Simcoe Foot Clinic

10/03/2025

🦶 Foot Condition Spotlight: Gout
What it is:
Gout is a type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in joints — most commonly affecting the big toe.

Causes:
🍷 Diet high in purines (meat, seafood, alcohol)
🧬 Family history
💊 Certain medications or medical conditions

Symptoms:

Sudden, severe joint pain (often overnight)

Red, hot, and swollen joint (especially the big toe)

Tenderness so extreme that even light pressure hurts

Treatment Options:
✔️ Medication (to reduce uric acid and inflammation)
✔️ Lifestyle and diet adjustments
✔️ Supportive foot care during flare-ups

Chiropodist’s Tip:
Big toe pain with redness and swelling? Don’t ignore it — gout is treatable, and we can help keep it from returning

10/01/2025

While barefoot walking may help some people, it can worsen existing foot conditions (like flat feet or plantar fasciitis) and lead to injury — especially without proper surface support

09/29/2025

09/26/2025

🦶 Foot Condition Spotlight: Sesamoiditis
What it is:
Sesamoiditis is inflammation or irritation of the two small bones (sesamoids) beneath the big toe joint. These bones act like pulleys for tendons, aiding toe movement.

Causes:
👟 Overuse (running, jumping)
🩰 High-impact sports or tight footwear
⚖️ Foot structure abnormalities

Symptoms:

Pain under the ball of the foot, especially beneath the big toe

Swelling or bruising

Pain that worsens with activity

Treatment Options:
✔️ Padding or offloading orthotics
✔️ Footwear changes
✔️ Rest and activity modification
✔️ Icing and anti-inflammatory care

Chiropodist’s Tip:
If walking feels like there's a pebble under your toe, your sesamoids might need support!

09/24/2025

Myth: Walking barefoot on grass improves circulation
Fact: There is no strong scientific evidence that it directly improves blood circulation

09/22/2025

If you have foot pain, don't ignore it! Book an appointment today!

09/19/2025

🦶 Foot Condition Spotlight: Heel Spurs
What it is:
A heel spur is a bony growth that forms under the heel bone, often where the plantar fascia attaches. It’s commonly linked to plantar fasciitis but doesn’t always cause pain on its own.

Causes:
📉 Chronic strain on foot muscles
🏃‍♂️ Repetitive high-impact activity
👟 Poor arch support

Symptoms:

Sharp heel pain (especially in the morning)

Inflammation or warmth under the heel

Discomfort after long periods of standing

Treatment Options:
✔️ Supportive footwear and orthotics
✔️ Stretching and strengthening exercises
✔️ Anti-inflammatory treatments
✔️ Footwear changes and rest

Chiropodist’s Tip:
That stabbing morning pain may not just be “old age” — heel spurs are real, and we can help.

09/17/2025

There’s a big difference between cosmetic moisturizers and medical-grade creams for cracked heels, fungal conditions, or diabetic foot care

09/12/2025

Circulation problems can affect people of all ages, especially those with diabetes, smokers, or people with sedentary lifestyles

09/08/2025

🦶 Foot Condition Spotlight: Hammertoes
What it is:
Hammertoes are deformities where one or more toes become bent at the middle joint, giving them a curled or claw-like appearance. It most often affects the second, third, or fourth toe.

Causes:
👠 Ill-fitting shoes (especially narrow-toed or high heels)
🧬 Muscle imbalance or genetics
🦶 Arthritis or trauma

Symptoms:

Corns or calluses on the toe

Pain when wearing shoes

Visible bend in the toe(s)

Treatment Options:
✔️ Footwear modifications
✔️ Padding and offloading
✔️ Custom orthotics
✔️ In severe cases, surgery may be needed

Chiropodist’s Tip:
The earlier hammertoes are treated, the more likely non-surgical options will help. Don't ignore curling toes — they often get worse over time!