At Medipod Clinics, we believe diabetic foot care works best when it is proactive, personalised, and supported by a whole-person approach. This January, we’re delighted to welcome Jay, Podiatrist, and Alison, Health Coach, whose combined expertise strengthens the care we offer.

Welcoming Jay: Specialist Diabetic Foot Care You Can Trust

We’re excited to welcome a new podiatrist to our small and friendly team at Medipod Clinics, and we think you’re going to love him as much as we do.

Jay brings eight years of NHS experience, with a strong specialist background in diabetic foot care. He has spent years supporting some of the most complex and vulnerable patients, focusing on prevention, protection, and early intervention to reduce the risk of ulcers, infection, and long-term complications.

Alongside his diabetic foot expertise, Jay is highly skilled in nail surgery, including the treatment of painful ingrown toenails and persistent nail conditions. He approaches every case with precision, care, and clear communication, ensuring patients feel informed and supported throughout their treatment.

Jay also has a strong interest in foot biomechanics. He enjoys getting to the root cause of symptoms by assessing how the feet, muscles, and joints work together, creating tailored rehabilitation plans that support long-term results. For Jay, no two patients are the same, and treatment should always reflect that.

What truly drives him is the difference podiatry can make to daily life. Helping people move comfortably, feel confident, and live without foot pain is at the heart of his work. He values building meaningful relationships with patients and takes time to listen and understand their individual concerns.

Why Whole-Person Care Matters in Diabetes

Foot problems in diabetes rarely exist on their own. Changes in circulation, nerve sensitivity, delayed healing, stress, poor sleep, and fatigue can all affect foot health and recovery. This is why we’re proud to complement podiatry care with health coaching, supporting patients beyond the treatment room.

Meet Alison: Supporting Wellbeing Alongside Foot Health

Alison brings over 37 years’ experience as a Registered General Nurse, much of it within the NHS. Through her own experience of illness and living with a long-term health condition, she recognised the need for ongoing, practical support to help people manage their health more effectively.

Alison offers calm, compassionate health coaching for people living with diabetes, chronic pain, poor sleep, low energy, and long-term conditions. Her work focuses on lifestyle, routines, stress management, rest, and building sustainable habits that support both wellbeing and healing.

Health coaching provides gentle accountability and ongoing encouragement, helping people make changes at a pace that feels realistic and achievable.

Supporting Diabetic Foot Health in 2026

By combining specialist podiatry care with holistic health coaching, Medipod Clinics offers a joined-up approach to diabetic foot health. One that protects the feet while also supporting the wider factors that influence recovery, comfort, and long-term wellbeing.

Diabetic foot care is not just about treating problems when they arise. It is about prevention, education, and supporting the whole person over time. With Jay’s clinical expertise and Alison’s compassionate health coaching, we are proud to offer care that is thoughtful, personalised, and designed to support long-term health.

As we move into 2026, our commitment remains simple: to help you stay safe on your feet, supported in your wellbeing, and confident in the care you receive.

Thank you for reading this month’s blog: Diabetic Foot Care and Whole-Person Support at Medipod Clinics.

Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director, Medipod Clinics

http://medipodclinics.com/

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These subtle symptoms might seem like nothing at first. But when they keep happening—or stick around longer than they should—they could be warning signs of something more serious.

What’s Causing That Tingling?

While occasional numbness (like when your leg “falls asleep”) is usually harmless, persistent or recurring symptoms should be checked out. Some common causes include:

Peripheral Neuropathy

This is when the nerves that carry messages between your brain and feet become damaged. It’s a very common complication of diabetes, but can also be caused by:

• Vitamin B12 deficiency
• Alcohol overuse
• Side effects of certain medications
• Autoimmune or thyroid conditions

Patients with peripheral neuropathy often report:

• Burning or tingling sensations
• Numbness
• Sharp or stabbing pain
• A “dead” or “wooden” feeling in the feet

Poor Circulation

If blood isn’t flowing well to the feet—due to conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD) — you might experience coldness, numbness, or aching feet. Left untreated, this can lead to delayed healing, ulcers, and increased infection risk.

Nerve Compression

Conditions such as sciatica, tarsal tunnel syndrome, or spinal disc issues can compress nerves and cause tingling that radiates down to the feet.

