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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.

CALF RAISES – WHY ARE THEY IMPORTANT?

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Whatever your level of activity or whatever age you are,  EVERYONE will benefit from Calf Raise exercises.

  • Ankle strength and foot stability
  • Lower leg strength to propel us forward in motion
  • Prevent injury particularly for athletes
  • The more explosive the activity – the more crucial calf strength is!

Your calf complex is made up of your soleus and gastrocnemius muscles. They help us in every day activities including simply walking. Strong calf muscles enable us to jump, skip and run with more force and will prevent injury with these activities too!

Some basic calf exercises

Stand with your toes pointing straight ahead and feet slightly apart. Raise onto your toes for a count of 4, hold for a count of 2 and slowly descend for a count of three. Repeat for 2 minutes 3 – 4 times per week.

Stand with your feet at 45 degrees with the heels together. Raise onto your toes for a count of 4, hold for a count of 2 and slowly descend for a count of three. Repeat for 2 minutes 3 – 4 times per week.

Stand with your feet at 45 degrees with the Big toes together. Raise onto your toes for a count of 4, hold for a count of 2 and slowly descend for a count of three. Repeat for 2 minutes 3 – 4 times per week.

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.

PAEDIATRIC CLINIC

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For a gold coin donation to Kids Plus, Total Care Podiatry provides a specific Paediatric Clinic that focuses on our little one’s feet and legs: from 6 months – 6 years old.

We have been seeing little people for over 30 years now at Total Care Podiatry and we’ve noticed lately that more and more people are looking for advice regarding their children’s feet and how they crawl or walk. In response, this monthly children’s clinic is designed to answer these questions in a one on one assessment of each child in a child friendly environment.

Children’s feet are designed to change!

There are a lot of changes in the legs and feet during the first 6 years and most of these are perfectly normal. Sometimes, however, there are concerns which will need treatment. The key is understanding what’s normal development and what’s not.

If you are worried your child walks or crawls differently to your friend’s children and are concerned about whether everything looks okay, this 15 minute one on one assessment is very helpful

Every child’s development is different, so if there are any concerns it’s best to check at this young age when simple exercises are often all that are required to address potential long term problems.

Bookings are essential 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.

WHAT ARE BUNIONS?

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A bunion is a bony malalignment of the first and/or fifth toes. Bunions that form around the base of the fifth toe are commonly called a Tailor’s bunion. If it occurs at the base of the first toe it is called a Hallux Abducto Valgus deformity. This is where the first toe is angulated away from the midline of the body toward the other smaller toes. Bunions are not just found in older people’s feet; sometimes they begin to develop in people who are quite young!

What are the most common problems with bunions?

Symptoms associated with bunions vary from person to person.  They commonly include pain, swelling and redness. Not all bunions become painful, but certain arthritic conditions can cause severe pain.

How do these problems arise?

  1. Abnormal foot mechanics.
  2. Impaired nerve stimulation of the muscles.
  3. Inflammatory disease.
  4. Surgical removal of the big toe joint cartilage.
  5. Hereditary deformities.

How can they be treated?

  1. Strengthening.
  2. Stretching.
  3. Footwear therapy.
  4. Joint mobilization in some situations.
  5. In shoe foot orthotics.
  6. Surgery is used only when other treatment fails.

When should they be checked by a podiatrist?

Bunions are able to be treated, especially if we begin in the early stages, so you should come and see one of our Podiatrists if you are concerned that a bunion may be developing. It’s still a good idea, however, to seek treatment if you already have a bunion which is causing you pain or you have difficulty fitting into footwear.

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.

NURSE – YOUR FEET!

