Do you have these symptoms? NUMBNESS TINGLING BURNING SHOOTING PAINS If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, ask us at Body and Sole if NeuRemedy® or NeuRemedy® Plus is right for you. 613 258 5508 NeuRemedy® for the healthy function of the nerves in the feet and legs* What is NeuRemedy® and how does it work? Adequate blood levels of the micro-nutrient thiamine are essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Recent studies have shown that many people suffering from numbness, tingling, burning, and/or shooting pains in their feet and legs have low plasma levels of this essential micro-nutrient. They need a more bioactive form of thiamine for their nerves to function properly. This population includes, but is not limited to, people with diabetes and the elderly. NeuRemedy® supports the healthy function of the nerves in the feet and legs by delivering a highly bioactive form of the micro-nutrient thiamine. NeuRemedy® works by nourishing the nerves. What about safety and drug interactions? The active ingredient in NeuRemedy® has been used since the early 1960’s in Asia and Europe by tens of thousands of people suffering from numbness, tingling, burning, and/or shooting pains in their feet and legs. It is now available in North America. NeuRemedy® has been proven to be safe and effective. It does not have any known significant adverse effects and can be safely taken with medicines and supplements. * What is NeuRemedy® Plus? NeuRemedy® Plus is formulated for those people who need the combined beneficial effects of our signature product, NeuRemedy®,and methylcobalamin, a highly bioactive specialized form of vitamin B12. * Who should use NeuRemedy® and NeuRemedy® Plus? People who have low levels of thiamine and/or vitamin B12 may benefit from NeuRemedy® and NeuRemedy® Plus. This population includes, but is not limited to: Diabetics Elderly People on diuretics (water pills) People with a history of alcohol abuse * How long does it take for NeuRemedy® and NeuRemedy® Plus to work? Some people experience the beneficial effects in a few days. For some people it may take up to two months to feel the benefits. Ask us at Body and Sole which product is right for you.

Leg Length Difference Leg Length Discrepancy, aka Short Leg Syndrome, and Heel Lifts A majority of people have a measurable leg length difference of 1/4" or more, although most people adapt to the difference with no apparent ill effects. Unfortunately, some do not, and the effects range from low back or sacroiliac pain to hip, knee, or  foot problems. A number of causes can contribute to leg length discrepancy, including: Any bone in the leg ever broken, particularly during growth years, Congenital differences or uneven growth, Disease-caused shortening of the muscles and connective tissue, a common after-effect of polio, Surgically-induced differences, especially common after hip replacement surgery, Compensation for problems elsewhere in the body, such as pelvic or spinal scoliosis. These biomechanical adaptations and compensations for even a slightly short leg can have long-term side-effects, manifesting as lower back pain, hip and knee pain, uneven gait, and various foot and lower leg problems. These problems are often related to the bodily adaptations that occur due to continuing unbalanced movement, and can be aggravated by the extra stresses of sports activities  such as running. The diagnosis and treatment of such leg length differences and their effects is the subject of volumes of medical history and research, and is not the subject of this document. The use of heel lifts should generally be prescribed after thorough medical evaluation. Our Chiropodists at Body and Sole can assess this for you.  The intent of these recommendations is simply to assist you in choosing among the wide variety of in-shoe heel elevating products, and in recommending how to use them for your personal needs. Short leg syndrome or anatomical (structural) or functional (adaptive) leg length discrepancy, is often treated using heel lifts or shoe lifts. Heel lifts, also known as shoe lifts, are firm wedge-shaped inserts for shoes, which attempt to better balance the lower body by adding to the length of the short leg at the point when the heel strikes the ground while walking. Treating Leg Length Discrepancy Using Heel Lifts Heel lifts for leg length compensation will only be required for the short leg, i.e. in one shoe. This can make the two shoes fit and feel different, particularly if the heel lift adds cushioning in the shoe. You will be most comfortable if no additional cushioning is added by the heel lift. Because leg length compensation will typically be needed permanently, long-term comfort and minimum stress on the foot is very important. As much as possible, the same elevation should be added in all shoes that are regularly worn, including house-slippers and flip-flops. You will probably need more than one type of heel lift or modification for various footwear. It is generally accepted that no more than 12mm (1/2") of heel elevation can be used in a shoe without affecting stability. The maximum height you can use in a pair of shoes will be affected by the style and fit of the shoes, as well as your