Remy Laser can treat conditions such as: Fungus, Plantar Fasciitis, Achilles Tendonitis, Posterior Tibial Tendonitis, Ankle Sprains, Neuroma, Capsulitis, Bursitis, Arthritis, Wounds and many more.

The main goal of laser therapy is to stimulate the cell to perform its natural functions, but at an enhanced rate. To be more specific, Laser can be used for…

Pain Management – Laser Therapy – Yes there is a cure!

Class IV Laser Therapy is used for the relief of pain, to accelerate healing and decrease inflammation. When light source is placed against the skin, photons penetrate several centimeters down and are absorbed by the mitochondria (the energy producing part of a cell). This energy results in the restoration of normal cell function.

Anti-Inflammation

Laser therapy reduces significantly the swelling caused by bruising or inflammation. In fact, the laser light increases the energy available to the cell so that the cell can take on nutrients faster and get rid of waste products. It also enables the cells to utilise more oxygen.

Anti-Pain (Analgesic)

Laser therapy has a high beneficial effect on nerve cells which block pain transmitted by these cells to the brain and which decreases nerve sensitivity. Also, due to less inflammation, there is less swelling and less pain.

Improved Vascular Activity – Improves Wound Healing

Laser light will significantly increase the formation of new capillaries in damaged tissue that speeds up the healing process, closes wounds quickly and reduces scar tissue.

Carole was one of our 1st patients to experience the beneficial effects of laser. She says “I recently attended Medipod for would healing and to say I am impressed is an understatement. I had a deep tissue injury on my heel from being in a cast, which Faye treated with Laser. Within 1 month the wound had healed and the treatment was pain free. The doctor had told me to expect the wound to be open for at least 6 months (and was cautious if it would ever heal) but within 1 month of treatment it was closed. Super professional, knowledgeable. And helpful. Highly recommend.”

Fungal Nails

Laser therapy offers an effective, safe option for treating fungal toenail without the side effects of many oral medications. Laser therapy penetrates the nail bed and kills the fungus living underneath the nail. Studies relate an average 70-80% success rate in clearing toenail fungus over a 6 months period.

Warts and Verrucas

The energy of the laser kills the verruca virus by entering the capillary bed and causing coagulation and destruction of the virus. The process also stimulates an immune response. It usually takes several treatments, and it varies from patient to patient.

Costs Involved

The cost of laser for pain management is as follows:

• For a single treatment £80
• Course of 6 treatments £420 (saving of £60)

Fungal Nails and skin: 3 treatments – 30 days apart. Cost: £200 1 toe, £240 2-10 toes. Severe infections may require additional sessions.

Verrucas and warts: every 2-4 weeks until verruca clears. The sessions below is just a guide, more or less sessions may be required according to individual needs.

Mild:1-3 sessions
Moderate: 3-6 sessions
Severe: 6-10 sessions

I hope you find some value in this month’s blog. If you would like more information 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. 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. I will be absolutely delighted to speak to you!

Thank you for reading this months blog, Laser Therapy – Yes there is a cure!

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Laser Therapy – Yes there is a cure! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Summer is finally here! The days are longer, the air smells crispier and the weather is warmer.  Now is the time to walk more and enjoy the outdoors! Warm weather means sweaty feet. However increased foot activity also exposes you to one of the most common foot problems, athlete’s foot.  If it is caught early, it can be treated successfully very quickly with topical antifungals, but if it is neglected, it can lead to pain and discomfort in your feet.

The fungus that causes athlete’s foot is knows as tinea pedis. It causes dry, itchy, and red skin in between your toes and around your feet. The fungus loves warm, dark, and humid environments, like in your socks and shoes.  It can also spread easily by direct contact with contaminated surfaces such as yoga mats, floors, and gym showers. In many cases fungal skin infections will spread to the toenails, making the management of fungal foot infections more challenging.

If your skin looks a bit dry, flaky, and red, and does not respond to the usual moisturises, I encourage you to book an appointment with one of our podiatrists.  At Medipod Clinics, all our practitioners are trained to deal with fungal infections, but Natalie has a particular interest in this area.

Natalie has some excellent tips that can help you avoid getting athlete’s foot.

• Keep your feet clean and dry, especially between your toes. After your daily shower, don’t forget to dry your feet before putting your shoes and socks on.
• Change your socks daily and choose light, well-ventilated shoes. Avoid synthetic materials like vinyl or rubber.
• Alternate your footwear. You may also consider an anti-bacterial/ anti-fungal spray for your shoes to prevent fungal growth.
• Avoid walking bare foot in public areas, like the gym, and other community areas. Wear waterproof shoes or flipflops in public showers, pools, and other shared places.
• Don’t share towels or footwear. Athlete’s foot is very contagious, avoid sharing towels or shoes with others.

Our management plans vary according to severity of the infection and your individual needs. The podiatrist will discuss a management plan according to your requirements and advise you on how to best care for your feet.

