This month, we’re celebrating three extraordinary people who use their feet in ways that inspire creativity, resilience, and pure brilliance.

Peter Longstaff — Painting the World With His Feet

Peter Longstaff, whose artwork appears on many Christmas cards, was born without arms due to the effects of Thalidomide.

He paints entirely with his feet, producing beautiful landscapes and winter scenes. With exceptional control, he describes his right foot as functioning “just like a normal person’s right hand.”

His work is a powerful reminder of human adaptability and artistic spirit.

Felix Klieser — A Foot-Powered French Horn Virtuoso

German musician Felix Klieser has performed internationally despite being born without arms.

He plays the French horn using only his left foot to operate the valves while the instrument rests on a stand.

His technique, discipline, and musical sensitivity have earned him global acclaim.

Proving that artistry knows no physical limits!

Matt Stutzman — The World-Record Armless Archer

Paralympian Matt Stutzman, known as the “Armless Archer,” competes using a unique method involving his legs, feet, and shoulder.

He holds the world record for the longest accurate archery shot, surpassing even able-bodied competitors.

His determination and precision redefine what is possible through dedication and ingenuity.

Winter Foot Wonders: Surprising Seasonal Facts

Winter affects your feet more than you might realise. As temperatures drop, your body prioritises keeping internal organs warm, meaning your feet often feel the cold first. This is why warm, well-insulated footwear is so important for comfort and circulation.

Cold air outside and central heating indoors can dry out the skin, leading to cracked heels, roughness, and increased sensitivity. Chilblains also become more common as blood vessels react to rapid temperature changes.

Studies even show that people naturally take shorter, quicker steps in winter to reduce the chance of slipping — your body’s built-in “winter safety mode.” And if your shoes feel tighter by evening, that’s normal too; feet swell throughout the day, especially in heavier winter footwear.

This season, give your hardworking feet a little extra care. They carry you through every festive moment — they deserve it.

A Christmas Message from Medipod Clinics

Whether you’re enjoying winter walks, festive celebrations, or simply taking a quiet moment to rest, remember to look after your feet this December.

From all of us at Medipod Clinics,
Merry Christmas and a joyful start to 2026!
Thank you for your continued support — we look forward to caring for you in the New Year.

Thank you for reading this month’s blog – Extraordinary Festive Feet!

Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director, Medipod Clinics

http://medipodclinics.com/

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Over recent years, there has been increasing interest in barefoot footwear, also known as minimalist shoes. These shoes are designed to allow the foot to function more naturally, similar to how it would when walking barefoot. While this may seem like a step backward in footwear technology, for some individuals, it could represent a healthier step forward.

In this blog, we explore what barefoot footwear is, the potential benefits, and what you should consider before making the switch.

What Is Barefoot Footwear?

Barefoot or minimalist footwear is designed to mimic the natural shape and function of the foot. These shoes typically feature:

• A wide toe boxto allow the toes to splay and move freely
• A thin, flexible sole to enhance ground feel and feedback
• Zero heel-to-toe drop, meaning there is no raised heel
• Minimal cushioning and support, encouraging the foot to do more of the work

The goal is to promote a more natural walking pattern by reducing interference from overly structured or cushioned footwear.

Potential Benefits

Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that, when introduced appropriately, barefoot footwear may offer several benefits:

• Improved posture and balance through better alignment and proprioception
• Strengthening of the foot and lower leg muscles
• Increased sensory feedback, which can help improve coordination and stability
• Potential reduction in injury risk, particularly in runners who adapt their technique accordingly

However, these benefits largely depend on a proper transition and the individual’s foot structure and biomechanics.

Clinical Considerations

While barefoot shoes can be beneficial for some, they are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with the following conditions may require more supportive footwear:

• Flat feet or overpronation
• Bunions or hammertoes
• Plantar fasciitis or chronic heel pain
• Arthritis affecting the foot or ankle
• Previous foot or lower limb injuries

At our clinic, we can assess the benefit/disadvantages for individuals. A gradual, well-supported transition is essential to maintain healthy feet.

Safe Transition Tips

If you’re considering barefoot footwear, we recommend the following steps:

1. Seek professional advice: Have your feet assessed by a podiatrist to determine whether barefoot footwear is appropriate for you.
2. Start gradually: Introduce barefoot shoes in short periods—begin with wearing them indoors or on short walks.
3. Incorporate foot strengthening exercises: This includes balance work, toe spreads, and controlled calf raises.
4. Monitor symptoms: Mild soreness is normal, but persistent pain is a sign to pause and reassess.

