Tag: drouin podiatrist

01/11/2018

Walking and Running

 

Did you know that daily walking and/or running are some of the most important steps in reducing your risk of heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and many other serious health conditions?

 

You may be wanting to improve your well-being, or reduce your risks of health conditions, or simply to start a new hobby, so here are some easy steps to begin your walking/running routine!

  1. Set realistic targets and goals. This could be a walking/running distance, weight loss (in combination with good diet), or seeing if you can improve your time running around the block.
  2. Ensure you have the most appropriate shoes possible by seeing a Podiatrist, who can also help you plan your walking/running sessions.
  3. Start off easy. This could mean a short walk around the block, or a light jog to the milkbar and back. Everyone is different, so do what works for you.
  4. Set a routine. Put a particular time aside each day for your exercise, and stick to it!
  5. If you’re feeling lonely, invite your partner, friend, colleague to exercise with you!
  6. Don’t feel bad if you have to skip a day, just stay positive and look forward to the next session!
  7. Make sure you’re having fun! Yes, you will get tired and sweaty, but if take notice of your surroundings, play some music and smile, you are on your way to making a beneficial routine!

 

For further advice on footwear, running, walking, click on the link below to make an appointment or call 1300 847 226.

http://www.thepodiatrygroup.com.au/booking/

01/11/2018

Skin Cancer on the Foot?

As Podiatrists we often see moles and spots on people’s feet and toes. Most of the time they’re harmless, however occasionally we come across some that need further investigation.

This isn’t to scare you, but simply to inform you of the importance of checking your feet, even though they may not get exposed to direct sunlight.

It is true that skin cancers can form even where the sun don’t shine!

 

So what can you do?

  • Check your feet every so often for moles and spots.
  • Observe for any changes in size, shape or colour.
  • Apply sunscreen to your feet when not wearing closed shoes.
  • See your GP if you’re worried about a spot, or just want a professional opinion.

 

Rest assured, if you’re seeing one of us we will make sure to keep an eye on the spots you may have on your feet, and monitor them as we see you into the future.

 

For further foot advice, visit our website and make an appointment to see one of our friendly Podiatrists!

 

http://www.thepodiatrygroup.com.au/booking/

31/05/2018

 Finally a quick and effective solution for Warts!

What is Swift?

 

Swift was developed in the UK for the treatment of warts. It has since become a phenomenon due to it’s ease of use and success in ridding patients of unwanted warts. It is now available in Australia and we are happy to say you can receive this treatment at our clinics.

Swift uses microwave energy, which is delivered through a special probe applied to the skin to treat the affected tissue. Multiple verrucas/warts can be treated at a single session. The treatment is quick, efficient with minimal pain. No anaesthetic or dressings are needed.

 

Does it hurt?

Like many treatments for skin lesions, some minor discomfort may be experienced.

Pain levels vary from person to person but most people undergoing swift microwave therapy liken it to to a sudden heat, lasting 2 – 3 seconds then quickly subsiding.

 

What can I do after treatment?

In some cases the treated area may feel sore, but it will not prevent you undertaking normal daily activities. No dressings are needed and you can get your foot wet.

 

How many treatments will I need?

This is dependent on how you respond to treatment. In some cases, you may need more than one treatment. Your podiatrist will be able to discuss this with you.

In recent research, 83% of the most stubborn warts cleared using Swift Microwave Therapy. The very best results were obtained with 3 treatments at 4 weekly intervals.

 

Can anyone receive this treatment?

With a few exceptions, most people with skin lesions would be able to have this treatment. It is suitable for children and diabetics who have good circulation. Your podiatrist will carry out an assessment prior to treatment and be able to advise you on this.

 

Happy to help.

Give us a call on 1300 847 226 and chat to us about starting your Swift Therapy today. We have clinics located in Warragul, Drouin and Cranbourne.
You can also jump on our website and book online.

07/09/2017
Standing a real pain in the "foot"

There are many ways to make a living and for some of us it involves long periods of standing. In particular, jobs that require us to stand all day place an undue stress on our feet, legs, knees, and hips- Did someone say retail worker?

 

The main problem with standing for long periods of time is that you are placing a large amount of stress on the same muscle groups, ligaments and bones. This is why you can experience pain.

