Posts

WHEN TO FIX KIDS FEET?

/in , /by

When to fix kids’ feet?

 

Worried about your child’s feet? It is important to know what is a normal presentation for a child in their age group, as opposed to what actually may be considered a “red flag” in their development. When asking the question of whether to “fix my child’s feet” it is crucially important to make an informed decision with the professional advice and assessment of health professionals. Our Podiatrists will thoroughly assess your child and determine what treatment, if any, is suitable at that time of the child’s development and will reassure you what is normal! Depending on your child’s age and the presenting condition, there are treatment windows within a child’s normal physical development within which to correct any structural abnormalities.

Did you know? Recent evidence based research on thousands of children aged 3-15 years shows the most common foot posture or foot type is a ‘flat’ or pronated foot.* From this it can be concluded that a flat foot without any other abnormal characteristics is not abnormal. So, not all “flat feet” need to be fixed as such. Foot pronation in itself is often a compensatory response to other biomechanical and structural adaptations or elements of the lower limb and rest of the body. Hence overpronation of the foot may not be a causative element but an end result, and there may be other elements of the lower limb that are better addressed first before treatment of the flatfoot is considered. 

Did you know? At birth, only some bones of the foot are formed. By only age 5, the last major bone of the foot is formed, the Navicular, which structurally forms the “arch” of the foot. 

Total Care Podiatry believes in the value of assessing children at an early age or at any age in their development to rule out any abnormalities or red flags in musculoskeletal development in particular and to reassure parents what is normal. Total Care runs a Paediatric screening clinic once monthly to offer a free assessment. We ask that to book into this clinic, a small donation be made to Kids Plus foundation. Kids Plus “offers programs that include early treatment and specific intervention strategies to improve children’s abilities across a range of developmental areas.” 

On Friday July 9th 2021, we have a Complimentary Family Foot Check clinic scheduled. If you have any concerns about a family member’s foot health, especially your child of any age; please book in for your free assessment! PH: 5223 1531

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

 

SURFCOAST TREK RECOVERY

/in , /by

There are many things to consider after the trek – these are some tips we would recommend: 

  1. Take a recovery pair of socks and shoes. Clean and dry your feet and put these on after the event to prevent blisters. Keep warm. 
  2. Go for brunch! Treat yourself. You will be tired, and your body will be hungry for a high protein and carb meal. It is important to refuel!
  3. A light stretch and walk in the afternoon for optimal muscle recovery 
  4. Avoid deep tissue massage in the first week – be gentle and start with light muscle recovery. If you have any pain that is disproportional to what you consider to be normal recovering muscle pain, seek advice from the appropriate healthcare professional be it your GP, physiotherapist, or podiatrist ? 

If you have any queries before the trek, come in for your free 15 minute foot check! 

PH: 5223 1531

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

YOU DON’T HAVE TO DEAL WITH SWEATY, STINKY FEET THIS WINTER!

/in , /by

Have you ever wondered why your feet smell, even during winter months?

While you might think excessive sweating or foot odor should be something you only have to deal with in summer, there are a number of things that can contribute to smelly feet in the winter.

One condition that could contribute to the cause is Hyperhidrosis – Abnormally excessive sweating involving the extremities, underarms and face, usually unrelated to body temperature or exercise.

Other Causes of Sweaty Feet

A change in the weather. Any change in the weather can trigger excessive sweating. It’s a process called autonomic regulation and it occurs when your body has to work overtime to tolerate these changes.

Fluctuations in temperature. Fluctuations in temperature – such as when you return indoors after walking in the snow – cause your feet to have to work harder to control the temperature and in doing so, they perspire.

The shoes you choose. In winter, you usually wear warm boots or non-breathing footwear like insulated or rubber boots and waterproof footwear. When your feet are enclosed, bacteria thrive, and they can’t air out.

Layering thick socks. While wearing several pairs of socks can keep your feet toasty and warm, it also locks the sweat in, leading to foot odor. Also, wearing multiple layers of socks can cause friction and pressure and corns and calluses can develop, which may also add to excessive sweating and odor.

Dry skin. Because the air is drier during winter months, our skin tends to dry out more quickly, and the dead skin provides food for the bacteria that can trigger smelly feet.

Cures for Sweaty Feet

There are a number of things you can do to avoid foot odor this winter.

  • Remove your warm boots as soon as you’re back indoors, so they can air out to avoid overheating of your feet.
  • To make sure that the footwear you wear one day dries completely, switch to a dry pair the next day because moistness equals more bacteria.
  • Be sure to change your layers of socks often if you tend to sweat a lot and wear socks that will wick moisture away, keep your feet cool and neutralize odors.
  • Exfoliate your feet using a pumice stone, dry brush, or loofah to remove dead skin cells from the top layer of the skin to keep your feet clean and odor-free.
  • Wear breathable footwear to give your feet a chance to air out.

If you are experiencing pain and/or discomfort during the winter months ~ please call us for an assessment today PH: 5223 1531

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

GOING SKIING THIS SEASON? Make sure you fit your ski boots correctly to avoid injury!