Final Thoughts

Barefoot footwear is not a trend without merit—but it’s also not a universal solution. For some, it can help restore natural function and improve foot strength. For others, especially those with underlying conditions, it can cause unnecessary strain.

At Medipod Clinics, we believe in individualised care. If you’re curious about transitioning to barefoot footwear, book an appointment with one of our podiatrists. We’ll assess your foot health, gait, and footwear needs to help you make the best choice for your long-term mobility and comfort.

Thank you for reading this month’s blog – To Bare or not to Wear, that is the question?

Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

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14 Years of Healthy Feet: A Journey Through Our Foot Clinic’s Milestones & Success Stories

Fourteen years ago, we set out on a mission to help people walk pain-free, improve their mobility, and enhance their overall foot health. Today, as we celebrate our clinic’s 14th anniversary, we reflect on our journey, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the incredible patients who have made this milestone possible.

Our Beginnings: A Small Clinic with a Big Dream

Medipod was Faye’s dream—to run her own practice and make people happy! In March 2011, she opened the clinic as a sole practitioner in a single room. Over the years, Medipod Clinics has grown into a warm, welcoming practice staffed by 10 dedicated professionals offering a range of healthcare services including Podiatry, Reflexology, Physiotherapy, Counselling, and Audiology. Our goal has always been to provide easily accessible, affordable, high-quality care for the whole family in a friendly environment.

Key Milestones Over the Years

🦶 Expanding Our Services

Over the years, we’ve introduced advanced treatments to better serve our patients. From cutting-edge laser therapy for pain management and wound healing to custom orthotics and Swift microwave therapy for verrucas, we’ve remained at the forefront of podiatric medicine.

🏥 Growing Our Team & Facilities

What began as a one-person operation has evolved into a team of 10+ dedicated professionals, including podiatrists, a foot health practitioner, a reflexologist, and support staff. In 2020, we expanded our clinic space—adding more treatment rooms and state-of-the-art equipment—to enhance patient care. We’re proud to share our space with partners such as Reflexology by Maria, Hidden Hearing, Sano Physiotherapy, and Keystone Counselling.

👣 Helping Thousands of Feet Walk Comfortably

Witnessing the transformation in our patients’ lives has been one of our greatest rewards. Whether it’s a teenager receiving nail surgery for an ingrown toenail, an athlete recovering from a sports injury, a senior regaining mobility, or someone overcoming chronic foot pain, each success reaffirms our commitment to quality care.

Patient Success Stories: Walking Towards a Healthier Future

Ingrowing Toenails

We have treated patients from ages 9 to 99 suffering from painful ingrown toenails. Many have found relief through conservative treatments, while others required surgery. Although it might not seem life-changing, being pain-free truly offers a new lease on life.

Prompt Referral to the Vascular Hospital Team

When Sarah came to us with severe foot pain, our thorough New Patient Assessment revealed reduced circulation in one foot. Our team promptly arranged further investigations, leading to a successful procedure to remove a clot from her leg. Sarah is now slowly regaining her normal rhythm and is grateful for our swift, efficient care.

A Diabetic Patient Avoids Surgery

John, a long-term patient with severe diabetic foot complications, benefited from a proactive treatment plan—including wound care and custom footwear—that helped him avoid surgery and maintain his mobility.

Victory over Verrucas

Callum had battled persistent verrucas for many years, having exhausted numerous treatments with little success. Finally, he turned to our innovative Swift microwave therapy. After just four sessions, his verrucas were completely gone, and he was overjoyed with the results. Callum’s renewed confidence and relief truly underscore our commitment to providing effective, lasting care.

From Chronic Pain to Marathon Training

Lisa struggled with plantar fasciitis for years. With a combination of laser therapy, an exercise programme, and custom orthotics, we eliminated her pain completely. Today, Lisa is excitedly training for her first marathon!

Overcoming a 10-Year Battle with Fungal Infections

A patient who endured toenail fungus for over a decade finally found relief through our advanced laser treatments. This breakthrough restored their confidence, allowing them to wear open-toe shoes once again.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Foot Care

As we celebrate 14 years, we’re excited for what lies ahead. We plan to introduce new treatments, expand our educational workshops, and continue serving our community with even greater dedication. Our journey has been enriched by every patient’s trust, and we’re committed to innovating and evolving in the years to come.

