From standing all day at work to indulging in adventurous hikes, our feet endure a lot. However, one of, if not the most important aspect of foot health is properly fitted footwear. It’s not just about style or fashion; it’s about ensuring the right support for our feet to prevent and alleviate common foot conditions. Let’s delve into the importance of properly fitted footwear and how it can bring relief to several common foot ailments.

What it Means to Have Footwear Fit Properly

Shoes that fit your feet always feel good; plain and simple! But what does it mean to have shoes that fit well? For many people, it means choosing the shoe size they’ve always been told that fits them and that’s it. While this might be a good starting point, there are other things to consider as well for your shoe size, and it’s no small list:

• Heel-to-toe length: this is the measured shoe size from the very back of the foot to the very front of your longest toe. You should never be wearing shoes that are smaller than this measurement.
• Heel-to-ball length: this is the measured shoe size from the very back of the foot to the “ball of the foot”, or the metatarsal heads. This size could be the same, larger, or smaller than your heel-to-toe length, so be sure to try on both sizes to compare.
• Width: this is measured at the ball of the foot, which will be the widest part of the shoe. Many people will often buy shoes in a larger size if they are too tight on the sides, when they might just have a wider foot than average. Many shoes are available in narrow, medium, wide, extra-wide, and even extra-extra-wide.
• Depth: this is how much vertical volume is inside of the shoe, but it isn’t necessarily something that is measured. Some shoes are available with a 2^nd removable insole to offer more space inside the shoe, which can be helpful for swollen feet or those with a high instep.

These are some of the details your Canadian Certified Pedorthists look for when you come to BioPed. We can use this information and more to properly fit you for comfortable shoes that help with several common foot conditions, such as the following:

Bunions and Bunionettes

Bunions are bony bumps that form at the base of the big toe, while bunionettes develop on the joint of the pinky toe. Tight, narrow shoes squeeze the toes together, increasing pressure on these areas and worsening the deformities. Look for shoes with a wide toe box to provide ample space and relieve discomfort.

Hammer Toes and Claw Toes

Hammer toes and claw toes occur when the toes become bent and curled due to muscle imbalance or prolonged pressure. Shoes with narrow, pointed toe boxes force the toes into unnatural positions, exacerbating these conditions. Choose shoes with a roomy toe box and soft, flexible materials to accommodate toe deformities and prevent further discomfort.

Morton’s Neuroma and Metatarsalgia

Morton’s neuroma involves the thickening of tissue around the nerves between the toes, causing sharp, burning pain. Metatarsalgia is characterized by pain and inflammation in the ball of the foot. Both conditions can be aggravated by shoes with tight toe boxes and inadequate cushioning. Look for shoes with ample cushioning in the forefoot and a wide toe box to alleviate pressure on the affected areas.

Corns and Calluses

Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to friction or pressure. Ill-fitting shoes create friction points, leading to the formation of these painful lesions. Choose shoes with smooth, seam-free interiors and proper sizing to prevent rubbing and irritation.

Top of Foot Pain

Top of foot pain can result from various factors, including nerve compression, tendon inflammation, or stress fractures. Tight laces or straps on shoes can exacerbate this pain by compressing the top of the foot. Look for shoes with adjustable closures and cushioned tongues to alleviate pressure and provide a comfortable fit.

Come See Us!

Are you having a hard time finding shoes that fit? Are you having pain or discomfort when you wear certain shoes? If so, we are here to help. At BioPed, your clinical team specializes in recommending and fitting comfortable shoes, ensuring you feel your best with every step. Visit us today to see how the right pair of shoes can make all the difference when it comes to shopping for your new shoes!

Athletic performance isn’t just for elite athletes; it’s for anyone who loves to move and play, regardless of age or skill level! Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner, a weekend soccer player, or simply enjoy a brisk walk in the park, taking care of your feet is essential for staying active and injury-free. In this blog, we’ll explore how orthotics can improve your athletic performance and keep your feet happy at any age. We’ll also discuss common foot and lower limb injuries and how we can help you stay on your feet.