Why It Matters More Than You Think

Tingling and numbness aren’t just uncomfortable—they’re dangerous if ignored. When you lose sensation in your feet, you might not notice:

• Cuts or blisters
• Pressure sores
• Infections

This is especially critical for people with diabetes, who are more prone to complications like ulcers, infections, and in severe cases, amputation. Reduced feeling also affects your balance, increasing the risk of trips and falls—particularly in older adults.

What You Can Do About It

If you’ve noticed strange sensations in your feet, don’t shrug it off. There’s a lot we can do to catch issues early and protect your foot health.

• Book a Neurovascular Assessment
  At Medipod Clinics, we use tools like monofilaments and Doppler ultrasound to check how well your nerves and blood vessels are working. It’s quick, painless, and could help prevent serious complications.
• Track Your Symptoms
  Keep a note of what you’re feeling—when it happens, how long it lasts, and what seems to trigger it. This helps your podiatrist identify patterns and make the right diagnosis.
• Maintain a Foot Care Routine
  Moisturise daily, avoid walking barefoot, and inspect your feet regularly for cuts, swelling, or discolouration. Prevention is key.

Your Foot Health Matters More Than You Think

Tingling, numbness, and burning sensations in your feet are never something to ignore. They may seem minor at first, but they can be early warnings of serious conditions like peripheral neuropathy, poor circulation, or compressed nerves.

The good news? With early intervention and expert care, many of these issues can be managed effectively protecting your mobility, independence, and overall wellbeing.

At Medipod Clinics, we’re passionate about looking after every aspect of your foot health. In addition to nerve and circulation assessments, we offer a wide range of treatments including:

• Laser therapy for fungal nails
• Management of ingrowing toenails
• Removal of corns and calluses
• Verruca treatments
• Nail reconstruction and much more

If you’ve noticed unusual sensations in your feet—or if you simply want to stay proactive about your foot health—our experienced podiatrists are here to help.

We treat every patient with the care, respect, and attention they deserve.

For advice or to book a consultation, please call us on 01455 246100.
We would absolutely love to help you stay healthy, comfortable, and confident on your feet.

Thank you for reading this month’s blog – The Silent Struggle: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Numbness or Tingling in Your Feet.

Take care,
Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

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What’s the best food for healthy feet? What foods should you avoid if you want to reduce your risk for foot pain and injury. What kind of food makes inflammation and pain better or worse?

There has been a lot of research about diet and inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a risk element for several chronic ailments. It is a common cause of foot pain related to different types of inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthritis. It can also contribute to heel pain such as plantar fasciitis.

Foods that reduce inflammation and pain, promoting healthy feet

Vitamin C

Many foot problems, including tendinitis and plantar fasciitis, develop because of inflammation. Fortunately, Vitamin C can help fight that inflammation. Foods rich in Vitamin C include oranges, kiwis, strawberries, tomatoes, kale and spinach. In fact spinach offers double or triple-duty for your foot health. It is a foot-superfood!)

Calcium and Vitamin D

Your feet are made up of 26 bones, so it is important to eat foods rich in calcium to help prevent osteoporosis which is often associated with an elevated risk of fractures. In fact, a stress fracture of the foot can be one of the first signs of osteoporosis.

For the body to absorb calcium, it is important to have sufficient levels of vitamin D. Calcium rich foods include dairy products like milk or cheese, leafy greens such as broccoli and spinach, salmon and sardines. Sometimes it is advisable to take daily supplements of vitamin D to meet your daily requirements. Regular exercise can also be very helpful.

Vitamin B

As our diabetic patients know, neuropathy takes a toll on your foot health. Neuropathy makes your feet feel numb and, in some cases, it can cause tingling of the feet or burning foot pain.

Although it is hard to reverse the condition, Vitamin B can help support your nervous system. In fact, adding vitamin B to your diet can sometimes improve your neuropathy symptoms. Foods rich in Vitamin B are tuna, cottage cheese, salmon, eggs, and sardines.

However, there are certain food types which are best avoided if you suffer from inflammation. These include:

• Refined grains, trans fats, and sugar found in junk foods and baked goods;
• The saturated fat found in red meat;
• The omega-6 fats are found in many vegetable oils, such as soybean, sunflower, and corn oils.

When it comes to your improving the health of your feet, nutrition is extremely important. Fuelling your body with the right foods builds a good foundation for healthy bones and muscles, encourages circulation, and limits inflammation and pain.

For more information about nutrition and your feet in Diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org.uk.