Conclusion – 14 Years of Healthy Feet

As we mark this significant milestone, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our loyal patients, our dedicated staff, and the supportive community that has stood by us over these 14 years. Your trust and encouragement have been the foundation of our success, and we are immensely proud of the strides we’ve made together.
To show our appreciation, we are holding a raffle and a cake sale throughout this month, with all proceeds benefiting Wishes 4 Kids—a charity supporting children with life-threatening conditions. We invite you to join our celebration and help us continue to make a positive impact on the lives we touch.
Here’s to many more years of healthy feet and happy lives. Happy Birthday, Medipod!

Thank you for reading this month’s celebration blog – HAPPY BIRTHDAY MEDIPOD
14 Years of Healthy Feet: A Journey Through Our Foot Clinic’s Milestones & Success Stories.

Thank you for reading this months blog, Foot Care For Athletes: Keep Your Feet Happy And Healthy.

Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

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This month, I am going to share with you the top 10 things you wish you knew about your feet!

1. When you go into a shoe store, your salesperson should measure your feet

A lot of people have been wearing the same-size shoe for the past 30 years because no one measures your feet anymore, but feet often get bigger as you age.

2. Foot treatments from other healthcare practitioners keep us in business

I respect all health-related professions, but if you have a foot issue, please see a HCPC Registered Podiatrist. Your GP and your beauty therapist are not foot specialists. The same way that knowing a bit about your oral health, does not make me a dentist!

3. Toe separators and bunion splints may help you feel better…but they aren’t going to get rid of hammertoes and bunions

You should see a podiatrist for professional advice. If a £10 device can reverse a structural problem, then there is something seriously wrong with studying a degree.

4. Some podiatrists can do filler injections so that you can wear high heel more comfortably

Tissue fillers are very popular in Podiatry and soon will be available at Medipod Clinics! An injection of Hyaluronan at the bottom of your feet can provide a natural internal cushion to reduce pain and damage. Foot fillers can last for several months.

5. I’ve seen all sorts of things, including people who have seriously injured their feet

Please do not mow the lawn in flip-flops! Honestly, I see a lot of interesting feet every day and it takes a lot to shock me when it comes to foot health.

6. You do not need to wax or shave your legs when you come for treatment

I am interested in making your feet better and I really do not judge my patients based on the quantity of hairs on their legs. In addition, freshly shaved legs are more prone to infections.

7. Over the counter orthotics from the chemist or the internet do not usually work

They will help if you just need some minimal arch support and padding, but they’re nothing like the orthotics I make after taking a mould of your feet in the clinic. Orthotics are like prescription glasses for the feet. They’re made especially for you to control the abnormal mechanics of your feet when you walk, thus reducing pain.

8. Your cuticles are there for a reason

The main function of the cuticle is to prevent infections entering the nail root and the nail bed. You can push them back but do not cut them.

9. Socks that are too small can cause blisters

Make sure your socks fit your feet. Small socks cause blisters like small shoes.

10. Many people are embarrassed about showing me their feet

I can assure you that every day at least one patient will think that their feet are the worst I have ever seen. Not true! Feet are fascinating and interesting.

I hope you feel a bit better and wiser about your feet. If you are experiencing any discomfort or have any foot concerns, we are more than happy to help. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We offer treatments for verrucas, fungal nails, hard skin, corns, ingrown toenails, and advice for people with Diabetes. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.

For more information about our range of treatments, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot health issues you may have.

Thank you for reading – Top 10 things you wish you knew about your feet!

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Top 10 things you wish you knew about your feet! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Medipod started on March 5th, 2011. That was a special date for me as it is also my wedding anniversary. This year my husband and I are celebrating 17 wonderful years of marriage! But that is another story!

So, the clinic started with a single Podiatry treatment room. A year later I took on my 1st podiatrist. Another year and a 2nd podiatrist joined our team. Over the years, the podiatry team expanded, and we now have 6 part time podiatrists and an Assistant Practitioner.

The clinic also offers Physiotherapy Services, Counselling Services and Audiology Services.

As a team, we have always worked together to make your feet better. Each practitioner brings a wealth of clinical skills and expertise. Our focus is on patient-centred care. It is not unusual for our patients to rotate between practitioners for better management of their foot issues.

