Now that more people are working from home we are now NOT wearing shoes for most of the day. It’s probably something most people haven’t thought of but shoes provide support for our feet and without them some problems may arise. This is especially true if you live in a home with hard floors. It’s best to provide some support with some indoor slippers.

Before you go grab your fluffy, squishy slippers or flat slides consider what kind of support your foot needs. On the other hand, you don’t want a slipper with so much support that your foot muscles weaken. You definitely want to avoid heel straps because you want your foot to grab the surface of the floor to keep it strong. If someone has existing foot problems it’s probably a good idea to wear something with support, even with socks, in the home at all times. Only people with no existing foot conditions can go barefoot but even that isn’t recommended for extended use and especially on hard floors. For most people wearing the right type of slipper will probably good protection and support.

If you are prone to foot issues it’s best to avoid backless styles or slides because they don’t wrap around the foot and can lead to potential foot issues. Also, make sure your slipper fits correctly. Do not wear too large slippers as the toe gripping at the ball of the foot to secure the shoe can lead to plantar fasciitis.

When looking for a slipper, look for styles that provide support and are made with breathable materials. Something with an orthotic footbed with arch support, deep heel and ball cushion is a major plus. For safety an anti-slip rubber sole is a bonus. These features will keep your feet comfortable while being well supported.

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Custom orthotics are personalized to fit your foot and can help rid or alleviate various foot symptoms relating to numerous medical conditions. Custom orthotics are more than just a foot or heel pad you buy at the sports or drug store which are mass produced with no personalization. Custom orthotics are also made of durable materials so they will last much longer than over the counter products. So, how can custom orthotics help me?

Custom orthotics can reduce or eliminate the pain and discomfort related to various medical conditions such as :

Bunions – orthotics with a wide toe box can help to reduce pressure and minimize bunions

Bursitis-inflammation of fluid-filled sacs in the heels and toes can cause bursitis pain and discomfort. Orthotics with heel and arch support can help to reduce bursitis discomfort from inflammation of fluid filled sacs in the toes and heels.

Flat Feet– Custom orthotics can help to provide proper support and foot positioning for those with flat feet.

Back Pain– proper support and alignment using custom orthotics can lessen back pain caused by inward rolling arches and lack of cushioning.

Arthritis-proper support and positioning of the feet using custom orthotics can help reduce discomfort caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Diabetes-custom orthotics can reduce the excess stress and pressure on the feet that can lead to foot ulcers in diabetics

Heel Spurs-custom orthotics can help to support the foot and reduce inflammation caused by excess bone growing on the back or bottom of the heel.

High Arches-custom orthotics can help feet stay stable and keep them from rolling inward or outwards due to high arches.

Plantar Fasciitis-supporting the heel and foot with custom orthotics can help alleviate the heel pain related to Plantar Fascilitis.

Doctors may also prescribe custom orthotics for people who have positional concerns with their feet or legs. This can include those with underdeveloped leg and foot muscles. Custom orthotics may also be recommended for athletes to prevent injuries. If you think you need custom orthotics, contact us to get measured.

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Custom orthotics can be pricey ranging from $400-$600 in costs but very often they are covered by medical insurance policies. It’s best to check with your coverage provider. The cost covers your visit to a professional Pedorthist where they will examine your lifestyle, body composition, body time, health issues, foot issues and gait. The cost also includes the creation of a custom cast or mold of your foot which is used to create your custom orthotic. Custom orthotics are made of a more durable material than the generic orthotic inserts found in drug stores. They will last much longer and are custom fitted to your body!

Because they are custom fitted to your body they will ensure your bones in your feet, ankles, and knees stay in the proper position. The specially designed angles can help alleviate stress on the ligaments of overweight people as well as reducing the pain caused by diabetes, arthritis and previous injuries. Custom orthotics also enhance mobility and performance while playing sports. Lastly, muscle fatigue is minimized because custom orthotics support connective tissues.

Custom orthotics can last up to anywhere from 2 to 5 years. When they need to be replaced will depend on the materials used to construct the custom orthotic, how they are cared for, your activity level and weight. Also, if you body or health changes you may need to be fitted for a new pair to answer your most current health conditions. Be sure to check annually with your pedorthist to see if your feet or alignment has changed

If you have any of the following you can benefit from custom orthotics: diabetes, foot pain, knee or back pain, obesity and arthritis. Also, if you work on your feet, are an athlete seeking to improve performance or just would like to take preventative health measures. Contact us for more to get fitted for your custom orthotics

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We had a beautiful Summer in Vancouver, as we usually do, and now we are in the rainy season where we will be enduring wet weather for probably about 6 months. Being so wet here in Vancouver it’s not uncommon for it to rain days on end or unexpectedly. As such,  Vancouverites are used to the rain and most don’t blink an eye when we get caught without an umbrella and get wet.Even with an umbrella our feet often will still get wet. Wet feet and shoes create a breeding ground for bacteria which could lead to a host of foot problems and issues including athletes foot, fungal infections and other ailments. If you do get caught in the rain, be sure to get out of wet dirty shoes as quickly as possible. It’s a good idea to keep an extra pair of dry shoes at the office to change into.

