Have you noticed a sharp pain in your heel when you take those first steps in the morning? Maybe standing all day at work has become increasingly uncomfortable, or your favorite walking trail now feels more like a challenge than a pleasure. At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic in Collingwood, we understand how foot and ankle pain can affect every aspect of your life – from work performance to leisure activities.
Tony Abbott, D.Ch., has over thirty years of experience treating foot and ankle conditions. He combines time-tested treatment methods with cutting-edge technology to help patients find lasting relief from pain and discomfort.
Common Causes of Foot and Ankle Pain
The human foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 muscles, tendons, and ligaments. There are a lot of moving pieces, and it’s easy for folks to suffer injury or damage without even realizing it. Some of the more common causes of foot and ankle pain include:
- Overuse and strain. Working long hours on your feet, particularly on hard surfaces, can lead to muscle fatigue and inflammation. This is especially common among trade workers and retail employees.
- Improper footwear. Shoes that don't provide adequate support or fit poorly can cause alignment issues and stress on your feet and ankles.
- Medical conditions. Conditions like arthritis, diabetes, and gout can contribute to chronic foot pain and require specialized care.
- Sports injuries. Active individuals may experience acute injuries from running, hiking, or other high-impact activities around Collingwood's beautiful outdoor spaces.
- Structural issues. Some people are born with or develop structural problems, such as flat feet or high arches, that can cause ongoing discomfort.
- Trauma: Pain is, perhaps, the most common response to physical trauma. Pain that either increases or does not diminish over time could be a symptom of a more severe injury.
How Aging Affects Feet and Ankles
As we age, our feet and ankles undergo natural changes that can affect mobility and comfort. Understanding these changes helps you take proactive steps to maintain foot health and stay active:
- Loss of cushioning. The fat pads that naturally cushion your heels and ball of foot become thinner with age, leading to increased pressure and discomfort when walking or standing.
- Reduced circulation. Poor blood flow can cause cold feet, slower healing of cuts and blisters, and increased risk of infection – particularly important for those with diabetes or vascular conditions. It can also lead to decreased sensitivity, which can affect mobility and balance.
- Decreased flexibility. Tendons and ligaments lose elasticity over time, affecting your range of motion and making you more susceptible to balance issues and falls.
- Changes in gait and posture. Many seniors develop a forward-leaning posture as core muscles weaken, which can place additional stress on the feet and ankles. These changes often lead to a slower walking speed and reduced stride length, as the body instinctively adapts to maintain stability and prevent falls.
Types of Foot and Ankle Pain We Treat
At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, we provide comprehensive care for various foot and ankle conditions, including:
- Achilles rupture
- Achilles tendonitis
- Arch pain
- Bunions
- Capsulitis
- Charcot foot
- Flat feet
- Gout
- Hallux rigidus
- Hammer toe
- Heel fissuring
- Heel pain
- Heel spurs
- High-arched feet (pes cavus)
- Ingrown nails
- Joint pain
- Metatarsalgia
- Morton’s neuroma
- Peripheral neuropathy
- Plantar fasciitis
- Plantar wart
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Sports-related injuries
- Tarsal coalition
- Toenail injuries
- Warts
From corns and calluses to more complex conditions affecting your daily comfort and overall health, chiropodist Tony Abbott and the Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic team are here to help.
What Sets Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic Apart?
Our entire team is dedicated to offering the best possible care for folks with foot or ankle pain. Our commitment to innovative technology, however, sets us apart from other foot care providers in the region:
- Cryos 3D-printed orthotics. We are the only clinic in the region offering the complete Cryos system, producing durable, precisely crafted custom orthotics.
- CryoVizion body scanning. Part of the Cryos system, this advanced technology allows us to track your progress and ensure your orthotics provide optimal support.
- Swift microwave therapy. A groundbreaking treatment for plantar warts that offers better results than traditional methods.
- MLS laser therapy. This is advanced pain management technology that promotes healing and reduces inflammation.
Tony has been helping people for more than 30 years. Our team takes a patient-centered approach to foot and ankle care, finding and creating custom solutions that enhance folks’ comfort and quality of life. We are routinely recognized in the Southern Georgian Bay’s Readers’ Choice Awards.
Reasons to See a Collingwood Chiropodist
Don't wait until foot or ankle pain severely impacts your quality of life. While some minor foot discomfort may resolve on its own, certain symptoms warrant immediate attention:
- Severe heel pain when taking your first steps.
- Visible changes in foot shape or structure.
- Pain that prevents you from work or favorite activities.
- Persistent swelling that doesn't improve with rest.
- Difficulty maintaining stability or balance when walking or standing.
- Persistent foot or ankle pain that lasts more than a few days.
How Long Will My Treatment for Foot and Ankle Pain Take?
Recovery from foot and ankle pain varies depending on the cause and severity of your condition or injury. Sometimes, folks may experience immediate relief from pain or reduced pain levels. (This may be more likely for folks who have suffered mild trauma that might have healed on its own.) Generally speaking, the timeline for pain relief is as follows:
- Initial relief. Many patients experience improvement within 2-3 weeks of starting treatment.
- Progressive healing. Full recovery typically takes 6-12 weeks for most conditions.
- Long-term management. Some conditions require ongoing care to prevent recurrence.
- Preventive care. Regular check-ups help maintain foot health and prevent future issues.
How to Prepare for Your First Visit
Many patients wonder what to expect when visiting a chiropodist. At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, your first appointment will include:
- Medical history review. Bring a list of your current medications and relevant medical conditions.
- Footwear assessment. We recommend bringing your most frequently worn shoes.
- Gait analysis. We’ll review how you walk and stand to identify potential issues. We may ask you to walk and stand in the different shoes you bring so we can get a fuller picture.
- Treatment discussion. Once our chiropodist identifies your issues, he can explain your diagnosis and treatment options in clear, understandable terms.
The best thing you can do to keep your case progressing is to be honest about what you’re experiencing. Make sure we have as complete and accurate a history as possible, and don’t be afraid to ask questions! At Abbott Foot & Ankle Clinic, we aim to help you get back up on your feet and living your best life as soon as possible.