Simcoe Foot Clinic

Myth: Foot size stays the same for life
Fact: Arches flatten and ligaments stretch with age, pregnancy, and weight changes — meaning shoe size can change

🦶 Foot Condition Spotlight: Sever’s Disease (Pediatric Heel Pain)
What it is:
A common heel condition in growing children and teens — caused by inflammation where the Achilles tendon connects to the growth plate in the heel.

Causes:
⚽ Active kids in sports (especially running or jumping)
📈 Growth spurts
👟 Poorly cushioned footwear

Symptoms:

Heel pain, especially after activity

Limping or walking on toes

Pain when the heel is squeezed

Treatment Options:
✔️ Rest and activity modification
✔️ Heel cushions or orthotics
✔️ Stretching the Achilles and calf
✔️ Supportive shoes with good shock absorption

Chiropodist’s Tip:
If your child complains of heel pain after soccer or gym class, don’t wait — Sever’s is common and very treatable!

Pedicures are cosmetic. They don’t address underlying medical concerns like fungal infections, ingrown toenails, or biomechanical issues — and in some cases can introduce infection.

Make your appointment today to check in on your feet!

👣 Condition Spotlight: Fungal Toenails
What is it?
A fungal toenail infection (onychomycosis) affects the nail bed and plate, causing changes in appearance and structure.

Symptoms:
✔️ Yellow, brown, or white discoloration
✔️ Thickened or brittle nails
✔️ Crumbling or distorted nail shape
✔️ Separation of nail from nail bed

Causes:
– Untreated athlete’s foot
– Moist, dark environments (like shoes!)
– Nail trauma
– Sharing nail tools or shoes

How we treat it:
✅ Topical or oral antifungal medications
✅ Nail debridement (safe trimming & thinning)
✅ Laser treatment options
✅ Preventive shoe and sock care tips

🦶 Pro Tip: The sooner you treat it, the better — fungal nails rarely clear on their own.

While tight shoes can worsen bunions, the condition is often hereditary. Proper footwear and early care can slow progression.

👣 Condition Spotlight: Morton’s Neuroma
What is it?
A Morton’s neuroma is a thickening of nerve tissue between the toes — often between the 3rd and 4th toes.

Symptoms:
✔️ Burning or tingling in the ball of the foot
✔️ Sharp, shooting pain
✔️ Feeling like you’re standing on a fold or pebble
✔️ Numbness between toes

Causes:
– Tight shoes or high heels
– Flat feet or overpronation
– Repetitive pressure or trauma

How we treat it:
✅ Custom orthotics to reduce nerve compression
✅ Padding and footwear changes
✅ Anti-inflammatory care
✅ Referral for imaging or injections (if needed)

🦶 Pro Tip: The sooner we reduce pressure on the nerve, the better the outcome.

Comfortable shoes don't necessarily mean they offer the support you need. With summer around the corner when buying shoes, you should:
Check the toe box — You should have about a thumb’s width of space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.
Support matters — Look for arch support, a cushioned sole, and a snug (not tight) heel fit.