Arthritis Foot Care
Why Arthritis Makes Foot Care Difficult
Living with arthritis means everyday tasks become harder. Reaching your feet to trim toenails, bending to check for problems, or even putting on shoes can be painful or impossible.
Common challenges:
Stiff, painful joints in hands make holding nail clippers difficult
Limited flexibility in hips and knees makes reaching for feet hard
Poor grip strength makes trimming nails safely nearly impossible
Swollen finger joints make it hard to feel what you're doing
You're not alone. Many people with arthritis struggle with basic foot care and worry about asking for help.
Common Foot Problems with Arthritis
Arthritis doesn't just affect your joints—it creates foot problems that need professional attention:
✓ Thick, overgrown toenails (harder to cut yourself)
✓ Painful calluses (from walking differently due to joint pain)
✓ Corns between toes (from pressure and friction)
✓ Ingrown toenails (from improper trimming)
✓ Dry, cracked skin (harder to moisturize when you can't reach)
✓ Foot deformities (bunions, hammer toes from rheumatoid arthritis)
Left untreated, these problems make walking more painful and reduce your independence.
What You Can Do at Home
Between professional foot care visits, these simple steps help:
Daily foot checks:
Look for redness, cuts, or swelling
Ask a family member to help if you can't see well
Use a mirror if you live alone
Keep feet clean and dry:
Wash feet daily with mild soap
Dry thoroughly, especially between toes
Apply moisturizer (but not between toes)
Wear proper footwear:
Supportive shoes with room for toes
Avoid tight shoes that create pressure points
Consider slip-on shoes if laces are hard to tie
Don't try to cut your own toenails if:
✗ You can't reach your feet comfortably
✗ You have poor eyesight
✗ Your hands shake or lack strength
✗ You have diabetes or circulation problems
How Mobile Foot Care Helps
Professional foot care at home solves the biggest challenge: you don't have to go anywhere.
Benefits of mobile foot care for arthritis:
No travel needed Soleful Harmony comes to your home with professional equipment. No painful car rides or waiting rooms.
Comfortable position Sit in your favorite chair. No awkward clinic tables or uncomfortable positions.
Take your time No rushing. We work at a pace that's comfortable for you.
Professional assessment We check for problems you might miss and catch issues early.
Safe, sterile equipment Professional-grade tools with AHS-approved sterilization—safer than drugstore clippers.
What to Expect During Your Appointment
Your first visit (about 1 hour):
Health assessment: We ask about your arthritis, medications, and any foot concerns
Foot examination: We check your feet, nails, skin, and circulation
Professional treatment: Nail trimming, callus removal, and corn treatment
Gentle foot massage: Helps circulation and feels good
Education: Tips for caring for your feet between visits
Follow-up visits (every 6-8 weeks):Regular care prevents problems from developing. Most clients with arthritis book every 6-8 weeks to keep feet healthy and comfortable.
Choosing the Right Footwear
Good shoes make a huge difference when you have arthritis:
Look for:
✓ Wide toe box (no squeezing)
✓ Cushioned insoles
✓ Good arch support
✓ Easy to put on (slip-on or Velcro)
✓ Non-slip soles
Avoid:
✗ High heels
✗ Flip-flops or backless shoes
✗ Tight, narrow shoes
✗ Worn-out shoes with no support
Insurance Coverage
Good news: Most insurance plans cover foot care for people with arthritis.
Coverage options in Calgary:
Seniors BlueCross: Up to $200 per year
Canada Life and similar plans: Often 80% coverage - check with your insurance provider
AISH recipients: Check with your case worker.
Veterans Affairs: $65 per visit, up to 12 visits per year
My fee: $80 for basic foot care, $90 for advanced treatment (thick nails, calluses, corns)
With insurance, you will need your doctors note and anything paid out of pocket a medical receipt will be provided as this is tax deductible.
Why Choose Soleful Harmony
Licensed Practical Nurse- Licensed Practical Nurse with advanced foot care training. We understand arthritis and how it affects your feet.
Mobile Service We come to your home in Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, High River, and surrounding areas. No need to arrange transportation or ask family for rides.
AHS-Approved Sterilization We follow strict Alberta Health Services protocols. Our equipment is sterilized using a Health Canada-approved autoclave—the same standards used in hospitals.
Gentle, Patient Care We understand arthritis pain. We work gently and at your pace. Many clients tell me they finally feel comfortable getting foot care.
Electronic Charting We keep detailed records of your foot health, so we can track changes over time and catch problems early.
Book Your Appointment
Don't let arthritis stop you from having healthy, comfortable feet.
Call today: 403-966-4415
Service areas: Calgary, Airdrie, Chestermere, High River, Canmore, and surrounding communities
Most clients with arthritis book appointments every 6-8 weeks. Regular care prevents problems and keeps you mobile and independent.
Soleful Harmony – Professional mobile foot care you can trust.