Podiatrists are specialists when it comes to your foot health. So if you are experiencing any discomfort in your feet, we are more than happy to help.

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 – 2024 – New Year, New Feet – Nutrition for your Feet.

Faye, Natalie, Lisa, Maria, Zoe, Claire and Julia

http://medipodclinics.com/

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DIABETES FACTS

• • In the next 3 years the number of people worldwide who have diabetes is expected to rise to 380 million.
  • Up to 70% of lower limb amputations are performed on people with diabetes.
  • Up to 85% of all amputations are preceded by an ulcer.
  • Every 30 seconds, a lower limb is lost somewhere in the world as a consequence of diabetes.

What is it?

Diabetes develops from high blood sugar levels. This can cause damage to your blood vessels, affecting circulation to your feet as less blood is getting to your skin, muscles, and tissues. It also affects your nervous system in your body by stopping important messages getting to and from your brain. The longest nerves are more likely to be affected – those that reach all the way down to your legs and feet. This nerve damage is called neuropathy. Different types of diabetic neuropathy include sensory, motor, and autonomic.

What can I do to prevent complications?

If you wish to prevent foot problems, you need to manage your diabetes well by controlling your blood glucose levels, along with your blood pressure and cholesterol. A healthy and active lifestyle, especially if you are a non-smoker, can prevent or slow down any changes to the nerves and blood vessels that supply your legs and feet.

Everyone who has diabetes should also have their feet checked regularly with a healthcare professional (podiatrist, nurse or doctor) and at the very least once a year at their annual review. However, if you are at increased risk of complications, these inspections may be done more frequently.

Podiatrists can provide regular foot care by reducing the build-up of hard skin, managing your nail care, and offer advice on footwear, posture, exercises, wound management, minimise infections, circulation, padding and strapping, or any other foot related issues you may have.

How can a Podiatrist help me?

At your first appointment the podiatrist will assess your feet and check both the blood supply to your feet as well as any evidence of loss of sensation in your feet.

The assessment of the blood supply to your feet includes feeling the pulses in the feet, checking the colour, texture and quality of the skin and nails, feeling the temperature as well as asking questions about calf pain during walking. Most people have 2 pulses on their feet: one on the top (dorsalis pedis) and one on the inside of the ankle (posterior tibial). If the podiatrist cannot feel the pulses with their fingers, they may use a Doppler (hand-held scanner) to listen to them.

Sensation will most commonly be checked with a monofilament and tuning fork. The monofilament is a plastic probe that is designed to buckle at a given pressure and is a good indicator for loss of feeling.

Part of the assessment also includes any presence of foot deformities or signs of excessive loading. In this case, the podiatrist can offer advice on footwear or discuss a management plan that may involve provision of foot supports to minimise the pressure on your feet.

How serious is it? Diabetes and your feet

It is important to look after your feet when you have diabetes. Any injury or hard skin has the potential to develop into something more serious. When the skin is damaged, it may not heal so easily and sometimes this can cause an ulcer to form on your foot. Additionally, if you have lost feeling in your feet then it is possible that you may unknowingly damage your feet. You may stand on sharp objects like a nail, piercing the skin even down to the bone without realising it. If not noticed and not treated appropriately this can have potentially serious consequences and could lead to an amputation. Such an outcome is less likely if you seek expert advice from your multidisciplinary foot care team.

At Medipod Clinics, we take care of your feet. Our team of Podiatrists have a wealth of experience in managing foot problems. We also try to give you the information you need to keep your feet healthy.

Some of our podiatrists are very interested in the diabetic foot so we can offer expert advice about circulation, neuropathy, and reducing foot complications. We also offer treatments for nails, hard skin, ingrown toenails, verrucas, fungal infections, thickened nails, heel pain and tendinitis. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.

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 would love to help you with any foot health issues you may have.

Thank you for reading – Diabetes and your feet.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

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Toenail Fungus. One Step Ahead. There are plenty of home remedies, but they don’t seem to work.  And a true nail fungus doesn’t just go away on its own.

Fortunately, the team at Medipod Clinics can address any nail fungus issue you may have with a diverse menu of treatment options. We customize our approach to your infection’s history and severity.

How fungi infect the nail?

