Know The Differences Between A Chiropodist And Podiatrist

chiropodist

One of the primary reasons why people fail to treat their foot pain at the right time is because they are not sure whether they should visit a podiatrist or chiropodist. Though both these professionals specialise in dealing with various types of foot conditions, they undergo different types of training.

According to a survey conducted recently, people who were earlier referred to as chiropodists are nowadays known as podiatrists. The latter undergo training and can deal with various issues and foot conditions. If you are suffering from diabetic ulcers, biomechanics or other dermatological problems, you can get in touch with a podiatrist.

3 Reasons To Approach A Podiatrist Or Chiropodist

  • Diabetes

You might have diabetes once your body becomes incapable of making adequate insulin or can’t use it the right way. The chances of damaging the nerves in your feet will increase if you have diabetes. It might also reduce the flow of blood to your feet. If you want to prevent the condition from causing severe complications in your feet, get in touch with a podiatrist or chiropodist. They are aware of the early warning signs and will offer proper treatment and advice.

  • Bunions And Hammertoes

Get in touch with a podiatrist if you notice that the big toe has started deviating towards the lesser toes. Bunions can happen due to a wide variety of reasons and often become a cause of embarrassment and stress. Even if the condition is painless, you will have a tough time when buying footwear. Hammer’s toes is also a very common foot condition when the lesser toes become incapable of straightening up and remains fixed in a bent position.

  • Heel Pain

Since our feet have to take a lot of strain and stress every day, it might become painful at times. Instead of ignoring the heel pain, get in touch with a chiropodist. Two common reasons for heel pain are poor footwear or spraining your leg while playing sports. Chiropodists and podiatrists generally conduct a biomechanical gait analysis assessment to diagnose the condition before customising a suitable treatment plan.

Why Visit The Footman To Treat Foot Conditions?

If you are not yet sure whether you should visit a podiatrist or a chiropodist to treat your foot conditions, trust John The Footman. He specialises in both podiatry and chiropody care. With more than 40 years of experience in treating various foot problems, he can deliver complete podiatric care.

3 Easy Foot Care Tips By Podiatrists For Diabetic Patients

Foot Clinic

If you think that the only responsibility of a diabetic patient is to control their blood sugar levels, this is not the case. Not everyone is aware of the fact that diabetics can have a devastating effect on your body, including your feet. If you want to keep it protected and reduce the risk of an infection, get in touch with an experienced podiatrist. They will assess the condition of your feet and share a few easy foot care tips to avoid any complication. They will also let you know whether the foot care products available in the market will irritate your skin or increase the risk of infection.

Few Foot Care Tips For Diabetic Patients

  • Inspect Your Feet Everyday

Take a closer look at your feet and check whether there is any crack, wound or sore. If you can’t see your feet clearly, place a mirror below your feet or ask your friend to do a visual inspection and inform you if they notice a sore or cracks. Nerve damage is very common among diabetic patients which can lead to cracks and sores in your feet. If you ever notice that the skin has become cracked or dry or there is a change in its colour, it’s time to visit a podiatrist.

  • Don’t Test Water Temperature With Your Feet

If you have the tendency to check whether the bath water is too hot or cold using your feet. Neuropathy or nerve damage might make your feet less sensitive to temperature. You might not even realise that the hot water is scalding your skin before it’s too late. Severe damages in your feet like burns and blisters can even increase the risk of a foot infection. If you want to check the water temperature in the bathtub or shower, use your elbow and not your feet.

  • Avoid Staying Barefoot

Every trained podiatrist will advice diabetic patients to avoid walking barefoot, irrespective of whether they are walking inside or outside their home. Choose shoes which will cover your feet completely and reduce the chances of penetration by splinters, small cuts or scrapes. Neuropathy makes diabetic patients incapable of noticing these damages until they become infected.

These being said, it’s time every diabetic patient starts following the tips stated above and visit a podiatrist at fixed intervals.