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  • Moving is better for your body than standing still, so if you’re working in an area where you stand rather than walk, take small steps or go for short walks to reduce the incidence of pain
  • Look for shoes that will support your feet – not ‘sock’ style shoes
  • Opt for a shoe with a small heel (around 12 mm)
  • Lace ups are better than slip on shoes
  • Change your footwear twice per year

Nurses have a higher incidence of lower limb pathology due to their working conditions. Walking on hard surfaces in poor footwear provides no relief to your feet so the best thing to do is update your footwear regularly! If you have any pain or aching, come and see us for an assessment early, so we can look at your risk factors and the underlying cause of the pain which will give you the best treatment long term!

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.

BACK TO SCHOOL MEANS NEW SHOES!

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Take advantage of our FREE foot check for all students

Problems with your child’s feet could become problems for life if not treated early. Foot conditions have the potential to develop into knee, hip and back pain that can have serious consequences on development and posture. Bones and joints in children are constantly growing and are not fully developed until adulthood.

Every school term there will be some kind of change in growing feet, particularly in the 8-12 age bracket. After the summer break, spent mostly barefoot or in thongs, it’s good to remeasure feet and purchase correct fitting school and sports shoes for the upcoming year.

Tips for purchasing shoes at any age:

  • Choose a store that measures foot length and width to ensure best fit
  • Buy shoes in the afternoon as the foot may be larger at this time
  • Always walk around in the shoes at home on the carpet, checking for comfort and tight spots – if any issues develop take them back!
  • When standing you should be able to wriggle your toes
  • Ensure the sole of the shoe is firm and bends across the ball of the foot
  • The material breathes and is flexible/durable

*Wear hand-me-down shoes with caution. An old shoe belonging to someone else will take on their shape and gait, which will not be the same as the new wearer. Buying a new shoe is recommended.

Every year at Total Care Podiatry we have a Back to School Free Foot check event and mid-year a Free Family Foot check event.

Call 5223 1531 for the next event.

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.

DANCE ASSESSMENTS

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The Dance Assessment at Total Care Podiatry is designed to help prevent injuries and solve any issues which may be limiting your success in reaching your dance goals.
With her in depth knowledge of structure and function of the foot, our Podiatrist Esther Francavilla ensures she creates the best possible plan for each dancers’ individual needs.

Esther started classical ballet at 5 years of age in Melbourne. She learned the methods of Vaganova, Borovansky and R.A.D. She also learnt other styles such as contemporary, jazz and character to name a few. Esther went on to study for one year at the Victorian College of the Arts. During this time Esther wanted to further her studies and realised how important feet are to dancers! This is what inspired her to study Podiatry.

Since graduating, Esther has combined her passion for podiatry with her knowledge of dance to help young dancers achieve their goals. She prides herself on teaching dancers correct technique to help enhance their capabilities and reduce the risk of injuries.

The Dance Assessment of Foot Function has three steps to success:
1. A thorough Initial consultation to assess and address the dancer’s needs.
2. A tailored treatment plan, that combines the condition, treatment, and prevention as well as educating the dancer along the way.
3. A review plan depending on progress.

Conditions this service treats

• Prevention of injuries
• Understanding the individual’s dancing mindset
• Treating dance injury in accordance with the dancer’s goals
• Ensure the dancer is informed and understands the process so that not only current issues are taken care of, but future injuries will be prevented

How does the treatment work?

Initial assessments can help determine a dancer’s structure as well as current mobility and strength.
Each dancer is different and therefore will be provided with unique feedback and tips to help achieve their goals.
Depending on the style of dance, Esther will customise full injury and rehabilitation programs as part of the return to dance and injury prevention.

What are the benefits of this treatment

There are many contributors to dance injury, including poor technique anatomical anomalies, footwear, and surfaces. Our personalised treatment goals will benefit with assisting in preventing these injuries and provide you with tips and tricks to prevent them from occurring in the future.

Pre-Pointe Assessment

A specific pre-pointe assessment is recommended before a dancer progresses to pointe work.

The screening will help develop an awareness about correct and incorrect positions which will help the dancer on her pathway to going en pointe.

