Chiropody & Podiatry

A foot corn and a callus are common skin conditions caused by friction and pressure. Foot corns are thickened skin layers, usually appearing on toes, while calluses form on the soles. Both can cause discomfort and pain. A podiatrist treats foot corns and calluses through various methods. They may use debridement to gently remove the thickened skin, prescribe customized orthotics to reduce pressure, and recommend appropriate footwear. Regular podiatric care helps prevent recurrence, ensuring healthier, pain-free feet. Visit a podiatrist for effective corn and callus treatment.

A pathological nail, also known as an abnormal or diseased nail, often presents with issues like fungal infections, ingrown nails, thickening, discoloration, or deformity. Podiatrists are specialised foot clinicians who diagnose and treat these conditions. Treatment options vary depending on the issue and may include trimming and debriding the nail, antifungal medications, corrective nail surgery, and patient education on proper foot hygiene. For chronic or severe cases, advanced procedures such as laser therapy or partial nail avulsion might be recommended. Regular visits to a podiatrist ensure early detection and effective management of pathological nails, promoting overall foot health.

In growing toenails, also known as onychocryptosis, occur when the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. This condition often affects the big toe and can result from incorrect nail trimming, tight footwear, or injury. A podiatrist treats in growing toenails by first assessing the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with proper nail care and footwear advice. For more severe or recurrent cases, nail surgery is often recommended. This procedure involves removing part or all of the affected nail under local anaesthesia, ensuring permanent relief and preventing future ingrowth.

A verruca, commonly known as a plantar wart, is a benign growth caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and typically appears on the soles of the feet. These warts can be painful and unsightly, often featuring a rough surface with small black dots. Podiatrists treat verrucae using various methods, including cryotherapy (freezing the wart), salicylic acid applications, needling and laser therapy. In some cases, minor surgical removal may be necessary. Podiatrists also provide advice on preventing verrucae, such as wearing footwear in communal areas and maintaining good foot hygiene. Timely professional treatment ensures effective and safe verruca removal.

Plantar heel pain, commonly known as plantar fasciitis, is a condition characterised by sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, often experienced with the first steps in the morning. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue running across the bottom of the foot. A podiatrist treats plantar heel pain through a combination of methods, including custom orthoses to redistribute forces and reduce tissue stress on the plantar fascia, physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the foot and lower limb muscles. In some instances, extracorporeal shockwave therapy or surgery might be recommended to alleviate persistent pain.