/in , , /by

Vital tips when it comes to Rental Ski Boots and Footwear at the snow this year

Ski boots are one of the most important pieces of equipment and a properly fitting boot will make a large difference in your skiing experience.
Ski boots are measured in Mondo sizes (Mondo (or mondopoint) sizing is basically the length of your foot in centimeters.
It is important to remember that ski boots should not fit like a pair of shoes. You want them to be tight and secure in order to maximize performance, stability and safety.
Most injuries and pain to the foot while skiing/snowboarding occur because of a boot that is too big.
Getting the sizing right goes a long way towards a comfortable time on the slopes.
Make sure to take the time with our ski boot fitting, to ensure that you can have a great day on the mountain.

Do’s

  • Wear loose-fitting pants that can be rolled up
    • Ski socks should be the only thing in your ski boots
  • A quality ski sock is made of wool or synthetic fibers.
  • Buckle up the boots before you make a fitting decision
    • Buckling up the boot will put your foot in the correct position in the boot
  • Walk around in the boot to better ensure you have a good fit
    • Keep them on while you look at skis or accessories
  • Flex your boot forward so that your foot slides into the proper ski position
    • You will naturally be flexed when you ski
  • Attach the Power Strap Firmly
    • The power strap should always be on while skiing

Don’ts

  • Wear multiple pairs of socks
    • This will cause friction in the boot, take up more space, and reduce breathability
  • Wear ankle or cotton socks
    • Your socks should come up above the top of the ski boot
  • Be afraid if your toes are touching the front
    • In a proper fit, your toes should be touching the front when you are upright
  • Choose a boot based on the color
    • Comfort over color!
  • Over tighten your bottom buckles
    • The top buckles are the ones that keep your ankle in place, not the bottom ones
  • Try on a boot based on your shoe size
    • Measure in Mondo size or centimeters
  • Forget that ski boots will continue to pack down
    • Even used ski boots will continue to break in

Don’t Forget to trim your Toenails!

Your feet probably aren’t accustomed to the tight fit of a ski boot and being slammed into the end of the toe box.
Protect your nails from damage and ingrown toenails by trimming your nails short and straight across.

If you are experiencing pain and/or discomfort during or after skiing please call us for an assessment today PH: 5223 1531

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS AND ITS EFFECT ON YOUR FEET

/in , /by

Rheumatoid Arthritis and its effect on your Feet

Is an autoimmune condition which causes inflammation in the joints of the hands and feet.

In the feet this may lead to:

  • Joint pain and reduced range of motion
  • Bunions
  • Shifting of the digits
  • Overall changes in the foot structure
  • Contraction of tendons
  • Rheumatoid nodules
  • Callous formation

Within podiatry, the goal of treatment is to decrease pain, preserve joint quality and range of motion.
We can do that by:

  • Exercises and stretches
  • Joint mobilisation
  • Orthotics 
  • Taping and/or paddings
  • Footwear recommendations
  • THOR Laser
  • Referrals to other allied health practitioners such as physiotherapists. 

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, please call us today for an appointment on 5223 1531

 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE SURF COAST TREK?

/in , /by

Free Foot & Leg Assessment

Total Care Podiatry is offering Surf Coast trek participants a complimentary Foot and Leg Assessment.  This will take into account your individual requirements and help you work out a strategy to help your feet and legs stay the distance.

Call Total Care Podiatry on 5223 1531 to book in your Complimentary Foot & Leg Assessment.

Make sure you mention that you have registered for the Surf Coast Trek.

Preparing for a long distance walk

Getting your feet ready for a 40 km trek needs a lot of planning and preparation. You’re asking a lot of your poor feet pounding into the ground, and they’ll need some TLC to get you there.

Every individual’s body will respond differently so there’s no one solution that will suit everyone, especially in an endurance event lasting many hours like the Surfcoast Trek.

Just like your fitness, preparing your feet and legs has to start early, not the week before or the day before.

During the 40 km trek, your body will change in a number of ways to keep you going. The extent of the changes will very much rely on how you’ve trained your body prior to the event.

Here’s what will happen for most of us at the 20 to 30 km mark:

  • Muscles in our core and legs will tire and as a result our walking pattern will change, placing more pressure on our joints.
  • Feet may swell causing changes in how the foot fits into the shoe, causing pressure areas, and
  • The heels may start slipping up and down in the shoe as the calf muscles tighten, increasing the risk of blister formation.

Footwear

For endurance walking the shoes you wear will have a significant bearing on whether or not you enjoy the trek. The runners you use around the house or for activities such as walking around the block will probably not be appropriate.