Toenail fungal infection, or onychomycosis, is an invasion by a microscopic organism that thrives in damp and warm environments. Fungal spores are in the air, and they can easily grow if they land on a surface like your toenail.  They feed off the nail tissue, burrowing into the skin under the nail.  Over time, the nail thickens and may lift off the nail bed as fungal debris accumulates.  Once your nail is raised off the nail bed, it won’t reattach, and it becomes even harder to get rid of the fungal infection.

But is it fungal or not?

Several different conditions can masquerade a fungal infection.  As we get older, the nails thicken and become more yellow. Psoriasis can cause pitting and flaking of the nails. Injuries can create bruising under the nail. Even chemicals in nail polish can discolour and damage the nail.  But you don’t want to wait until your nail is gnarly and raised off the nail bed.  You should see a podiatrist as soon as you notice your nail changing.

At Medipod Clinics, we can successfully test and diagnose the presence of fungal infections. The Dermatophyte Test Strip (DTS) is simple, accurate and shows results in just under 5 minutes!  It can be performed as part of your podiatry appointment and offers a reliable diagnosis.  This will enable your podiatrist to start the right antifungal treatment immediately without having to send clippings to an external laboratory.  Your GP will also be informed of your results as systemic medication may be needed.

Toenail Fungus Treatments

There are numerous treatments for fungal infections, which vary widely in cost and effectiveness.  To be fully effective, the antifungal agent must penetrate the nail and often the nail bed as well.

Over the counter products

These are widely available. They don’t promise a cure but some of them can certainly improve the appearance of the nail by changing the pH of the nail, therefore making it difficult for the fungus to survive.

Prescription topical treatments

Effective products include Tolnaflate, Clotrimazole, Terbinafine and Amorolfine.  All require daily applications, and it may take as long as 1-2 years to see noticeable results.  These products may work for early, superficial fungal infections, because they kill the fungi on the surface of the nail.  Reducing the thickness of the nail regularly may enable them to penetrate more deeply into the nail or the nailbed.  Even then, the success rate is quite low.

Oral medications

Intraconazole (Sporanox) and Terbinafine (Lamisil) are usually considered for extensive fungal infections.  Either of these drugs are very potent and may harm the liver, therefore your doctor will check your liver at the beginning of the treatment and again after a few months. Intraconazole interacts with several other drugs.  If you take one of these drugs, you’ll also need to avoid drinking alcohol and stay out of the sun.  It is best to discuss your individual case with your doctor before you decide to take oral antifungals.

But it is not all doom and gloom! Lacuna Method can help!

Have you heard of the Lacuna Method for the treatment of fungal nail infections? At Medipod Clinics, “we have had some amazing results in just under a year”, Faye says. Lacuna method is all about making tiny holes along the surface of the nail so that the antifungal agent (Lamisil spray) can successfully penetrate and reach the nail bed, where the active infection is.  The Lamisil Spray will spread under the nail as you walk and with daily application the fungus is stopped from spreading and the damaged nail grows out.

The process is safe and pain-free! Review appointments are recommended on an average 6-8 weeks; however, this may vary, and your practitioner will advise you.

Have realistic expectations

Don’t expect any product to give you toenails like those in the advertisements.  However, if you adopt a daily routine of washing and drying your feet thoroughly, and follow the advice given from your podiatrist, you should see a distinct improvement.

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 also offer treatments for nails, hard skin, 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 – Toenail Fungus. One Step Ahead,

Faye Vogiatzoglou

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Toenail Fungus. One Step Ahead appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

To keep ageing feet healthy and reduce the risk of health issues indirectly caused my foot problems, I am providing you with 10 essential tips for Seniors and /or their Carers.

1. Include feet into your daily/weekly/monthly checks

We usually remember to brush our teeth, put cream on our face and check our eyes but we hardly ever remember to have a foot health check! Especially if we are taking care of someone, we don’t always remove their socks to inspect their feet. Well, it’s high time to include feet into your daily/weekly/monthly checks. It only takes a few seconds, and it is equally important.

2. Keep feet clean and dry

Good foot hygiene is critical in preventing fungal, viral, and bacterial infections of the skin or nails, especially in the ageing feet, as seniors may be able to wash their feet only occasionally by themselves. If you are caring for them, just a simple foot bath with lukewarm, soapy water is sufficient to clean feet at least a couple of times a week. Make sure you also dry them well, especially in between the toes.