foot size. Laced shoes will permit more heel lift height, for example. If you require more than 10-12mm of compensation, part of the additional height should be added to the external sole and heel, rather than inside the shoe. This will cause less stress on the foot and lower leg. More than 12mm should be added as a full-foot lift, either inside or outside the shoe, or both, rather than just a heel lift. When introducing your body to the use of heel lifts, increase to the target height slowly - add 2-3mm each week on the short leg side, to allow the body to adapt to the change. Adjustable shoe lifts are useful for this purpose. The ideal height for your specific needs should be determined by experimentation over a long time. You may find that a difference of 1-2mm greatly improves your overall comfort both in the shoe, and in the other effects of your leg length discrepancy. Try changing the shoe lift height slightly and evaluating the effects for a few days or weeks. It is often recommended that the starting point for heel lift height be one-half of the measured difference in leg length. It is generally accepted that this should be modified based on the length of time that the difference in leg lengths has existed: - In the case of an uncompensated leg length difference that has existed for a long time, the body will have adapted to the imbalance, and completely compensating for the leg length difference may make these changes maladaptive - you may cause new problems by using a heel lift of the full height of the measured difference, at least initially. - For recent changes, such as surgically-induced leg length differences, or in children, where bone growth is still occurring, It is usual that the heel lift height should fully compensate for the difference, to minimize adaptive changes if possible. Use of heel lifts is a medical and personal decision, but it is strongly recommended that a health care professional be involved in the evaluation of the need and in monitoring the results. The Clearly Adjustable heel lift is a very comfortable adjustable heel lift that is ideal for long-term compensation for leg length discrepancy. You can purchase Clearly Adjustable lifts at Body and Sole. Orthotics may also be indicated if there have been changes to the foot structure because of asymmetry. A heel lift can be added to the orthotic for use on the short leg side.

Are your feet or legs hurting, or you have diabetes, and now you’re ready to see a doctor? The good news is you’re already on your way to having happy and healthy feet just by reading this. If this is your first time visiting a Chiropodist or Podiatrist, there are a few things you need to know before visiting your foot doctor. If you have specific questions or would like to make an appointment, call us at Body and Sole 613 258 5508. One you have called to make an appointment, there is a list of things you should consider and/or bring with you to make the most of your appointment: • Write down all your symptoms and make a list of your questions. Patients often forget important questions they’d like to bring to their doctor’s attention until after their appointment. • What medications do you currently take? Have you undergone any previous surgeries? Write them down! Many general health problems can have associated foot symptoms, and some medications will affect the type of treatment your foot specialist will choose to help you with your foot problem. • Important medical records and test results, including X-rays and MRIs, from previous doctors or hospitals should be brought with you to your appointment. If you had X-rays at the Kemptville hospital you can also pick up a disc of your x-ray films and bring them with you. • Do you need a referral? Make sure you check with your insurance provider before your appointment. Most do not require a referral, but there are a few that do. Check your insurance coverage before you arrive. Depending on your problem and foot care needs, you may need to check several sections: Chiropody/Podiatry services; Orthotics and Braces; Stock Item orthopedic footwear. • If you have special needs, make sure you inform your foot specialist’s office before your appointment so they can be sure to accommodate you. • If you believe it will be helpful to you, bring a family member or friend to help you remember instructions from your doctor or help you get to and from the office. • Bring the shoes that you typically wear so that the Chiropodist can check your wear pattern. If your pain is related to a particular sport, bring the footwear for that sport (for example runners, skates, and dance shoes). • If you think you may need insoles or orthotics make sure you have a closed-in shoe with a removable insole to accommodate orthotics. If you are not sure, your foot specialist will advise you at your first visit and will give you shoe shopping tips if you do not have suitable shoes. At Body and Sole, we highly respect your time and want you to get the most out of your appointment, which is why we want you to be as prepared as possible when you visit our specialists. We look forward to helping you with all your foot health and mobility needs!

The Shoe Must Fit! Back to school shoe shopping advice.

