Dry skin on the feet is common and can leave the skin feeling rough, tight, or itchy. It develops when the skin loses moisture faster than it can be replaced. The heels and soles are especially vulnerable because they experience pressure. Dry feet may also become scaly or develop small cracks, called fissures. Common causes include cold weather, low humidity, and frequent exposure to water. Eczema, psoriasis, and thyroid disorders can also contribute to persistent dryness.

Several factors can increase the risk of cracked heels. Age can reduce natural oil production, making moisture loss more likely. Wearing open-back shoes can expose the feet to dry air. Symptoms that worsen or fail to improve deserve attention. Bleeding, painful cracks, or drainage may signal a more serious skin problem or infection.

A chiropodist can determine why dry foot skin is occurring. Treatment begins with a skin examination. The chiropodist may suggest a thick moisturizing cream that contains urea or lactic acid. Patients may receive guidance about bathing and moisturizing. If infection, eczema, or another condition is suspected, additional treatment may be recommended. Follow-up care can confirm healing and reduce recurring problems.

Healthy foot care can also make a noticeable difference. Apply moisturizer after bathing while the skin is slightly damp, but avoid placing heavy creams between the toes. Wear breathable, properly fitting shoes that reduce friction. Avoid picking at flaky areas. Regular moisturizing helps to maintain the skin barrier. Appropriate footwear can limit friction, pressure, and exposure to dry air during daily routines and other activities. If dry skin continues or develops painful cracks, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for effective relief and prevention tips. 

Dry, cracked heels are more than a cosmetic inconvenience. For many people, they are uncomfortable, deep, painful, and may even bleed. If you suffer from cracked heels, 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. 

Causes

• Prolonged standing
• Wearing open-back shoes
• Wearing shoes that don’t cushion the heels
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Taking long, hot showers
• Not moisturizing the heels
• Eczema
• Psoriasis
• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Juvenile plantar dermatosis

Treatments

• Soaking the feet
• Exfoliating with a pumice stone
• Moisturizing the heels
• Wearing closed-back shoes that cushion heels
• Avoiding prolonged standing
• Taking warm, rather than hot, showers
• Treating underlying skin conditions 

While milder cases of cracked heels can be treated at home, some patients present with deep, painful, bleeding heel fissures that are at risk of becoming infected and may require medical care. Additionally, patients with diabetes or any other conditions that affect the immune system should be monitored by a chiropodist. 

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

Heel pain can make standing, working, and walking difficult. It can develop beneath the heel, behind it, or along its sides. Plantar fasciitis is a frequent cause. It affects the thick band of tissue that supports the arch and connects the heel to the toes. Pain from this condition is strongest with the first steps after resting. Other causes include heel-pad irritation, arthritis, and a stress fracture. Achilles tendon problems can produce pain at the back of the heel. Symptoms can range from a dull ache to a sharp pain. Swelling, stiffness, or tenderness can also occur.

Several factors can place strain on the heel. These include long periods of standing, a sudden increase in activity, and shoes that lack proper support. Hard work surfaces can also add pressure. People with flat feet or high arches can have uneven force across the heel. Tight calf muscles can affect foot movement and pull on tissues near the heel. Excess body weight can increase the load placed on the feet. Because heel pain has many causes, an accurate diagnosis from a chiropodist is important. Continuing activity despite worsening pain can make daily movement more difficult.

A chiropodist can ask when the pain began and examine the painful area. The assessment can include checking foot shape, joint movement, and walking patterns. The chiropodist can determine which structures are affected and explain the cause. Treatment can include custom orthotics to improve support and redistribute pressure. Padding or heel lifts can protect sensitive areas and reduce strain. A chiropodist can also recommend shoes with the right fit, cushioning, and support, depending on the cause. Regular follow-up visits allow the chiropodist to review progress and adjust the treatment plan as needed. If you have heel pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Heel pain is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of injuries, medical conditions, and other factors. If you suffer 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. 

When it comes to heel pain, the exact location and type of pain are important to note. Some of the conditions that may cause heel pain include: 

• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot; it causes a stabbing pain under the heel that is at its worst when taking your first few steps after a long rest and while standing on your tiptoes or climbing stairs
• Achilles tendonitis - An inflammation of the tendon in the back of the calf; it causes pain in the back of the heel that is at its worst after resting, as well as ankle and calf stiffness, swelling, and tenderness
• Bone spurs - Bony lumps on the back of the heel bones that cause sharp pain upon first standing up; the pain becomes dull and achy over time
• Heel fractures - A break or crack in the heel bone that causes pain, swelling, and difficulty walking
• Retrocalcaneal bursitis - Swelling of the small, fluid-filled sac at the back of the heel bone; it causes pain, swelling, redness, and warmth in the back of the heel
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome - Compression of the posterior tibial nerve which causes a pins and needles sensation in the heel, foot, and calf 

Your chiropodist will be able to diagnose the underlying cause of your pain and prescribe the right treatments for you. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON . 

Ankle pain can develop even when there has been no fall, twist, or other clear injury. The discomfort can begin suddenly or build gradually. It may affect the front, back, or sides of the ankle. Possible causes include arthritis, gout, and inflammation around a tendon. Flat feet or shoes that lack proper support can also place extra strain on the ankle joint. In some patients, an infection or an illness that causes inflammation throughout the body is responsible. Because these problems require different care, the location of the pain does not always reveal its cause.

Symptoms can offer useful clues during an exam by a chiropodist. Arthritis can cause stiffness, swelling, and pain that is worse after rest. Gout can produce intense pain with warmth and redness around the joint. Tendon problems can make the ankle sore with movement or tender near the heel. Changes in foot shape may affect balance and create discomfort while walking. An ankle that is hot, very swollen, or difficult to move needs prompt attention. Fever, an open wound, or spreading redness can point to an infection that requires urgent medical care.

A chiropodist can examine the ankle and foot to determine exactly what is placing stress on the area. This includes checking joint movement, foot alignment, and areas of tenderness. The chiropodist may also watch how the patient stands and walks. When more information is required, X-rays or other imaging tests can help identify joint damage, tendon trouble, or infection. Treatment depends on the cause and can include custom orthotics, supportive shoes, or an ankle brace. A chiropodist can also reduce pressure on painful areas and address related foot problems. If you have ankle pain, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Ankle pain is a common symptom of many lower limb problems. If you are experiencing ankle pain, 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. 

The ankle is composed of a number of muscles, bones, tendons, and ligaments. There are many conditions which may cause ankle pain. 

Causes

• Ankle strains or sprains
• Achilles tendon injuries
• Fractures
• Bursitis
• Arthritis
• Gout
• Tarsal tunnel syndrome

Symptoms

If you have ankle pain, you may also experience a variety of other symptoms depending on the underlying cause of the pain. Some of these symptoms may include ankle swelling, bruising, redness, numbness or tingling, instability, and difficulty walking.

Diagnosis

The underlying cause of ankle pain can be diagnosed by a chiropodist. Diagnoses are typically made based on your medical history, a physical examination of the affected ankle, and imaging studies such as X-rays. 

Treatment

Treatment for your ankle pain will depend on its underlying cause. Often, the chiropodist will recommend that you rest the affected ankle. You might also need to ice, compress, and elevate the ankle, wear an orthotic device, or take medications to reduce pain and inflammation. 

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