3. Trim toenails correctly

Toenails can cause a lot of pain or interfere with stable walking if they become thickened or ingrown. You could trim them yourself or find a podiatrist near you. Professional care may be needed for seniors who have health conditions that affect their feet, like diabetes or arthritis.
If your older adult has dementia and trimming their toenails causes the experience fear, paranoia, or discomfort, you might try making it more spa-like experience. You could try things like soaking and massaging their feet before trimming or putting on their favourite TV show to distract them.

4. Moisturise regularly

Dry skin is more prone to cracking and breaking which is why it is important to moisturise regularly. It is better to apply cream after the feet have been washed and dried thoroughly. This locks in the moisture and helps keep feet soft and supple.

5. Check their feet for pressure points and any skin breakdowns

For people who spend a lot of time in bed or a chair, continuously resting their feet on a pillow, footstool or mattress throughout the day can result in pressure and skin irritation that leads to skin breakdown. Prevent this type of potentially life-threatening condition by “floating the heels” – propping the ankle up so the feet rest suspended in the air without touching anything.

6. Get properly fitting footwear and slippers.

Wearing shoes that are too small or too big can impact feet in many ways – they can rub, cause blisters, impair mobility, contribute to the development of corns and calluses, ingrown toenails as well as heel pain or other types of foot pain.

In general, seniors should wear footwear or house shoes that are stable and supportive.

Shoes should be less that 1 inch heel height, wide enough and deep enough, considering the foot type and ankle stability.

7. Avoid nylon hosiery

Clean cotton socks and stockings should be worn daily and checked for fit. The sock or stocking should be the same size as the foot without stretching. It is advisable to avoid nylon stockings as they increase foot sweating, and therefore make you more prone to a fungal infections like athlete’s foot.

8. Promote circulation

Older adults who suffer from chronic conditions like diabetes, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), or conditions that limit mobility may experience reduced circulation in their feet and lower legs. That can contribute to blood clots. Circulation in senior feet can be improved with foot massages, keeping active and moving feet regularly as well as elevating the lower legs when resting. In some case prescription of compression hosiery may help too.

9. Address pain

Catching early warning signs can help you and your older adult prevent serious medical complications down the line. Feet are often the first part of the body to show symptoms related to conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetic neuropathy (loss of sensation). They can also be affected by heel pain like plantar fasciitis.

If your older adult experiences pain, tingling, numbness, stiffness, redness or inflammation in their feet or ankles, get them to a podiatrist for a thorough examination as soon as possible.

10. Get medical attention when needed

Common foot conditions like hammer toes, bunions, corns, calluses, discoloured nails and verrucas may seem harmless.

But if you are older your immune system can be compromised therefore infection and pain may develop especially in presence of foot deformity, poor circulation, and loss of sensation.

A podiatrist may offer simple conservative measures like wearing orthotic devices, toe separators, bunion pads, and ankle braces.  They also offer advice on footwear or house shoes, assess the circulation and nerve supply to your feet as well as carry out treatment of skin or nail conditions.

At Medipod Clinics we are treating senior feet daily! Our podiatrists are kind and attentive to your needs. We always try to give you the information and tools you need to keep your feet healthy.

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 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 – Ageing Feet Need Extra Care.

Faye Vogiatzoglou

http://medipodclinics.com/

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Corns and calluses are areas of hard skin that develop due to excessive pressure or friction. They commonly occur on the feet and can cause pain and discomfort when you walk.

Podiatrists are trained to use sharp instruments in order to remove efficiently any corns and calluses from your feet. The process is pain free and will leave your skin smooth and feeling great!
Regular podiatry treatments can improve the condition of your feet and improve your well-being.

Corns

Corns are small, localised areas of hard skin that usually develop on the top of the toes or the bottom of your feet. However, they can occur anywhere, even in between your toes.

Corns are caused by:

Abnormal foot mechanics – any foot deformity will change the way you walk. This results in certain areas of your foot rubbing more against the shoe, resulting in corns and calluses.

Corns often occur on bony feet, as there is a lack of natural cushioning. They can also develop as a symptom of another foot problem, such as:

• a bunion– where the joint of the big toe sticks outwards as the big toe begins to point towards the other toes on the same foot
• hammer toe – where the toe is bent at the middle joint

Wearing poorly fitting shoes – shoes that are too loose can allow your foot to slide and rub. Certain shoe designs that place excessive pressure on specific areas of the foot – for example, high-heeled shoes can squeeze the toes.

