The common causes of ingrown toenails include:

• Wearing shoes that crowd the toenails
• Cutting toenails too short or not straight across
• Trauma
• Having very curved toenails
• Nail infections
• Certain medical conditions

So what happens when you book in to see one of our podiatrists?

Firstly, they may try to treat and manage you condition conservatively to reduce the inflammation and any infection that may be present. They will give you a management plan that may include:

1. Soaking the affected toe in a warm salted water to prevent infection and bring inflammation down.
2. Instruction on how to cut the nail correctly.
3. Packing to lift affected nail to encourage the nail to grow correctly.
4. On rare occasions they can issue antibiotics if needed.

Sometimes surgery is the only option to cure ingrown nails. During this routine procedure, the side of your nail is cut back, and a chemical is applied in the nail root to stop the nail from growing back. This will change the width of your nail and permanently resolve your ingrown toenail.

What happens if surgery is the best option?

Firstly, paperwork needs to be completed during a presurgical appointment either in person or over the phone. The podiatrist will talk you through the procedure and aftercare.

On the day of your surgery you will require a lift home, it is not advisable to drive until the anaesthetic has worn off and full feeling returned to your feet. Sliders or similar footwear will be required to accommodate your bandaged toe.

Feeling a little nervous, not to worry!

You are welcome to bring any forms of distraction particularly if you are feeling nervous about the procedure. In the past patients have listened to music, read a book, watched a movie, or just laid back and relaxed with a face mask. We will provide a hot drink or water and if you are lucky maybe a biscuit! (assuming we haven’t eaten them all!!) We want you to relax!

If you are feeling particularly nervous feel free to invite someone along for moral support. They are welcome to sit with you during the procedure especially if they know any good jokes!

The only uncomfortable part of the procedure is the Anaesthetic injection. After that you should feel only a gentle tugging as the podiatrist carries out the procedure. The procedure itself will not take long. It will only take longer if the podiatrist starts telling you where they are going on holiday!

The toe/toes will be dressed with an absorbent dressing and bandage. If Faye is the podiatrist then your bandage will be given her trademark smiley face before you leave. Dressing packs and advice on aftercare will be given.

After the surgery

The anaesthetic can take up to 4 hours to wear off fully. Some patients experience some discomfort, but a mild painkiller (e.g. paracetamol )can be taken.

If you have any concerns after surgery, our phone lines are always open, and someone (probably Faye) will be able to advise accordingly. It is advisable not to drive until you have full feeling back in your toes.

The first post-surgery appointment is usually 24 hours after the procedure. This is to check that the wound is clean and that the toe is beginning to heal. You will be shown how best to redress your toe while it heals. This dressing should enable you to wear normal shoes. Must patients are able to return to work at this stage.

By the second appointment, 1 week after surgery , your toes should no longer feel sore, and you should be back to wearing normal shoes and be in a normal routine. Though it is not advisable to participate in contact sports or swimming until it is fully healed.

Your third dressing appointment is about 3 weeks after the procedure. By then, most toes are about 80% healed. It is advisable to continue the aftercare routine until it is fully dry. Depending on progress, a further dressing appointment maybe organised. We would like to make sure that the nail is growing well, and you are happy with the appearance of your toe.

What our patients say:

“Walked in today with a painful toe and without an appointment. They fitted me in and diagnosed an ingrowing toenail. They dealt with the problem very efficiently. I recommend Faye and her team for a professional and friendly service.” Frederick

“Absolutely brilliant service and staff. Finally, I can wear open toe shoes. Changed my life. Thank you so so much.” Jo

In conclusion, if you are suffering from painful toenails, make the first step and seek professional advice. We are more than happy to help, and we want to put a smile on your feet. Give us a call today on 01455 246100 to chat through your needs.

We also offer treatments for thickened nails, hard skin, fungal nails, 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 – 2024 – So you have an ingrowing toenail, what happens next?