One easy way to avoid wet feet and shoes is to wear appropriate footwear for the season. Waterproof footwear may not be the most fashionable and as a result many people opt for trendier styles. During wet weather the best footwear will have a good grip and keep your feet as clean and dry as possible. Think of rubber galoshes and boots with a nice thick tread. Avoid shoes made of canvas or leather as the water can soak through. High heels are not a good idea and could lead to falls due to poor traction and grip.

Be sure to wash your feet thoroughly every evening and make sure to get in between the toes as well. A nice foot dip with essential oils will really revive your feet and improve circulation. Toenails should be kept trimmed to prevent dirt from accumulating. Shorter toenails make cleaning easier as well. Make sure to exfoliate your feet often and use moisturizer as well.

Have a happy holidays and stay dry!

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It’s Summer and it’s the time for long hot days with plenty of activity. These two factors lead to increased perspiration and greater opportunities for the body to become dehydrated. Water is critical for maintaining every system in your body, including your heart, brain, and muscles. Fluids carry nutrients to your cells, flush bacteria from your bladder, and prevent constipation. Every cell, tissue, and organ in your body needs water to work properly. Your body uses water to maintain its temperature, maintain cardiovascular health, remove waste, and lubricate your joints. Water is needed for your overall good health.

The general rule is to drink 6-8 8 once glasses of water a day. Some people may need less and some more depending on their individual situation and activity level. If you are concerned if you are not drinking enough water, check your urine. If your urine is usually colorless or light yellow, you are well hydrated. If your urine is a dark yellow or amber color, you may be dehydrated so try to add a few more glasses of water to your daily routine.

When rehydrating your body, water is the best choice for a fluid. Juices, sports drinks, coffee and tea do count towards your overall water intake but can also add additional calories, sugar, sodium or caffeine. Don’t forget that water is also found in the food that you eat and some fruits and vegetables have high water contents (eg. watermelon, lettuce, etc)

You may be at a greater risk for dehydration if you have kidney stones, a bladder infection, are pregnant or breastfeeding, have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea or exercise for long periods in hot weather. if any of these conditions apply to you ensure you are vigilant on meeting your daily water quota.

If you find yourself having trouble meeting your desired water intake here are some tips:

-drink a glass of water on the hour

-carry a bottle of water with you so you can have it easily accessible

-drink water in the morning, at every meal and before you go to bed

Older adults often don’t get enough fluids and risk becoming dehydrated because as we age the thirst  mechanism is weaker. There are also medications that older adults may be taking that have a diuretic effect. As a result it’s even more important for older adults to follow a fluid intake schedule.

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Buying good, comfortable shoes will reduce or eliminate foot pain and also prevent future problems from developing. Good shoes can also reduce the stress on your knees, hips and back and also improve your posture. Shoes should support your entire foot while having enough room for all of your toes without being squeezed. Shoes should be the correct length and width for your foot and accommodate the type of arch you have. A Pedorthist can help you determine the best shoes for your foot and health.

You might also want to take closer look at your current inventory of shoes and replace some of the poorly fitting ones. Try them on and anything that is tight, pinches or causes pain get rid of those.Start with your own feet, and look at what’s already in your closet. Stand barefoot on a piece of paper or cardboard, and trace the shape of each foot. Now place your shoes over the outline to determine whether the shoes are too narrow.

Now that you are ready to go shopping for some new comfortable shoes, here are some tips:

1.Find shoes that fit from the start. Don’t rationalize that the shoes just need to be “broken in” or that they’ll stretch with time..

2.) Walk around in the shoes to determine how they feel. Is there enough room at the balls of the feet? Do the heels fit snugly, or do they pinch or slip off?

3. Stand in the shoes. Make sure you have at least a quarter- to a half-inch of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

4. Feet naturally expand with use during the day and may swell in hot weather so shop in the late afternoon for shoes

5. Wear the same type of socks that you intend to wear with the shoes.

6. Get both feet measured every time you buy new shoes. If one foot is larger or wider than the other, buy a size that fits the larger foot.

