Foot Care

1. Don't ignore foot pain. It is not normal to feel uncomfortable on an ongoing basis. If the pain persists, contact our office.

2. Inspect your feet regularly. Pay close attention to changes in colour and / or temperature. Look for thick or discoloured nails (a potential sign of developing fungus), and check for cracks or cuts in the skin. Peeling or scaling on the soles of feet could indicate Athlete's foot. Any growth on the foot is not considered normal.

3. Wash your feet regularly, especially between the toes, and be sure to dry them completely after bathing.

4. Trim toenails straight across, but not too short. Be careful not to cut nails in the corners, or on the sides; this can lead to ingrown toenails. People with diabetes, poor circulation or heart problems should not treat their own feet because they are more prone to infection.

5. Always ensure that your shoes fit properly. When purchasing new shoes, consider shopping later in the day when the feet tend to be at their largest due to swelling. Be sure to replace worn out shoes as soon as possible to avoid increased injury.

6. Select and wear an appropriate shoe, designed for the activity that you are engaged in (i.e. running shoes for running).

7. Alternate shoes – don't wear the same pair of shoes every day, consider rotating footwear to increase their lifespan.

8. Avoid walking barefoot. Your feet will be more prone to injury and infection when exposed. When at the beach or when wearing sandals, it is important to remember to use sunblock on your feet, along with the rest of your body.

9. Be cautious when using home remedies for foot ailments. Self-diagnosis and / or treatment, can often turn a minor problem into a major one.

10. If you are a diabetic patient, it is important to contact our office at least once a year for a check-up.