There are a large range of conditions we see regularly, and here is a quick overview of some of them, and of possible treatment options.
Calluses are areas of thickened, rough, dry skin, they can be sore, can crack which can cause pain, bleeding and infection.
Corns are small areas of hard skin, often under areas of callus, that have a cone shaped core, which forms on areas of high pressure. They press on joints, nerves or blood vessels, causing considerable pain.
Both are regularly treated by our Podiatrists, where specialist methods are used to remove Corns and Calluses, leaving the sufferer with near perfect skin and completely pain free!
Or a plantar wart. This is a contagious and occasionally painful viral infection on the sole of the foot. We have various treatment methods, including caustics, acid treatments, and cryotherapy (freezing treatments). Plus the most advanced treatments, needling, or surgical removal under local anaesthetic. Our Podiatrists will use their experience to determine which treatment is most suitable for you.
Or Onychocryptosis. Ingrown toenails are a common, painful condition that occur when skin on one or both sides of a nail grows over the edges of the nail, or when the nail itself grows into the skin. Sometimes this can be a one off caused by trauma, and other times can become chronic, and repeat time and time again. Ingrown toenails often results in infection, but even with antibiotics, unless the offending nail is professionally addressed by a Podiatrist, it will continue to be painful and easily become reinfected.
Often conservative treatment on your first visit will alleviate all symptoms, but in more severe cases nail surgery under local anaesthetic in our specialist clinic would need to be performed. This however should cure the sufferer permanently. However this will be discussed in more detail on your consultation.
Sufferers of diabetes can get many problems in the feet and legs. The increased blood sugar levels cause damage to the small blood vessels causing circulation problems, and the increased sugar levels cause damage to the nervous system, causing what is called Peripheral Neuropathy (loss of sensation).
These can contribute to bone and joint problems, skin and nail problems, and diabetics are particularly susceptible to ulcers and infection. Regular Podiatry foot care is very strongly recommended by all medical staff, and is essential for both type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Heel fissures, also known as cracked heels can be a simple cosmetic problem and a nuisance, but can also lead to serious medical problems. Heel fissures occur when the skin on the bottom, outer edge of the heel becomes hard, dry and flaky, sometimes causing deep fissures that can be painful or bleed. Our skilled Podiatrists can remove the hard dry skin, use specialist dressing, and offer advice to completely heal the cracks, leaving beautiful, comfortable feet.
Stay posted. More to follow.