Athlete's foot is a fungal skin infection that usually develops between the toes. It can also spread to the soles or sides of the feet. Symptoms include itching, redness, flaky skin, and painful cracks. Other signs include a burning feeling or peeling skin that becomes uncomfortable when walking. Warm, damp conditions allow the athlete’s foot fungus to grow more easily. Spending time in public pools, locker rooms, or communal showers can increase the risk of infection. A chiropodist can examine the affected skin, confirm the diagnosis, and rule out other conditions that look similar. Treatment also includes advice on reducing moisture around the feet and lowering the chance of the infection returning. Early care helps prevent the fungus from spreading to the toenails or nearby skin. If you have symptoms of an athlete's foot infection, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To learn more about preventing and treating this condition, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Athlete’s Foot? 

Athlete’s foot refers to an infection of the skin on the feet that is caused by a fungus. This fungus is contagious and thrives in warm and moist environments. It is often spread in common areas such as public pools, locker rooms, and showers. It can also spread when sharing personal items, like shoes or towels, with an infected person. 

Symptoms

The symptoms of athlete’s foot may include: 

• Itching, stinging, or burning of the skin on the feet
• Cracking or peeling skin, especially between the toes and on the soles of the feet
• Scaly, red rash on the foot
• Blisters
• Foul odor

Treatment

Treatment for athlete’s foot typically involves using over-the-counter topical antifungal medications on the feet. When over-the-counter options are ineffective, you may need to take prescription oral medications or topical antifungal drugs, or a combination of both. 

Prevention

Preventing athlete’s foot places an emphasis on good foot hygiene practices. 

You can prevent athlete’s foot by:

• Washing and drying your feet thoroughly every day
• Wearing shoes when walking in public areas
• Not sharing personal items, like shoes or socks, with others
• Wearing shoes and socks made out of breathable materials

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

Foot and ankle pain while cycling is a common concern for both recreational and competitive riders. The foot plays a key role in transferring power from the quadriceps and glutes through the knees and down to the pedal. When pressure is not evenly distributed, stress can build on the metatarsal heads and surrounding nerves, leading to discomfort. Symptoms include numbness, a burning sensation, and sore soles during or after cycling. Some riders may notice tingling in the toes or aching in the ankle joint. These symptoms can reduce performance and make longer rides difficult. Causes include improper cleat placement, tight shoes, and repetitive pressure on the forefoot. Risk factors include long cycling sessions, poor bike fit, and lack of support in footwear. Excess pressure on the front of the foot can compress nerves and restrict circulation. Prevention focuses on improving pressure distribution and foot support. Using cleats with a large platform and wearing stiff-soled shoes can help spread force across the foot. Adjusting bike fit and taking breaks can also reduce strain. If you have developed foot or ankle pain from cycling, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can offer effective relief, treatment, and prevention tips.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

• Achilles tendon injuries
• Ankle strains or sprains
• Plantar fasciitis
• Fractures
• Turf toe
• Joint dislocations
• Sever’s disease
• Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

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

Foot arthritis affects the joints of the foot, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness. It can develop gradually and may worsen without proper care. Common types include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that attacks joint tissue. Gout occurs when uric acid crystals build up in the joint. Early symptoms often include joint stiffness in the morning, swelling around the toes or ankle, and aching pain during movement. Reduced flexibility or difficulty walking for long periods of time are other factors. These signs may seem mild at first, but can progress over time. Risk factors include aging, previous injury, obesity, and repetitive stress on the foot. Genetics and underlying health conditions can also increase the likelihood of developing arthritis. Poor footwear may place additional strain on the joints. Early care can slow progression and improve comfort. Treatment may include supportive footwear, activity modification, and targeted exercises. If you have symptoms of foot arthritis, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for effective relief and management solutions. 

Osteoarthritis in the feet or ankles can be a painful and disabling condition that may interfere with your daily activities. If you have arthritis, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

What Is Osteoarthritis? 

Osteoarthritis is a condition in which the protective layer of cartilage in the joints breaks down over time. This loss of cartilage causes the bones to rub together during movement, leading to pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is associated with aging, and often affects the small joints of the feet and ankles. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include: 

• Joint pain
• Joint stiffness
• Swelling in or around the joint
• Restricted range of motion
• Difficulty walking

Diagnosis

Osteoarthritis can be diagnosed through physical examination. You may also need to have an X-ray taken to assess the extent of the damage caused by arthritis. 

Treatment

Treatment for osteoarthritis focuses on reducing symptoms and improving the function of the affected joints. Conservative treatments include oral pain medications, orthotic devices, bracing or immobilizing the affected foot or ankle, steroid injections into the affected joint to reduce inflammation, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary. 

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