Most patients have various problems affecting the nails, skin, joints and muscles in their feet and legs. A podiatrist specialises in the management of a wide range of foot and leg related issues and some of us have done more advanced training of the foot in health and disease.

Some of our Specialist Services include:

Swift Microwave Therapy for Verrucas: Swift uses microwave energy which is delivered through a special probe applied to the skin to treat your verruca.

Nail surgery: A minor procedure during which part of the nail (or the whole nail in some cases) is removed under local anaesthetic. The nail bed is then destroyed to prevent unwanted painful regrowth.

Doppler Vascular Assessment: A Doppler assessment uses a special ultrasound equipment to listen to the blood flow through the blood vessels in your feet. This is an important assessment especially if you suffer from poor circulation.

Lacuna Method for Fungal Nails: It is a special method that involves drilling micro holes into the nail plate so the anti-fungal preparations can penetrate easier through the nail to the nail bed, where the active infection lies.

Biomechanics and Sports Injuries: A detailed gait analysis to identify the contributing factors to your discomfort. Templates of your feet can also be taken and a prescription for bespoke insoles is prepared to redistribute the abnormal pressure underneath your feet. Suitable for conditions such as heel pain, tendinitis, joint pain, sprains and many more.

Nail Reconstruction: Nail reconstruction is both a cosmetic and a medical procedure. We can build your nail layer by layer using a special gel substance to give you a new toenail.

Children’s Feet: Children can also experience foot issues such as flat feet, ingrown toenails, verrucas, footwear difficulties, walking abnormalities and many more.

Fungal Nail Testing: A reliable test to aid diagnosis of a fungal infection in just 5 minutes! We collect some skin scrapings and nail clippings and place them into the testing tube. In presence of a positive result, we will discuss a management plan.

Happy 12th Birthday! Reviewing success!

I hope you find some value in our monthly blogs. If you would like to have just a check-up or have a particular issue with your feet, our staff at Medipod Clinics can help you. Our experienced podiatrists will treat your feet with the respect and attention they deserve. I can assure you that we will do our best to exceed your expectations. For more information and to get in touch, please contact us on 01455 246100. You are also welcomed to visit us at 45 Rugby Rd, Hinckley, LE10 0QA – we will be delighted to see you!

Thank you for reading – Happy 12th Birthday! Reviewing success!

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Happy 12th Birthday! Reviewing success! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Types of heels

Heels are certainly a fashion statement. You look taller and sexier. Heels change the way you walk by exaggerating the chest, the hips, and the curvature in your spine, thus increasing the pelvic tilt. This is what makes then attractive and desirable, however wearing heels comes with some issues too. They structurally shorten your calf muscles which puts more pressure on the ball of your foot even when you take them off.

Apparently, there are more than 30 different types of heels for women ranging from low to high, straight to curved. Each serves a different purpose and distributes body weight differently across.

Flats (1 inch or less)

They are comfortable, fashionable, and easier on the feet. People like them for many occasions however, most of them do not offer any arch support. The foot has to work harder to keep the shoe on, which leads to toe deformities such as hammer toes.

Kitten heels (1.5 to 2 inches)

They are easier to walk in than high heels and make your legs look longer and slimmer. However, they can contribute to corns and calluses, as well as back pain.

High heels (2.5 to 4 inches)

They strengthen the calf muscles and also make the legs appear longer, however; they can be painful to wear. They can cause many foot problems such as corns, calluses, ingrowing toenails, nerve irritation, heel pain, ankle sprains, tendinitis, hammer toe and bunions.

Extreme (over 4 inches)

They build a good pair of calf muscles and make the legs appear longer. They also tend to make the backside more noticeable! But very high heels put huge pressure on the ball of your feet (7 times your body weight) and compress the toes. They are very difficult to walk in and certainly cause a myriad of foot problems and back pain.

Constantly wearing high party heels results in painful damage to your feet. In most case this damage is irreversible. Is it worth it?

The decision is all yours!

What type of Party Heels are more comfortable?

The most comfortable heel height is lower than 3 inches, good arch support, and a cushioned sole. Ideally you should look for a shoe with a heel that is wide and chunky instead of narrow like a stiletto. Wearing a chunky heel, a wedge or a platform shoe offers more stability and transfers the weight a cross a greater area. That way you feel more balanced, which helps with overall comfort.