7. Go with the way the shoe fits rather than the size on the box.

8.Feel the inside of the shoes to see if they have any tags, seams, or other material that might irritate your feet or cause blisters

9. Don’t forget to examine the soles. Make sure they are sturdy enough to provide protection from sharp objects? Also, take the sole test as you walk around the shoe store: do the soles cushion against impact? Try to walk on hard surfaces as well as carpet to see how the shoes feel.

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The Winter months wreak havoc on the skin. The air is cold and blistering while indoors it’s warm and dry. This combination leads to dry skin and moisture in our wet shoes and socks leads to bacterial and fungus infections. Follow these tips to ensure your feet sail through the Winter weather.

1.Wear comfortable boots that fit

Be sure to wear boots that fit properly and aren’t too tight. Tight footwear decreases blood flow  making it harder to keep your feet warm which increases the risk of frostbite. In good fitting shoes your heel, instep and ball of your foot will be immobilized while you can still wiggle your toes. You should be able to wiggle your toes, but your heel, instep, and the ball of your foot should be immobilized. Your boots should have a solid base, supportive heel, and laces or straps to ensure that you’re able to remain stable on wet and slippery surfaces.

If you’re buying winter footwear for your children, such as winter boots, skates, or ski boots, avoid the temptation to buy a larger size in order to get two seasons of wear out of the shoes. It is crucial for footwear to fit properly right away in order to prevent chafing, blisters, and foot injuries

2.Choose wool over cotton socks

Wool-blend socks will help to keep your feet warm and dry in cold weather. The wool acts as a wick to pull moisture away from your feet. Stay away from cotton socks because when cotton socks get wet, they stay wet and are not a good choice during colder temperatures

3.Dry your boots and shoes out

After getting your boots or shoes wet be sure to dry them out thoroughly before going out again. This will help prevent your feet from getting cold quickly as well as prevent the growth of fungi and bacteria.

4.Keep your feet clean and dry

Wearing boots and thick socks may keep your feet warm and toasty in the winter, but it can also cause them to sweat more. Damp feet get cold more easily and are more prone to bacterial infections. Keep your feet clean and dry by putting foot powder in your socks, treating yourself to footbaths throughout the winter, and drying your feet thoroughly after each footbath

5.Wash your feet every day

Wash your feet thoroughly every day with soap and water. Keeping your feet clean can prevent toenail fungus and other unpleasant problems. Make sure that your feet are completely dry before you put socks and shoes on again and change your socks daily. It’s also a good idea to soak your feet in Epsom salt and warm water every once in a while to relieve discomfort and prevent infections.

6.)Take care of your skin

Cold weather means less humidity which means dry skin and nails. When skin dries out it splits, and can lead to painful fissures, increased pain and chances of infection. This can be particularly troublesome for diabetics or those with impaired circulation. Combat this by using a good moisturizer daily, not just when your skin looks like you need it. Preventive measures will help keep your skin supple and smooth. If possible, apply moisturizer shortly after a bath or shower and it will help lock in the extra moisture.

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Proper footwear is an important part of an overall treatment program for people with diabetes, even for those in the earliest stages of the disease. If there is any evidence of neuropathy, or lack of sensation, wearing the right footwear is crucial. By working with a physician and a footwear professional, such as a certified pedorthist, many patients can prevent serious diabetic foot complications

Why Diabetic Foot Care is Important

Diabetics need to be extra vigilant with their foot care. Diabetics often have reduced blood flow accompanied by Diabetes Peripheral Neuropathy which is nerve damage. Because of the nerve damage, diabetics cannot feel sensations of pain in their feet. Therefore, even small cuts, blisters and open wounds (foot ulcers) can go unnoticed and quickly become infected. Foot ulcers are the result of the top layer skin breaking down to expose the tissue underneath. Without the skin’s protection the tissue breaks down and can become infected. In addition, the poor blood flow increases the healing time for the cut or sore. In some cases poor foot care can lead to the amputation of a foot or leg.

In order to avoid serious implications and issues with their feet, Diabetics need to have a detailed foot care routine to catch cuts and sores before they become infected.Feet should be inspected every day for blisters, cuts, sores, bruises, redness, swelling and warm areas. If you do find any signs of injury, see a medical professional and do not try to treat it yourself. Also, never walk barefoot,in thongs or open sandals. This opens up the door to potential injuries.

