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Surfcoast Trek Total Care Podiatry

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The Surfcoast Trek is scheduled for Saturday 2nd April 2022 and Total Care Podiatry is proud to continue its association with such a wonderful event.

Check out https://surfcoasttrek.com.au/the-trek if you have not heard of this event that aims to take walkers on the beautiful Great Ocean Road Walk from Anglesea to Torquay.
A number of distances are scheduled so based on your capabilities select you distance and get training. This is a major fund raising event for Kids+ and Give where you live foundation.

The three stages we are involved are before, during and after the event.

Before the Trek

I hope everyone is thinking about their training load, socks, clothing and footwear.

Training load – increase your training load by no more than 10% per week and seek help from our Podiatrists if you experience foot pain.

Socks – select a sock that is your size, is at least 70% natural fibre and will not fall down during the walk. We love Injinji, Wigwam and OS1st for compression base layer. Visit an outdoor hiking shop for hiking socks and don’t be cheap!

Clothing – hiking shorts or pants for all conditions, think sun and rain

Footwear – Hiking boot, Hiking shoe, trail runners or trail shoe. This can be a confusing choice. If you plan to carry a day pack then a hiking boot gives you added stability in the ankle when walking on uneven terrain in the event you stumble. A boot just might save your ankle as it is very hard to save yourself once you stumble with the added weight of a pack. Hiking shoes shall be the most popular as they have a sturdy out sole to protect the foot from stone strike. They are very roomy in the toe box as the foot and toes will swell on a longer hike and accomodate this and a thicker hiking sock. Now is the time to visit a hiking shop to get your hiking shoes fitted if you don’t already have a pair you just love. Trail runners will provide a little more protection from stone strike than a standard runner. If you are considering wearing runners then make sure you have done plenty of walking on non sealed surfaces.

Total Care Podiatry are providing a 10 minute free consultation before the event to all participants who are registered for the 2022 event. This consultation will be for advice and if treatment or further care is recommended fees will apply. This is available at 209 Malop St Geelong.

During the Event

Total Care Podiatry will be providing foot care during the event to participants who experience blisters, foot pain and or tendon issues. Our Podiatrists will be available at the starting point and then at each check point along the way and the finish line. We will have dressings, strapping and advice on hand to assist with your foot complaints. The majority of complaints on the day are blisters.

After the event

If you develop a problem during or after the event then please follow up with Total Care Podiatry for advice and treatment. Normal fees apply for consultation after the event.

Total Care Podiatry has very experienced Podiatrists who have walked these distances and more so are in an ideal position to treat and recommend solutions to your walking related foot problems.

Call the clinic on 03 5223 1531, email us or make an online booking for further advice.

Wigwam Socks and Hiking Shoes

Hiking shoe with a rocker sole to reduce foot fatigue

Consider walking poles. Philip Spark loving them on steeper longer walks.

Make sure your shoes are not too warn out. I lost the left vibram sole and had to walk out 4 hours. I felt every stone.

 

Our next Complimentary Paediatric Clinic will be held on Wednesday the 28th of July 2021

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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

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

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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.

Want to know how to best care for your feet? Here’s how you can show your feet some more love, which can even benefit your overall health!

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TIP ONE

Let’s talk toenails…Not the most delightful topic, but oh so important when it comes to looking after your foot health.

Did you know that fungal nail infection happens when the nail becomes discoloured, thickened and brittle? Here is how to minimise your chances of this happening.

DO

  • Wash and dry your feet thoroughly
  • Wear flip flops in public showers or pool areas
  • Dry your socks in the sunlight, since UV is a natural fungus killer!
  • Consider adding tea tree oil to your moisturiser, in your next load of sock washing, or even using a diluted tea tree oil spray on your feet to help reduce the risk of a fungal infection

DONT

  • Go barefoot in public showers or pool areas
  • Wear the same socks two days in a row
  • Dry your socks inside out of direct sunlight
  • Share shoes

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

*Source foothealthaustralia.org.au

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.

DIABETES AND HEATERS

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Diabetes and heaters

Over time, diabetes may affect the blood vessels and nerves in your feet. This results in reduced or loss of protective sensations in the feet. 

One of these sensations is the body’s ability to detect changes in temperature and specifically if it is too hot or cold. The body may also have more difficulty in sweat regulation of the skin. 

For these reasons, heaters can become a danger risk. The body may not be able to detect the skin overheating and a burn may occur. For this reason, the following step should be followed:

  • Check the distance of your feet to the heater and assess if it may be too hot (do not sit close to the heater or fire)
  • Check your feet regularly for any changes to the skin and check the temperature of your toes and sole of the foot
  • Avoid sitting with your feet by the fire/heater
  • Avoid setting the car heater vents toward the feet

WHICH SHOES TO WEAR WHEN YOU TRAVEL?

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During travel it is most likely you will walk a lot more than usual.

Shoes that hold your foot in at the heel will reduce the amount of work your muscles will have to do as you are walking and reduce the risk of fatigue. For this and many other reasons, we recommend a good pair of sneakers. They also provide support and protection during your travels. Be sure to assess your current shoes for wear and tear. Most commonly, a shoe will need to be replaced after 18-24 months.