Calluses and Hard Skin

Calluses are hard, rough areas of skin and are often yellowish in colour. They usually develop at the bottom of your feet, around the heel area or on the skin under the ball of your feet. They can also occur on the palms of your hands due to the friction from wearing rings.

Calluses are larger than corns and don’t have such a well-defined edge. They develop when the skin rubs against something, such as a bone, a shoe or the ground. They often form over the ball of your foot because this area takes most of your weight when you walk.

Activities that put repeated pressure on the foot, such as running or walking barefoot, can cause calluses to form. Other possible causes of calluses include:

• dry skin
• reduced fatty padding – elderly people have less fatty tissue in their skin
• regularly holding objects such as a hammer or racquet

Treating corns and calluses

If you have a corn on your foot, you should see a podiatrist, who can advise you about treatment. Your GP may be able to refer you on the NHS, however if your condition is unlikely to affect your health or mobility you may not be eligible for NHS treatment.

Corns will not simply disappear without treatment. You can help reduce corns and callouses by soaking your hands or feet in warm, soapy water to soften them. This can make it easier to rub the corn or callus with a pumice stone, nail file, emery board or washcloth to help remove a layer of toughened skin.

DO NOT use a medicated corn plaster under no circumstances, especially if you have any medical conditions such as Diabetes.

The corn plasters work by using salicylic acid (keratolytic agent) to soften the corn. If the hard “plug” is soft, it places less pressure on the nerve endings in the skin, reducing pain.

Corn Plasters do not remove the corn permanently and they can cause serious damage to your skin, even infections. That is because unfortunately, the salicylic acid in corn plasters cannot distinguish between healthy skin and corn and can burn the skin quite severely spreading to surrounding healthy skin.

Causes of Corns and Calluses – Solved!

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. If you are not sure what you need, that’s okay too. With our knowledge and enthusiasm for footcare, we will be able to advise you on the right treatment for you.

We also offer verruca treatments, nail surgery, 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. Or, you’re welcome to pop in and visit us at 45 Rugby Rd, Hinckley, LE10 0QA – we will be delighted to see you!

Thank you for reading this month’s blog – Causes of Corns and Calluses.

www.medipodclinics.com

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What is it?

Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects how your body turns food into energy. Most of the food we eat is broken down into sugar (also called glucose) and released into our bloodstream. When your blood sugar goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. If your body is not producing enough insulin, high levels of sugar stay in the blood.

High blood glucose levels can damage your blood vessels and thereby circulation to your feet and legs, due to less blood getting to your skin, muscles and tissues. It can also cause damage to the nerve system in your body by stopping important messages to and from your brain. The most commonly affected nerves are the long ones – those that reach all the way down to your legs and feet. Nerve damage is called neuropathy. Diabetes can also affect your eyes and kidneys.

Why do I need to see a podiatrist?

Any injury or hard skin has the potential to develop into something more serious if you have diabetes. When the skin is damaged, it may not heal so easily and sometimes this can cause an ulcer to form on your foot. Additionally, if you have lost feeling in your feet then it is possible that you may unknowingly damage your feet. You may stand on sharp objects like a nail, piercing the skin even down to the bone without realising it. If not noticed and not treated appropriately this can have potentially serious consequences and could lead to an amputation. It is very likely to avoid such an outcome, if you seek expert advice from your multidisciplinary foot care team.

Another change that can occur is reduced blood flow to your feet. Diabetes may also affect your ability to heal and reduce your natural ability to fight bacteria. Consequently, you should take particular care of any scratches, cuts or blisters on your feet.

How do I prevent foot complications? – Diabetes and Your Feet

Preventing foot problems involves a few easy steps:

• Manage your diabetes well by controlling blood glucose levels, along with cholesterol and blood pressure, and having a healthy active lifestyle
• Avoid smoking
• Always check your feet every day
• Clean and dress any cuts, scratches or wounds
• Avoid walking around barefoot to prevent potential injury
• Always wear shoes that fit properly
• Never sit with your feet too close to a fire or a hot radiator
• Avoid using corn plasters as the acid can burn your feet
• See a HCPC Registered Podiatrist regularly in order to have the hard skin removed and your nails cut professionally

Always…

Have your feet also checked regularly by a healthcare professional (podiatrist, nurse or doctor) and at the very least once a year at their annual review. However, if you are at increased risk of complications, these inspections need to be done more frequently.

What can a Podiatrist do for me?

