Skin tags: identify the spot first

Skin tags are usually soft, harmless growths. A wart, mole or another lesion can look similar. Never assume an unexplained spot is a skin tag.

Ask about a skin-lesion assessment before booking removal. The clinician must confirm that the lesion is suitable, discuss the available removal methods and explain healing and scarring risks. A changing, bleeding, irregularly coloured or uncertain lesion may need medical assessment or biopsy before any destructive treatment.

When booking: describe the location, size and any recent changes. Ask whether the clinic treats that body area and whether a prior diagnosis is needed. Cosmetic removal may not be covered by your benefit plan.

Ask about the method, not just removal

Laser is not the only method used for skin lesions. Your clinician should explain why a particular method is appropriate, whether referral is needed, and the possibility of bleeding, infection, scarring or pigment changes. Never apply wart-removal products to a presumed skin tag or attempt to cut it off yourself.

Preparing for your consultation

Note when the spot appeared and whether it has changed. Bring your medication list and mention any history of poor healing. Ask about the fee, whether removal can happen at the same visit and the written aftercare you will receive. A consultation does not guarantee laser treatment.

Questions to ask before treatment

What diagnosis explains my concern, and is laser appropriate?
What are the alternatives, likely benefits and risks for me?
How many visits might I need, what will each cost, and when will we review progress?
What should I do before and after the appointment?

Share your medicines, allergies, pregnancy, diabetes, reduced feeling, circulation concerns and previous treatment reactions. Do not stop medicines or apply numbing cream unless your treating clinician directs you.

View appointment options Call 613-823-3668

Compare all laser appointment types →

Updated October 4, 2026. Sources: American Academy of Dermatology: skin tags; Health Canada: laser risks.

Shoe fit Guide

How to Choose Shoes That Fit, Plus Winter Boot Tips Your Feet Will Thank You For

A shoe can be your usual size and still be completely wrong for your foot. The number on the box is a starting point. The real test is what happens when you stand up and walk.

Your shoes should hold your feet securely without squeezing your toes or rubbing your skin. Before you buy, give them this quick check.

Four things to check in every pair

1. Room for your longest toe. Stand up and check the space at the front. Aim for about a thumb’s width beyond your longest toe. Your toes should be able to move, and they should not hit the end when you walk.

2. Enough width for your forefoot. Your toes should not be pushed together, and the sides of your feet should not bulge over the sole. Going up a size may give you more length without solving a width problem. Try a different width or shoe shape instead.

3. A heel that stays put. Fasten the laces or straps and take a walk. Your heel should feel secure without painful pressure. If it slips and rubs with every step, keep looking.

4. Comfort on an actual walk. Try on both shoes and walk around the store. Pay attention to seams, pressure over the top of your foot, sliding and rubbing. “They’ll break in” is not a great plan for a shoe that already hurts.

Shopping later in the day can help, since feet may be a little larger then. Bring the socks and any inserts you plan to wear with the shoes.

Buying winter boots? Bring your real winter setup.

Winter boots have extra variables: insulation, thick socks, liners and traction. Try them on with the socks you actually wear outside. Make sure you can move your toes up and outward, not just forward. A boot can have enough length and still press on your toenails from above.

If you use orthotics or inserts, bring them. Check that they sit flat and leave enough room inside the boot. Then lace or fasten the boots properly and walk around. Your heel should feel secure without tightening the boots so much that your foot feels squeezed or numb.

Take a look at the soles, too. Choose tread suited to where you walk, and remember that no boot guarantees a grip on ice. Let wet boots and removable liners dry between wears.

When to put the pair back

Leave shoes or boots on the shelf if your toes are squeezed, a seam presses on your foot, your heel rubs, or you notice pain or numbness during a short try-on. Your feet do not owe an uncomfortable pair a second chance.

Have diabetes, reduced feeling in your feet, circulation concerns, a foot deformity or a history of ulcers? A poor fit may cause damage before you feel it. Ask your foot care clinician for help choosing footwear, check inside your shoes for rough spots or debris, and inspect your feet after wearing a new pair.

Sources: Diabetes Canada’s shoe-fitting guide, Diabetes Canada foot care guidance, APMA winter foot care and CDC foot care guidance.

Global Health Care Magazine Cover Story

I don’t usually slow down to look back. This feature did that for me. It’s equal parts gratitude and grit—and a reminder that the work is personal. Thank you for being part of this.

Sharing this with equal parts pride and vulnerability. I didn’t build this alone. It took mentors who told me the truth, patients who let me learn, a team that stayed when it was easier to leave, and family who reminded me to eat and sleep.
The feature isn’t a victory lap; it’s a snapshot of a work-in-progress. If it helps one person feel less alone in their grind, it’s worth it. Thank you for being part of my story. Facebook link

Global Magazine – Full Magazine with Article Link

Education and Skills that Matter

Learn the Science — Not the Slogans

At Skills for Nurses™, we don’t teach “foot care magic.”
We teach the evidence-based, standards-aligned nursing science that will meet the Canadian Nurses Association’s 2026 certification expectations.