They say, “give a girl the right shoes and she can conquer the world”! I totally agree! The right shoes can take you anywhere so make sure they are comfortable! As a podiatrist, I would allow wearing heels only on special occasions. Whether you have Jimmy Choo or Christian Louboutin, the truth is that you only have a one pair of feet, but you can buy many pair of shoes!

If you need advice on footwear or have a particular issue with your feet, our staff at Medipod Clinics can help you. Our experienced podiatrists will treat your feet with the respect and attention they deserve. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We also offer a very wide range of treatments such as verruca treatments, ingrown toenail management, fungal infection treatment, heel pain management, diabetic footcare and sports injuries management. I can assure you that we will do our best to exceed your expectations. Our staff will treat your feet with the respect and attention they deserve. For more information and to get in touch, please contact us on 01455 246100. You are also, welcome to visit us at 45 Rugby Rd, Hinckley, LE10 0QA. We will be delighted to see you!

Thank you for reading – Party Heels, What’s The Damage?

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Party Heels, What’s The Damage? appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

But sun, sand and water can be harsh on your feet. Dry skin and cracked heels are a very common foot condition podiatrists see daily, especially during the summer months. This can be a result of wearing shoes that have an open back, which typically provides inadequate support for the heel of the foot. The skin can become dry, and form deep and painful cracks.

If you want to have smooth feet, simply follow my top 5 tips, and let your feet do the talking this summer!

1. Enjoy a nice soak! Giving your feet 10-20 minutes soak in warm water is both relaxing and beneficial. It softens the hard skin so it easier for you to remove it at the next step.
2. Remove any hard skin. You can use a foot file or a pumice stone to remove any hard or dry skin. Visit your podiatrist regularly to get the hard skin professionally removed and get specific advice about your individual needs.
3. Moisturise daily. I recommend a urea-based cream for better results, especially if you have dry or hard skin. Urea is a substance that is found naturally in the skin, which, by its nature, is very attracted to water. That is why it is a fantastic emollient that softens and smooths the skin. In the clinic, we have a wide range of urea-based creams for your feet.
4. Toenail care. A few healthy habits go a long way! Trim your nails straight across and file down the corners carefully.  Avoid wearing nail polish for long periods of time.  And finally avoid tight fitting shoes as they can cause irreversible damage to your toenails.
5. Sun care. Don’t forget to use sunscreen on your feet too! Make sure you reapply after swimming or sweating heavily. Sun exposure can contribute to skin cancers and premature ageing on your feet, therefore use sunscreen with 30 SPF (sun protection factor) at least.

Medipod Clinics Experienced Staff

At Medipod Clinics we take great care of your feet. Our experienced staff will treat your feet with the respect and attention they deserve. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We offer a very wide range of treatments such as verruca treatments, ingrown toenails management, fungal infections treatment, heel pain management, diabetic footcare and sports injuries management. I can assure you that we will do our best to exceed your expectations.

For more information and to get in touch, please contact us on 01455 246100. You are also welcomed to visit us at 45 Rugby Rd, Hinckley, LE10 0QA – we will be delighted to see you!

Thank you for reading – Top 5 Tips for Your Feet! Let Your Feet Do The Talking This Summer!

Faye Vogiatzoglou

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Top 5 Tips for Your Feet! Let Your Feet Do The Talking This Summer! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

So, as well as vowing to watch less television or keep on top of the dishes this New Year, make sure you put the comfort and wellbeing of your feet on your list of resolutions too.

We’ve put together a few ways that you can start giving your feet the star treatment in 2022!

Pamper and Moisturise

Who doesn’t love to feel pampered now and again? And our feet are not to be missed when it comes to soaking our troubles away.

For baby-soft feet, exfoliate using a scrub. Most of us have dry and cracked feet because we don’t take care of them. Dead skin can be uncomfortable, but regular exfoliation will get rid of the dead skin and result in softer and smoother feet.

Moisturising is also the key to maintaining silky-smooth feet. Just before bed, apply a moisturising cream (preferably at least 10% urea based) or body butter, and then pull on a pair of socks. You’ll wake up with noticeably softer feet.

Need some moisturiser recommendations? Check out our range of creams that your feet will thank you for.

