Chiropody
The human foot is a complicated part of the human body, consisting of 26 bones bound by ligaments, supported by muscles and supplied with blood vessels and nerves. Feet are in constant use and are often subject to considerable strain which may cause injury.
"If your feet hurt, they may be indicating a more serious condition so it is essential to seek professional advice."
Common Foot Ailments
Corns
Corns are caused by friction and pressure. They do not have roots and the cause is also often due to bone deformity.
Callouses
These are a symptom, not a disease, and the cause must be corrected before the callouses can be cured. Chronic corns and callouses require periodic professional care. However, in some instances, surgical ororthopaedic measures may be required to effect a cure. On no account should one engage in home treatments - foot infection is dangerous.
Excessive Perspiration
This can cause foot odour. Daily bathing and regular application of a medicated foot powder can help in many cases. When these fail, you should visit a Chiropodist for professional advice.
Bunions
These are caused by a weakness of the ligamentous and muscular structures of the foot and leg. The tendency for them to form may be hereditary, but factors such as stress and strain and interference from shoes can alsobring about this deformity. When these joints are red, swollen or tender, see a Chiropodist, as these signs may indicate the formation of a bunion, arthritis, gout or infection. A bunion on the joint of the little toe is known as a tailor’s bunion.
Warts (or Verrucae
These are often mistaken for corns or callouses. A wart has a blood and nerve supply of its own. They are usually extremely painful and tend to spread if left untreated.
Athlete’s Foot
This is a skin disease caused by a fungus. This fungus most commonly attacks the feet where it thrives best because of the warm, dark and sometimes moist environment it finds inside the shoe. The main cause of athlete’s foot is the lowering of the skin’s resistance. Practice good foot hygiene! The skin must be bathed daily; be kept dry by changing socks or tights frequently; and a mild fungicidal drying powder used on the feet and in the shoes.
Registered Surgical Chiropodists.
Heather is a Registered Surgical Chiropodist
Member of The Association of Chiropodists & Podiatrists, HCPC Registered G.C.S.Ch., M.Inst.Ch.P., M.F.S.Ch.
Kristina Smith S.A.C DIP, R.F.H.P., M.P.S.C.
Lena Mae Mariot S.A.C. Dip., R.F.H.P
Agnes Pringle S.A.C Dip R.F.H.P
Heather or Kristina will make an initial assessment of your problem, devise the treatment, explain and agree the treatment to be carried out and give after-care advice.
Including: Callouses - Dry skin - Corns - Cracked Heels - Ingrown toe nails - Verrucas - Diabetes - Fungal and general foot problems.