Our curriculum isn’t written to sound exciting — it’s written to make you competent, compliant, and confident.

Here’s the difference:

	Skills for Nurses™	Other Programs
Foundation	Based on CAFCN National Competencies for Advanced Nursing Foot Care	Generalized topics not linked to national competencies
Content Depth	In-depth anatomy, pathophysiology, wound care, infection control, and diabetic management	Simplified or dramatized topics (“superpowers,” “magic”) lacking evidence-based reference
Professional Integrity	Taught by nurses, for nurses, within CNO and RPNAO scope	Marketed to “anyone” — often without professional screening
Outcomes	CNA 2026-ready, practice-based, portfolio-driven learning	Certificate only — limited recognition or professional value

“We Train the Nurses Who Lead”

Our Advanced Foot Care Course is the only Ottawa-based program that fully aligns with the CAFCN 2017 National Standards and prepares nurses for the CNA’s forthcoming 2026 certification rollout.

That means when regulation tightens (and it will), our graduates will already be ahead — compliant, competent, and confident.

Because we don’t believe in shortcuts. We believe in setting the standard.

Our Advanced Foot Care Curriculum: Where Standards Meet Skill

At Skills for Nurses™, we don’t just hand out certificates — we build competence, confidence, and careers.
Our program is nationally aligned with the Canadian Association of Foot Care Nurses (CAFCN) and the Canadian Nurses Association’s (CNA) 2026 Certification Rollout — meaning you’re training to the standard that’s shaping the future of foot care nursing in Canada.

The Theory

Your journey starts online, where you’ll master the foundations outlined in the CAFCN National Competency Framework — including anatomy, pathology, diabetic foot care, infection control, wound management, gait and biomechanics, and ethical practice in independent nursing.
Once you complete the theory, you’re ready to step into the clinical — where the magic (and the mentorship) happens.

The Clinical: Real Skills, Real Practice

Day 1: You’ll dive straight into your professional-grade foot care kit — and we mean your kit. Each student receives and unpacks their own fully stocked set of tools and products, giving you everything needed to launch your career or mobile practice.

You’ll review each instrument in detail, then head with your educator to one of our two on-site autoclaves, where you’ll learn to sterilize your own instruments according to Ontario Health and IPAC standards.

Day 2: You’ll observe a live foot care appointment as your educator demonstrates assessment techniques, tool use, and infection control. Then — it’s your turn. You’ll perform foot care on each other under supervision, practicing step-by-step assessment, treatment, and documentation.

Day 3: It’s all you.
A full eight-hour day of hands-on practice with volunteers, giving you the time, feedback, and repetition you need to master both confidence and competence. By the end of the day, you’ll be performing complete, safe, and professional-level treatments — ready to take on your own clients the next morning.

And don’t just take our word for it — every one of our 23 nurses trained through TiredSole™ says the same thing:

“By Saturday, you’re confident enough to go out on your own.”

Certificates, Reimbursement, and Career Pathways

Upon completion, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion and a Letter of Course Completion for submission to both the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO) and the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (RPNAO) — eligible for education reimbursement of up to $1,500 per calendar year.
(Our students see a 90% success rate with these payouts!)

And because we believe in rewarding dedication, if you choose to join our team at Tired Sole™, working a minimum of two days per week (6 hours/day), we’ll reimburse your entire course after one year of employment.

Why It Matters

While some programs talk about “magic” and “superpowers,” we focus on science, standards, and skill.
When you graduate from Skills for Nurses™, you don’t just earn a certificate — you earn professional credibility. You’ve trained to the national standards that the CNA will soon require.

Your Next Step

If you’re ready to elevate your nursing career, join a team that practices what it teaches, and gain skills that truly stand up to national certification —
Enroll today at skillsfornurses.ca

TiredSole™ introduces a new kind of front desk experience — one focused on warmth, professionalism, and YOU.

At TiredSole™, we believe exceptional care begins the moment you walk through our door — or even before.That’s why we’re proud to introduce our new team of Personal Service Representatives (PSRs): your go-to experts for personalized support at every stage of your visit.

Whether you’re booking an appointment, checking in for a treatment, or following up on care, our PSRs are here to guide you with compassion, clarity, and a smile.

What Is a Personal Service Representative?

Unlike a traditional front desk receptionist, a PSR is trained to deliver high-touch service with a focus on health care coordination. They’re more than just a friendly face — they’re an essential part of your care experience.

Our PSRs are trained in:

Patient confidentiality and privacy (PHIPA-compliant)
Appointment and care coordination
Communication best practices
Supporting diverse patient needs with empathy

Why We Made This Change

As TiredSole™ continues to grow, we’re listening closely to what matters most to our clients: clear communication, fast support, and a welcoming environment. The PSR program ensures that:

You’re not just “another appointment” — you’re known by name.
Wait times are reduced and questions are answered quickly.
Your comfort and care start the moment you contact us.