After the fun of summer, it’s now time to think about back-to-school! For parents faced with kids’ changing tastes and opinions, navigating back-to-school shopping can be a stressful process. Buy him the wrong backpack, or her the wrong jeans, and they will be the uncool kids on the bus. More importantly, there is one area of back-to-school shopping where a wrong move could have long term health effects for kids—shoe shopping. Foot health is directly related to overall health, no matter your age. Proper footwear is essential to foot health, so it’s important for parents to ensure kids go back to school with a good foundation on their feet. Shoes are one of the most important back-to-school purchases parents will make. A poor choice of footwear can lead to foot pain, blisters and even hammer toes, bunions and other deformities that will be with them for life. Children’s feet change and grow with them, and parents may find they need to update their kids’ shoes and socks every few months to accommodate this growth. Shoes that don’t fit properly can irritate the feet and affect how well a child walks, runs, and plays, and also how they concentrate in school. Here are some tips to improve the back to school shoe-shopping experience! • Always buy new—never used—and never hand-me-down footwear. Sharing shoes can spread fungi like athlete’s foot. What’s more, children’s feet are as unique as they are. A shoe that fits one child comfortably may not fit another child as well. Plus, shoes that have been worn tend to conform to the foot of the wearer and may be uncomfortable or change the walking pattern for the next person to put them on. • Test the shoe before allowing a child to try it on. Check for a stiff heel by pressing on both sides of the heel counter; it shouldn’t collapse under the pressure. Bend the shoe with your hands to ensure it will bend with your child’s toes; it shouldn’t be too stiff. Try twisting the shoe; it should be rigid across the middle and never twist in that area. • Go shopping together. Shopping with your child ensures you can have his or her foot measured professionally, and that your child can test the shoe for a proper fit, give you his or her opinion of it, and learn from you the finer points of buying a good shoe. Kids who learn how to select a comfortable, supportive shoe may be less likely to make wrong footwear choices as adults, which could save them a lot of discomfort. • Remember to shop for shoes later in the day when feet are at their largest, and always buy for the larger foot. Having your child’s feet measured will help identify which foot is larger. Additionally, remember to have your child wear the type of socks or tights he or she will most likely wear with the shoe. • If the shoe has a removable insole, pull it out and have the child stand on it in the store. You will be able to clearly see if it fits your child’s foot shape. There should be at least a 1-2cm gap between the child’s longest toe and the end of the shoe, and all the toes should sit comfortably on the insole. Watch for the little toe falling off the side – the shoe will be too narrow. • Avoid buying shoes that need a “break-in” period. Footwear should be comfortable right away. Once the school year is underway, keep an eye on your child’s shoes—active kids may wear out footwear faster than adults. It is normal to wear down the sole at the outside part of the heel first. If you see excessive wear on the sole at the inside of the heel or at the fore-foot, your child may have a gait or alignment problem which needs to be checked. • Be vigilant for signs of irritation, such as your child always wanting to remove one or both shoes, or redness on the toes. The footwear may no longer fit properly, especially if it’s been a few months since you bought the shoes. Finally, be sure children wear shoes that are appropriate for their activities. If your daughter plays sports, she should wear a good athletic shoe designed for that sport. If your son is a runner, he’ll need a good running shoe. For daily wear when kids do a lot of walking, choose a good, supportive shoe with a thick sole and laces or straps to keep them firmly on the foot. Keep slip-ons, sandals, flip-flops, and heels for occasional wear only. If your child complains of foot pain, gets frequent blisters, or experiences an injury, take him or her to a foot specialist (Chiropodist/Podiatrist). Chiropodists and Podiatrists are uniquely qualified to diagnose and treat ailments of the feet. If your child is experiencing foot problems, our Chiropodists at Body and Sole can help. Call for an appointment 613 258 5508.

What's new at Body and Sole? For the last 2 weeks we have been trialing the G-Pulse 400 which combines magnetic therapy and laser therapy. We have seen promising results in just two weeks with diabetic ulcers and neuropathy. We hope to have the MBS therapy available for regular treatment soon. Call us for more information 613 258 5508. Magnetic biostimulation therapy (MBS or magnetic therapy), is the use of pulsating magnetic waves, to help treat various conditions within muscle, tendons, ligaments, nerves and bone. Magnetic therapy is an extremely unique type of technology because it effects all of the tissues in the body at a cellular and molecular level. In fact, the magnetic energy passes through the entire body, including bone, to bring relief for so many conditions that cause pain. No other technology in the world today has this capability. These magnetic waves resemble those which are naturally occurring on the planet from the magnetic North and South poles, which all compasses work with, but are markedly stronger. All life on the planet require the magnetic energy offered by the magnetic poles, and is an important aspect to many metabolic processes in the body. The magnetic waves are purely magnetic only, and are not harmful radiation waves as those used in x-ray and CAT scan (CT) imaging. Fundamentals of Magnetic Therapy Magnetic therapy is extremely effective on so many conditions in the body due to a few fundamental aspects to medicine. it increases circulation increases oxygen levels in every cell in the body decreases painful and limiting inflammation sparks the regeneration of