Buy a New Comfortable Pair of Shoes

It’s time to put aside that old, worn pair of shoes you’re attached to because they are ‘comfortable’. The new year is about starting afresh, so now’s the time to invest in a new pair that are comfortable, but also supportive.

Comfortable doesn’t have to mean old-fashioned! There are plenty of shoes out there that are both attractive, fashionable, comfortable, and supportive.

We can advise on a range of wider fit shoes that are extra roomy, comfy and suitable for a range of occasions in an array of styles – just ask one of our podiatrist for further details.

Don’t Ignore Foot Problems

Medical professionals can sometimes describe our feet as ‘windows’ as they can often indicate a health problem elsewhere in the body.

It’s for this important reason that your final New Year’s resolution for your feet should be that you get any unusual foot problems checked out by a GP or your podiatrist as soon as possible, as it could be an indication of something bigger.

Some common symptoms to be aware of include: a swollen toe, which could indicate gout or infection; your nails turning club-shaped, which could point to a lung condition; sore toe joints, which could signal rheumatoid arthritis as well as ulcers and numbness which could be a sign of diabetes.

Start Doing Foot Exercises and Stretches

A lot of people make New Year’s resolutions to exercise more, but let’s not forget about exercising our feet! Doing some foot exercises and stretching out our lower muscles from time-to-time is a great way to encourage good blood flow and can help alleviate any pains and discomfort.

We recommend some easy exercises that you can do in the comfort of your own home, minimum 3 times a week, such as heel raises, and calf stretches.

At Medipod Clinics we are very experienced when it comes to managing foot problems. As well as keeping up to date with the latest research and new treatments, we always try to give you the information and tools you need to keep your feet healthy.

From treating your feet with new, well-fitting footwear to buying yourself a soothing foot cream, Medipod stock a range of feel-good foot products that are sure to kick-start your new year in the right direction.

If you are experiencing any discomfort in your feet, we are more than happy to help. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We offer treatments for nails, hard skin, ingrown toenails, verrucas, heel pain, tendinitis, and advice for people with Diabetes. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.

For more information about our range of treatments, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot health issues you may have.

Thank you for reading,
Faye Vogiatzoglou

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post New Year’s Resolutions! Let’s Put a Smile on Your Feet appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Summer can be hard on your feet. The combination of heat, sun, and sand can take a toll on your tootsies. But it doesn’t have to. These simple steps to fabulous summer feet will keep your feet healthy and looking their best during warm weather. So, before you slip into those new sandals or holiday flip flops, you may want to do something about those dry, cracked heels and tired looking feet that have been hiding away all winter. Are you ready?

Ten simple steps to keep your feet healthy and looking sandal-ready for summer.

1. 1. Avoid walking barefoot. Going outdoors without shoes in the summer increases the risk of injury to your feet. It also increases the odds that you will develop warts on the soles of your feet (verrucas), ringworm (fungus), and other infections.
   2. Wear the right socks. Acrylic and synthetic blend socks work best to wick away perspiration that can lead to fungal infections. “Dark, hot and moist is the perfect environment for a fungus to grow,” says Faye Vogiatzoglou, our Clinical Director at Medipod Clinics.
   3. Protect your feet from blisters. Sandals often cause blisters on the feet when they rub against bare skin. If you feel a blister coming on, use padding such as moleskin or a blister plaster to reduce friction.
   4. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water on summer days will minimize foot swelling due to the heat.
   5. Use sunscreen. Don’t forget to use sunscreen on exposed parts of your feet in the summer. Be sure to reapply after swimming or sweating heavily, even if the sunscreen is “waterproof”. Use sunscreen with 30 SPF (sun protection factor) or higher to guard against skin cancer and premature ageing of the skin on your feet.
   6. Evaluate your flip-flop wear. Flip-flops can result in sore feet and ankles. But “Some flip-flops are better than others,” says Faye. “Choose styles with good arch and heel support.” Also avoid walking in them for long distances.
   7. Add cushioning to summer shoes. Summer slides and flimsy sandals often have thin soles and little cushioning and foot support. Faye recommends to use cushioned inserts to help provide added support. Inserts are available at chemist stores and more functional ones at the clinic.
   8. Get your hard skin treated. For pretty summer feet, give yourself an at-home treatment or indulge in a professional one. Besides making your toenails look attractive, during a Standard Podiatry Treatment, our Podiatrists can remove hard and dry skin, offer management advice on cracked heels and help you maintain the health of your feet.
   9. Moisturise. Did you know that the skin on our feet is up to ten times thicker than the rest of our body skin? It therefore requires a much more intensive moisturising routine. Invest in a rich foot cream to give your feet the moisturisation they need and deserve. Faye suggests that “ideally, they should be moisturised after every shower, but if you don’t have time in the morning, give them some TLC before you hop into bed at night”.
   10. And finally, make them look pretty! Get creative and have fun experimenting with our Dr Remedy Enriched nail polish colours this summer. Invest in toe separators and don’t be afraid to reach for those hot pinks and gorgeous coral shades! But remember! Take off your polish periodically to give the nail bed some air.

