Peripheral artery disease, or PAD, is a common condition characterized by a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, resulting in restricted blood flow to the muscles in the lower legs and feet. A particular symptom of PAD is called intermittent claudication, which is a pain, cramp, or sense of fatigue in the leg muscles when you walk or exercise. Other symptoms are hair loss on the legs and feet, numbness or weakness, and slow-growing toenails. Leg ulcers, skin color changes, and shiny skin are other signs. PAD is primarily caused by atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits accumulate within arterial walls, narrowing the vessels. Contributing factors to peripheral artery disease include smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and aging. Seeking help from a podiatrist is essential for an accurate diagnosis through physical examination and tests like the ankle brachial pressure index, or ABPI. Treatment involves lifestyle modifications, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, and maintaining a healthy diet. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be needed to improve blood flow and alleviate symptoms. For help in determining whether you have peripheral artery disease that is affecting your foot health, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Peripheral artery disease can pose a serious risk to your health. It can increase the risk of stroke and heart attack. If you have symptoms of peripheral artery disease, consult with the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is when arteries are constricted due to plaque (fatty deposits) build-up. This results in less blood flow to the legs and other extremities. The main cause of PAD is atherosclerosis, in which plaque builds up in the arteries.

Symptoms

Symptoms of PAD include:

• Claudication (leg pain from walking)
• Numbness in legs
• Decrease in growth of leg hair and toenails
• Paleness of the skin
• Erectile dysfunction
• Sores and wounds on legs and feet that won’t heal
• Coldness in one leg

It is important to note that a majority of individuals never show any symptoms of PAD.

Diagnosis

While PAD occurs in the legs and arteries, Podiatrists can diagnose PAD. Podiatrists utilize a test called an ankle-brachial index (ABI). An ABI test compares blood pressure in your arm to you ankle to see if any abnormality occurs. Ultrasound and imaging devices may also be used.

Treatment

Fortunately, lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, managing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and quitting smoking, can all treat PAD. Medications that prevent clots from occurring can be prescribed. Finally, in some cases, surgery may be recommended.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Sesamoiditis is an inflammation of the sesamoid bones, two tiny bones beneath the big toe joint. These bones are embedded within the tendons that allow the big toe to move. Sesamoiditis typically occurs from overuse or repetitive stress, making it common among athletes and dancers. Symptoms of sesamoiditis include pain in the ball of the foot, especially when walking or running, and swelling or bruising in the area around the big toe. The pain might worsen when the big toe is used, such as when pushing off to jump or take a step. Bending and straightening the big toe may also become difficult. If you have a painful big toe or ball of the foot, it is suggested that you consult a podiatrist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Sesamoiditis is an unpleasant foot condition characterized by pain in the balls of the feet. If you think you’re struggling with sesamoiditis, contact the practitioners of Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your condition thoroughly and effectively.

Sesamoiditis

Sesamoiditis is a condition of the foot that affects the ball of the foot. It is more common in younger people than it is in older people. It can also occur with people who have begun a new exercise program, since their bodies are adjusting to the new physical regimen. Pain may also be caused by the inflammation of tendons surrounding the bones. It is important to seek treatment in its early stages because if you ignore the pain, this condition can lead to more serious problems such as severe irritation and bone fractures.

Causes of Sesamoiditis

• Sudden increase in activity
• Increase in physically strenuous movement without a proper warm up or build up
• Foot structure: those who have smaller, bonier feet or those with a high arch may be more susceptible

Treatment for sesamoiditis is non-invasive and simple. Doctors may recommend a strict rest period where the patient forgoes most physical activity. This will help give the patient time to heal their feet through limited activity. For serious cases, it is best to speak with your doctor to determine a treatment option that will help your specific needs.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Foot tendon pain, often termed tendonitis, can arise from various causes. Tendons are essential for foot function because they connect muscles to the foot's many bones and support daily activities like walking and running. Common causes of foot tendon injury include wearing ill-fitting footwear, sudden foot movements, repetitive stress from activities like sports, and trauma. Structural issues, such as flat feet or high arches, can predispose individuals to tendon problems. Age-related degeneration and medical conditions, like diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis, are other contributing factors to foot tendon pain. Obesity increases the risk of tendonitis due to increased pressure on the feet. Also, overuse, weak muscles, and loose ligaments can contribute. Understanding these factors helps individuals to take proactive steps to safeguard their foot health. If you are experiencing persistent foot tendon pain or discomfort, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist for a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis, followed by a personalized treatment plan.

