Understanding Why Corns Form and How They’re Treated Corns are one of the most common reasons people visit our clinic and the good news is that they’re highly treatable. If you’ve been dealing with a painful spot on your toe or the ball of your foot, you’re not alone. Corns form when the skin experiences repeated pressure or friction, often over a bony area. Over time, this irritation leads to a concentrated core of hardened skin that presses on nerve endings, causing sharp, localized pain. Why Corns Form Corns typically develop because of: Tight or ill‑fitting footwear Toe deformities or gripping patterns Underlying biomechanical issues Pressure between toes (leading to “soft corns”) When the toes are compressed or rubbing inside a shoe, the skin responds by thickening. In the case of a corn, this thickened skin forms a deep central nucleus that becomes painful with every step. How We Treat Corns At Whitby Family Footcare Clinic, we provide safe, professional removal of corns — a qu...

  Do I Need a Chiropodist or Podiatrist? The Questions We Hear Most in Ontario   Foot pain and mobility issues affect people of all ages, yet many Ontarians aren’t sure when to see a chiropodist or podiatrist. If you’ve ever wondered whether your foot problem is “serious enough,” you’re not alone. The truth is simple: if your feet are limiting your comfort, activity, or confidence, a foot‑care specialist can help.   Below are the questions we hear most often — and the answers that help people decide when it’s time to book.   “Do I need a referral?” No referral is required. Chiropodists and podiatrists are primary‑care foot specialists, so you can book directly whenever you need support.   “Is this covered by OHIP?” Routine foot care isn’t covered by OHIP. Most extended health plans cover assessments, treatments, and custom orthotics. Many patients are surprised by how much their plan includes.   “What’s the difference between a chiropodist and a podiatrist...

  If you’ve been wearing the same pair of orthotics for a few years and have started to notice new aches in your feet, knees, or lower back, you’re not imagining it. One of the most common questions patients ask at Foot Care Whitby is: “Can old orthotics cause foot pain?” The short answer is yes — worn or aging orthotics can absolutely contribute to discomfort. But the more important question is why this happens and how to know when it’s time for a reassessment.   Why Orthotics Don’t Last Forever Custom orthotics are medical devices designed to support your unique foot structure, improve alignment, and reduce stress on bones and soft tissues. But like any device used daily, they experience wear and tear. Over time, orthotics can lose their effectiveness due to: Material compression — cushioning layers flatten and lose shock absorption Shell fatigue — the corrective structure softens or deforms Daily wear and friction Changes in your b...

  Why Is It So Hard to Find Last Year’s Running Shoes? Have you ever walked into a shoe store, ready to pick up another pair of your tried-and-true favorites, only to find that last year’s model has vanished or been completely redesigned? You’re not alone! Many people share this frustration, especially when they’ve finally found a shoe that fits their needs—whether it’s neutral, mild stability, or maximum stability, and from low to high stack height. Every season, brands roll out new designs, tweak features, or change sizing, making it a real challenge to stick with what works. Understanding terms like “stack height” (the thickness of the sole) and “heel-to-toe drop” (the difference in height between the heel and forefoot) can help you compare new models and find the right fit, even when your go-to shoe gets a makeover. Condensed Running Shoe Comparison: 2025 vs. 2026  Category Brand 2025 Model 2026 Model Note ...

Here are some tips for wearing flats if you are over 60. Generally, flats do not have much support and the toe box is narrow instead of rounded. This is also good advice for anyone under 60. https://bestlifeonline.com/flats-over-60/ Whitby Family Footcare

A recent study published in the Scandanvian Journal of Medicine and Science in Sports found that the following simple strength-training exercise provides more relief than traditional stretching of the #plantarfascia: Stand barefoot with your sore foot on a step, a box or even a thick book, with a rolled-up towel placed under your toes and your heel hanging over the step’s back edge. Lift your other leg off the floor, bent slightly at the knee. Slowly raise your sore heel, count 3 seconds, pause for 2, then lower for 3 seconds. Do three sets of 8 to 12 repetitions every other day. http://ow.ly/HE8AJ Whitby Family Footcare