 

We are all probably a little guilty of fantasizing about quitting our jobs and finally chasing our dream career of becoming a travel show host for Getaway. But we better take a look at a few ways we can reduce pain in the feet, just in case that falls through.

 

Keeping good foot health while standing will require you to be proactive and take steps towards achieving more cushioning and support during your day to day work.

 

The last thing anyone wants is an injury that prevents you from working and therefore impacts your income. To the same degree none of us want to work with foot or leg pain either!

 

To help make it easier, let’s take a moment to answer the question of why my feet hurt from standing all day? And what we can do to help.

 

Why Do My Feet Hurt From Standing All Day?

 

People are meant to stand. The reason why it can be challenging and why our feet hurt is that we may not be ready for it without some planning. Many people changing to a more active job will find that pain in their feet occurs pretty quickly after starting. Some of this pain will go away naturally as your body gets accustomed to it. If the pain persists, then it may have something do with your shoes or your foot type.

 

Sometimes the surfaces that we work on can be a little unforgiving on our joints. Man-made surfaces like concrete and tiles don’t allow for much shock absorption and therefore our joints take all the load. This is where the right pair of shoes can help.

 

The lifespan of a pair of shoes will change dramatically based on what brand and style of shoe you are wearing. As well as how often you are wearing them and how many kilometres you do in a day.

 

Wearing the right shoes can dramatically reduce the amount of pain you feel from standing all day. Also, consider how long your shoe is meant to last. As the shoe breaks down from use, it will provide less and less cushion for your body, resulting in experiencing more discomfort.

 

 

It is important that you wear the right shoe for your foot type. Just because you spent $200 on a pair of shoes does not necessarily mean they are more supportive or that they are right for you!

 

The best way to make sure you are getting the right shoe is to book an appointment with one of our shoe addicted podiatrists to have your walking pattern assessed. We can then recommend the right shoe for you before you invest your money into the wrong one!

 

The bottom line

 

Don’t put up with unnecessary pain. We are here to help you and will work with you to meet the specific needs of your feet and job.

 

Call us on 1300 847 226 to make an appointment and give us the time to help you.

16/09/2016
Morton

What is a Morton’s neuroma?

The name Morton’s neuroma is probably known by many. It is the common name given to repetitive compression of a plantar digital nerve found in the ball of the foot. Constant pressure and irritation of the nerve by surrounding structures can cause a neuroma to form. The body tries to protect the nerve by increasing the thickness of the nerves insulating sheath.
A Morton’s neuroma commonly forms between the 2nd-3rd or 3rd-4th toes.

How did I get this?

Common causes of a Morton’s neuroma include; abnormal foot motion. This can forefoot increase friction or foot instability. Footwear! Pointed shoes or high heels can increase pressure across the forefoot.

If I had a Morton’s neuroma, what would it feel like?

You may feel a burning discomfort, shooting or sharp pain, numbness or pins and needles near the toes or under the ball of the foot. Pain is usually felt when wearing tight or narrow shoes and may disappear when they are removed.

What do I do next?

Should be treated conservatively initially to address the causative factors.
  • Ice to the area
  • Again ladies – avoid high heels!
  • Check the width of your footwear. Try wearing wider shoes with a lower heel. Tighter or narrow footwear can compress and bunch the toes together. Your podiatrist can help you with footwear assessment and recommendations.

 

The exact cause of Morton’s neuroma can be different between patients. An accurate diagnosis can be made by a podiatrist.

  • You may require orthotics to alleviate the forefoot pressure and mechanics in combination with metatarsal padding.
  • Additional, ultrasound imaging maybe required to consider other diagnostic possibilities (as mentioned in first post).
  • In more serve cases a course of anaesthetic and cortisone injections.
  • Surgical removal of the neuroma as last resort.

 

Don’t forget, a neuroma is a result of a nerve that is being traumatised by a poorly functioning foot or footwear and treating the cause of this condition is paramount.

Please contact our team at The Podiatry Group to have an assessment on 1300 847 226.
19/08/2016
Metatarsalgia – Ball of Foot Pain

Metatarsalgia – Ball of Foot Pain

So many foot problems can occur in our forefoot. As podiatrists we treat a wide range of problems associated with forefoot pain and deformity. Metatarsalgia is a non-specific term or general umbrella term if you will, for pain in the forefoot or ball of the foot.