Proper Foot Care Practices

Foot Care Practices

Our feet bear our weights and lead us on the paths of glory daily. Healthy feet are the key to a healthy life. Just like the rest of our body, our feet deserve regular care and check-ups. It is essential to know the right foot care practices. Visiting a reliable foot clinic can go a long way in ensuring the health and hygiene of your feet and in turn, your entire body. Here is all that you need to know about acceptable foot care practices.

Why is proper foot care so critical?

Our feet are responsible for 6% muscles, 18% joints, and 25% bones of a human body. They help us in almost all regular activities such as walking, skipping, running, dancing, swimming, etc . Since our feet consist of numerous delicate tendons and tissues, it is easy to damage them with excessive wear and tear. Untended feet can lead to a long-term injury to the lower back, knees, and spinal cord.

Types of feet problems

A professional at a foot clinic can help you with a variety of foot ailments. They have extensive knowledge and have proven methods to help alleviate painful feet conditions. Feet pains and illnesses are common among adults as well as children. The general feet problems include:

  • Fungal nails
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Athlete’s foot
  • Aches and pains
  • Callus and corns
  • Flat Feet
  • Bunions
  • Diabetic Feet

What can you do to keep your feet healthy?

Healthy feet must be dry and clean at all times. Ensure thorough scrubbing and cleaning of your feet regularly, especially between the toes. Proper drying of feet and avoiding shared footwear can go a long way in contributing to the health of your feet. Frequent examination of your feet is necessary to detect any disease or injury at an early stage. Regular foot care appointments are indispensable if you have diabetes. Make sure you choose the right kind of footwear that does not tire out your feet. Avoiding tight and uncomfortable shoes can provide relief to your feet.

Therefore, you cannot afford to neglect your feet if you want to lead a happy and healthy life. John The Footman is a known name in the foot clinic industry. The company is famous for its impeccable feet care services for all kinds of ailments at competitive prices.

Take Care of Your Feet Following A Few Simple Tips

foot clinic

As the saying goes “Out of sight, out of mind”. Your feet do not get as much attention as the rest of your body. They are usually covered with shoes and slippers both at home and when you go out. It is only at times when you encounter pain, or an injury is when you look for a Farnham foot clinic. Sometimes, regular neglect of your feet is the cause of pain and discomfort. You can control things going out of hand with a few simple habits like:

  • Maintain good foot hygiene. Since your feet come into contact with the floor directly most of the time, it gets dirty often. Always remember to rinse and dry your feet after you come home and before you go to bed. This will prevent any bacterial or fungal growth due to dirt or dampness.

  • Wear shoes that fit you well. Always buy comfortable shoes. A shoe that is very tight, poorly made or oddly shaped is awful for your feet. Wearing tight shoes for prolonged periods can damage the bones of your foot. It can be excruciating to deal with.

  • Take extra care when you are in public. Public restrooms, changing rooms and showers have high chances of giving you an infection. Avoid them whenever possible, wear shower shoes and clean your feet thoroughly afterwards to be safe.

  • Listen to the concerns of your feet at the right time. Keep checking your feet from time to time. Look for any signs of damage and infection and get them treated at the earliest. The more you delay, the worse and painful it gets.

In case of any foot issues, you can get it checked at John The Footman, one of the best Farnham foot clinics. With over four decades of experience in the industry, you will be relieved of all your foot problems here.

Prepare Your Feet for the Summer

foot clinic

As summer arrives, it is time to put on your sandals and head out in the sun. Footcare is something most of us often neglect during the winter season. Everyone forgets to take proper care of their skin and most importantly, their feet. If you regularly visit a foot clinic, it will help you to take care of various issues.

There are specific issues that individuals regularly face during the summer days. In this post, we will discuss some helpful tips to take care of your feet during this season.

Footwear

During summer we prefer to opt for the flip flops and sandals. After the winters, there are changes in our footwear. Hardened skin may form around the heels and make an extra padded and protective area in the winter season. This is missing in the summer season. Hardened skin that provides more support and stability to the feet. However, excessive rubbing and movement can give rise to corns and blisters to your feet.

