The Foot Fixers

It's MOVEMBER!
Movember began in Australia in 2003 when a group of friends challenged each other to grow mustaches for charity, and it quickly grew into a global movement. Movember is where people grow mustaches to raise awareness for men’s health issues, including prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and su***de prevention.

The Movember Foundation, which organizes the event, encourages people to participate by:
*Growing a mustache and sharing their progress to start conversations about men's health.
*"Move for Movember," where participants commit to running or walking a certain distance over the month.
*Hosting or attending events that bring people together and raise funds for men’s health research and initiatives.

So grow those mustaches and help support and raise awareness for men's health!

Today, we take a minute to remember those who bravely served and sacrificed for our freedom. Their bravery will never be forgotten.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month!
Here at The Foot Fixers we treat a lot of diabetic patients. Foot care while being diabetic is very crucial as there are many ways that diabetes can affect your feet. With that being said, when problems occur with your feet they can also end up arising in other forms of health problems.
Here are a few problems that could occur due to not taking care of your feet as a diabetic:
1. Nerve Damage (Neuropathy)
Diabetic neuropathy can cause a loss of sensation in the feet, making it harder to feel injuries, cuts, blisters, or sores. Without feeling pain, minor foot injuries may go unnoticed and can worsen over time.
2. Poor Circulation
High blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation, especially in the extremities, like the feet. Reduced blood flow impairs the body's ability to heal wounds, increasing the risk of infections and potentially serious complications.
3. Increased Risk of Infection
People with diabetes are more prone to infections because high glucose levels can weaken the immune system. A small wound or cut can quickly become infected, and if left untreated, infections can spread and become severe.
4. Higher Likelihood of Foot Ulcers
Foot ulcers, which are open sores or wounds, are common among people with diabetes and often result from untreated cuts, blisters, or pressure on the foot. If ulcers don’t heal properly due to poor circulation and neuropathy, they can lead to more serious complications.
5. Risk of Amputation
If infections or ulcers are not managed promptly and effectively, they may progress to tissue death, leading to an increased risk of amputation. Diabetes is a leading cause of lower-limb amputations, which could often be prevented with proper foot care.
Here are some tips on how to take special care of your feet:
1.Daily Inspections: Check feet daily for cuts, blisters, redness, or swelling.
2.Keep Feet Clean and Dry: Wash feet daily and dry thoroughly, especially between toes.
3.Wear Proper Footwear: Avoid tight shoes and choose supportive, well-fitting footwear to reduce pressure points.
4.Regular Check-ups: Schedule regular check-ups with a healthcare provider or podiatrist to catch any issues early.
5.Manage Blood Sugar: Keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range to reduce the risk of complications.

Happy Halloween from The Foot Fixers!🎃🍁🍭👻
We can't wait to see all the spooky and cute costumes around town!

PSA for 2024 insurance claims: With the end of the year quickly approaching, it is a good time to think about updating your custom orthotics and orthopedic shoes. It takes 3-4 weeks for custom orthotics manufacturing and shipping, so if you are hoping to make a 2024 claim, time is running low. At the moment, we are guaranteeing orthotics will be dispensed before the new year if they are ordered before Novemeber 15th.

We will be closed from Dec 18th to Jan 7th this year, so all custom orthotics will need to be picked up before Dec 18th.

We hope everyone is having a great fall so far!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING FROM THE FOOT FIXERS🍁🍂

We are all so thankful for you and the trust you place in us here at The Foot Fixers, keeping you on your feet, healthy and active!🦃🍂🍁

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness of the disease, promoting early detection, and supporting those affected by breast cancer. You can show support for the women and the men as well who have gone through or are fighting the battle at this very moment by wearing a pink ribbon. If you are feeling that just wearing the ribbon is not enough you can also donate to the Canadian Cancer Foundation as well.
There are a bunch more ways that everyone in the world shows their support to the people fighting this battle.

1. Pink Products Galore:
During October, a wide range of products—from sports gear to beauty products—are released in pink versions to raise funds for breast cancer research. Even NFL players wear pink cleats, gloves, and towels during October to show support!

2. Global Participation:
Breast Cancer Awareness Month is observed worldwide, and landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Empire State Building in New York, and Niagara Falls are often illuminated in pink lights to raise awareness.

3. Fun Runs and Walks:
Events like the CIBC Run For The Cure and the Weekend to End Breast Cancer (The Weekend to Conquer Cancer) attract thousands of participants every year. Many of these races and walks feature pink costumes, from tutus to wigs, adding a fun, festive element to the events.