If you have Diabetes the Podiatrist will normally check both the blood supply to your feet and any evidence of loss of sensation in your feet.

Blood supply will be checked by looking at the colour of the skin, quality, texture, temperature as well as checking the pulses in the feet with their fingers or a small hand-held scanner (called a Doppler). They may also ask questions about certain kinds of pains in your feet and legs.

Sensation will most commonly be checked with a monofilament and tuning fork. The monofilament is a plastic probe that is designed to buckle at a given pressure and is a good indicator for loss of feeling.

The podiatrist will also be looking for any foot deformity or signs of excessive loading that may warrant either footwear advice or in some cases an insole. They can also trim your nails, reduce the hard skin and offer advice on how to best care for your feet.

When should I see a podiatrist? – Diabetes and Your Feet

In many cases seeing a podiatrist, a nurse or your GP promptly can alleviate symptoms and prevent serious complications, such as amputations. Your podiatrist will recommend a return period according to the state of your feet and/or risk status. Most people visit a podiatrist every 6-8 weeks.

If you notice any of the following, please get in touch:

• Breaks in the skin, opens sores/blisters or a discharge
• Any swelling in your feet or legs and/or an unusual odour
• Hard skin (callus)
• Cramp in your calves
• Any pain during walking or wearing shoes
• Tingling sensation or pins and needles
• Skin colour changes (redder, bluer, paler, blacker) over part or all of the foot
• Part or all of your foot feels much hotter or colder than usual
• Anything else that has not been there before.

To talk to a podiatrist (also known as a chiropodist) about the options available regarding treatment, you can contact an NHS podiatrist or a private practice podiatrist. In both cases, always ensure that any practitioners you visit are registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and describe themselves as a podiatrist (or chiropodist).

At Medipod Clinics we are experienced in managing foot problems related to Diabetes. 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.

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 also offer footwear advice, ingrown toenail surgery and verruca treatments. 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/

Further information and useful contacts
For more detailed and comprehensive information about Diabetes and foot care generally, please consult the websites below:
• www.footindiabetes.org
• www.diabetes.org.uk
• www.patient.co.uk
• www.nhs.uk
• www.nice.org.uk

The post Diabetes and Your Feet appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Staying warm when it’s cold outside can be a challenge. As the weather gets colder, small blood vessels temporarily close up and you might see a change in the colour of your skin, which could look pale or blanched and waxy at first, before becoming bluish. This is because the oxygen in the blood has been used up by the tissues.

So, to help your feet stay warm this year, we have compiled some top tips to keep your feet healthy and ready for action when spring finally arrives.

Top 10 tips to keep your feet warm

1. Wear suitable footwear all year around. Waterproof boots can be very beneficial during the winter months, especially when dealing with rain and snow.
2. Wear socks and hosiery made of natural fibres. A combination of at least 70% wool with cotton works quite well if your feet are cold. Wear double socks if necessary.
3. If your socks get wet in your shoes, change them as soon as possible.
4. Make sure your boots/shoes fit properly; you should be able to wiggle your toes, but the boots should have a stiff heel counter in order to be supportive.
5. Regular exercise is very important as it improves circulation and opens up new ways for the blood to reach your toes.
6. Avoid extreme cold or hot situations. Hot water bottles, electrical blankets, fireplaces and radiators can damage seriously the small blood vessels in your hands and feet, especially if your extremities are freezing cold. The best way is to warm them up gradually so that the capillaries have time to respond to the sudden change of temperature.
7. Massage your feet and hands regularly to stimulate circulation.
8. Wearing long trousers, socks, leg warmers, or boots, gloves and hats can also help in preventing your extremities (hands, feet, ear lobes, nose tip) from getting cold.
9. Its better to have a warm bath instead of a foot soak, if your feet are cold.
10. Do not hesitate to seek medical advice or see a podiatrist if you need further information.

Podiatrists at Medipod Clinics are trained to assess extensively the circulation in the lower limb using Ultrasound equipment (Doppler) in order to listen to the pulses on your feet.

We understand how your foot works and we tailor a treatment plan to your needs. If you are already concerned about your feet, we are more than happy to help. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.

We also offer other podiatry services, counselling, audiology and physiotherapy services.

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
http://medipodclinics.com

The post Keeping your feet warm & healthy this winter appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Like many microbes, there are helpful fungi and harmful fungi. When harmful fungi invade the body, they can be difficult to kill, as they can survive in the environment and re-infect the person trying to get better.