Orthotics are superheroes for your feet. They’re custom-made shoe inserts designed to support and protect your feet while you move and play. While there are many kinds of off-the-shelf insoles available for sports and activities, the term “orthotics” typically refers to a custom-made medical device. They are made to uniquely address an individual’s biomechanics, and to help with movement from the ground up. Whether you have flat feet, high arches, or just need a little extra cushioning, orthotics can provide the support and shock absorption you need to keep your feet happy and healthy.

What Are Some of the Ways that Orthotics Can Help?

1. Treating Common Injuries: Foot and lower limb injuries like plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and Achilles tendonitis are all too common among athletes of all ages. Orthotics can help address, and potentially prevent these injuries by adding extra support and cushioning where you need it most. By reducing stress on your feet and lower limbs, orthotics can keep you in the game and out of the doctor’s office.
2. Improving Stability and Balance: Have you been feeling wobbly or unsteady on your feet during a game or workout? Orthotics can help improve your proprioception (your stability and balance) by providing strong support for your arches and ankles in just the right places. This can help you move more confidently and perform better whether it’s running, jumping, or kicking a ball.
3. Alleviating Pain: Foot, ankle, knee, and hip pains can all be a big setback when it comes to athletic performance. Whether it’s aching arches or sore heels, orthotics can help alleviate pain by providing cushioning and support where you need it most. With less pain to worry about, you can focus on having fun and playing your best.
4. Diabetes Support: Orthotics aid in managing foot complications associated with diabetes during physical activity by providing pressure relief, redistributing weight, and minimizing friction. They promote proper foot alignment and cushion sensitive areas, allowing individuals with diabetes to exercise safely and comfortably.

How a Pedorthist Can Help

A Pedorthist is a foot specialist who can make custom orthotics for your specific needs. They’ll start by assessing your feet and lower limbs through a biomechanical exam to identify any issues or imbalances that could be affecting your performance. Then, they’ll work with you to design custom orthotics that address your specific needs and goals.

Come See Us!

Whether you’re a young athlete just starting out or a seasoned pro, taking care of your feet is essential for staying active and injury-free. Orthotics can improve your athletic performance by treating common injuries, improving stability and balance, and alleviating foot pain. And with the help of your Canadian Certified Pedorthist at BioPed, you can get the perfect orthotics to keep your feet happy and healthy for years to come.

As we gear up to celebrate Foot Health Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to pause and give our often-overlooked feet some well-deserved attention. Our feet carry us all day, every day, through life, yet we often neglect their care until they demand our attention. This May, let’s prioritize foot health and make strides towards happier, healthier feet. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you step into Foot Health Awareness Month with confidence:

Understanding Foot Health

Our feet are marvels of engineering, consisting of 26 bones, 33 joints, and a network of over 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. They provide support, balance, and mobility, allowing us to walk, run, and conquer daily activities. However, neglecting foot health can lead to a myriad of issues, including pain, discomfort, and mobility issues.

Importance of Foot Care

Proper foot care isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s crucial for overall well-being. Neglecting foot health can contribute to various conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions, calluses and corns, ingrown toenails, and more. Your feet can also serve as early warning signs for systemic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory problems. By prioritizing foot care, we can prevent many of these issues and maintain an active lifestyle.

At-Home Tips for Healthy Feet

1. Maintain Proper Hygiene: Wash your feet daily with warm water and mild soap, paying attention to the spaces between your toes. Afterward, ensure they’re thoroughly dried to prevent fungal infections.
2. Choose the Right Footwear: Opt for shoes that provide enough support, cushioning, and room for your toes to move freely. Avoid shoes that are too tight as they can lead to discomfort and painful foot deformities.
3. Practice Good Nail Care: Trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails. Avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges, as this can increase the risk of painful ingrown nails.
4. Moisturize Regularly: Keep your feet hydrated by applying moisturizer, especially to dry areas like cracked heels and the balls of your feet. Avoid applying too much between the toes, as it can increase the risk of athlete’s foot.
5. Stay Active: Regular physical activity improves circulation and strengthens the muscles in your feet. Incorporate exercises like walking, stretching, and toe curls into your routine to promote foot health.
6. Check Your Feet Regularly: Inspect your feet for any signs of cuts, blisters, swelling, or discoloration. Early detection of foot problems allows for prompt intervention and prevents complications.
7. Spend Some Time Barefoot: While we want to keep our feet supported for work and strenuous activity, it is still a great idea to let your feet breathe, and walking on different textures can be healthy for the small muscles and nerves in your feet. If you have peripheral neuropathy or diabetes, talk to your family doctor or foot health expert to make sure this is safe for you!