4. Male Support:
Though breast cancer is most common in women, men also show support during Breast Cancer Awareness Month. There are even events like "Real Men Wear Pink," where men sport pink outfits to raise awareness and funds.

5. Creative Fundraisers:
From "Pink Days" at work to charity bake sales and "pink-out" sports games, Breast Cancer Awareness Month inspires a range of fun, creative fundraising activities. Pink-themed events help raise money while fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

With Fall fastly approaching our little town of Dunnville gets excited and ready for the hockey season. Hockey is a big part of our community and here at The Foot Fixers we want to make sure that all the athletes are prepared and have the tips and tricks to ensure a safe and healthy hockey season.

Hockey tends to be a very high-impact sport and can place significant stress on the feet, but here are a few tips and tricks from us to help prevent any injuries or foot issues.

1. Proper Footwear:
Skates: Ensure skates fit snugly but comfortably. Ill-fitting skates can lead to blisters, calluses, and foot pain.
Orthotics: Consider using custom orthotics for added support, especially if you have flat feet or high arches.
Replacement: Replace your skates when they get worn out because this can lead to them not providing adequate support.

2. Foot Hygiene:
Dry Feet: After skating, remove skates and socks immediately to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to fungal infections.
Sock Choice: Wear moisture-wicking socks designed for hockey to keep feet dry.
Foot Powder: Use foot powder to keep feet dry and prevent friction.

3. Pre and Post Game Care:
Warm Up: Stretch and warm up the feet and ankles before putting on skates to prevent stiffness.
Cool Down: After games, cool down with stretches to maintain flexibility.
Ice Therapy: If you experience foot pain or swelling, apply ice after the game.

4. Injury Prevention:
Lace Bite: To prevent “lace bite” (pain across the top of the foot from skate laces), ensure proper lacing technique and consider lace bite pads.
Blisters: Use moleskin or blister pads on areas prone to friction.
Ankle Sprains: Strengthen the muscles around the ankle to reduce the risk of sprains, which are common in hockey.

These four tips can help you have a safer and better hockey season!

September. 11. 2001

Remembering 9/11 brings forward powerful emotions as the day marks a significant moment in world history. This historical day was when a series of coordinated terrorist attacks were carried out by al-Qaeda, targeting the United States. Four planes were hijacked. Two of them crashed into the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York City, a third into the Pentagon in Washington, D.C., and the fourth, United Airlines Flight 93, was brought down by passengers in Pennsylvania after they resisted the hijackers.

The tragic events resulted in the loss of nearly 3,000 lives and had a profound impact globally. It led to changes in security measures, foreign policy, and how terrorism was addressed worldwide. First responders, including firefighters, police, and medical teams, heroically risked their lives, with many losing their own or suffering long-term health consequences.

Every year since the tragic day , on the anniversary of 9/11, people around the world take a moment to reflect, honor the victims, remember the bravery of those who responded, and acknowledge how that day changed the world forever.

Parents rejoice, It's Back to School time again! This often means an increase in physical activity for children, whether it be walking to school, school sports or simply just spending more time on their feet. These can lead to common foot issues. Here are a few foot issues and some tips on how to prevent or manage them.

1. Blisters
Cause: New or incorrect fitting shoes, increased walking or activity.
Prevention: Ensure shoes fit properly, break in new shoes gradually, wear moisture-wicking socks, and avoid prolonged periods of activity in new footwear.

2. Arch Pain
Cause: Some children naturally have flat feet, but it can become problematic if it causes pain or discomfort during physical activities.
Prevention/Treatment: Supportive footwear, custom orthotics, and exercises that strengthen the arch can help. If pain persists, consult a chiropodist.

3. Heel Pain
Cause: Common in active children, particularly during growth spurts. It occurs when the growth plate in the heel becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress.
Prevention/Treatment: Rest, ice, stretching exercises, supportive footwear and custom orthotics can alleviate symptoms. If the pain is severe, reducing activity levels temporarily may be necessary.

4. Ingrown Toenails
Cause: Improper nail trimming, tight shoes, or injury.
Prevention: Trim toenails straight across, avoid tight footwear, and monitor for signs of infection.
Treatment: Soak the foot in warm salt water for 10 mins daily and be sure to call a chiropodist for assessment and treatment. A "resection" can be done in office to give immediate relief, or a minimally invasive nail surgery can permanently correct ingrown nails.