Discomfort is usually located beneath the balls of our feet and is typically a result of increased forefoot pressure.

Bunions, hammertoes, short metatarsal bones, stress fractures, plantar plate disruption, Freiberg’s infarction, capsulitis, intermetatarsal bursitis and Morton’s neuroma area some possible causes of metatarsalgia.

Today we are talking about intermetatarsal bursitis.

Intermetatarsal bursitis

What is bursitis? 

An inflammation or irritation of the bursa. A bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that provides cushioning and reduces friction, between and around the joints of the forefoot. Irritation of the bursa can cause swelling and pain (bursitis). The intermetatarsal bursae are located on the bottom of the foot near the base of the toes.

Bursitis can also affect other parts of the body – back of the heel/Achilles tendon, the knee, hip, shoulder and elbow.

How did I get this? 

Generally, bursitis can occur through injury or repetitive motion causing irritation and inflammation. They can become irritated when one metatarsal bone takes more load than others.

Wearing narrow or excessively worn footwear during the day and different sporting activities can increase your chance of developing bursitis. Other factors can include;

  • Overuse or excessive pressure on the forefoot
  • Stress from abnormal foot mechanics
  • Injury from a fall or hit to the area
  • Less commonly due to certain types of arthritis; rheumatoid arthritis, gout, psoriatic arthritis

If I had bursitis, what would it feel like? 

Friction can cause the space between the tendon, bone and skin to become inflamed – causing swelling, pain and possibly redness of the surrounding area.

Irritation and restricted movement of the affected joint may be evident and certain footwear or activities may exacerbate pain.

What do I do next? 

  • Apply ice to the area – this can help reduce inflammation
  • Rest and avoid painful activities
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories  if advised by your pharmacist
  • Orthotics
  • Footwear changes, avoid high heels!
  • Reduce the amount of pressure being place placed on the bursa through off loading
  • In chronic cases, injections of local anaesthetic and corticosteroid may be required in combination with padding

 

It’s important to attend a podiatry consult for assessment to determine the root cause, as other injuries can produce similar symptoms. Podiatrist may advise you on appropriate shoes and can also add padding to off load the pressure, prescribe orthotics and refer for any imaging that may be needed to rule out other conditions.

 

Contact us on 1300 847 226 or make an appointment online to speak with one of our friendly podiatrists about helping you get back on your feet sooner!

 

14/07/2016
fungal toenails

The battle of the fungal nail!

 

Fungal toenails or onychomycosis is common, unpleasant and persistent in nature. Accounting for almost half of all nail problems, this slow growing infection occurs when microscopic fungi gain entry to the nail, usually through small trauma. Trauma allows the pathogen to enter the nail and nail bed.

 

 

 

 

Other causes 

  • Fungal organisms grow and spread in warm, moist environments and are usually picked up in warm damp areas like socks, shoes, public pools, gyms and showers.
  • Not drying off the feet thoroughly following showers or exercise and wearing tight shoes or socks, can provide conditions the fungus needs for growth.
  • People who have a compromised immune system, diabetes, circulatory problems and the elderly are particularly susceptible.

 

Symptoms

Fungal nail infections are contagious and can often spread from skin to nails. The poor cosmetic appearance that usually develops can cause some embarrassment. Nails can become discoloured, thickened, brittle, rough and weaken. Sometimes the infection can occur with an odour and can cause discomfort.

 

Types of Onychomycosis

Distal subungual onychomycosismost common form of fungal nail that can cause the nail to become yellow brownish in colour, thickened, rough or crumbling.

Superficial white onychomycosisthis type of infection occurs on the outer surface and often appears as white spots. It is the easiest type of infection to treat.

Proximal subungual onychomycosis – occurs in the area of new nail growth at the beginning of the nail and is the least common.

Candida onychomycosis – typically occurs after trauma or damage to the nail that allows the fungus to invade. Most often occurs in people who frequently have their feet in water.

 

Treatment

As many people with fungal toenails can appreciate, it’s often difficult to eradicate fungal toenail infections, and like most things, prevention is always better than cure. Treatment varies depending on the type of fungal nail infection and the amount of nail involved, so it’s best to chat to your podiatrist who can recommend the best treatment option for your type of onychomycosis. In many cases nail lacquer medications are used, and in severe cases oral antifungal medication from your doctor, however this comes with potential side-effects.