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 – Warm Weather Means Sweaty Feet: Preventing Athlete’s Foot.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Warm Weather Means Sweaty Feet: Preventing Athlete’s Foot appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Summertime Foot Hazards Going Barefoot

When the weather is hot, a lot of people tend to walk around barefoot. Although it feels good, going barefoot is generally not a good idea. Being barefoot increases your chance of injury or infection, and it can also cause achy muscles.

In the summer, the pavement absorbs a lot of heat. When the sun is shining, the ground can get hot enough to cause your skin to burn. This is particularly important for certain groups of people who have lost sensation of their feet. Thermal burns are very common in people with neuropathy (lack of sensation) and can lead to serious complications.

Wearing Unsupportive Shoes

One step up from going barefoot in the summer is wearing unsupportive flip-flops or sandals. These can contribute to serious foot pain for many people. Flip-flops are just too flat and make your toes to claw to grasp the ground. Over time, this can lead to toe deformities. In addition, unsupportive footwear can lead to conditions like plantar fasciitis, various tendinitis, and muscle ache. For better foot health, look for sandals that offer support and protection to your feet.

Sweaty Feet

Everyone gets sweaty feet in the summer, particularly if you must wear shoes and socks all day. Sweating can contribute to several issues such as:

• Athlete’s foot
• General fungal problems
• Bacterial infections
• Toenail fungus
• Discomfort
• Body Odour

As a podiatrist, my priority is to improve the condition of your feet and put a smile on your feet! So, if your feet feel hot and bothered…

– Wash your feet regularly. Using antibacterial soap on your feet can reduce excessive sweating.

– Use antiperspirant. Antiperspirant works by blocking pores from excessive sweating. You may also find surgical spirit useful as it is an astringent.

– Try foot powders. There loads of different foot powders out there that can help absorb excessive sweat. Some of them have anti-fungal properties as well.

– Wear the right socks. Make sure your socks are made of natural fibres and not synthetic ones. Replace nylon socks with bamboo socks or cotton.

Blisters, Corns & Calluses

Blisters are small pockets of clear fluid under a layer of skin. They can also contain blood or pus. They are mostly caused by friction, when your shoes rub the same spot on your foot, when you wear shoes that don’t fit properly, or when you wear shoes without socks. Depending on the cause, blistering may happen along with pain, redness, or itching.

Draining a blister is not recommended because of the risk of infection, but if you must “pop” it, use a sterile needle to allow the skin to re-attach. Try not to cut the skin away unless it is already torn and drying out. Keep the blister clean. Bathe your foot in salt water every day and cover the blister with a dressing or gauze. Change the dressing daily until the area is completely dry.

Corns are small lumps of hard skin. Corns are caused by pressure or friction from footwear and are more likely to develop if you have toe deformities. If you think you have a corn, do not use any medicated corn plasters. They contain salicylic acid and can burn the skin badly. Instead, use a non-medicated corn pad, to deflect the pressure. You can also use a pumice stone or a foot file to rub away the hard skin on top. Most importantly, book an appointment with a podiatrist to have your corns professionally treated.

Summertime Foot Hazards

Calluses are larger patches of rough, thick skin. They are caused by an uneven distribution of weight, generally at the ball of your foot or heel. Calluses also can be caused by ill-fitting shoes, pressure, and friction when you walk. Foot orthoses can help redistribute the pressure when you walk and help in general with your posture and alleviate discomfort. If you want to improve the condition of your feet, you can use a pumice stone or a foot file to rub away the hard skin and regularly use a urea-based cream. Also having professional treatment by a podiatrist can seriously improve your foot health! 

When it’s warm and your feet get hot and sweaty, they can feel uncomfortable and painful. Regular visit to your podiatrist can improve the health of your feet and offer you advice on how to best care for them.

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 – Summertime Foot Hazards. Let Your Feet Do The Talking This Summer!

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Summertime Foot Hazards 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.

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/

The post Ageing Feet Need Extra Care appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Children can get many of the same foot problems as adults. But some conditions may take on different characteristics, and some may occur more frequently in children due to their active lifestyles. Or sensitive skin, and developing bodies. The most common foot and ankle issues seen in children and teens include:

Heel Pain (Sever’s disease)

Heel pain in children is often caused by repetitive stress on the growth plate in the heel bone.

Running, jumping, and pounding on hard surfaces can irritate the heel’s growth plate. Causing muscle strain and inflamed tissue. It is very common in active children from 8 to 14 years of age. The new bone is still forming at the growth plate and doesn’t fully develop until at least age 14.

Treatment for heel pain typically includes taking a break from activities that put stress on the heel bone. Using orthotics to support the heel, taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication to ease pain symptoms. Or having supportive and correctly fitted footwear, and stretching the Achilles tendon and calf muscles. Immobilizing the foot and ankle may be necessary for severe cases of paediatric heel pain. If the heel pain persists or reoccurs, other treatments may be explored.

Flexible Flatfoot – Common Foot Problems in Children

Flexible flatfoot is most common in young children. It is characterized by an arch that disappears when the child stands up (so the feet appear flat) but reappears when sitting.

