An Achilles tendon injury involves damage to the thick band of tissue that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It may occur suddenly or develop gradually from overuse, often caused by intense physical activity, improper footwear, or a sudden increase in exercise. Symptoms include heel pain, stiffness, swelling, and difficulty walking or standing on tiptoe. Risk factors include poor conditioning, tight calf muscles, and flat feet. A chiropodist can help by providing a thorough assessment, recommending custom orthotics, suggesting stretching exercises, and offering other treatments to reduce inflammation and support healing. If you have sustained an Achilles tendon injury, it is suggested that you visit a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose this condition.

Achilles tendonitis is a common injury of the Achilles tendon, a band of fibrous tissue that runs along the back of the lower leg. The Achilles tendon can also rupture, making it impossible to lift the foot. If you are suffering from heel or calf pain, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Causes of Achilles tendon injuries include: 

• Repetitive stress or overuse
• Sudden increase in activity levels
• High impact injury
• Calf muscle tightness or weakness
• Altered foot biomechanics
• Heel bone spurs
• Underlying medical conditions that weaken the tendon

Symptoms of an Achilles tendon injury include: 

• Heel and calf pain that worsens following exercise
• Chronic heel and calf pain
• Sudden pain in the back of the ankle or calf
• A popping or snapping sensation
• Thickened lump in the Achilles tendon
• Ankle and calf stiffness
• Decreased range of motion in the affected foot
• Swelling
• Difficulty walking 

Treatment

• Resting the affected leg
• Applying ice
• Compressing the foot and ankle
• Elevating the injured leg
• Wearing orthotics
• Low impact exercises
• Stretches
• Strengthening exercises
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications
• Cortisone injections
• Surgery, if the tendon is ruptured 

Achilles tendon injuries can be very painful and lead to reduced mobility if left untreated. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON . 

Running and walking shoes should offer proper arch support, cushioning, stability, and flexibility to match your foot type and activity level. Wearing the wrong shoes can lead to foot conditions like plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, or stress fractures. Poorly fitted shoes may also cause blisters, joint pain, or altered gait. A chiropodist can assess your foot structure, gait pattern, and recommend the best footwear to prevent injury and improve comfort. They may also suggest orthotics to enhance support. If you experience persistent foot pain or discomfort while walking or running, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can treat various foot conditions and ensure your shoes are helping rather than harming your feet.

Finding the right shoes can sometimes be a major hassle, especially if you intend to work out in them. There are shoes on the market designed specifically for running and walking, but it can be difficult to differentiate between the two and find the right shoes for you. If you’re having trouble finding the right shoes, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

What are the differences between running and walking shoes? 

These two types of shoes vary along several parameters.

• Cushioning: Runners need more cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas of the shoe, while walkers can get away with less cushioning.
• Heel height: Runners need a higher heel to provide them with stability, but the ideal height of the heel for runners varies depending on their running gait. Walkers generally don’t need a built-up heel.
• Heel flare: Flared heels can help provide extra stability for runners with certain gaits, while walkers may benefit from a flared heel to control the motion of their foot.
• Flexibility: Both runners and walkers need shoes that are flexible. 

For more information about the differences between walking and running shoes, and to figure out which shoes may be right for you, please consult with a chiropodist. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON . 

Hammertoe is a foot deformity where one or more of the smaller toes bend abnormally at the middle joint, resembling a hammer shape. It is commonly caused by muscle imbalance, wearing ill-fitting shoes, arthritis, or injury. Symptoms include pain, stiffness, swelling, corns, or difficulty in moving the toe. Risk factors include aging, wearing high heels, having a second toe longer than the big toe, or a family history of foot deformities. A chiropodist can evaluate the condition and recommend treatment, such as custom orthotics, footwear changes, exercises, or minor procedures, if necessary. If you are noticing discomfort or changes in your toe shape, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist who can accurately diagnose hammertoes.

Hammertoe is a common foot deformity in which one or more of the small toes bends downwards at the middle joint. Though it may seem like a purely cosmetic issue, this is not the case. Hammertoes can be uncomfortable, painful, and even debilitating in severe cases. If you suffer from hammertoe, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility.

Symptoms

• One or more small toes bending downward at the middle joint
• Pain or irritation on the affected toes
• Corns and calluses
• Inflammation
• Redness
• Stiff toe joints
• Sores on the tops of the toes

Diagnosis

A chiropodist can typically diagnose hammertoes through physical examination. X-rays may need to be taken to see the extent of the damage.

Treatment

Hammertoes tend to progressively worsen with time, so getting prompt treatment is very important. In its early stages, the progression of hammertoe can be slowed down or stopped. Your chiropodist may suggest changes in your footwear. Wearing wide, comfortable shoes with a larger toe area and a low heel can help you avoid putting pressure on your toes. You may also be prescribed orthotics. Over-the-counter medications or corticosteroid injections may be used to relieve pain. If you have any corns or calluses, your chiropodist may suggest padding them to avoid further irritation. In advanced cases, surgery may be suggested. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON . 

Dry cracked heels often result from a buildup of hard, dry skin that becomes less flexible and eventually splits under pressure. This condition, also known as heel fissures, can be caused by a range of factors including prolonged standing, obesity, aging, wearing open-heeled footwear, or exposure to cold weather. Certain health conditions such as diabetes, eczema, and thyroid issues can also contribute to dryness and skin thickening. Mild cases may be managed at home with regular exfoliation using a pumice stone and the use of thick moisturizers. Keeping feet moisturized and protected with well-fitting, closed-back shoes and soft socks can help retain hydration. Severe or painful cases may require treatment by a chiropodist to safely remove hardened skin and prescribe more effective topical treatments. If heel cracks persist or worsen, it is suggested that you see a chiropodist for diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Cracked heels, also known as heel fissures, can cause pain and discomfort. If your cracked heels are bothering you, please consult with one of the chiropodists from Complete Family Footcare & Therapy. Our clinicians will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Dry, thickened skin around the rim of the heel is typically the first sign of cracked heels. While this condition is common and usually just a nuisance, some cases can be more severe. If left untreated and as more pressure is placed on the heel, the cracks become deeper and eventually walking and standing can be painful. These deep cracks or fissures can bleed and also become infected. Those with diabetes need to be especially careful as fissures could lead to diabetic foot ulcers. 

Causes

Cracked heels can be the result of several different factors, including: 

• Dry skin
• Taking long, hot showers or using harsh soaps
• Standing for long periods of time
• Walking barefoot
• Walking in shoes with an open back, such as sandals or flip flops
• Wearing shoes that do not fit properly
• Living in a cold or dry climate
• Certain skin conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis

Treatment

There are many at-home treatment remedies for cracked heels. Applying moisturizers to the heel can help hydrate the skin. Soaking your feet in warm water and exfoliating them with a loofah or pumice stone can help to buff away dead skin cells. If you are afflicted with cracked heels, it is recommended that you see a chiropodist for treatment. 

Prevention

You can prevent cracked heels by:

• Avoiding standing in one position for prolonged periods of time
• Wearing well-fitted shoes with a closed back
• Washing your feet with gentle soaps and lukewarm water
• Moisturizing the feet daily

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in North York and Mississauga, ON .