By keeping your feet in tip-top shape during the summer, not only they will look beautiful, but you can also be assured that your feet are in good health and you’re minimising the risk of developing any infections.

If you are experiencing any discomfort in your feet, we are more than happy to help. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

For more information about our range of treatments, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot health issues you may have.

For more information about our podiatry services, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to help you with any foot related questions.

Thank you for reading.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Direstor
http://medipodclinics.com

The post Healthy and Sandal-Ready Feet for Summer – 10 Simple Steps appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

I would love to know more about you.  Let’s be open and honest.  This is me!

Let’s start at the beginning – Faye Vogiatzoglou

1.

I am Greek. Very Greek! I love Greek food, Greek culture and the Greek sea and the sun!  One day I will go back and retire in front of a beautiful sunset!

2.

When I was a child I wanted to grow up to become a mother! By the time I finished school, I wanted to become a Mathematician, a Psychologist or a Doctor! I chose Podiatry because

1. As a Podiatrist, I did not have to do on-calls like a doctor so I could spend time with my future family.
2. There was a lot of Medicine and Surgery involved in the Podiatry course.
3. I did not want to make a living teaching Maths
4. Psychology courses have a lot of theory and I do not like parrot learning.
5. I liked the flexibility of private practice as my mother had her own podiatry practice
6. The opportunity to be away from family arguments was very promising.

3.

I came to Birmingham in England when I was only 19!
It was very exciting and challenging as my language skills were very average.  I was going around with a dictionary for many months and I could hardly understand people.  But I was determined to succeed.

4.

I qualified with a First Class Honours Degree! I also got Distinction in my Masters Degree and any other Certificates or Diplomas I have gained over the years.  I am really proud of this!

5.

I have been an only child until the age of 23! I have two amazing half-brothers, who I adore! They live in Greece and we are very close thanks to our father.

6.

I was bullied in high school (year 10 and year 11) because my mother was a podiatrist! Apparently feet are dirty and toes are smelly so she must be dirty and smelly!  Therefore I come from a dirty, smelly and low-level family!

7.

Bullying made me feel so bad that I developed a stammer! Having conversations was difficult and standing up to talk to people, teachers or pupils was my worst nightmare.  The whole class was laughing and during break times I was pointed at to make sure the whole school knew about me.  It got to the point I could not even pronounce my name!  My real name is Foteini (means Light of God), but it was taking me ages to say it.  This obviously made things worse so people started laughing at my stammer.  Somehow, I got through high school (lyceum in Greece) with the help of the teachers, speech therapists, counsellors and some of my friends! Even now, after so many years, my stammer comes back when I am emotionally stressed.

8.

The reason I changed my name to Faye in college was because of the bullying. I could say Faye without a stammer!

9.

I met my wonderful husband on a bus! Our story is very much a like a fairy tale!  The Indian Prince met the Greek Goddess and decided to be together.  The Wicked Witches tried to separate them but were unsuccessful.  They managed to get married and lived happily ever after!

10.

My husband and I have had 1 church Greek blessing, 2 weddings (Indian and Church of England), and 3 receptions! We were really happy we found each other.  Raghu wanted 4 children, I wanted 2 children, and so we ended up with 3 wonderful kids! Our life together is great! We have good days and bad days! We also have days that we would like to kill each other but we respect one another and care deeply about our family and friends.

So this is it! I hope you enjoyed reading my story. I would love to find out more about you.

Next time you come to the clinic, why don’t you share your story with me? While I am treating your feet, it would be lovely to discuss something other than feet!

Thank you so much!

Faye Vogiatzoglou x

The post Faye Vogiatzoglou – 10 Super Cool Things About Me! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.