Diabetic Footcare

Diabetics also need to wear special shoes that not only protect their feet but also accommodate any deformities. Diabetics are susceptible to issues such as foot ulcers, and Charcot foot which can deform the foot. Special diabetic shoes treat these issues while the foot heals. Even if you do not have any foot issues, you still need to wear protective shoes to prevent any problems. Shoes need to fit properly, relieve any pressure points, reduce shock to the bottom of the foot and limit the motion of joints. Shoe fittings should be done with a registered Pedorthist to ensure the best fit. It is difficult for people to judge the correct style and size and those with sensation loss will have an even more challenging time. \

Orthotics for Diabetics

Diabetics may also require a custom made orthotic that will relieve pressure in certain areas and absorb shock. Total contact orthoses provide comfort, protection and pressure relief for the entire foot. Diabetic orthotics help to avoid pressure sores from developing as a result of friction inside the shoe.

If you have any questions regarding diabetic foot care, need to be fitted for diabetic shoes or require custom orthotics, please contact Dr Mann for an appointment.

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Everyone looks forward to the Summer where they can shed their heavy shoes and go with lighter, airier styles. While Summer sandals and shoes are well ventilated and comfortable to wear in hot weather, not to mention super cute, did you know that they can also do serious damage to the bones and joints in your feet? Wearing the wrong footwear in the wrong conditions can lead to foot, knee and back issues and if you have existing foot issues such as plantar fasciitis, bunions or are diabetic, the Summer heat can make your condition worsen.

By taking the right steps, however, many foot health problems can be avoided or at least lessened, even during the dog days of Summer. Here are 3 easy ways to avoid foot injuries this summer.

Don’t Go Barefoot

During the Summer months it’s very tempting to go barefoot. That luscious green grass just looks like it would feel so soft and cool under your feet. That beach sand would feel silky smooth running through your toes. However, going barefoot is not without risks. In that green grass or sand may be a sharp object that isn’t noticeable to the eye. Aside from actual dangerous objects, walking barefoot also exposes your feet to sunburn on hot pavement or sand and bacterial infections such as plantar warts, athelete’s foot and ring worm. You might also have a condition called neuropathy without even knowing it. It’s a disease of the peripheral nerves that causes weakness or numbness in the feet and hands. If you burn or injure your feet you may not feel the pain until it’s gotten much worse.

Solution: It’s best to wear sandals that allow your feet to breathe but still protect them from unseen objects on the ground. Around the pool, locker room and your hotel room, even if it is carpeted, be sure to wear flip flops or shoes.

Forgo The Flip Flops

Summer is flip flop season. You see flip flops everywhere from the beach to the pool to in the city. Flip flops do have their use and place and are great to wear for short periods of time by the pool, in the locker room or on the beach as an alternative to going barefoot. However, they are not a good choice if you are going to be walking for longer periods of time or wearing them day in and day out.

It’s the flip-flop’s no-frills design that contributes to summer’s most common foot injury, Metatarsalgia. Metatarsalgia is a type of pain and inflammation that occurs in the metatarsal (ball of the foot). When you grip the toe piece on a flip flop your toes flex which causes the ball of your foot to drive into the ground. Left untreated, Metatarsalgia can result in stress fractures of the metatarsal joints and several weeks in a cast or worse, a complete bone fracture that requires surgery. Thin rubber flip flops have no arch support whatsoever and walking in flip flops forces you to change the biomechanical pattern of the way you walk. You begin to use muscles and joints in a different way and if you do so repetitively, you are setting yourself up for joint and muscle strains. Ankle sprains, stubbed or broken toes and falls are common when people try to run in flip flops.

Solution: If you enjoy the breeziness of a flip flop select one that features built-in orthotic support and a stiffer sole. Instead of allowing the foot to flatten and tilt inward, which can lead to an uncomfortable gait, pain and possibly injury, these are engineered to keep the foot, ankle and lower leg in proper alignment and pain-free. Also, try to wear these shoes in moderation and refrain from running in flip flops.

Support Your Flats

If you think flats are a great idea because they are comfortable and are the opposite of heels so they must be good for your feet, you are wrong. Like flip-flops, flats are floppy and unsupportive of your feet.

Frequent flat wearers also often suffer from Metatarsalgia as the ball of the foot and its adjacent joints receive a pounding with each step. If you have foot problems already, wearing flats can even aggravate your existing issues. People who need arch support in their shoe such as flat-footed people can get strains like plantar fasciitis or heel spur syndrome

Solution: Wear an orthotics support in your shoe. There are styles made from graphite that are as thin as a credit card so they are inconspicuous when you wear them

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