Our Podiatrist / Chiropodist, Tony Gavin has appeared on BBC Radio Manchester as their foot expert, and has also given interviews with local newspapers and radio stations. Most recently Tony was interviewed by Heather Stott live on BBC Radio Manchester. Tony explained the role of a Podiatrist, the difference between a Podiatrist and a Chiropodist and gave advice on the care of your feet. The full recording of Tonys interview can be found here.
Diabetes is a condition which is affecting a growing number of the population. Most people understand that diabetes has an effect on blood glucose, but fewer understand the implications for feet. Common changes to a diabetic foot include: Dry skin (anhidrotic) Change in shape of the foot (extensor substitution) Hard skin Lack of sensation (neuropathy) Diabetes can lead to dry skin, to effects on the autonomic nervous system. Dry (anhidrotic) skin is more likely to crack or split (fissures). This poses a risk as it can create a portal of infection. It is advisable to moisturise the feet on a [...]
Who can get an Ingrown Toenail? People who cut their nails too short. People who wear shoes that are too tight. Active people who are prone to sweaty feet. People who have foot deformities. People with inherited naturally wide nails. If left untreated any infection can spread to the rest of the foot, it is best to seek treatment as soon as possible. How do I prevent ingrown toenails? Cut your toenails straight across, avoid cutting down the sides. Ensure the corner of the nail is visible over the skin after cutting. Rotate footwear to reduce the chance of moist [...]
Diabetics have an increased risk of complications with their foot health. This is due to a number of reasons which include: Reduced sensation in the feet (poly-distal neuropathy) Poor blood supply to the feet Changes in the structure of the foot (flexor substitution) Changes in the skin (anhidrotic) It is important that on a daily basis the feet are checked visually at least. This may involve using a mirror if you find it difficult to see the soles of your feet, or asking someone else to look for you. Any breaks in the skin, redness, swelling or heat should prompt [...]
On Tuesday 10th March 2009 we were delighted to welcome the Mayor of Tameside, Councillor Jack Davis, to Davenport House Clinic. The visit was to increase the awareness of complications in the feet for people with Diabetes. The Mayor had a tour of the premises and received a free foot assessment from our Podiatrist, Tony Gavin. The Mayor was very pleased to receive a clean bill of health from Tony. Podiatrist, Tony Gavin said: "We should all check our feet daily for any early signs that something may be wrong" "Most people don't consider their foot health until there is [...]
What is a verruca? It is a wart, caused by the human papilloma virus, and they exist on the sole of the foot, usually on weight bearing areas. What treatments are available? There are many claims on the internet for miracle cures of verrucae, but there is only limited evidence for even the most traditional methods. Common treatments with an evidence base include: cryotherapy, caustics, homeopathic, and electrosurgery. Which one is best? There are many factors that need to taking into account, such as your health status, occupation, activity levels, age and skin type. Many treatments are available over the [...]
Gait analysis is the study of how we walk. We all have a pattern of walk which is unique to us. Many of us suffer from pain in our feet, ankles, knees or hips which can be caused by the way that we walk. These problems are often more pronounced if you are particularly active, as the forces going through your joints are so much higher. The majority of people will encounter foot pain at some stage in their life. How does a podiatrist analyse gait? Checking the wear pattern on your footwear. Observing your standing posture. Observing your walking [...]
When the festive season approaches, and invites start to arrive, new shoes are usually not too far from many peoples thoughts. We have all bought new shoes which look fabulous, but after wearing them our feet feel anything but fabulous. People think that podiatrists would always tell ladies not to wear party shoes; well we wouldn't turn up to a formal evening in ugly but comfortable shoes ourselves. Things to consider... Are they car to bar? How far will I have to walk in them? If it's just a case of from car to bar, then you can make a [...]
You may well be suffering with foot pain due to corns (heloma durum) on the soles of the feet. They can feel like you are walking on pebbles, and make every pair of shoes you own uncomfortable. When you look at your feet there appears to be just some hard skin, and you may have tried rubbing the skin with a file but can't seem to shift the problem. Your next step may have been to buy a corn plaster, and that may have just made a mess of your skin, so what should you do now? Well, let's first [...]
In achieving accredited status, we not only undertook a careful review ofthe practice, and asked another registered Podiatrist to check our findings, but we also agreed to the clinic being inspected by independent inspectors appointed by the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists. Our standards exceded expectation and we were proud to achieve accredited status. The accreditation scheme requires that: Patient confidentiality is respected and proper care is taken with patient records, both when used and later when they are destroyed. Our practice working methods are constantly reviewed. All instruments are properly cleaned and sterilised before they are used. All staff [...]