Podiatry

Types of foot problems treated

People come to podiatry for many reasons:

Medical pedicures

Men and women. Young and young at heart. We all want our feet to both feel good and to look good. Many people have foot problems but are otherwise 'well' in themselves. They do not have any particular medical problems affecting the feet, but have problems that are irritating, painful or unsightly, and a 'beauty pedicure' is just not sufficient. Our podiatrists are able to reduce thickened, irregular nails making them more visually pleasing as well as more comfortable. Hard skin, corns, callus and cracked skin on the soles and heels can be reduced. As part of your overall treatment the team can discuss the causes of your foot problems, explain ways you may help yourself to keep problems under better control and also set out what options you have for improving your feet over time. It's called a 'medical pedicure' and it is suitable for everyone.


Basic foot health checks

In the same way that people have their eyes checked and their teeth checked, we provide foot checks. The feet change constantly throughout life and we assess the feet to ensure they are well. We are only given two and we are expecting them them to outlast us. Podiatrists assess the circulation (blood supply) of the legs and feet, and also the neurology (nerve supply). Out team can discuss any concerns or problems you may have, and discuss preventative measures to help you look after your feet and keep them in good shape. Foot checks are important for a wide variety of medical conditions, such as diabetes, vascular disease, rheumatological problems and neurological problems, to name only a few. While many people seek our help for the first time because they are prompted by a problem, You don't actually need a problem to have your feet assessed.


Skin problems

Podiatrists can not only remove hard skin, corns and callus, we can discuss the causes of these peoblems and suggest ways to help reduce or slow their return. We can diagnose and discuss treatments for a variety of dermatological problems of the skin and nails, such as verrucae, athlete's foot, fungal infections and inflammatory skin conditions.


Problems through sport and activity

Podiatrists not only treat occupational and sporting injuries of the foot and ankle, they can also determine if your problems have any underlying cause. We provide a comrehensive foot care service to effectively treat not only the problems presented to us, but to educate our customers on prevention and preventative measures.


Foot problems because of ill health

The feet consist of skin, nails, muscle, ligaments, tendon and bone. They are supplied by blood via the arteries and drained via the veins. Sensation is detected by the nerves and movement controlled by muscles and nerves. Potentially, any illness that affects any of these can affect the feet. Diabetes, heart problems, liver problems, vascular problems, rheumatological problems, neurological problems and many other conditions can affect the feet. It can be very important to have problems treated by professionals who understand and appreciate the impact of your general health on the feet, and vice versa. Podiatrist manage foot problems for a wide variety of medical conditions and aim to avoid problems wherever possible.


Mechanical problems

No person is either perfect or symmetrical. We are all a little lop-sided here and there and whilst we may not notice this when we are young, as we walk more and more miles over our lifetime problems will sooner or later begin to show. Some problems may be evident at an early age when parents notice their child appears to be walking in an odd way and podiatrists can observe a child's gait and discuss any concerns. Problems may begin to show during growth spurts when 'growing pains' may be causing parents or children concern. Some problems may not be obvious during normal day-to-day activity, but show up during running, training, or other sports. Podiatrists can help both improve performance and reduce injuries in athletes from a wide variety of disciplines by improving the efficiency of movement.

The mechanics of gait can be affected by a large number of neurological conditions that affect walking and balance. We treat and advise exercise programs, and manufacture or prescribe orthotics (insoles which improve walking or protect the feet from areas of high pressure) to balance and assist mobility.


Problems associated with medication

Many types of medication affect the feet, particularly steroids, anticoagulants or chemotherapy.

Many foot problems have a biomechanical or surgical solution. Where these may be considered our podiatrists can discuss available options and refer to our specialists if appropriate or neceesary.


Whatever the foot problem

Whatever the problem, our team can assess, diagnose, advise and treat the majority of common conditions affecting the feet and legs. Our podiatrists are able to use a wide variety of equipment and techniques to provide a complete foot care service.

Even the most painful foot problems are often dealt with in complete comfort so call us and start feeling better today.