 

Preventative measures

  • Wear protective shoes in public showers and pool areas.
  • Wash your feet regularly and dry them thoroughly when they get wet.
  • Change socks daily, more regularly if you have increase perspiration or exercise.
  • Avoid leaving toenail polish in place for long periods of time, wearing nail polish is not advised for those people who are suffering from nail fungus as it may encourage it to grow.
  • Avoid nail solons who re-use their nail instruments, all instruments should be sterilised using an autoclave.
  • Wear properly fitting shoes

 

If you suspect a toenail fungus, it’s recommended you see your podiatrist before it spreads. Podiatrists also have a tool to reduce thickness of fungal nails, this can enable topical medication to absorb and penetrate the nail easier, provide comfort of thickened nails and can help improve the appearance of the nail.

 

If you or someone you know would benefit from fungal nail treatment, please give us a call or book an appointment online at any of our podiatry clinics in Warragul, Drouin, Beaconsfield or Cranbourne.

11/07/2016
Diabetes

Understanding the need to look after your feet when you have diabetes

 

What is diabetes?

The pancreas is no longer able to make insulin, or the body cannot make good use of the insulin it does produce.

Insulin enables glucose (sugar), from the food we eat to pass from the blood stream into the cells in the body to make energy.

Not being able to produce insulin or use it effectively can cause raised sugar levels (hyperglycaemia). Over the long-term high sugar levels can damage some tissues and organs in the body.

Type 1 diabetes is usually caused by an auto-immune reaction where the body’s defence system attacks cells that produce insulin. It can occur at any age, however it is more common in children or young adults. Injections of insulin to control sugar levels in the blood is required.

Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body is no longer using insulin efficiently. Sugar builds up in bloodstream and the cells are starved of energy. There may be a family history to developing type 2 diabetes or environmental triggers.

Diabetes and the feet come hand in hand (or foot in foot).

 

Every year, more than 4,400 amputations are carried out as a result of diabetes. (https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/national-diabetes-week). Foot complications with diabetes are becoming more prevalent. Prevention through education, understanding foot complications, signs and symptoms and regular assessment is required to prevent hospitalisation and risk of amputation.

 

Some foot concerns:

  • Nerve damage (peripheral neuropathy) and poor circulation in the feet (peripheral arterial disease).
  • Loss of feeling, tingling, burning sensation and numbness.
  • Poor healing, cramping.
  • Increase rate of infection.
  • Foot ulcers or sores that may have delayed healing.
  • Changes in shape which can cause an increase in pressure .
  • Hammer or claw toes, bunions, arthritis.
  • Charcot’s arthropathy.
  • A rare condition that occurs with good blood flow to the feet and numbness (peripheral neuropathy) – red, hot, swollen foot, rocker bottom foot.

 

 

Peripheral neuropathy explained

  • Insensitivity or loss of ability to feel; touch, pressure, vibration, pain, heat, cold or perception/position.
  • You may not realise you have a cut, blister, corn or footwear rubbing. The damage caused may not heal adequately, which may cause ulceration in some cases.
  • Check feet daily for cuts and redness and blisters etc.

 

 

Poor circulation explained

  • Reduced blood flow and nutrients to the feet
  • Swelling and dryness and impaired healing process
  • Cold feet
  • Painful calves when walking or at night in bed
  • Delayed or reduced healing rate in the feet
  • Improve – activity, avoid smoking, reduce caffeine
  • Control cholesterol and blood sugar levels

 

 

Regular podiatry and foot check-ups or assessments are an important part of preventative care for your feet to prevent serious complications. Diabetes assessment every 3-12 months and more regularly treatment for hard skin, corns and nail care is recommended. 

 

 

Quick and painless tests by your podiatrist include:

  • Vascular assessment with an ultrasound testing the amount of blood flow to the feet.
  • Neurological assessment testing sensation and your ability to feel.
  • Gait (Walking) assessment to assess any increase in pressure due to the change in foot shape.
  • Footwear assessment to ensure suitable footwear and fit.
  • Skin and nail care to prevent any ingrowing toenails, painful corns and pressure areas.