Foot Pain

Foot pain can be extremely painful and debilitating. If you have a foot pain, consult with the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment.

Causes

Foot pain is a very broad condition that could be caused by one or more ailments. The most common include:

• Bunions
• Hammertoes
• Plantar Fasciitis
• Bone Spurs
• Corns
• Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
• Ingrown Toenails
• Arthritis (such as Gout, Rheumatoid, and Osteoarthritis)
• Flat Feet
• Injury (from stress fractures, broken toe, foot, ankle, Achilles tendon ruptures, and sprains)
• And more

Diagnosis

To figure out the cause of foot pain, podiatrists utilize several different methods. This can range from simple visual inspections and sensation tests to X-rays and MRI scans. Prior medical history, family medical history, and any recent physical traumatic events will all be taken into consideration for a proper diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment depends upon the cause of the foot pain. Whether it is resting, staying off the foot, or having surgery; podiatrists have a number of treatment options available for foot pain.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Strengthening your ankle ligaments is essential for preventing sprains and enhancing stability, especially if you are active in sports or physical activities. Simple ankle exercises include pointing and flexing your toes and performing heel raises while focusing on controlled movements. Other simple, but effective, ankle strengthening exercises include partial knee squats, either against a wall or with a chair for support, and incorporating stair climbing into your workout routine. These exercises help build strength and stability in your ankles, reducing the risk of sprains and enhancing overall mobility. However, it is suggested that you consult with a podiatrist before starting any ankle exercise regimen, particularly if you have existing ankle joint issues or are experiencing ankle pain. For personalized exercise recommendations and treatments to address your ankle instability or weakness, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries and build strength. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners can provide the care you need to keep you pain-free and on your feet.

Exercise for Your Feet

Exercise for your feet can help you gain strength, mobility and flexibility in your feet. They say that strengthening your feet can be just as rewarding as strengthening another part of the body. Your feet are very important, and we often forget about them in our daily tasks. But it is because of our feet that are we able to get going and do what we need to. For those of us fortunate enough to not have any foot problems, it is an important gesture to take care of them to ensure good health in the long run.

Some foot health exercises can include ankle pumps, tip-toeing, toe rises, lifting off the floor doing reps and sets, and flexing the toes. It is best to speak with Our practitioners to determine an appropriate regimen for your needs. Everyone’s needs and bodies are different, and the activities required to maintain strength in the feet vary from individual to individual. 

Once you get into a routine of doing regular exercise, you may notice a difference in your feet and how strong they may become.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

Flat feet, also known as pes planus, affect about 18 million adults in the United States, with an additional 8 million grappling with fallen arches. Flat feet often stem from the weakening of the posterior tibial tendon, which supports the arch of the foot. It can worsen after years of simple daily activity, like walking, running, and standing. While flat feet are normal in infants and toddlers, some individuals never develop arches, leading to persistent issues into adulthood. Distinguishing between flat feet and overpronation is important for an accurate diagnosis. With flat feet there is no visible arch whether seated or standing. Overpronation, however, is a biomechanical change in the way you walk that can contribute to fallen arches. In either case, seeking a professional evaluation from a podiatrist is essential if you suspect flat feet or experience pain related to flat feet. For a full exam and subsequent treatment plan, it is suggested that you schedule an appointment with a podiatrist.

Flatfoot is a condition many people suffer from. If you have flat feet, contact the practitioners from Foot Care Institute. Our practitioners will treat your foot and ankle needs.

What Are Flat Feet?

Flatfoot is a condition in which the arch of the foot is depressed and the sole of the foot is almost completely in contact with the ground. About 20-30% of the population generally has flat feet because their arches never formed during growth.

Conditions & Problems:

Having flat feet makes it difficult to run or walk because of the stress placed on the ankles.

Alignment – The general alignment of your legs can be disrupted, because the ankles move inward which can cause major discomfort.

Knees – If you have complications with your knees, flat feet can be a contributor to arthritis in that area.  

Symptoms

• Pain around the heel or arch area
• Trouble standing on the tip toe
• Swelling around the inside of the ankle
• Flat look to one or both feet
• Having your shoes feel uneven when worn

Treatment

If you are experiencing pain and stress on the foot you may weaken the posterior tibial tendon, which runs around the inside of the ankle. 

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Windsor, ON . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.