Know Your Foot Health Experts

Incorporating the expertise of Pedorthists, Chiropodists, and Foot Care Nurses into your foot care routine can be a game-changer, especially if you’re dealing with painful or persistent foot problems. At BioPed, the clinical team plays a crucial role in promoting foot health, preventing injuries, and enhancing overall well-being. So, if you’re looking to take proactive steps towards healthier feet, consider scheduling a consultation with us and experience the difference we can make in your life.

Come See Us!

During Foot Health Awareness Month, take the opportunity to educate others about the importance of foot care. We encourage you to share these informative resources, organize awareness events, or simply start a conversation about foot health with friends and family. Together, we can empower individuals to prioritize their foot health and take proactive steps towards happier, healthier lives.

Are you ready to embark on scenic hikes and explorations through nature’s wonders? Whether you’re planning a leisurely stroll, a challenging hike along rugged trails, or looking to add some trail runs to your physical activity, selecting the right trail shoe can make all the difference for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. With so many options available, finding the ideal pair for walking adventures can feel daunting. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to pick the perfect trail shoe.

Understand Your Terrain

Before diving into shoe options, take a moment to assess the type of terrain you’ll be traversing. Will you be wandering along well-groomed paths, navigating rocky trails, or exploring muddy terrain? Understanding your walking environment will guide your choice of shoes:

• It’s almost always best to opt for shoes with sturdy outsoles and ample traction for uneven or slippery surfaces.
• Prioritize cushioning and comfort if you’ll be walking on smoother trails.
• For wet or muddy conditions, consider waterproof options to keep your feet clean and dry.

Consider Your Walking Style

Just as with running, your walking style and biomechanics are crucial in selecting the right trail shoe. How much your foot pronates, your foot and ankle flexibility, and your balance are all things to keep in mind when selecting your footwear. Beyond fitting your custom orthotics, keep the following features in mind:

• If you require additional support, look for shoes with stability features like a midsole that resists twisting or a firm heel counter.
• Choose shoes with soft but balanced cushioning if your feet or ankles are overall stiff or rigid.
• Avoid shoes with overly thick soles or too much cushion if you have concerns with your balance.

Prioritize Comfort

Comfort is a priority when it comes to active footwear, and trail shoes are no exception. Comfort comes from both the fit and features of your shoes, and they should allow you to focus on your surroundings, not discomfort. To get the most out of your time on the trails, your shoes should include the following:

• Look for a shoe that offers a snug yet comfortable fit, allowing your feet to move freely.
• Ensure there’s ample room in the toe box for your toes to splay, which promotes stability and prevents blisters.
• Choose materials like breathable mesh or padded leather, and adjustable laces to accommodate changes in swelling or sock thickness.

Durability and Protection

Trails can be tough on shoes, especially in challenging terrain. Shoes are supposed to protect your feet from the environment and elements around you, so you will want to take extra care when choosing something for the trails. Ideally, you also want these shoes to last so they can keep you feeling comfortable for longer activities as time goes on. When selecting something durable, keep the following in mind:

• Look for reinforced materials in high-wear areas, such as the edge of toe box and the sides of the heels.
• Look for shoes with a firm sole or an integrated “rock plate” to protect your feet if you will be walking on rocky terrain.
• For loose dirt or gravel paths, choose shoes with heavy lugs to keep you planted and secure with each step.

Come See Us!

With a so many trail shoe options available, there’s something suitable for every outdoor enthusiast. Whether you’re exploring local trails or venturing into the wilderness, ensuring your feet are equipped for the journey is paramount. At BioPed, our Canadian Certified Pedorthists are here to help you find comfortable options for your next walk, run, or hike off the beaten path.

Toes come in all shapes and sizes. They can vary in length and width, they can even be bent, curly or crossed over another toe. A toe that crosses over another toe is not necessarily problematic, but it can be if it is ignored and left untreated. Overlapping toes are more common than you might think!