How to tell if you need new shoes:

  • Is the tread worn on the bottom of the shoe?
  • Is the sole pulling away from the shoe?
  • Is the lining tearing or looking worn?
  • Are they uncomfortable or make you feel unstable?

These might be signs that you need a new pair of shoes. If you decide you need a new pair of shoes, go to your local shoe store and follow these steps:

When buying:

  • Buy at the end of the day as your feet may swell slightly
  • Check are they appropriate how much walking you will do or the type of surface you will walk?
  • Try the shoes on for 5-10 minutes in the store to really understand if the fit is correct
  • Ensure the shoe feels good on the day, do not expect the shoes to “wear in”

How to fit the shoe:

  • Thumbs widths extra space from your big toe to the end of the shoe
  • The shoe doesn’t twist or bend at the midfoot
  • The shape, width and depth is correct for the shape for your toes

 

  • Are they orthotic friendly (if you wear these) or do you need a shoe which provide more support?

What to watch out for:

  • Any areas of rubbing or blisters from the shoe
  • Pain in the achilles tendon, under the arch or in the big toe
  • Do you feel unstable in the shoes?
  • Avoid elastic attachments as they will gradually loosen
  • Avoid the temptation of very soft/cushioned shoes as they are often very flexible and will not provide enough support for most foot types

If you want a second opinion or a more customised recommendation, see your local podiatrist.

If you do require new shoes it is most likely that good shoes are not cheap, but they will help you a lot during your holiday away.

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.

OUR FREE FAMILY FOOT CLINIC RETURNS ~ 2nd of July 2020

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Free family foot clinic!

THURSDAY 2nd of July 2020

15 minute FREE consultation 

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 PH: 5223 1531

 

TOP TIPS FOR FEET FOR TRAIL RUNNING

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There are a few things to consider if you enjoy trail running.

Skin integrity
This may include blisters, callous, corns and dry skin.
To help prevent these from developing, wear appropriate socks.  The best material is predominantly polyester, as this transfers or wicks moisturise away from the skin. This keeps the skin strong and dry, less likely to cause blisters. You can also wear two pairs of socks(to reduce friction); one very thin, without any creases but stretches around the foot and the second pair worn on top, a bit more cushioned. Wearing two pairs creates a barrier, meaning that if there is any friction, it more likely to occur inbetween the two socks rather than directly to the skin.
You may require specific padding to redistribute pressure points in the feet.

Skin and nail preparation
Cut your nails (not too short and not the day before your run)
Moisturise your feet daily to prevent skin irritation from stress. Apply everywhere except inbetween the toes as we want to keep these areas dry. Use a quality urea-based cream.
Address callous and cracked skin if you are not able to manage this.

Footwear
Make sure that you have a well-fitted pair of trail shoes (a cushioned runner with appropriate grip)
Make sure you have a little room in the shoe, if the feet begin to swell. Ability to adjust lace-technique if signs of swelling and pressure from shoes occur is also important.

If you have any lower leg or foot injuries, your risk of injury may be heightened due to the possible uneven trail surfaces.  You may require taping or further advice from your Podiatrist.

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.

FEET AND ANKLE INJURY FREE -WHILST SMASHING OUT HIIT SESSIONS

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Due to the nature of HIIT (high intensity interval training), certain stresses may be placed on the feet and ankles, especially if this is a new form of exercise for you.

It is important to build the strength in your legs prior to engaging in HIIT training, as movements are often rapid and repetitious. It can place excessive pressure on your joints if your HIIT workouts are too frequent, and you do ‘too much too soon’, like many other activities. There are specific modifications that your trainer may be able to suggest if you have any concerns. Correct technique is crucial, so it is necessary for you and your trainer to be on top of this, to avoid injury.
Should you develop an injury, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Be sure to wear appropriate footwear. When buying athletic footwear for your HIIT workout, stick with a ‘neutral’ shoe, unless it has been otherwise suggested by your health professional.
The shoe should have a firm heel counter (doesn’t fold right down if you try to push it with your fingers). The shoe should have a moderate amount of cushioning (without it being too heavy), for good shock attenuation to reduce the amount of force on the feet and legs. The softer the outer sole however, the faster it will compress, which we want to avoid.

If you do not feel as you are being adequately ‘supported’ or have enough cushioning, try altering your footwear. If this doesn’t change anything, there may be other things that your Podiatrist can manage or educate you with.

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.

FUSS ABOUT SOCKS

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Socks provide an interface between our feet and the shoes we choose to wear. Generally, closed in footwear is designed to wear a sock with, so choosing appropriate ones can make a great difference to how the shoe feels!

Understand the pros and cons of different materials, so that when you are looking at the sock ingredients, you know what you’re in for!

  • Merino wool: breathable, can be worn all year round! Soft, cushioned and itch free, moisture wicking. Popular for sports people and hikers.
  • Acrylic: cheaper than wool, dries reasonably fast, not as good at wicking away moisture.
  • Cotton: traps moisture! Not good if you are prone to sweating as you will find yourself blister prone wearing cotton socks.
  • Nylon: often combined with other fabrics to increase sock durability. Also dries very quickly.
  • Stretch fabrics such as elastin, nylon or spandex: allows stretch so socks fit well and snug your foot! Make sure they only comprise of about 2-5% of the fabric.

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.