A bruised toe and a broken toe may appear similar, but there are key differences. A bruised toe is often caused by direct trauma, such as stubbing the toe, and results in swelling, discoloration, and pain, typically surrounding the affected area. The bruising comes from blood vessels beneath the skin being damaged. In contrast, a broken toe occurs when there is a fracture in the bone, which may be caused by a more significant injury, such as dropping something heavy on the foot or stubbing the toe forcefully. A broken toe usually causes more intense pain, swelling, and may lead to difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot. If the toe is misshapen or there is an inability to move it, it is likely broken. If you have injured your toe, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can determine if the toe is broken or bruised, and provide effective treatment solutions.

A broken toe typically occurs following either a sudden, traumatic injury, like dropping a heavy piece of furniture on the toe. The impact causes the bone to fracture and produces a variety of painful symptoms. If you suspect that you’ve broken your toe, please consult with Emily Yu, B.Sc from Uptown Foot Care Clinic. Our specialist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Symptoms

• Throbbing pain
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Cracking sound at the time of injury
• Difficulty bearing weight on the toe
• Difficulty walking
• Toe resting at an unnatural angle

Diagnosis

Your chiropodist can diagnose a broken toe through physical examination and imaging studies, such as X-rays. 

Treatment

The main goals of treatment are to ensure that the bone heals properly, as a toe fracture that doesn’t heal properly can lead to osteoarthritis. You will typically need to rest the affected toe. You may be prescribed a splint to immobilize the toe while it heals. Icing the affected toe and taking over-the-counter medications can help reduce pain. In cases of severe fractures, surgery may be necessary to reset the broken bones and make sure that they heal correctly.  

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

Foot care becomes increasingly important as people age due to changes in circulation, skin health, and mobility. Elderly individuals often experience reduced blood flow to the feet, thinning skin, and decreased sensitivity, making them more susceptible to issues like dryness, calluses, and infections. Additionally, balance can be affected, and conditions like arthritis or diabetes may contribute to discomfort, swelling, or wounds that heal slowly. Regular foot care helps prevent small problems from escalating into serious complications, like ulcers or infections, which are common and potentially dangerous in older adults. A chiropodist can provide essential support for aging feet by conducting routine check-ups, addressing pain or mobility issues, and suggesting specialized footwear or orthotics. If you are a senior, it is suggested that you schedule regular appointments with a chiropodist to manage foot health proactively, ensuring improved mobility, comfort, and overall quality of life.

Foot problems can become increasingly common as we age, making everyday foot care especially important. To learn more about maintaining proper foot health, 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 Foot Problems

Certain foot problems may be more likely to affect older adults. 

Some examples of foot conditions that can be common in older adults include: 

• Dry, cracked skin
• Calluses and corns
• Blisters
• Ingrown toenails
• Deformities such as bunions or hammertoes
• Fungal infections
• Plantar warts

Systemic conditions, such as diabetes or arthritis, are also more likely to affect older people and manifest symptoms in the feet and ankles. 

Daily Foot Care Tips

Having a daily foot care routine can help detect problems early on and prevent future issues. 

Things that you can do at home to care for your feet include: 

• Washing the feet daily with warm water, drying them thoroughly, and then applying a moisturizer
• Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short to prevent ingrown toenails
• Performing daily foot exercises to improve foot strength and mobility
• Wearing shoes when walking to avoid injury
• Inspecting the feet daily for any cuts, scrapes, sores, or other abnormalities and seeking prompt treatment if any problems are discovered 

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

Finding the right shoes for foot problems is imperative for maintaining comfort and preventing further issues. Focus on shoes that offer proper arch support and cushioning to reduce strain on the feet, especially for conditions like plantar fasciitis or arthritis. Shoes with a wide toe box can accommodate bunions, hammertoes, or other deformities, helping to prevent painful pressure. Look for shoes with a firm heel counter to provide stability, which reduces the risk of ankle sprains or overpronation. For those with diabetic foot concerns, shoes with extra padding and seamless interiors are essential to avoid irritation and ulcers. Ensure the shoes have rubber soles with good traction for better grip and balance. It is important to measure your feet regularly, as foot size can change over time, and always try on shoes later in the day when feet are slightly swollen for the best fit. If you encounter foot problems, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist for a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Finding the right shoes for you can ensure your comfort and help maintain proper foot health. If you suffer from foot pain and need help finding the right shoes for you, 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. 

Tips to Find Great Shoes 

Finding shoes that are well-fitting, supportive, and comfortable can be key in maintaining your overall foot health, but can sometimes seem like a monumental task. 

Here are some tips and tricks to keep in mind when shopping for shoes. 

• Shop in a brick and mortar store - Your shoe size can change throughout your lifetime. You will be able to try on shoes before you buy them to ensure a proper fit. A salesperson can also provide recommendations on what shoes best serve your specific needs.
• Try shoes on at the end of the day - Your feet swell throughout the day. By trying shoes on in the evening when the feet are at their largest, you ensure a good fit and shoes that are comfortable all day.
• Have your feet measured - Find the right fit by having your feet measured at the shoe store. A salesperson can help by measuring both feet with a Brannock device to determine your true size.
• Opt for comfort and support - Some shoes, such as high heels and flip flops, may look great but can cause damage to the feet over time. Look for shoes that have a low heel, adequate arch support, a wide toe box, and are made of breathable materials. 

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

Heel pain is common among lacrosse players. This discomfort often stems from apophysitis of the calcaneus, known as Sever’s disease. This condition affects the growth area of the heel bone, typically occurring in adolescents aged ten to fifteen. Symptoms include inflammation and pain at the back of the heel, exacerbated during running and jumping activities. Sometimes, affected individuals may exhibit a subtle limp. The condition is attributed to osteochondrosis, an affliction linked to reduced blood supply to the heel bone. If you notice persistent heel pain in your active child, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a chiropodist for an evaluation and appropriate management.

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 .