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

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post So you have an ingrowing toenail, what happens next? appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

5 Tips to Avoid Injury and Damage to your Feet

1. Footwear

The absolute first thing to consider is your footwear. Is it suitable to the type of exercise you are doing? Your shoes should provide stability, reduce the risk of injury, provide comfort and cushioning to your feet. Choose your footwear according to the type of exercise you are doing. For example, running shoes need to have sufficient cushioning and shock absorption at the heel, while footwear for an exercise class needs to have a stable base with a good grip so that they control sideways movement. If you are doing long walks, it may be worth considering a good walking shoe. If you are a bit more adventurous then it is worth considering walking boots as they support your ankles and helps to prevent sprains. It is not advisable to wear walking shoes to run in, it is however acceptable to walk in running shoes. It is worth bearing in mind that the thicker sole on running shoes may be more of a tripping hazard when walking.

2. Warm Up

You should ALWAYS warm up your muscles before working out or playing sports. This is the best way to prevent injury. Warming up enables more oxygen to reach your muscles. It also prepares the connections between your nerves and the muscles, which improves the efficiency of movement. You don’t have to spend a lot of time to warm up. A brisk 5-minute walk, or jog in place for a few minutes will get the blood flowing in your muscles.

3. Stretch after Exercise

Most people forget this important aspect when they work out. Stretching your legs and body after the activity helps prevent injuries, improves range of motion, and facilitates the removal of lactic acid, therefore reducing soreness after exercise. It is important to stretch the whole body including your feet. Your neck, back, legs, and feet will thank you! You may even want to consider yoga throughout the week to help reduce the risk of injury.

4. Rest

Rest and recovery are essential parts of any activity and sports performance. You should take regular breaks during the week and listen to your body. It is important to allow your muscles time to recover and repair. Also make sure you drink plenty of water. Dehydration increases your chances of fatigue and injury.

5. Pay Attention to your Pain.

Muscle soreness is normal after exercise and can be expected after strenuous activity, but pain is not normal. DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscular Soreness) is characterised by stiffness and soreness 24-48 hours after high intensity exercise that your body isn’t accustomed to. This usually subsides after a day or two, but If you experience pain, you should stop and rest further. You should not push through pain as a serious injury may occur.

If you experience any foot pain or discomfort it is best to consult your podiatrist for advice straight away.

For more information about our range of treatments and how we can help you, please contact us on 01455 246100. We would love to put a smile of your feet!

Thank you for reading – 2024 – New Year, New Feet – February 2024 – Walk Feet Walk!!!

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

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post February 2024 – Walk Feet Walk!!! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

As those long hot days of summer become a distant memory, we tend to put our boots on and neglect our feet. Out of sight out of mind! Winter is a time when we should be much more proactive in our daily footcare routine. It is also time to review our footwear to ensure we protect our feet from those winter chills.
This month we are talking about how you can get your feet ready for the cold, winter months in the UK.

It is important to wear winter shoes and boots to protect your feet against the weather. Make sure your boots fit properly as feet can change from year to year. Feet tend to get wider as you get older. Gaining weight can also cause your feet to get bigger. If your boots or shoes don’t fit correctly and are too tight the constant friction can cause painful corns and calluses. It is worth investing in a good and supportive pair of boots to minimise common foot issues.

If you’re suffering from painful foot conditions already, cold winter weather can exacerbate them. Patients with poor blood circulation, diabetes and neuropathy are especially prone to winter foot problems. This is because lower winter temperatures cause the body to slow blood circulation to the hands and feet as it attempts to preserve the body’s core temperature.

Chilblains

Chilblains are common as the temperature drops. Chilblains affect the capillaries in the skin, most often in the hands or feet. They can be red and itchy and cause discomfort and often blisters. They normally heal themselves, but sometimes they can break down and become infected. There are creams available that can relieve these symptoms.

If you are prone to chilblains try to keep your feet warm and dry, try wearing cotton, wool, or bamboo socks rather than synthetic materials. If your feet do get cold then try and warm them slowly, never quickly! Avoid hot water bottles and electrical blankets. Speak to your podiatrist who can advise you on how to keep your feet warm.

