Top 10 things you wish you knew about your feet!
What do you wish someone had told you about your feet? Parents keep asking us to do things like avoid high heels and wash your feet daily but children, especially teenagers, do not listen. Older people are not always better either! They like particular styles of footwear, and some patients trust Dr Google more than a degree-qualified Podiatrist!
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