  • Footwear should fit your foot comfortably, not too tight or loose.
  • The upper should be made of a material that will easily breathe and allow the perspiration that your feet generate evaporates into the environment rather than build-up heat in your foot.
  • The sole should not be too stiff or controlling and provide good cushioning.
  • The toe box, (the area of the shoe where your toes are), should be deep and rounded to accommodate any swelling.
  • No part of your foot should slip in the shoes, at any time.
  • It is best if the lace area is as long as possible so you can alter the fit around the heel from the midfoot and the forefoot. You may have to adjust the lacing a number of times during the walk, to make sure your foot is supported and any pressure areas lessened.
    For more information regarding lacing techniques look here: How to Lace a Hiking Boot

Blisters

Blisters are caused by friction, where the surface of the skin is held in one place and the tissues underneath the surface are stretched to the point of tearing. It is influenced by 3 things:

1. The nature of your skin

Our skin often has different qualities depending on age, sun exposure, gender, shoes we wear etc. Some people have firm strong and resilient skin. Others have tender, thin and easily affected skin. The latter type of skin can be toughened to cope and protected for the walk using a number of different taping techniques. Skin temperature also needs to be maintained so that the skin does not become overly sweaty and moist which increases the risk of blisters.

Socks that are designed to ‘wick moisture away’; that is take the moisture away from the skin out through the sock to the other side of the sock, is the best way of managing this.

2. How your foot works

Your foot has two main functions, it has to adapt the body above to the ground beneath, and then has to be stable enough for the body to move over a solid foundation. If these functions are not working properly areas of high pressure develop which can directly cause tissue injury. The most obvious is blisters but also stress fractures and indirectly, increased risk of ligament or tendon damage as muscles get tired; often seen in cases of rolled ankles. Research shows that cushioning insoles can address the direct high-pressure areas, but the reasons why the foot is not functioning properly, causing risk of injury, needs to be understood and then addressed appropriately.

3. The level of friction.

There are many ways people use to reduce friction. For most people the best strategy is wearing well fitted merino padded socks. These socks should have built in padding to assist with small pressure areas.  If you have bony feet, or a tendency for rubbing, wearing two pairs of socks can be the solution. If you often have blisters on or in between your toes, ‘toe socks’, worn under the padded merino socks, can be the answer.

A final note on blisters, if the top of the blister rubs off and you’re left with a red raw sore, a band-aid type of dressing is not a good option as it may cause more friction. Instead, compound dressings are good for this, as is some taping, so long as your skin is not sensitive to the adhesive.

We congratulate everyone who is taking on the Surf Coast trek for the challenge it provides as well as supporting a fantastic local charity which benefits our whole community. Total Care Podiatry is proud to support your effort with a Complimentary Foot & Leg Assessment.

WARNING: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional podiatric advice. Treatment will vary between individuals depending upon your diagnosis and presenting complaint. An accurate diagnosis can only be made following personal consultation with a Podiatrist.

TOTAL CARE PODIATRY ~ FREE FAMILY FOOT CLINIC 9th July 2021

/in , /by

Free family foot clinic!

Friday 9th July 2021

15 minute FREE assessment & advice

Please arrive on time to help our family clinic run on time

Gold coin donation to ‘Kids plus foundation’ is welcomed

Call our friendly reception staff today to secure your appointment 5223 1531

 

COMPLIMENTARY PAEDIATRIC CLINIC – Wednesday the 28th of April 2021

/in , , /by

Complimentary Paediatric Clinic 

Every month at Total Care Podiatry we run a complimentary morning clinic to support the little feet that run around our community. We run short appointments designed to be a screening check of any areas of concern you may have for your child’s feet.

Commonly we check for: 

  • ‘Tired legs’
  • Being clumsy
  • Walking ‘pigeon-toed’
  • Curly toes
  • ‘Flat feet’

Following a short appointment, we can provide some advice for next steps forward. These may include a more in depth follow up appointment, footwear recommendations or activity changes.

Bookings are essential – please phone our friendly staff on 5223 1531 to secure your free paediatric appoint today

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

MARATHON RECOVERY

/in , /by

Recovery from any sporting event is critical to injury prevention and must be a component that should be planned into your training program. The main basic steps to follow in the first few days: 

On the day: 

  • Keep warm. Your body will cool down rapidly which is stressful to your cells, so have tracksuit pants and a jumper ready, and get your wet clothes off. 
  • Eat. Protein – bananas, energy bars, sporting drinks, fruit are all good options and will help with recovery. 
  • Ice bath. Later in the day when you get home an ice bath will help with muscular repair. 
  • Walk. A light walk in the evening before going to bed.

Day 1 – 3 of recovery: 

  • Warm bath followed by stretch.

  • Eat, and eat lots. Focus on carbs and protein to refuel.
  • Light massage – no deep tissue at this stage, it will be too much for muscle fibres.

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

BALANCE ISSUES

/in , /by

Balance Issues

In the body, there are many components that come together to create a stable sense of balance. One of these components is proprioception, it is the sense of knowing where you are in space. An example of this is knowing where your hand is, even if your eyes are closed. 

This assists the body in walking/activity, as your feet are constantly providing this feedback. They provide information on your pace, the type of terrain you are walking on, how level is the floor, etc.

With age, this sensation of proprioception naturally reduces. This causes a reduction in balance and creates instability when walking. 

To improve or maintain balance you can:

  • Attend balance classes
  • Work with an Exercise Physiologist 
  • Muscle strengthening 
  • Falls awareness and prevention classes
  • Staying active

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, please call us today for an appointment on 5223 1531

 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.