Fungus quite often affects the nails and can cause significant discoloration. Nails that have been damaged are particularly susceptible to fungal invasion. It can also affect the skin causing visible skin changes, redness, and itching.

DIAGNOSIS OF FUNGAL FOOT INFECTION

There are a few ways to test for presence of fungal spores. At Medipod Clinics, we use the Dermatophyte Test Strip (DTS). It is simple, accurate and shows results in just 5 minutes. It can be performed as part of your podiatry treatment and offers a very reliable diagnosis. This will enable your podiatrist to start the right antifungal treatment immediately without having to send clippings to an external laboratory. Your GP will also be informed of the results, as systemic medication may be needed.

TREATMENTS IN FUNGAL FOOT INFECTION

Treatment for fungal foot infections will depend on the type, severity, medical history of the patient and age. Anyone with a weakened immune system may be more likely to contract a fungal infection, as well as anyone who is taking antibiotics. Cancer treatment and Diabetes can also make a person more prone to fungal infections.

Most fungal skin infections can be treated with over-the-counter or prescription creams. Severe infections may require additional methods.

Topical agents for Tinea Pedis (skin infection)
Tinea pedis is a condition that is generally responds to topical antifungal agents.
Most formulations are available in the clinic as well as in the chemist.

These include Canesten, Dactarin, Dactarin Gold, Grisol, Mycota, Lamisil and Mycil.

KEY POINT

Topical Terbinafine (Lamisil) has been shown to be equally effective for treating tinea pedis in all its forms, such as a spray, cream and film-forming solution.

Based on the available evidence to date, older preparations such as Whitfield’s ointment (benzoic and salicylic acid) are probably less effective than azoles and terbinafine. Tea tree oil (Melaleuca) and Vicks remain a popular over-the-counter treatment but can cause skin irritation.

KEY POINT

The use of tea tree oil and Vicks in the treatment of onychomycosis is not recommended by National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines.

Onychomycosis – Nail Fungal Infection

When onychomycosis is considered to be mild to moderate, topical agents can be considered. Treatment requires good compliance as it can take 12-18 months. Studies have proven that the delivery of topical drugs to the infected nail can be enhanced by reducing the nail on a regular basis.

Amorolfine 5%, Curanail 3% are nail lacquers that inhibit the growth on fungus.

Mykored , Excilor and Emtrix create a nail environment in which the fungus finds it difficult to grow, therefore they help the appearance of the nail.

KEY POINT

Nail reduction prior to antifungal treatment in onychomycosis improves the cure rate.

Systemic Medication

If the infection is severe, affecting majority of the surface of the nail and the nail root, oral medication can be prescribed by your G.P.

KEY POINT

Any patient receiving systemic antifungal agents should first have the infection confirmed to prevent prescribing errors.

Fenestration of the nail (Lacuna Method)

Most topical agents are ineffective at penetrating the nail plate to reach the active infection on the nail bed (the skin under the nail).

By making micro holes in the nail plate your podiatrist can enable you to apply the anti-fungal agent, such as Lamisil spray, directly to the infected nail bed.

The Lamisil Spray will spread under the nail as you walk and with daily application the fungus is stopped from spreading and the damaged nail grows out.

KEY POINT

Current evidence has shown many significant benefits of fenestration in the treatment of onychomycosis.

Laser devices emit pulses of energy that impart heat to tissues that it contacts. The effect of the laser on fungal nails relies on the fungal cells absorbing this heat, which kills the microbe.
The laser energy penetrates through the toenail, to the nail bed beneath where the fungus is likely also present. This ability to penetrate the full thickness of the toenail is probably what leads to the promising results seen thus far with laser treatment. However, current evidence is very limited as this is a new management method.

KEY POINT

The cost of receiving laser treatment for onychomycosis as well as the limited evidence of its effectiveness make it less favourable amongst patients.

Podiatrists at Medipod Clinics are trained to diagnose, test and treat fungal foot infections. We understand how your foot works and we tailor a treatment plan to your needs. If you are already concerned about your feet, we are more than happy to help. With our expertise and experience, you will have full peace of mind when it comes to your foot health.

We also offer other podiatry services, counselling , audiology and physiotherapy services.

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
http://medipodclinics.com

The post What You Need To Know About Fungal Foot Infections appeared first on Medipod Clinics.