During a pre-pointe assessment, Esther will take the following into consideration

  • Basic Ballet Technique
  • Foot, ankle and leg strength
  • Joint range
  • Posture and core control
  • Anatomical structure of the foot and compensations
  • Growth and maturity

Once a pre-pointe dancer can correctly perform the assessments, she is strong enough to commence pointe work with the guidance of her ballet teacher.
The follow up review helps the dancer improve her strength and mobility for pointe work.

A review every six months is recommended if there are no concerns along the way.

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.

DO YOU HAVE A SOFT TISSUE INJURY? JOINT CONDITIONS? POST OP PAIN? Then this post is for YOU!

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THOR Low Level Laser Therapy

Healing from the inside out!Check out this amazing new therapy now available at Total Care Podiatry

Posted by Total Care Podiatry on Tuesday, 26 February 2019

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.

MEDIAL TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME – aka ‘Shin Splints’

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MTSS is one of the most common exercise induced, overuse leg problems. It is associated with poor shock absorption which results in excessive load through the tibia (shin bone) causing pain and inflammation. Overuse of the muscles in the calf are thought to be a big causative factor of the pathology. Excessive foot collapse or high arches, hard training surfaces, and poor footwear may cause the leg muscles to work even harder than usual which enhances the risk of shin splints.
MECHANISMS OF INJURY:
1) TRACTION INDUCED PERIOSTITIS: inflammation of the sheath that covers your shin bone
causing pain
2) MICRO TRAUMA: inflammation and tiny micro damage to the shin bone because of the
stress put through it, resulting in inflammation of the sheath covering the shin bone.
RISK FACTORS:
– Increased hip external rotation
– Flat or high arched foot
– Enlarged calf muscle
– Increased internal rotation of the shin bone
– Muscle dysfunction
– Females are more susceptible
– Running history of at least 5 years or exercising ‘too fast too soon’
– Exercising on hard surfaces
– Increased BMI
– Running or jumping activities

– Previous history of shin splints

 

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 YOUR FEET SUMMER READY?

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We all look forward to warm summer days and having our toes in the sand!
Here are just a few things to keep at the front of your mind to ensure that when it comes to achieving your new year’s resolutions, (which we can all admit isn’t all that far away), we can!
Toenails and skin:
Summer can often lead to dryer skin so although the salt water at the beach does wonders, ensure that you regularly moisturise your legs and feet, to reduce the chance of painful splitting callous on the heels and infection.
Now, if you’re the opposite, and are always wearing closed-in shoes, perhaps invest in a more open-toed shoe, and alternate your shoes to allow air flow to the feet.
If you have reduced or absent sensation in your feet, it’s best to avoid going barefoot, especially as the hot temperatures on the ground can burn your feet. Always empty your shoes to get rid of any sand or stones.
If you like to wear nail polish, try to avoid leaving it on for the whole duration of summer. It’s best to remove it within a few days to avoid damage to the toenails.
If you tend to sweat a lot when wearing shoes and socks, summer can be a nightmare for you! Try changing your socks a few times throughout the day and make sure you are wearing a clean pair each day. Excess moisture can lead to irritating skin conditions and infections. If changing your socks doesn’t help, book in with your Podiatrist.
Did you know?
We apply sunscreen to most areas of our bodies, but often forget our feet. Podiatrists sometimes pick up on moles on the feet that are or can become cancerous. So, don’t neglect your feet and check them out! If you are concerned about any new skin spots/moles, please consult with your GP asap for a skin check! Don’t forget to also check underneath and in between your toes.
Footwear:
Footwear options are all about balance! It is completely fine to wear thongs on warm days, but if you plan on doing a lot of walking,  consider wearing your runners or walkers.
Or, if you could never see yourself wearing runners, think about a good sandal or thong with a bit more structure than your every-day ‘flip-‘flop’. Key features to look for are a more contoured and supportive sole and a small heel.
If you are experiencing foot pain, address your footwear first. If you experience no change, it is worthwhile seeing a Podiatrist for advice and an assessment.
Have a fantastic summer!
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.