Fungal Infections

If your feet get damp or sweaty during the day, then change your socks. This warm damp environment can be a breeding ground for fungal nail infections as well as athletes’ foot. Be aware that itching, soreness, or discoloured nails may be an indication that you have an infection.
When at home let your feet air as much as possible and make sure you dry thoroughly between your toes. There are many creams and sprays available which will help clear these infections, but it is always best to see a podiatrist.

Cracked Heels

To protect your feet from dry cracked heels caused by the drop in temperature it is important to moisturise regularly. We would recommend a urea-based cream. We have a selection of creams and sprays which are suitable so ask your podiatrist for advice.

Diabetics and those patients with poor circulation can be more at risk of developing problems resulting from dry skin. So, moisturise! moisturise! Prevention is better but it is recommended that you see your podiatrist if you have any changes in the condition of your feet.

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. 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 – Getting Your Feet Ready For Winter.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Getting Your Feet Ready For Winter appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

October is here and it is that time of year to carve your pumpkins and put out the treats, but have you thought about treating your feet? We have some great products here at Medipod clinics which will help you to relax and treat your feet. Even George agrees that you should be looking after your feet!

Halloween is a great time to be going out and having fun. Children and grandchildren will most certainly want to go trick or treating, and fortunately for you we have some great ideas for you to treat those weary feet after all that excitement! How about soaking your feet in a warming bowl of water with our Sensory Foot Soak. Which will softens and soothes hard foot skin, while the coconut and lime aroma will have you relaxing in no time.

If you prefer to snuggle down after a relaxing bath to watch those scary movies! George would recommend Gremlins(as he models himself on Gizmo) and our Emtrix all in one Foot masks. These slip on footmasks are enriched with tea tree oil and hydrate, norish and exfoliates craked heels and skin.
If you still want to party the night away but have no time to soak why not try our Fizzy foot Foam which will instantly cools and soothes hot, tired feet .Not only that but it also deodorises keeping those smells at bay. So no more chants of ‘Trick or Treat, smell your feet ‘ from those little devils!

Moisturizing

Moisturizing should be part of everyone’s daily routine but sometimes those feet just get neglected as cream takes time to rub in or

Halloween is upon us so its time to treat those feet after those long hot days of summer. It is a scary thought, but Christmas is just around the corner, so it is time to start thinking about those stocking fillers! Why not treat yourself now, pamper those feet and get some great ideas for Christmas!

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 – Trick or Treat But look after your feet!

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Trick or Treat But look after your feet! appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

A lot of people are suffering from swelling in their feet and ankles, especially this time of the year when the temperatures are rising. Leakage of fluid from tiny blood vessels called capillaries into the surrounding tissues causes oedema (swelling). Your feet and ankles are particularly prone to swelling due to the effects of gravity – it’s difficult for your circulatory system to carry the build-up of fluid away from these areas. Swollen feet and ankles may look shiny and overstretched. It makes wearing shoes and socks more challenging and the additional friction can cause blisters and sores.

Common Causes of Swollen Feet and Ankles

There are different causes that can contribute to swelling of feet and ankles. Some of these include the following:

• Being overweight or obese – excess weight puts your circulation and legs under stress, which makes it more likely for fluid to build up.
• Hot weather – In hot weather the blood vessels expand to allow heat to escape in order to help you cool down. During this process fluid can easily escape too, causing swelling.
• Sitting or standing for long periods – not moving enough leads to poor circulation and pulling of fluid in the lower limb.
• Ageing – as you get older, your circulatory system gets weaker. You’re therefore more susceptible to swollen feet and ankles.
• Eating too much salt – Having too much salt in your diet disrupts your normal salt/water balance. As a result, your body tries to compensate by holding onto more fluid than it should.
• Pregnancy – it is not uncommon for an expectant mother to have swollen ankles and feet as her body retains more water than usual. Also, the weight of the baby can impair the circulation to her lower limps contributing to swelling.

How can you help yourself at home

There are various a few things you can try to relieve swollen feet and ankle at home. The aim is to improve circulation and encourage the body to reabsorb the fluid and carry it away.