So, it is crucial to find a shoe that is comfortable to wear during summer. If you are out for a long time, do opt for some footwear with better comfort.

Verruca

Verruca is most common during a warm and moist climate. When humidity increases, Verruca becomes more prevalent. They are most common among children. We will suggest you go to a clinic and get proper treatment for it.

Fungal nails

There is a specific fungus that sticks to the skin. These are called Dermatophytes. During fungal infection, these dermatophytes increase in number. Fungal infections in the nail, nail trauma, and increase in nail temperature, are common during this season.

These can be treated through various home remedies such as snakeroot extract, tea tree oil, oregano oil, olive leaf extract, vinegar, and so on. But it is always better to contact a foot clinic and book an appointment with the experts.

Nail polish

Polishing the nail is a natural process that helps to beautify the nails. But you may be unaware of the fact that this may lead to many skin problems such as fungal infections.

It is never a good idea to cover the infected parts with nail polish again. It is always a better option to visit a podiatrist if such an issue occurs.

It’s time to pamper your feet with these easy tricks. Yes, keeping them in the best condition is difficult.

Do contact a podiatrist to get the most reliable foot care services. John the Footman offers a fantastic package for all types of foot care treatments that you may need.

Visit a reputed foot clinic and keep your feet happy!

Visiting A Foot Clinic? 3 Skills To Look For In A Podiatrist

foot clinic

Though there are numerous foot clinics, it is always advisable to choose one where there is an experienced podiatrist to deal with the issues in your feet.  A podiatrist has the experience and expertise required to assess the condition of your feet before suggesting the most suitable treatment. They specialise in healing foot injuries or diseases which are affecting your foot or can do so in the future.

Few Skills Every Podiatrist Should Possess

  • Analytical Skills

Some of the foot problems are indeed very complicated. There are even a few situations when minor issues become complex when ignored. A good podiatrist is someone who possesses a high level of analytic skills.  They often use scientific principles while analysing the problem in your foot. Having good analytical skills is a must if you are looking for long-lasting solutions. Gauging this skill in your podiatrist will become easier if you consider the types of questions they are asking you during the first visit.

  • Pay Attention To Details

Your podiatrist electing the most suitable treatment plan for your foot will become easier if your podiatrist goes through your previous medical history first. It is necessary to determine the actual cause of the problem and how to treat it. There are high chances for a new foot problem to emerge while they are treating an existing problem. The more detail-oriented services your podiatrist can provide, finding the most suitable solution will be easier for them. He should also pay close attention to what his patient is saying.

Since you are now aware of all the vital skills a podiatrist should possess, it’s time you visit a reputed foot clinic.

Podiatrist in Aldershot

Podiatrist in Aldershot
Doctor who diagnoses and treats foot problems or foot-related ailments is called a podiatrist. These professionals are also known as the doctor of podiatric medicine or DPM. They basically treat your foot, ankle, as well as the other connecting parts of the leg. A chiropodist is another name that we commonly use for these professionals.

When to Meet a Podiatrist

Since they are the foot doctors, you need to see them whenever you have issues in your foot, ankle or the foot joints. A podiatrist in Aldershot will check your foot, diagnose and offer you the right treatment.  When visting a reliable and experienced chiropodist for a  diagnosis, they may suggest some clinical tests to find out what causes the pain or the discomfort in your foot or ankle.

The Most Common Problems Related to Foot conditions:

  • Warts
  • Corns
  • Nail infections
  • Smelly feet
  • Blisters
  • Heel pain
  • Heel spurs
  • Ingrown toenails
  • Dry skin
  • Cracked heel
  • Calluses
  • Flat Feet
  • Arthritis
  • Sprains
  • Neuromas
  • Hammer’s toes
  • Foot injuries
  • Muscle or foot ligament pain
When you are experiencing any of these problems in your foot, you should consider this as a sign that you need to meet a certified podiatrist. Apart from these common issues, there are other severe and specific feet ailments that a certified podiatrist can treat and heal.
  • Walking patterns
  • Wound care
  • Ulcers
  • Tumours
  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Bunion removal
  • Flexible casts
  • Amputations
  • Foot prosthetics
Apart from all these issues, you can visit a podiatrist to understand and know how to take good care of your feet. Especially if you are a dancer, an athlete or a person who needs to use his or her foot frequently for their profession, then it is necessary to take good care of them. A certified and experienced foot doctor can help you with this. Whenever you need to meet a professional foot doctor, come to John the Footman. We offer different types of treatments and care for your foot.

