March 2023

If you are caring for a growing child, helping them protect the health of their feet can be critical to ensuring their overall health and well-being. Athlete’s foot is one particular kind of threat to the health of a child’s feet and it is contagious. This condition is caused by a fungal infection, and some children can develop this affliction by walking around barefoot in spaces at daycare or school. Interestingly, boys are more likely to develop a case of athlete’s foot than girls. Before a child reaches the age of 4, it is unlikely that they will present a case of athlete’s foot. If you notice that your child is repeatedly itching in between their toes, then this may be an early indicator that your child could have athlete’s foot. If you suspect that your child might have athlete’s foot, it is highly suggested that you contact a podiatrist to treat your child before the infection spreads. 

Making sure that your children maintain good foot health is very important as they grow. If you have any questions, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Keeping Children's Feet Healthy

Having healthy feet during childhood can help prevent medical problems later in life, namely in the back and legs. As children grow, their feet require different types of care. Here are some things to consider...

Although babies do not walk yet, it is still very important to take care of their feet.

Avoid putting tight shoes or socks on his or her feet.

Allow the baby to stretch and kick his or her feet to feel comfortable.

As a toddler, kids are now on the move and begin to develop differently. At this age, toddlers are getting a feel for walking, so don’t be alarmed if your toddler is unsteady or ‘walks funny’. 

As your child gets older, it is important to teach them how to take care of their feet.

Show them proper hygiene to prevent infections such as fungus.

Be watchful for any pain or injury.

Have all injuries checked by a doctor as soon as possible.

Comfortable, protective shoes should always be worn, especially at play.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Poor circulation often affects the feet. Patients who have this condition may notice a tingling or numbing sensation in different parts of the foot, and the ankles may be swollen. It may be caused by high blood pressure, diabetes, or poor digestion. Additionally, as people age, they may become more sedentary than in prior years, causing less blood to pump through the body. When the circulatory system works well, oxygen and nutrients are sent to all areas of the body, and poor circulation may cause a lack of proper blood flow. People who have poor circulation may notice there is less hair on their legs, and their feet may feel cold. Patients may notice mild improvement when they begin a gentle exercise routine, such as swimming or walking. It is beneficial to start slowly, and gradually increase the activity level as the body becomes accustomed to moving. If you have poor circulation, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist who can provide you with additional relief options, and determine what the best treatment is for you.

While poor circulation itself isn’t a condition; it is a symptom of another underlying health condition you may have. If you have any concerns with poor circulation in your feet contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

Poor Circulation in the Feet

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) can potentially lead to poor circulation in the lower extremities. PAD is a condition that causes the blood vessels and arteries to narrow. In a linked condition called atherosclerosis, the arteries stiffen up due to a buildup of plaque in the arteries and blood vessels. These two conditions can cause a decrease in the amount of blood that flows to your extremities, therefore resulting in pain.

Symptoms

Some of the most common symptoms of poor circulation are:

• Numbness
• Tingling
• Throbbing or stinging pain in limbs
• Pain
• Muscle Cramps

Treatment for poor circulation often depends on the underlying condition that causes it. Methods for treatment may include insulin for diabetes, special exercise programs, surgery for varicose veins, or compression socks for swollen legs.

As always, see a podiatrist as he or she will assist in finding a regimen that suits you. A podiatrist can also prescribe you any needed medication. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

A stress fracture in the foot essentially occurs when microdamage accumulates and the bones develop small breaks. If you are an athlete or a runner, then you might be particularly interested in preventing the onset of a stress fracture in the foot. There are certain factors that might put athletes at an increased risk of developing stress fractures of some kind. For example, if an athlete has a particularly high running mileage or especially if they are wearing inappropriate footwear, then a stress fracture might be more likely.  Also, other risk factors for runners and athletes include training errors and leg length discrepancies. If you are someone that runs frequently and are concerned about developing a stress fracture, it is suggested that you contact a podiatrist. 

Activities where too much pressure is put on the feet can cause stress fractures. To learn more, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.

Dealing with Stress Fractures of the Foot and Ankle

Stress fractures occur in the foot and ankle when muscles in these areas weaken from too much or too little use.  The feet and ankles then lose support when walking or running from the impact of the ground. Since there is no protection, the bones receive the full impact of each step. Stress on the feet can cause cracks to form in the bones, thus creating stress fractures.

What Are Stress Fractures?

Stress fractures occur frequently in individuals whose daily activities cause great impact on the feet and ankles. Stress factors are most common among:

• Runners                                  
• People affected with Osteoporosis
• Tennis or basketball players
• Gymnasts
• High impact workouts

Symptoms

Pain from the fractures occur in the area of the fractures and can be constant or intermittent. It will often cause sharp or dull pain with swelling and tenderness. Engaging in any kind of activity which involves high impact will aggravate pain.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

There is a reason many women experience swollen ankles during their pregnancy. The baby requires approximately 50 percent more fluids and blood to meet its growing needs. The medical term for swollen feet and ankles is known as edema, and it is normal during pregnancy, despite the discomfort it can bring. There are simple and effective measures that can be taken to control the amount of fluid that collects in the ankles. These can include drinking plenty of water daily and engaging in a gentle exercise program as often as possible. Walking and swimming are effective methods to keep the body moving, which can help to evenly distribute fluids that collect in the feet. It is important to wear shoes that fit well and are comfortable, in addition to reducing sodium intake. If you would like helpful tips on how to improve foot comfort while pregnant, it is suggested that you speak with a podiatrist who can address any concerns you may have.

Pregnant women with swollen feet can be treated with a variety of different methods that are readily available. For more information about other cures for swollen feet during pregnancy, consult with the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will attend to all of your foot and ankle needs.

What Foot Problems Can Arise During Pregnancy?

One problem that can occur is overpronation, which occurs when the arch of the foot flattens and tends to roll inward.  This can cause pain and discomfort in your heels while you’re walking or even just standing up, trying to support your baby.  

Another problem is edema, or swelling in the extremities. This often affects the feet during pregnancy but tends to occur in the later stages. 

How Can I Keep My Feet Healthy During Pregnancy?

• Wearing orthotics can provide extra support for the feet and help distribute weight evenly
• Minimize the amount of time spent walking barefoot
• Wear shoes with good arch support
• Wear shoes that allow for good circulation to the feet
• Elevate feet if you experience swelling
• Massage your feet
• Get regular, light exercise, such as walking, to promote blood circulation to the feet

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.