Crossover Toes & Possible Complications

Genetics play a big role in how our feet move and look. If one of your parents have a toe that crosses over another, you may be more predisposed to developing one at some point in your life. Crossover toes can also be caused by injury, trauma, flat feet, high arches, tight calf muscles or a more serious underlying medical issue such as rheumatoid arthritis. Crossover or overlapping toes are considered a toe deformity because they are not typical or “normal.”

Crossover toes that are flexible can be straightened with supports and devices.  Over time, changes in the joint may occur making the toe stiff or rigid, leading to pain and discomfort. Complications caused by crossover or overlapping toes could include:

• Callus and corns – in between toes, on the top of toes and on the bottom of the foot
• Blisters – caused by footwear
• Difficulty finding footwear that fits well
• Hammer toes
• Metatarsalgia – pain in the ball of the foot due to altered toe position
• Toe wound – with or without infection

The most common toes that may become crossed over are the second and baby toes. A bunion deformity in the big toe joint typically causes the big toe to deviate laterally or point towards the little toe. As the big toe deviates more and more, it will press up against the second toe which causes it to lift out of the way. When this happens, the second toe may override the big toe. An overlapping baby toe is commonly seen in newborns and oftentimes will spontaneously correct with development and walking. It can also be treated early with buddy taping to the adjacent toe.

Treatment of Crossover Toes

Taping & Splinting

A toe that is flexible can be moved and manipulated. Taping or splinting can be useful to help straighten the affected toe.

Toe Spacers

Toe spacers made of foam or silicone act as a buffer between toes. They are beneficial as they protect the toes from excess pressure from being too close together.

Footwear

Shoes that have a deep toe box will allow more room for the toes and will accommodate toes that are crossed over. This will help alleviate any discomfort due to pressure and can prevent skin irritation, such as blisters and corns.

Orthotics

If the crossover toe is caused by a biomechanical issue such as flat feet or high arches, custom foot orthotics and off the shelf insoles can be effective in correcting the position of the foot and making walking more efficient. In doing this, the progression of these toe deformities can be significantly slowed down.  Orthotics can also help to offload high pressure areas on the bottoms of the feet which can effectively reduce the amount of callus build-up.

Stretching

Tight calf muscles reduce the range of motion in our feet and ankles, which can change the way the foot moves when walking. Stretching increases flexibility, protects against injury and can also help custom foot orthotics work better.

Surgery

Surgery may be required if pain and discomfort is severe and negatively impacts activities of daily living. It is also a more permanent solution for those who have developed a chronic wound from their crossover toes.

Come See Us!

Pain and discomfort due to crossover toes may cause you to alter the way you walk, which can create other issues such as knee, hip or back pain. If you are experiencing pain and discomfort due to a crossover or overlapping toe, give your local BioPed a call today to make an appointment with one of our lower limb clinicians to learn about what can be done or what you can do at home to feel more comfortable!

Nothing is more important to your feet than a pair of shoes. Your feet are what keep you moving through life, from working that 12-hour shift to scoring the game-winning goal. Your feet are with you every step of the way. With foot care, one often overlooked thing is the significance of wearing properly fitted shoes. Today, we will dig into why choosing a properly fitted shoe is paramount to maintaining good foot health.

Proper Support

The right pair of shoes goes beyond providing comfort; it provides proper support. Whether your ankles roll in or roll out, a shoe can help to control them and make your feet more efficient at managing the pressure you put through them. The best part is that the effects of properly supported feet do not stop there but can be felt throughout your entire body! A well-fitted shoe can help to distribute your body weight, reducing pressure throughout the rest of your body. A poorly fitted shoe can do the complete opposite.

Can Footwear Cause Bunions?

The short answer is yes! Improperly fitted footwear is often regarded as the leading cause of foot deformities as we age. Shoe width, length, and toe box depth are often the main culprits. If your feet do not have room inside your shoe, there will be excessive pressure placed on your toes, which can cause them to move in less than desirable directions—often inwards towards each other! As a result, conditions like bunions, hammer toes, corns and calluses can be caused.

They can even help with circulation!

