Podiatry

Podiatrists work with patients of all ages and backgrounds, providing comprehensive care that may include diagnosis, treatment, and management of foot and ankle conditions. If you're experiencing foot or ankle pain, consulting a podiatrist can help you get the diagnosis and treatment you need to maintain foot health and mobility.

Importance of Foot Health

Foot health is essential to our overall health and well-being. Our feet are the foundation of our body, supporting our weight and enabling us to move and perform daily activities. As such, foot problems can significantly impact our quality of life, causing pain and discomfort and limiting our mobility.

Maintaining foot health is crucial for overall health and mobility. Proper foot care practices such as wearing proper footwear, practising good hygiene, and seeking professional help when necessary can help prevent foot problems and associated health issues. Taking care of our feet can improve our quality of life and ensure that we can continue to enjoy our daily activities without pain or discomfort.

Common Foot Problems and Treatments

Foot problems are common and can cause pain and discomfort, affecting our quality of life. Here are some of the most common foot problems and their treatments:

• Ingrown toenails: Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and inflammation. Treatment options include soaking the affected foot in warm water, wearing proper footwear, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, surgery may be necessary.
• Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick tissue band connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. Treatment options include rest, ice, stretching exercises, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics or physical therapy.
• Bunions: Bunions are bony bumps that develop at the base of the big toe. They can be painful and make it difficult to wear shoes. Treatment options include wearing proper footwear, using orthotics, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
• Corns and calluses: Corns and calluses are areas of thickened skin that develop in response to pressure or friction. Treatment options include soaking the affected area in warm water, using over-the-counter pads or cushions, and wearing proper footwear. A podiatrist may recommend trimming or removing the thickened skin.
• Sports-related injuries: Sports-related injuries such as sprains, fractures, and tendonitis can occur in the foot and ankle. Treatment options depend on the type and severity of the injury and may include rest, ice, physical therapy, and medication. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Foot problems are common, but there are various treatment options available. It's essential to seek professional help from a podiatrist if you experience persistent pain, swelling, or discomfort in your feet. A podiatrist can help diagnose the problem and recommend the most appropriate treatment to alleviate your symptoms and improve your foot health.

Sports-Related Foot Injuries

Sports-related foot injuries can be caused by repetitive motion, sudden impact, or overuse, ranging from minor to severe. Here are some common sports-related foot injuries and their treatments:

• Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain in runners. It occurs when the plantar fascia, the thick tissue band connecting the heel bone to the toes, becomes inflamed. Treatment options include rest, ice, stretching exercises, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, a podiatrist may recommend custom orthotics or physical therapy.
• Stress fractures: Stress fractures are small cracks in the bone caused by repetitive foot stress. They are common in runners and other athletes who engage in high-impact activities. Treatment options include rest, immobilisation, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
• Ankle sprains: Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments in the ankle are stretched or torn. Sudden movements or twists can cause them and are common in sports such as basketball and soccer. Treatment options include rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy.
• Achilles tendonitis: Achilles tendonitis is an inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. It can be caused by overuse and is common in runners and other athletes who engage in repetitive jumping or running activities. Treatment options include rest, ice, physical therapy, and NSAIDs.
• Turf toe: Turf toe is a big toe joint sprain caused by hyperextension. It is common in athletes who play on artificial turf. Treatment options include rest, ice, immobilisation, and physical therapy.

Footwear and Orthotics

Proper footwear and orthotics are essential for maintaining foot health, preventing foot problems, and reducing pain and discomfort. Here are some things to consider when it comes to footwear and orthotics:

• Choosing the right footwear: Wearing the right shoes can prevent foot problems such as blisters, corns, calluses, and ingrown toenails. Proper footwear should fit well, provide good support, and be appropriate for your activity. For example, if you're running, you should wear running shoes designed for that purpose.
• Custom orthotics: Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts moulded to your feet. They can help alleviate foot pain, improve function, and prevent problems. Custom orthotics are particularly beneficial for people with flat feet, high arches, or other foot conditions that affect foot mechanics.
• Over-the-counter orthotics: Pre-made shoe inserts are available at drugstores and shoe stores. They can help provide additional support and cushioning and are an affordable alternative to custom orthotics.
• Types of orthotics: There are many orthotics, including arch supports, heel cups, insoles, and full-length shoe inserts. Your podiatrist can help you determine which type of orthotic is best for your specific foot condition.
• Proper care and maintenance: Proper care and maintenance of your footwear and orthotics are important to ensure they last as long as possible. Shoes should be replaced when worn out, and orthotics should be cleaned regularly with soap and water.

Surgical Procedures

Surgical procedures may be necessary for certain foot conditions that do not respond to conservative treatment options. Here are some common surgical procedures that podiatrists may perform:

• Bunionectomy: A bunionectomy is a surgical procedure that involves removing the bunion, which is a bony bump that develops at the base of the big toe. The surgery may involve realigning the bones in the foot to correct the deformity.
• Hammertoe surgery: Hammertoe is when the toes become permanently bent at the joint. Hammertoe surgery involves straightening the affected toes by removing a portion of the bone or releasing the tendon that causes the bending.
• Plantar fascia release: Plantar fascia release is a surgical procedure that involves cutting the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. The surgery is performed to relieve pain caused by plantar fasciitis.
• Neuroma removal: A neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue that can cause pain, tingling, and numbness in the foot. Neuroma removal involves removing the affected nerve to relieve symptoms.
• Ankle fusion: Ankle fusion is a surgical procedure that involves fusing the bones in the ankle joint together. The surgery is performed to relieve pain caused by arthritis or other conditions that affect the ankle joint.
• Achilles tendon repair: Achilles tendon repair is a surgical procedure that involves stitching the torn or ruptured Achilles tendon back together. The surgery is performed to restore strength and function to the tendon.

Foot Care for Diabetics

Foot care is crucial for people with diabetes because high blood sugar levels can cause nerve damage and poor foot circulation, leading to serious complications such as foot ulcers and infections. Here are some tips for foot care for people with diabetes:

• Inspect your feet daily: Check your feet every day for any cuts, sores, blisters, or changes in skin colour or temperature. If you notice anything unusual, contact your podiatrist right away.
• Wash and dry your feet daily: Wash them with warm water and mild soap, and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes. Moisture can cause fungal infections.
• Moisturise your feet: Use a moisturising cream or lotion to keep your feet soft and prevent cracks from forming.
• Trim your toenails carefully: Cut your toenails straight across and file the edges with an emery board. Avoid cutting corners too deeply, as this can cause ingrown toenails.
• Wear proper footwear: Wear shoes that fit properly and provide good support. Avoid wearing sandals, high heels, or tight shoes that can cause pressure points and blisters.
• Check your shoes before putting them on: Check the inside for any foreign objects, such as pebbles or nails, before putting them on.
• Avoid walking barefoot: Walking barefoot increases the risk of cuts and sores that can lead to infections.
• Manage your blood sugar levels: Controlling your blood sugar levels can help prevent nerve damage and poor foot circulation.
• Visit your podiatrist regularly: Have your feet examined at least once a year or more frequently if you have foot problems or complications.