A Personal Connection, Every Step of the Way

When you call us, it’s a PSR who answers with attentiveness. When you arrive, it’s a PSR who welcomes you and helps you feel at ease. They are trained to anticipate your needs and support our clinicians so that your visit is smooth, respectful, and efficient.

You’ll still enjoy all the same friendly service — now with even more structure and professionalism behind it.

Meet Our PSR Team

Each of our PSRs brings a unique background in customer service, health care admin, and communication — and they’re excited to meet you! Stay tuned for individual spotlight posts to learn more about the amazing people behind the desk.

Have questions about your appointment or services?
Your PSR is just a phone call or email away.
613-823-3668
[email protected]

We look forward to welcoming you with the care and attention you deserve — right from the front desk

SMS Terms and conditions

By checking this box or submitting this form, you agree to receive text messages from TiredSole™ regarding your appointments, treatment follow-ups, or clinic updates.

Message frequency varies (1–4 per appointment cycle).

You can opt out at any time by replying “STOP”.

Standard messaging rates may apply.

We will not share your phone number or send promotional SMS content.

For questions, contact sarah@tiredsole.com.

PRIVACY POLICY

TiredSole™ Privacy Policy

Effective Date: 2014- present

TiredSole™ values your privacy. This policy explains how we collect, use, and protect your personal information when you visit our website, fill out forms, or contact us.

1. Information We Collect

Contact form details: name, email, phone
Appointment requests and CRM submissions
Website usage data via cookies and analytics tools (e.g., Google Analytics)

2. How We Use Your Information

To contact you regarding your inquiries or appointments
To provide requested services
To improve website performance and user experience

3. Cookies and Tracking
We use cookies to understand how visitors interact with our site. You can disable cookies in your browser settings.

4. Sharing Your Information
We do not sell or rent your information. We only share information:

With your consent
As required by law
With secure third-party platforms (e.g., CRM providers) used to manage appointments or communication

5. Data Security
We protect your information using industry-standard encryption and access controls. Our CRM and communication platforms are compliant with Canadian privacy regulations.

6. Your Rights
You may request:

A copy of your data
Correction of inaccurate data
Deletion of your data, where applicable

To make a request, please contact:
[email protected]

7. Updates to This Policy
We may update this policy to reflect changes in our practices. Updates will be posted on this page

New Product

Introducing Dr.’s Remedy: The Nail Polish That Heals While It Beautifies

At TiredSole™, we’re always searching for the best products to support your foot and nail health — and we’re thrilled to now offer Dr.’s Remedy Enriched Nail Polish right here in our clinic!

If you think all nail polishes are the same, think again. Dr.’s Remedy is in a category of its own — a podiatrist-formulated polish designed with your nail health in mind. It’s safe, breathable, and packed with organic, therapeutic ingredients that help strengthen, nourish, and revitalize your nails with every use.

What Makes Dr.’s Remedy So Special?

Unlike conventional polishes that can suffocate your nails and contribute to damage or fungal growth, Dr.’s Remedy is:

✔️ Oxygen and Moisture Permeable

This unique formula allows nails to “breathe,” maintaining optimal hydration and strength underneath the polish — especially beneficial for clients with brittle, discoloured, or recovering nails.

✔️ Formulated by Physicians

Created by board-certified podiatrists, this polish was developed to support healthy nails, especially for those with fungal concerns, nail trauma, or after medical foot treatments.

✔️ Infused with Organic, Healing Ingredients:

Tea Tree Oil – natural antifungal and antibacterial
Biotin – strengthens and supports nail growth
Garlic Extract – a known natural antimicrobial
Lavender – calming and nourishing
Wheat Protein – enhances nail structure
Vitamins C & E – antioxidants that support nail resilience
Lemon Peel – helps brighten and refresh discoloured nails

Why We Recommend It for Our Clients

Whether you’re looking for a safe polish option after a foot care treatment, managing nail health conditions, or simply want a better, cleaner alternative to drugstore brands — Dr.’s Remedy is our go-to.

It’s vegan, cruelty-free, and free from harmful chemicals like formaldehyde, toluene, and DBP. Plus, it comes in a variety of gorgeous, salon-quality shades, base coats, and top coats.

️ Now Available In-Clinic at TiredSole™

We now carry a selection of Dr.’s Remedy nail polishes for purchase — so you can leave your appointment with not only healthier feet, but polished nails too!

✨ Ask your foot care nurse about which formula is best for your nail health goals — whether it’s strength, colour, recovery, or shine.

Ready to Nourish Your Nails?

Book your next foot care appointment and discover the benefits of Dr.’s Remedy for yourself — because healthy can still be beautiful.

Call us today or ask at your next visit.

3050 Woodroffe Ave, Suite 9 / [email protected] / 613-823-3668

Faces Magazine winner 2022 / 2023 /2025

Skin Tags and Laser: Why Assessment Comes First