injured or diseased cells kicks cellular metabolism into high gear. How Magnetic Therapy Works: The magnetic therapy coil produces invisible pulsating magnetic waves within the inner space of the coil What Does Magnetic Therapy Accomplish? The magnetic energy has profound beneficial effects on the cells and more importantly on the microscopic sized molecules which comprise each of them. What does this mean? Increases Cellular Oxygen levels. Increasing oxygen levels in cells is like throwing gas on a fire. This means that all cell types in the body are kicked into high gear and begin to function at a maximum rate. For example, fractured bones begin to heal at lightning speed, sluggish or damaged nerves begin to regenerate quickly and painful inflammation begins to diminish immediately. The therapy causes an easier exchange of ions between the inner and outer cell wall, therefore improving the overall function of the cell, increasing its metabolism, and ultimately increasing the entire bodies metabolism. This causes a rapid elimination of painful inflammation in new and chronic tissues, improving the bodies ability to deliver necessary repair nutrients, resulting in a rapid healing effect. Various metabolic disorders are the result of problems with ion exchanges in the cell, so magnetic therapy can have a profound effect on such conditions. The unique quality of magnetic fields reaching the molecular level allows the treatment to affect parts of the body that cannot be influenced efficiently by other treatment methods, such as ultrasound or laser. Magnetic therapy is the only therapy which can penetrate bone, thus promoting rapid healing of fractures, and eliminating its pain. In addition, MBS can eliminate pain from old fracture sites especially when the weather is cold and damp. Magnetic therapy’s ability to pass through bone allows its magnetic fields to be used on the brain and its nerve and blood flow components in the various treatments of neurologically based and vascular disorders such as migraines and concussions. Increases local circulation. The magnetic waves cause smaller local blood vessels to dilate, resulting in an increase in local circulation, which has enormous benefits. Raynaud’s syndrome is a condition where local blood vessels constrict in periods of spasm resulting in cold, pale fingers and toes. In severe cases, fingertips or toes can see ulcers develop which can be very serious. Magnetic treatments will increase circulation to heal these ulcers and have a positive effect on the Raynauds overall.

How pregnancy affects your feet It’s natural – and doctor-recommended – to gain a certain amount of weight during the 40 weeks of pregnancy. Be aware, though, that a woman’s changing body shape also changes the way she walks, and makes her feet and ankles swell due to the buildup of fluid in her lower extremities. During pregnancy, the body produces a hormone called relaxin, which, as its name implies, “relaxes” joints and ligaments. You want the pelvic ligaments to relax when it’s time to give birth; however, the hormones are not specific and can affect other areas of the body. In a foot or an ankle, opening up joints and ligaments can change the size or shape of the feet and cause instability. Estrogen is another hormone whose levels are elevated during pregnancy. It can cause intense itching on the soles of your feet, as well as the palms of your hand. Minimizing foot pain during pregnancy Don’t sacrifice your body to fashion. Always wear low-heeled, wide-based, supportive shoes. Avoid ballet flats or flip flops which offer no support. Shoes with adjustable straps or laces are best so you can adapt to fluctuations in foot or ankle swelling. Our friendly staff can tell you if your changing feet might benefit from the extra support of arch supports or orthotic shoe inserts. Rest as often as you can. Put your feet up to prevent and reduce swelling. 1. While sitting, don’t cross your legs, and don’t sit for long periods of time. 2. Minimize aches and pains by stretching your feet and ankles daily – even twice daily, in the morning and in the evening. 3. Relieve that itch by applying a moisturizer as needed. 4. Prevent or reduce swelling by avoiding salt and drinking lots of water. 5. Wear loose-fitting clothing 6. In some cases knee or thigh high compression socks may be helpful. Avoid socks with tight ankle bands. Relaxed–fit or Diabetic Socks may be more comfortable. Women who have pre-existing problems with their feet (such as flat feet or plantar fasciitis) may experience an increase in their symptoms while pregnant. If you need help or advice with your feet call us at Body and Sole 613 258 5508.

Pay Extra Attention to Your Feet While Traveling If your plans for this winter include a getaway vacation, good for you! Whether your destination is warm and sunny or the snowy slopes, don’t forget to take good care of your feet while you’re traveling. Uncomfortable, sore or injured feet can really ruin a good time. •Pack two pairs of comfortable walking shoes and rotate daily to let shoes dry thoroughly. Don’t forget your orthotics. •Take along shoes for each activity: water shoes, running, walking, and dress. •Avoid taking new shoes on a trip – this is not the time to break in new footwear! •Wear comfortable, slip–on shoes with socks for air travel. The socks will protect your feet as you go through security and slipping your shoes off in flight makes it easier to keep your circulation moving with stretches, foot pumps and foot and ankle extensions. •Opt for sturdy sandals rather than flip flops for extensive walking. Save your flip flops for public areas like pools, spas and changing rooms. •Apply ample sun screen to tops and sides of feet regularly. Don’t Forget a Foot Care Travel Kit Tuck a few essentials into your luggage to keep your feet looking and feeling their best. Be sure to include: •Emollient–enriched moisturizer to keep feet supple and smooth •Nail clippers and emery boards •Moleskins or blister pads to cushion irritated areas and protect your feet if blisters do occur •Sterile bandages if needed for minor cuts and scrapes •Antibiotic cream for minor skin injuries Your feet will reward you with miles of fun, pain–free trekking!