Proper blood circulation is crucial for overall well-being, and this applies to the feet as well. Shoes that are too tight may impede blood flow, leading to sensations of numbness, tingling, and coldness. Choosing well-fitted shoes facilitates unrestricted blood circulation, not only benefitting foot health but also contributing to overall body health as well.

But what do I look for in a properly fitted shoe?

Glad you asked! Properly fitted shoes are easy to find; you just need to know the questions to ask. When looking for shoes that fit properly, you want to look for a few key things:

• No pressure points anywhere. You shouldn’t need to break in a shoe. If you feel like you must, chances are it isn’t the right shoe for you.
• Get your shoe size measured with a Brannock device. Often, we are wearing shoes that fit too tight both lengthwise and widthwise. The rule of thumb for length is a fingernail’s width of extra space at the toes. For width, you shouldn’t feel any squeezing.
• Secured heel. When the shoe is fully laced up to the proper tightness, there should be no slipping at the heel. Extra movement here could mean blisters later.
• Deals are great, but happy feet are more important. As irresistible as the deal is, never go smaller or larger to save more.

Come See Us!

Don’t let lower limb pain caused by improper footwear get in the way of doing the things you want to do. Please book an appointment with us today! At BioPed Footcare, no matter the occasion, we can find the right shoe for you. With our on-site lab, there is nothing we can’t do! Meet with one of BioPed’s lower limb clinicians to see how you can keep your feet and legs healthy!

Temperatures are dropping and winter solstice is quickly approaching!  Our feet and toes are far away from the body’s core, which makes them susceptible to cold temperatures.  To protect yourself from winter weather, it’s important to always dress appropriately.   If you’ve ever experienced a tingling or burning sensation in your toes and feet or noticed a change in the colour of the skin when exposed to the cold, you may have had the start of a cold injury. As a defense mechanism, the body will start constricting its blood vessels to reduce the amount of blood circulating throughout.

How do cold injuries differ?

Frostnip

This is the stage just before frostbite. The vessels in feet and toes constrict to protect themselves.  The skin and tissues are still supple and permanent damage has not yet occurred.  If this happens, gently warm your feet and toes to bring the temperature back to normal.

Frostbite

Skin and the underlying tissues freeze due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. This happens in stages.  Frostnip is the preliminary stage but as the skin changes colour, it advances to the superficial stage.  When the skin and the tissues underneath become affected, the deep stage occurs and may ultimately cause tissue death and permanent damage.  Once the tissue dies, the area becomes numb. If frostbite is suspected, seek medical attention immediately.  This is a serious injury and it should not be ignored.

Chilblains

Pronounced CHILL-blayns, this condition occurs when the tiny blood vessels in the toes (also known as capillaries) become inflamed and cause redness, itchiness, swelling and blisters.   When an individual has chilblains, they are hypersensitive to the cold.  Keeping your toes dry and warm, applying lotion to soothe itch, and gradual rewarming of the skin without friction will all help to increase comfort.

Raynaud’s

Primary Raynaud’s disease and secondary Raynaud’s phenomenon both result from cold sensitivity but differ in why they arise.  The cause of Raynaud’s disease is unknown and is less severe than Raynaud’s phenomenon which is caused by an underlying medical condition oftentimes affecting the immune system. Both cause a temporary restriction of blood flow to the toes.  The toes will turn white, then blue and then red as the blood flow returns after warming. There is no cure, therefore prevention is key!  Always dress appropriately in cold temperatures.

Immersion Foot Syndrome

Also known as Trench Foot, this syndrome is caused when the feet are wet for a prolonged period.  This condition may or may not occur during cold temperatures and it was first identified in World War I when soldiers fought in the cold and wet trenches without being able to change out of their wet socks and boots.  If feet are too wet for too long, infection may develop which in severe situations can lead to gangrene. Waterproof winter boots or shoes, and warm socks will help to prevent this from happening.

Come Visit Us

BioPed Footcare has lower limb clinicians to keep your skin healthy, and a variety of socks and footwear to help keep you warm and dry!  We can help you find appropriate cold weather gear to get you through our Canadian winters.  Give your local BioPed today so you can get outside and do more during the winter season!