on hard surfaces, and trauma to the heel. Aging, being female, carrying excess weight, and wearing shoes that do not provide proper support are other factors. Certain medical conditions, such as reactive arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plantar fasciitis, can also increase the likelihood of developing a heel spur. A chiropodist can assess heel pain, recommend orthotics, suggest footwear adjustments, and provide strategies to relieve discomfort. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for appropriate treatment.

Heel spurs are bony outgrowths from calcium deposits. They occur at the back of the heel bone or underneath the heel bone and usually form in response to chronic irritation of the Achilles tendon or plantar fascia. They are often asymptomatic, but if you are suffering from heel 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 of Heel Spurs

• Tenderness
• Heel pain
• Pain when walking
• No symptoms

Diagnosis

Since heel spurs are often asymptomatic, they are usually only diagnosed when they are found on the heels incidentally during an X-ray taken for another reason. Nevertheless, if you have heel pain, and particularly if you have plantar fasciitis or Achilles tendonitis, it may be worth it to see if you have heel spurs too. 

Treatment

Unless they are causing symptoms, heel spurs typically don’t require any treatment. When they are symptomatic, treatments are typically conservative. They may include resting and icing the affected foot, taking anti-inflammatory medications, and wearing orthotics or supportive footwear, especially while exercising. 

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

During the summer months, a proper foot care routine can keep your feet comfortable and attractive. Warmer weather and open footwear can lead to dryness, cracked heels, blisters, fungal infections, and sunburn. Regular cleansing, moisturizing, and nail care help maintain skin health, while wearing breathable shoes and applying sunscreen protect against common summer foot problems. Increased outdoor activity may also bring issues like plantar fasciitis or toenail injuries. A chiropodist can address these concerns with professional treatments, orthotic advice, and preventive care tailored to your needs. If you have foot pain or have problematic foot conditions, it is suggested that you schedule a visit with a chiropodist  for treatment  that enables you to enjoy the season with healthy, pain-free feet.

Summer is the season for many foot and ankle issues. If you’re suffering from a foot or ankle problem, 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. 

Common Summer Foot Problems 

• Athlete’s foot
• Toenail fungus
• Plantar warts
• Foot and ankle injuries
• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Heel pain
• Cracked heels
• Sunburns
• Blisters

Prevention

• Wear supportive shoes and avoid flip-flops
• Maintain good foot hygiene
• Exfoliate and moisturize the heels
• Apply sunscreen to the feet and ankles
• Wear shoes in public areas like swimming pools, locker rooms, and showers 

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

Cracked heels occur when the skin on the heels becomes dry, thickened, and splits, often causing discomfort or pain. Common causes include wearing shoes that fail to support the heel, prolonged standing on hard surfaces, and medical conditions like diabetes that reduce skin elasticity and healing ability. Cracked heels can lead to infections if left untreated, especially in individuals with poor circulation or nerve issues. A chiropodist can help by removing thickened skin, recommending moisturizing treatments, and advising on proper footwear to prevent recurrence. If cracked heels are causing pain or affecting your mobility, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist who can offer effective relief and treatment solutions. 

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, 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. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin
• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps
• Standing for long periods of time
• Walking barefoot
• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops
• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time
• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back
• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water
• Moisturizing the feet daily

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

Numbness in the feet can range from a mild annoyance to a sign of a more serious problem. It often feels like tingling, burning, or a complete lack of sensation, and may affect one or both feet. Temporary numbness in the feet can occur from sitting awkwardly or wearing tight shoes, but persistent or recurring numbness may indicate nerve damage or poor circulation. Nerve-related causes include peripheral neuropathy, which is often linked to diabetes, as well as vitamin deficiencies or alcohol misuse. Spinal problems like a herniated disc or spinal canal narrowing can also disrupt nerve signals to the feet. Circulatory causes include peripheral artery disease, blood clots, or vascular spasms. A chiropodist can evaluate your symptoms, identify potential nerve or vascular issues, and recommend strategies to improve function and comfort. If you are experiencing persistent numbness in the feet, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for help.

Neuropathy can cause permanent nerve damage if left untreated. If you are experiencing the symptoms of peripheral neuropathy, 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 Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that damages the nerves of the peripheral nervous system, which provide sensation to the limbs. The feet are often affected. Peripheral neuropathy can have many different causes, but it is most commonly associated with diabetes.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of peripheral neuropathy include:

• Pain
• Numbness or tingling sensation
• Burning sensations
• Weakness
• Loss of balance

Diagnosis

Peripheral neuropathy is diagnosed based on medical history and physical examination. Various tests performed during physical examinations can help determine the type of peripheral neuropathy you may have and what is causing it. 

Treatment

Treatment for peripheral neuropathy will depend on what is causing it. For example, if your peripheral neuropathy is caused by diabetes, then managing your blood sugar, exercising regularly to strengthen the legs and feet, and taking pain medications may be recommended as treatments. 

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