• Raise your feet and ankles above heart level – when feet are raised gravity will help to move the excess fluid away.
• Gentle exercise and massage swollen areas – gentle massage towards the heart and light exercise such as movement like riding a bike can certainly help reduce swelling. Other exercises include swimming and walking.
• Reduce your salt intake, by avoiding foods such as crisps, microwave meals and cooking sauces can restore the salt/water balance in your body.
• Stay well hydrated – drink about two litres of water per day. Your body ends up holding onto more fluid than it should if you’re dehydrated.

At-home remedies can certainly help you to manage foot and ankle swelling, but if the problem lasts more than just a few days or it is getting worse, then you need to see a health care professional for a proper examination, advice, and treatment. Sometimes the presence of swelling is a sign of an underlying health problem such as, injury, infection, blood vessels impairment, Charcot foot or many other things. Your General Practitioner should be able to advise you on the best way to proceed. If you are experiencing pain and swelling is sudden and severe, please seek emergency medical assistance as soon as possible.

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, sports injuries, 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 – Swollen Feet and Ankles.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Swollen Feet and Ankles appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

Seeing a Podiatrist is not just for women! Men can also experience various problems with their feet. Certain foot issues tend to affect men more than women, although anyone can suffer from them. Sometimes men leave things till last minute or until they get painful! Please don’t make this mistake with your feet because these conditions will not get better on their own!

Footwear

Men don’t really need to worry about damaging their feet from wearing high heels, but they can still choose the wrong footwear for their feet. Let’s not forget the wiggle pickers!

Oxford style, brogues, snickers, converse, and loafers are not always as supportive as you think they may be. I would suggest discussing your individual needs with a podiatrist and get advice on how to choose the right footwear that provides stability and cushioning to your feet.

Gout – Footcare for Men

This is a quite painful form of arthritis whereby uric acid deposits accumulate in the big toe joint. The pain can be very intense and there is also swelling and tenderness of the joint. It feels like your big toe joint is on fire! Gout certainly affects more men than women. There are a variety of causes including too much alcohol or red meat (high sugar and fat levels) and lack of exercise. Fortunately, gout can be treated or even prevented by regular exercise and improving your diet.

Achilles Tendinitis

Achilles Tendinitis is a very common overuse injury. During walking and various sporting activities, the Achilles tendon is under constant pressure and stress, especially if your calf muscles are tight. This stress causes inflammation and pain. The tendon can even rupture, which can lead to significant loss of function and disability.

Again, the right sports shoes are essential to protect your feet from impact and for balance and support. Together with the right warm-up and cool-down exercises, this goes a long way to minimising the likelihood of Achilles problems.

Hard Skin, Corns, and Calluses

Hard skin, corns and calluses are caused by friction and pressure on your feet when you walk. That can be a result of your individual foot mechanics or the type of shoes you are wearing.

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

The best treatment for corns and calluses is to have professional treatment by a podiatrist!

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections thrive in dark, warm, and moist environments like people’s shoes and socks. They present with brittle and discoloured nails. In many cases the skin is affected as well. Athlete’s foot infections are very common for both men and women. Symptoms include red, flaky and itchy skin, especially around and in between the toes.

Treatment includes various creams and ointments. In most cases the creams /ointments /sprays need to be applied for several weeks, especially if the infection has been lurking for some time. Your podiatrist should be able to advise you what the best course of action should be.

Ingrown Toenails – Footcare for Men

Men tend to pay less attention to their toenails in comparison to women. As a result, they often try to fix things by themselves when painful, especially teenage boys!

Ingrown toenails are very common amongst 13-16 boys! Cutting your nails too short or down the sides can lead to ingrown toenails. My advice is to see a podiatrist as soon as you notice any redness and inflammation around your nails.

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, sports injuries, 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 – Footcare for Men.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

The post Footcare for Men 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.

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.

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/

The post Diabetes and your feet appeared first on Medipod Clinics.

In this month’s blog we will explore bunions and toe deformities and discuss ways we can minimise discomfort from them while walking.