5. Plantar Warts
Cause: Caused by a virus that enters through tiny cuts or breaks in the skin. Common in communal areas like locker rooms.
Prevention: Encourage wearing flip-flops or water shoes in locker room showers, avoid direct contact with warts, and keep feet clean and dry.
Treatment: Over-the-counter treatments may help, but persistent warts might require treatment by a chiropodist.

6. Athlete’s Foot
Cause: A fungal infection that thrives in warm, moist environments.
Prevention: Keep feet dry, change socks regularly, and wear breathable shoes. Avoid walking barefoot in communal areas.
Treatment: Over-the-counter antifungal creams can be effective. In some cases, prescription medication might be necessary.

Some tips for parents:
1. Regular Shoe Checks: Children's feet grow quickly, so regularly check the fit of their shoes. Ensure there’s enough room for their toes to move freely.
2. Encourage Foot Hygiene: Teach your child to wash and dry their feet thoroughly every day, especially between the toes.
3. Monitor for Pain: If your child complains of foot pain, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can prevent more serious problems.

-to-school

We really loved watching the 2024 Olympics and cheering on our beloved Canadian athletes! They did so well this year!

Many of us suffer foot and ankle injuries as "weekend warriors". We ask "why did this happen to me". It's worth considering that even highly trained and tuned olympians have foot injuries!

We tracked some olympians who had foot and ankle injuries through the Olympics. Simone Biles from the USA, one of the most decorated gymnasts, aggravated a lower-left leg injury, causing her to have to wear a walking boot. Yet, she still went on to compete and win medals!

Another athlete was Bia Zaneratto of the Brazillian soccer team. She had to withdraw from the Olympics due to a serious case of Plantar Fasciitis.

For all the weekend warriors out there, we have some tips and strategies to reduce the chances developing an injury doing the sports you love!

1. Proper warm up and stretching- this will prepare the muscles and tendons for activity, reducing the risk of injuries.
2. Appropriate Footwear- Use footwear that offers excellent support and cushioning to minimize stress on the feet. Custom orthotics may also be beneficial for those with specific foot conditions or poor foot mechanics.
3. Staying fit - Make sure to keep your muscles strong and stretch often!
4. Rest and Recovery- Listen to your body and don't push through the pain.
5. Professional Assessment and Treatment- Seek professional assessment and treatment at the onset of any foot pain or injury. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming severe.

Hi Everyone. Today, we are thrilled to announce the opening of our sister company, St. Catharines Foot Clinic!

If anyone has family or friends in the Niagara region that would benefit from having their feet treated by a chiropodist, please let them know of our new service in the area.

St. Catharines Foot Clinic is open on Mondays, Fridays and every other Thursday from 8am-5pm. We are located on 574 Carlton St inside the Bunting & Carlton Medical Clinic. We can be reached at (289) 438-8474. Check out our website: www.stcatharinesfootclinic.ca

Jake will still be at The Foot Fixers in Dunnville on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and every other Thursday from 8am-6pm as usual!

Just a PSA!
We are closed for vacation starting Friday July 12 until July 22. We will be returning Tuesday July 23 for all your foot care needs!

Mudcat Festival is this weekend! June 6th - June 9th 2024. This is a weekend to celebrate Dunnville's beautiful community and its amazing heritage!

Mudcat Festival weekend is jam packed with all sorts of activities for you and your families to enjoy, like the parade, the carnival and of course the games and races!

Your feet will be working extra hard this weekend, so remember to be kind to them by wearing comfortable shoes, and taking breaks, so you can enjoy the entire fun packed festival!

Happy golf season to all the golfers out there. For me personally, it is one of the best things about summer. Looking forward to the Rotary Golf Classic and Dunnville Hospital & Healthcare Foundation Golf tournaments this summer!

May is Foot Health Awareness Month! (Sorry this post is a bit late - better late than never!) This is a time when we highlight the importance of foot health and how it can impact your overall well-being - positively or negatively. We tend to neglect our "forgotten soldiers" until they give us problems. It is only then that we generally realise what an impact a sore or dysfunctioning foot can have on physical and psychological health.

One reason we love our job is we help get people back to what makes them happy. Sometimes it is just being able to walk comfortably that puts a smile on someone's face.

👣

Step into style and comfort!☀️🌊

The Foot Fixers has all your summer sandal needs covered!

We have a variety of mens and womens sandals from brands like Cambrian, Finn Comfort and Drew!

Your feet are the foundation to your entire body. Be good to them! Keep them strong. Maintain them with good grooming habits and wear footwear that is both comfortable and properly fitted. When you take care of your feet, they will take care of you.