The condition usually occurs in both feet. Most children do not experience any symptoms from the condition, but those who do may feel pain or cramping in the feet or legs while walking. In most cases, children outgrow the disorder without treatment by the age of 7.

If your child does experience symptoms, they can usually be alleviated by wearing supportive shoes and custom-made shoe orthotics for arch support. Seek advice from an experienced podiatrist if your child stops playing sports or withdraws from other physical activities or is in pain as a result of flatfoot symptoms.

Ingrown Toenails

An ingrowing toenail is a toenail that grows into the skin surrounding the toenail. It usually occurs on the big toe and causes tenderness, redness, and swelling around the corners of the toenail. Ingrown toenails are often caused by tight shoes and improper cutting of toenails.

Treatment typically involves soaking the affected foot in warm water and using an antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection. If the problem persists, your podiatrist may cut or lift the corner of the nail to allow the toe to heal more easily. A minor surgical procedure may also be considered in some cases.

Plantar Warts – Common Foot Problems in Children

Plantar warts usually develop on weight-bearing areas of the foot, such as the heel or ball of the foot. They are non-cancerous skin growths caused by a viral infection – human papillomavirus (HPV) – in the top layers of the skin. Warts are transmitted easily through person to person contact as well as indirectly, such as from floors in communal areas (locker rooms and public showers). They are highly contagious.

Plantar warts may eventually go away on their own without treatment, but if they are painful, your podiatrist can remove a plantar wart easily and more effectively than an over-the-counter remedy.

Athletes Foot

Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis is a common and contagious fungal infection. It can cause a scaly rash that can burn, sting, and itch and may lead to blisters or dry, cracked skin on your feet.

Athletes foot usually appears between the toes and on the soles of the feet and can spread to the toenails and cause fungal nail infections. It occurs after direct exposure to fungi (including yeast), typically in a moist environment like a locker room, public shower, or swimming pool or from the skin-to-skin contact with an infected person.

Treatment involves over-the-counter antifungal creams and sprays. You should also make sure that you dry your feet well, especially in between the toes and change socks daily.

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 or your child may have.

Thank you for reading,
Faye Vogiatzoglou

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Common Foot Problems in Children 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.

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.

Cosmetic Nail Reconstruction – Many men and women suffer from unsightly toenails and are embarrassed about their feet. In order to hide them away, they often wear closed shoes, socks or paint over the damage to disguise it. This makes it worse in the process.

In this article, we share a real story involving one of our patients who experienced problems because she has had a fungal nail infection for many years without seeking any professional advice or help about it.

What is Nail Reconstruction?

This method of cosmetic nail reconstruction is totally different than the traditional way of adding an acrylic set of nails on top of your existing nails. LCN Wilde-Pedique is a unique light-cured gel.  LCN Wilde-Pedique contains Pirictone Olamine and provides an instant cosmetic solution. Therefore, we are able to create a bespoke, cosmetically reconstructed nail. Your nail will look so natural, only you will know it’s not real.

If you are undergoing anti-fungal treatment, like Kate, we will need to remove and replace your nail several times over the course of the fungal nail treatment. But you will always look your best! Permanently damaged nails can wear LCN Wilde-Pedique all year around with regular maintenance.

At Medipod Clinics we always keep up-to-date with best Podiatry practice. Furthermore, we are always searching new ways to improve our service to you. We listen to the feedback from our patients. If you feel that you will benefit from regular treatments or you are just looking for a single session, we would be more than happy to help. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We offer a wide range of podiatric and beauty services, such as verruca treatments, nail surgery as well as medi-pedi and paraffin wax therapy treatments, so do not hesitate to ask for more information. With our in-depth knowledge and expertise, we can support you every step of your way by providing a highly professional service.

Kate’s story: How Nail Reconstruction helped her confidence

Kate works in the public sector and she has to wear closed shoes and tights while working. She developed a nail fungal infection but she was scared to do something about it. Over time the fungal infection became worse affecting most of her toenails. She has been so embarrassed about her feet that she stopped wearing any type of open-toe shoes. She was always hiding her feet in socks and didn’t even have the courage to allow her husband to see them.

One day she decided to do something about it and made an appointment to see Zoe at the clinic. She was so amazed at how good her feet looked after just one session! Zoe recommended nail reconstruction, as she was going on holidays for the summer.

Faye spent over an hour to try to improve the appearance of Kate’s toenails using LCN Wilde-Pedique. The results were excellent! Kate was delighted with appearance of her toenails and decided to have Dr Remedy Enriched nail varnish on for the very first time in years!

Kate now books her next appointment before she leaves the clinic. This means that she doesn’t have to worry about her feet anymore and can enjoy her life without feeling embarrassed about her feet. Kate also uses an antifungal nail treatment regularly.

For more information about our standard podiatry treatment, warm wax therapy, medi-pedi or nail reconstruction please contact us on 01455 246100.

We would love to help you with any issues you may be experiencing.

Thank you for reading,

Faye Vogiatzoglou
www.medipodclinics.com

The post Cosmetic Nail Reconstruction appeared first on Medipod Clinics.