Take Proper Care Of Your Feet This Summer With 4 Easy Tips

foot care tips

One of the main reasons why our feet need extra care during summer is because we stuff them with socks and shoes throughout the winter. Unless you take proper foot care, the strappy sandals might give you a few blisters. If you are planning to indulge in various outdoor activities during summer, this is the right time to visit a foot clinic. They have experienced podiatrists and chiropodists who can share a few tips to take better care of your foot during summer.

Few Tips To Take Care Of Your Feet This Summer

  • Keep Them Moisturised

There is a higher tendency for the skin on our feet to lose their moisture and natural oils during winter, which makes them dry and cracked. Not everyone is aware of the fact that sandaled feet can pick up debris easily. There is a higher risk of infection as the debris can get lodged in the cracks. If you want to get back their lost appeal, moisturise them and they will keep looking fresh. You can also prevent cracks by keeping them moisturised.

  • Avoid A Pedicure

Pedicure often leads to foot problems as the soaking tubs and equipment used at salons are not sanitised. Bacterial infections and toenail fungus can transmit from one customer to another. If you are too inclined to get a pedicure, schedule an early appointment as the tubs are clean. The best alternative is to approach a foot clinic in Farnham for professional foot care. They use hospital-grade disinfectant on tools and equipment.

  • Treat Dry Heels

The easiest way to treat dry heels is by cleaning them properly and moisturising them with petroleum jelly and lotion. Leave them for a while and wear cotton socks before going to bed. This will help in keeping the moisture locked. You can also use a pumice stone to get rid of the dead skin cells after taking a shower.

  • Cure Sweaty Foot

The sweaty foot is a very common foot problem. Visit a foot clinic in Aldershot if you notice that your socks are damp every time you take them off. They have experienced podiatrists and chiropodists who will assess your foot condition and customise a suitable solution to reduce the risk of fungal infection. There are a few medicated products available in the market which helps in reducing sweat production.

These being said, it’s time you follow the tips stated above and visit a reputed foot clinic if you want to take care of your feet this summer.

Are You A Diabetic? Visit A Foot Clinic Before It’s Too Late

foot clinic

The prolonged periods of high blood sugar levels are considered to be the primary reason why people with diabetes are more likely to suffer from foot problems. The number of people with diabetics visiting foot clinics has enhanced drastically in the last few years as foot problems like peripheral vascular diseases and diabetic neuropathy have become quite common. You will be surprised to know that several foot amputations take place every year because of poorly managed or unmanaged diabetes.

2 Types Of Foot Issues People With Diabetes Have To Suffer

  • Diabetic Neuropathy

People suffering from diabetic neuropathy do not feel much awareness in their feet if there is a wound or infection as the issue numbs the feet. Nerve damage caused due to diabetes can also make the feet numb and you can’t feel sensation even in their extremities. The risk of sores, cuts and blisters increases as the feet lacks sensation. If you don’t want the issue to become more complicated and gangrene, ulcers or infection to develop, get in touch with a podiatrist in Farnham treating foot conditions caused due to diabetic neuropathy.

  • Peripheral Vascular Disease

How blood flows in blood vessels and arteries will change if you have diabetes. Fat might deposit in the blood vessels beyond your heart and brain and lead to blockage if you have peripheral vascular disease. The issue can also become extreme and reduce the amount of blood flowing to the hands and feet. Not only will it take more time for wounds to heal if blood flow reduces but also lead to infection and pain. Instead of waiting for the doctor to recommend amputation, treat your foot condition.