 

 

Preventing foot complications and self-managing tips

  • Control your blood sugar levels to reduce the risk of damage to your feet.
  • Keeping moving! Blood flow is important for healthy feet.
  • Stop smoking – smoking slows down blood flow to the extremities.
  • Check feet daily – with a mirror to observe for any cuts or red marks that require attention.
  • Good foot hygiene is important. Wash and dry your feet thoroughly daily.
  • Be careful with trimming toes nails and avoid cutting down the side.
  • Wear comfortable socks and shoes.
  • Get fitted professionally for shoes at the end of the day to reduce risk of poorly fitting shoes causing blisters.
  • Avoid uncomfortable or tight shoes that rub or cut into your feet.
  • Avoid high heels and pointed toes.
  • Look inside your shoes daily for any stones, or prominent lining to avoid rubbing against your feet causing blisters.
  • Avoid walking barefoot.
  • Wear comfortable socks that are a good fit and aren’t too tight.
  • Prevent dry skin by applying moisturise daily, avoid cream between the toes.
  • See a podiatrist regularly to trim off callous, remove corns and trim toenails.
  • Podiatry diabetes assessment.

 

 

In summary…

Of course not all foot problems will require a hospital visit, but they can vary from minor complications to wounds that won’t heal. Serious complications can be avoided through self-management and through regular check-ups.

Simple injuries such as corns, cuts, or callouses, when combined with loss of sensation in the feet can mean that these injuries go unnoticed. If untreated they may not heal due to lack of blood supply and infection can occur. Foot assessment by a podiatrist is recommended to establish your foot health status by determining the blood flow and sensation in your feet and identify any potential risk areas.

 

  • Look at your feet daily.
26/05/2016
Cold Feet
Those of us who experience cold feet know they can be troublesome and uncomfortable and at times can stop you sleeping at night. Cold feet mostly affect us in winter months and in some cases
can lead to chilblains and poor healing, it can be more problematic as we age due to a decrease in circulation.
The simplest reason is a lack of warmth. Cold temperatures can cause constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels in our limbs, decreasing the flow of blood to our extremities. In absences of chilly weather other internal factors may be leading to our cold feet.
Raynauds Disease, Lupus, Neuropathy, Anemia, Diabetes, and Poor circulation are some common conditions that can also lead to cold feet.
Prevention is best by avoiding activities and habits that restrict circulation.
Wearing comfortable and warm clothing. You may often find that by warming up your hands you can often warm up your feet and vice versa. Gloves, thick socks and comfortable closed footwear are a few simple ways this can be done.
Stop smoking . Smoking can affect your blood vessels similar to the way the cold does, by causing them to constrict (get smaller), thus less blood (and warmth) travels down to the feet. Long term smoking can lead to long term effects on the feet and permanent decrease in blood supply.
Avoid coffee.  It is sad but true. Caffeine can also constrict blood vessels in the feet and legs, causing less blood flow and warmth. Replace that morning coffee with decaffeinated coffee or tea.
Keep active so the blood flow keeps pumping, just don’t go walking around in bare feet or on wet grass!
Soak your feet in warm water (not hot) for several minutes to warm your feet.
Address the underlying medical reason your feet may be getting cold by getting it checked out by your GP or podiatrist. As podiatrists we can test your circulation with the help of a Doppler
ultrasound. By using a Doppler ultrasound, we can see on a chart what your blood vessels are doing and hear the quality of the blood flow.

We know how much you love to be active, we love it too! Our friendly team are here to help keep your feet happy and healthy. Contact us for an appointment at our Cranbourne, Beaconsfield, Drouin or Warragul Clinics or make an appointment online.

26/11/2015
Summer Footwear

Summer Footwear

During an Australian Summer it is very clear that everybody’s favourite summer footwear are thongs. They are so easy to slip on, don’t require any bending down to put on or fiddling with any laces. Throughout history there has been a war between thongs and Podiatrists; thongs have typically been flat pieces of rubber that offer no support and by the end of the day have everyone begging for a foot massage. Well, no more! The War has finally ended and I am happy to say that both sides have won.

 

There are thongs that now offer arch support. You can walk around all day without the same discomfort you used to have from your old pair of thongs. The best part is that they are stylish as well as comfortable. Come into our Warragul clinic to check them out.

 

Lynette Stokie

Your Freindly Neighbourhood Podiatrist

www.thepodiatrygroup.com.au