Best Foot Forward: New Year’s Resolutions for Healthy Feet If taking better care of your health is one of your New Year’s resolutions, start from the bottom up. The feet are our foundation! We often don’t think of our foot health until there’s a problem with our feet. This year, promise yourself you’ll take better care of your entire body. Here are a few simple healthy foot habits to keep you on your toes in the New Year. Healthy Feet Resolution #1: Walk More Walking is one of the simplest forms of exercise; it doesn’t require any special equipment, it can be done in almost any weather, and it’s good for your overall health – including your feet. It helps stimulate the circulation and nerves in your feet and strengthen muscles. Even in small 15-20 minute doses, walking will help keep your feet and your body in shape. Use boots with good insulation and good soles in winter, or ice grippers over your boots in icy weather when walking outdoors. Using Nordic walking poles can help maintain good balance and posture while walking. Healthy Feet Resolution #2: Work on your balance Balance is not usually one of the things we think about training during our life, but having good balance can prevent slips, trips, and falls and ankle sprains. The great part is, it’s very easy to improve balance; just practice standing on one leg with your eyes closed! Do this for about 30-60 seconds on each foot every day. Start with using your hand on the wall to assist, and prevent falling, but after a few weeks you won’t need to hold on any more. Healthy Feet Resolution #3: Shed a Few Pounds If this isn’t already on your New Year’s resolution list, here’s one reason you should consider adding it. Less weight means less stress on feet, knees, and hips, which is especially important if you play sports or work on your feet all day or if you have arthritis or diabetes. If you’re already at a healthy weight, keep up the good work! Your feet are one step closer to staying healthy in 2016. Healthy Feet Resolution #4: Have Regular Check-ups Your feet help you get around even more than your car does, so you should definitely be taking them in for regular check-ups. Regular visits to the Chiropodist (Foot Specialist), will let you know if there’s anything you should be paying closer attention to, if you already have a foot condition or other condition that affects your feet (e.g., diabetes). If you start a new exercise program, muscle aches are normal at first, but if you develop pain in the feet or legs that does not go away after a rest day make sure to call and book a Chiropody appointment. Healthy Feet Resolution #5: Eat for Your Feet What goes in your mouth affects your body – even all the way down to your feet. We all need to think about eating well to maintain a good body weight and for vitality and long term health. If you have gout or diabetes, maintaining a healthy eating plan can reduce your symptoms. Once you know which foods to avoid, you can find healthy alternatives that won’t trigger your symptoms. Also think about the other things we ingest – smoking can dramatically decrease the circulation to the legs and feet, and over-use of alcohol can cause numbness in the feet. Healthy Feet Resolution #6: Shape Up Your Shoes When it comes to improving foot health, 2 quick-fix recommendations for improving your shoe collection are: 1. Ditch the high heels and flip-flops. Both of these types of shoes can be hazardous to your foot health. High heels force the foot into an unnatural position, and can damage the foot’s structure, resulting in corns, callus, bunions and hammer toes. Flip-flops offer no support for the foot, often resulting in arch or heel pain, and the open design leaves your foot more susceptible to injury and infections, like athletes foot 2. Replace old athletic or walking shoes. Over time, even the best shoe loses its ability to adequately support and cushion your feet during activity. If you continue wearing them, you could end up throwing off the alignment of your foot. Worn-out shoes also put you at greater risk for sports injuries. Shoes that have been worn indoors, for example at the gym, may still look good on the sole while having lost their mid-sole cushioning over time. Think about replacing them at least yearly – more frequently if running regularly with them. Healthy Feet Resolution #7: Look After Your Skin Dry cracked skin can be a common winter problem for the feet. Cracked skin is more prone to bacterial and fungal infections. Make sure you are using a good moisturizing cream after each shower, and gently file any callused areas with a foot file or pumice stone. If you have persistent or painful cracks, or thick corns or callus seek professional help. Call and book a Chiropody assessment. The path to achieving your New Year’s resolutions awaits you, don’t forget to make sure your feet can take you there. Now’s the perfect time to schedule your appointment call us at Body and Sole in Kemptville. 613 258 5508. We can help with all your foot care and foot orthotic needs.