Common Symptoms Of Foot Problems

  • Tingling sensation or numbness
  • Loss of feeling
  • Rapid temperature changes
  • Wounds or blisters without pain
  • Skin discolouration
  • Draining wounds
  • Staining on socks
  • Red streaks
  • Wounds without drainage
  • Painful tingling

 Tips For Diabetics To Prevent Foot Problems

  • Examine your foot minutely and visit a foot clinic in Farnhamif you suddenly notice an injury or other changes.
  • Wash your feet properly as it helps in preventing foot infections.
  • Wear properly fitted shoes and socks to keep your feet protected. You can also ask your podiatrist to suggest some type of special shoes which will prevent your feet from getting deformed. Make sure that the socks are not too tight as they can restrict the flow of blood.
  • Do some feet exercises, wiggle your toes at fixed intervals and put your feet up while sitting if you want to promote the flow of blood to the feet.
  • Avoid rounded toenails as they can lead to infection by growing inward. Trim them straight and short.
  • Visit a renowned podiatrist to treat the bunions and corns in your feet instead of shaving them as it can lead to infection.

Since you now know why people with diabetics have to take special care of their feet, visit a reputed foot clinic before it’s too late.

5 Typical Foot Problems and Their Treatments

foot care clinic

A foot constitutes one of the essential parts of your body. That’s the reason when the feet get affected by some ailment or injury then it becomes seemingly challenging to cope up with it. Feet are meant for walking, and so it comes in direct contact with dust, dirt, and germs to a great extent. There are many more elements that can create trouble for your feet. Some of the popular reasons being infection, bone disorders, stress in the muscle, and so on. They cause excessive difficulty to carry on with the primary function of the feet. When such a condition arises, visit a podiatrist or a chiropodist, a healthcare professional dealing with the stream of podiatric medicine or treatment of ailments and injuries associated with the foot.  You can use the service in any of the reputed foot clinics in and around the UK. Here is a short overview of a few typical foot problems.

Five common foot conditions that people suffer from and their treatments

Diabetic Foot: 

This is a severe condition occurring to people with a long history of Diabetes Mellitus. The person suffering from this ailment is unable to feel the sensation in their feet. It takes longer to treat wounds, and that’s the reason they get prone to infection more. Even if the surgery takes place in the feet, then also the situation might turn severe and so it is essential to visit a podiatrist at the earliest whenever a symptom related to sensation has occurred.

Flat Foot: 

This is another common problem caused due to the wrong shape of the feet. When the feet do not have a defined arch in the middle part, then the entire sole of the feet keep on touching the ground as one walks. This lead to a painful and irritable condition. The pain might extend to other parts of the body, such as knees, calf muscles, and even to hips and lower back. Visit a foot clinic, and a chiropodist will guide you with the exercises and solutions like wearing ankle braces or proper insole shoes to control the pain and inflammation if any.

Bunion: 

This is the bumpy joint caused due to the big toe pushing against the second toe. The bump tends to get sored and red causing pain. If someone continuously wears tight shoes with a narrow tip, then this problem is more likely to occur. It can be a hereditary consequence as well, but in both cases, it is excessively painful. Wearing shoes fitting well, padding the shoes or putting in shoe inserts can relieve the pain. The advice of a podiatrist should be taken at the earliest and choosing the right medicine can eliminate the problem.

Foot Corn: 

It is the commonest of all foot problems. Everyone must have foot corns once in his/her life.  The corns occur on the sole of the feet or between toes. They mainly occur due to long walks or misfit shoes.  You can get rid of them with little care and medication.

Athlete’s Foot: 

This is a problem caused by a fungal infection. This is a contagious disease, and so it is not right to use the shoes and socks of a person suffering from this disease. This is a disease that commonly affects athletes and active people.

John the Footman is one of the renowned foot clinics offering long term respite from the common foot problems. Their experienced team of podiatrists will not only provide the perfect treatment but will also guide you with a schedule of aftercare so that the diseases don’t come back in future.