Understanding Bunions

A bunion is a bump that form on the outside of the big toe joint. The medical term for bunions is hallux abducto-valgus (HAV). Bunions are caused by the big toe pushing over on to the second, causing crossover of the toes, which makes it difficult to walk due to pressure on the toes from footwear. Once the big toe leans toward the second toe, the tendons no longer pull the toe in a straight line, so the problem tends to get progressively worse. The main contributing factors to this deformity are genetics, inappropriate footwear, and abnormal foot mechanics.

Women sometimes experience throbbing that continues even after removing their shoes. The site of the bunion can also be inflamed or red and can feel numb or have a burning sensation.

Understanding toe deformities

There are several types of lesser toe deformity and depending on the shape, they are called hammer toes, clawed toes or retracted toes. Toe deformities can occur when there is an imbalance with the intrinsic muscles within the foot and the leg. External pressures from shoes and direct injury can cause buckling of the toes that can result in toe deformities. Certain inflammatory and neurological conditions can cause toe deformities as well.

Hammertoes tend to be associated with bunions. A hammertoe is a bending of one or both joints of a toe. In most cases corns and calluses can built up on the toe, between the toes or on the ball of the foot due to constant friction from footwear. Inflammation, redness, or a burning sensation are also possible and in severe cases, skin can break down.

Are they serious?

Some people have large bunions that are painless but cause difficulties with footwear, while others have small bunions that can be very painful. Although some treatments can ease the pain from the bunions and toe deformities, only surgery can correct the alignment of the foot.

People who have reduced sensation on their feet or reduced circulation are more at risk of developing serious foot issues as they can present with ulcers on their toes. If left untreated, these issues can progress rapidly to limb threatening problems.

What treatments are available?

If you experience pain and discomfort from bunions and toe deformities, there are a few things to consider that can help alleviate your discomfort. Initially, I would recommend seeing a podiatrist who will assess your feet, identify and contributing factors to your discomfort and discuss a management plan. Your podiatrist may recommend the following:

• No treatment (you can elect to live with your foot deformities)
• Regular review by a podiatrist who will reduce the callus build-up periodically
• Exercises to strengthen the small muscles in between your toes
• Orthoses (special devices inserted into shoes to control abnormal foot function)
• Shoe alterations or night splints which hold toes straight during sleep (may help to slow the progression of bunions in children)

These are all conservative measures and although they may help relieve symptoms there is no evidence that they can correct the underlying deformity. Your podiatrist will be able to assess your feet and refer you for surgery, which can involve a combination of removing, realigning, and pinning of the bone. Once referred, your podiatric surgeon will evaluate the extent of the deformity and discuss with you a surgical management plan.

The aim of surgery is to address the underlying deformity to prevent recurrence. As with all surgery, there are risks and complications, so it is not usually advised unless your bunions and toe deformities are causing pain and conservative measures have not really helped.

How do I prevent foot deformities?

There are a few things to consider when it comes to prevention of bunions and toe deformities. Poorly fitting footwear tends to aggravate the problem as it can squeeze the forefoot, crowding the toes together and exacerbating the underlying condition, causing pain and deformity of the joint. With advancing age, bunions and toe deformities may progress.

Wearing sensible shoes that fit well is a good preventative measure. Try to pick shoes that are wide enough and deep enough for your toes and avoid high heels. Wearing a shoe with a strap or lace over the instep holds the foot secure and stable reducing the need for you to try to stabilise your foot with your toes.

Medipod Can Help – Why Do Women’s Feet Hurt More in Autumn?

At Medipod Clinics we have a wealth of experience 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.

Some of our podiatrists specialise in the mechanical function of your feet so we can offer expert advice about bunions, toe deformities, heel pain, tendinitis, and many more mechanical foot issues. We also offer treatments for nails, hard skin, ingrown toenails, verrucas, fungal infections, thickened nails, 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.

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 – Why Do Women’s Feet Hurt More in Autumn?.

Faye Vogiatzoglou
Clinical Director

http://medipodclinics.com/

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