Foot Health

Chiropody, or routine podiatry treatments, covers a wide range of services aimed at keeping feet healthy and addressing specific foot conditions. 

Routine care includes the removal of calluses and corns, which can develop due to friction or pressure, providing relief and preventing further issues. Nail care involves trimming and thinning thickened nails, managing fungal infections, and treating painful ingrown toenails. 

For more serious ingrown toenail cases, nail surgery might be required, where part or all of the nail is removed under local anaesthetic. In some cases, this may also include prescribing antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present, such as in cases of infected ingrown toenails. This helps ensure timely and appropriate treatment, reducing the risk of the infection spreading or worsening. 

Podiatrists also treat verrucae (viral warts) using various methods such as cryotherapy (freezing), needling, or topical treatments to remove the wart and promote healing. 

For diabetic patients, regular foot checks are essential to monitor circulation and sensation, as diabetes can increase the risk of foot ulcers, infections, and even amputation.

Click on the link below to find out more about nail surgery and what to expect should this be required.

FAQs #

We understand that you’re likely to have some questions when it comes to your foot health, so here’s some frequently asked questions. If there’s anything else you’d like to know please get in touch to speak to our expert team.

What is a callus, and how is it treated?

• A callus is a thickened area of skin that forms due to repeated pressure or friction, often on the soles of the feet. Treatment typically involves reducing the thickness with debridement, moisturising, and addressing the underlying biomechanical cause with proper footwear or orthotics. Regular foot care from a podiatrist can help prevent recurrence.

What is a corn, and how is it different from a callus?

• A corn is similar to a callus but is smaller and has a hard centre, typically found on areas of the foot where there’s direct pressure, like over joints. Treatment involves reducing the pressure with padding or changing footwear, as well as gentle excision by a podiatrist. Corns should not be treated at home with sharp objects, as this can cause injury.

How often should I have calluses or corns treated?

• The frequency of treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition and the underlying causes. Many patients benefit from routine podiatry care every 6 – 8 weeks, but your podiatrist will recommend a personalised care schedule based on your needs.

What causes verrucas (plantar warts), and how can they be treated?

• Verrucas are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), which enters the skin through small cuts or abrasions. They can spread through contact with infected surfaces. Treatment options include cryotherapy (freezing), acid treatments, dry needling, and in some cases, laser therapy or minor surgical removal. Your podiatrist will recommend the most suitable approach based on the size and persistence of the verruca.

Can I treat verrucas or warts at home?

• Over-the-counter treatments are available, but they are not always effective, especially for stubborn or painful verrucas. Self-treatment can sometimes cause irritation or spread the virus. It’s best to consult a podiatrist for professional advice and treatment options.

What is nail surgery, and when is it necessary?

• Nail surgery is a minor procedure performed under local anaesthesia to remove part or all of a toenail, usually to treat ingrown toenails or nail infections that have not responded to conservative treatments. 

Is nail surgery painful?

• Nail surgery is carried out under local anesthesia, so you will not feel any pain during the procedure but the injections themselves can be painful for a short period of time. After the surgery, you may experience mild discomfort, which can be managed with painkillers. Your podiatrist will provide aftercare advice to ensure a smooth recovery.

What should I expect after nail surgery?

• After the procedure, you will need to keep the foot elevated for a short period and wear an open-toed shoe or sandal. Your podiatrist will dress the toe and give you instructions for keeping the area clean. Full recovery typically takes a few weeks, and you’ll have follow-up appointments to check your progress.

What causes ingrown toenails, and how can they be prevented?

• Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and sometimes infection. They can be caused by improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or trauma to the toe. To prevent ingrown toenails, cut nails straight across and avoid tight footwear. If you have recurring issues, a podiatrist can recommend treatment options, including surgery if needed.

Why is foot care important for people with diabetes?

• People with diabetes are at a higher risk of developing foot problems due to reduced circulation and nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy). These conditions can make it harder to feel injuries or infections, leading to more serious complications like ulcers or, in severe cases, amputations. Regular foot care and monitoring are crucial to prevent these issues.

How can diabetes cause poor circulation in the feet?

• Diabetes can cause blood vessels in the legs and feet to narrow and harden, reducing blood flow (a condition called peripheral arterial disease). Poor circulation can lead to slower healing of wounds, increasing the risk of infection and ulcers.

What is diabetic neuropathy, and how does it affect the feet?

• Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by high blood sugar levels over time. In the feet, this can result in numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation, making it difficult to notice injuries. Without prompt treatment, unnoticed wounds can become infected or lead to more serious complications.

Can diabetic foot problems be prevented?

• Yes, many diabetic foot problems can be prevented with good blood sugar control, daily foot checks, proper footwear, and regular visits to a podiatrist. Early detection of minor issues can help prevent more serious complications.

How can proper footwear help people with diabetes?

• Proper footwear helps to reduce pressure points on the feet, preventing blisters, calluses, and ulcers. Diabetics should choose shoes that fit well, offer good support, and avoid shoes with high heels or narrow toes. Your podiatrist can recommend specialized shoes or custom orthotics if needed.

Is nail care different for people with diabetes?

• Yes, diabetics should be extra cautious with nail care to avoid cuts or infections. It’s important to trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. If you have difficulty trimming your nails or are at high risk for complications, your podiatrist can provide professional nail care.

What happens during a diabetic foot check-up with a podiatrist?

• Answer: During a diabetic foot check, your podiatrist will:
  • Examine your feet for signs of neuropathy, circulation problems, or deformities.
  • Assess any wounds or infections.
  • Provide guidance on foot care and footwear.
  • Suggest treatments or interventions if necessary, such as orthotics, wound care, or nail trimming.