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OUR PAEDIATRIC CLINIC IS BACK!

SECURE YOUR APPOINTMENT FOR JUNE 2020 ~ call 5223 1531

  • 15 minute assessment with one of our expert podiatrists
  • Held on the last Wednesday of every month
  • Age limit ~ 6 years old and under
  • During Covid-19 we are asking that only 1 carer attends appointments
  • Please arrive on time to help our paediatric clinic run on time
  • Gold coin donation to ‘Kids plus foundation’ is welcomed
  • Call 5223 1531 today!

 

EXPERIENCING PAIN IN YOUR ANKLES, KNEES OR HIPS? 

EXPERIENCING PAIN IN YOUR ANKLES, KNEES OR HIPS?

At Total Care Podiatry the podiatrist will ascertain what dysfunction is occurring in your feet, how this is interacting with the muscles in your back, pelvis and legs and will see what areas in your lifestyle may be placing you at risk of continuing the injury. We will also work together with other health professionals involved in your care to achieve a long term solution.

Your knees and hips are the largest joints in your body. They are responsible for supporting your weight as you stand and walk. If you are experiencing chronic pain in your hips, knees, or even in your lower back, shoulders and neck, there may be a connection between this pain and the way your feet function.

Walking is good for you, right? Absolutely. But beware of poor walking habits that can cause or exacerbate knee and hip problems. On the positive side, however, a safe and smart walking regime can help improve joint problems, not to mention how good it is for your overall health.

KNEE PAIN

Watch your feet. If you are prone to foot problems, such as hypermobile feet (when the joints in and around the feet move more than they should) or  fallen arches caused by over pronation, your gait may be compromised. And this change can cause unnecessary stress on the knees, resulting in painful injuries.

The knee is made to bend only in one direction—facing straight forward.  When the foot over-pronates, the leg rotates inward toward the opposite leg. This causes the knee to flex and extend while pointing inward and not in the normal direction, which puts stress on the knee.

People who suffer from osteoarthritis pain have worn cartilage on the inside (medial) area of their knee joint. Research is being done to determine how walking differently can help manage this pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, studies are finding that pointing your toes slightly outwards (about 7°) when you walk will shift pressure to the outside (lateral) part of the knee, relieving the pain radiating from the inside of your knee joint.

RUNNER’S KNEE (which is not exclusive to runners!) is identified by a throbbing pain on your kneecap. The impact of your foot hitting the ground causes your kneecap to rub against the femur bone. If you have a misaligned kneecap or previous injury, your knees are more vulnerable. Other causes are weak thigh muscles, soft knee cartilage, or flat feet.

HIP PAIN

Pain from bursitis is felt on the outside of your hip, whereas arthritis is felt on the inner hip near your groin. Relief from each requires different walking treatments.

Repetitive stress (including excess walking or running) can cause the bursa that cushions your hip to become inflamed. Another cause of bursitis is exercising without proper warm-ups and cool downs, which are a vital part of any program. You need to follow a very slow walking regime when recovering from a bout of bursitis. This involves gradually increasing the frequency and length of your walks.

As with osteoarthritis in general, the cause of hip arthritis can be genetic. It can be a hereditary or a congenital problem with an improperly formed hip joint. Hip arthritis can also develop from an injury or trauma to the hip area, or stress from excess weight or activity.

The problems caused by over pronation, which were discussed for knee pain, are also true for the hip joint. When the foot pronates, the leg rotates inward and the hip can become unaligned. This condition puts stress on the hip and on the entire leg muscles.

HOW TO HELP YOUR ANKLES, KNEES AND HIPS

Any problem with the foot or ankle resulting in a compromised posture or gait can lead to knee and hip pain. Examples of common foot problems that can lead to poor posture and irregular walking patterns include:

  • Plantar fasciitis, which can lead to chronic heel pain and/or arch pain
  • Nerve pain or numbness in the foot (such as neuromas and tarsal tunnel syndrome)
  • Bunions and bunionettes (big-toe versus little-toe side, respectively)
  • Excessive foot  pronation (rolling in) or  supination (rolling out)

When you experience pain and you are diagnosed with a dysfunction in the foot or ankle, it may be possible to reduce the knee and hip pain by improving foot function, using proper footwear and orthotic insoles.

A Harvard medical school health publication advises that exercise is an important treatment for arthritis. It improves the strength and function of the afflicted area(s).

In many cases, a moderate walking plan is recommended to alleviate such pain. It is considered a low impact activity that strengthens the supporting muscles, relieving the pressure on the joint. Be sure to walk on a smooth, soft surface such as a track or treadmill. Your doctor or physical therapist can advise how much walking is best for you. An extra bonus is walking will help with weight loss, which takes some stress off your joints.

When you compensate for pain by limping or walking with an abnormal gait, other joints can suffer wear and tear. Your rheumatologist, orthopedic doctor or physical therapist can help determine if changing your walking gait could help reduce pain. Many PTs will video patients as they walk on a treadmill and then review their walking habits to determine what pain reduction improvements can be made. You can make a conscience effort to minimize limping by holding your body straight without swaying and maintaining and even stride.

THE RIGHT SHOE REGIME

Healthy shoes play a significant role in knee and hip pain management. Here are a few tips on the importance of wearing good shoes.

  • Never wear heels over two inches high. Heels increase the risk of knee joint degeneration.
  • However, not all flat shoes are good for your feet. Flats that do not provide any arch support can lead to knee, hip, and back pain.
  • Get the right fit. Tight shoes can cause limping from foot pain. Oversized shoes can also impair your gait. Either way, you’ll be putting unnecessary stress on your knees and hips.
  • Stability sneakers provide cushioning and help control over pronation. They also relieve the ball of the foot, which helps arthritic pain in the hip, knee, foot or ankle.
  • Replace your shoes as needed. When the supporting cushioning becomes worn, it is no longer helpful.
  • If knee or hip pain is due to your foot function, the proper footwear along with orthotic insoles can be a very effective way to relieve symptoms.
  • Invest in quality shoes that are specifically made for your condition. Total Care Podiatry provides the ability to browse shoe selections that meet your needs.

At Total Care Podiatry the podiatrist will ascertain what dysfunction is occurring in your feet, how this is interacting with the muscles in your back, pelvis and legs and will see what areas in your lifestyle may be placing you at risk of continuing the injury. We will also work together with other health professionals involved in your care to achieve a long term solution.

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.

BEST SHOES FOR NURSES

Nurses have a higher incidence of lower limb musculoskeletal complaints compared to other occupations. Working on hard surfaces for long hours coupled with shift work are some of the contributing factors, however, footwear is a modifiable risk factor to reduce the incidence of injury in nurses. We recommend nurses change their footwear every 6 months and to consider the following when purchasing new shoes: 

  • Shoes should be comfortable in the store (there should be no ‘wearing in’ time) 
  • A small heel of approximately 10mm is recommended for most foot types.
  • Shoes should be measured from the back of the heel to your longest toe (this may be your 2nd toe).
  • Consider the width of your foot – remove the insole of the shoe and stand on the insole, if you are spilling over the sides consider a wider fitting shoe to prevent forefoot pain.
  • It is best to wear shoes with a fastening, be it laces, straps or Velcro, so your foot is well supported and to reduce muscle fatigue.

If you have any foot pain that is not relieved with footwear change, we recommend seeking podiatry advice to treat and prevent further problems. During the COVID-19 crisis we have 3 free TeleHealth consultations available per week so this may be a good option to start with. Call 5223 1531 to book.

 

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.

WALKING SHOES

Around 400 BC the Greek Physician said “Walking is man’s best medicine”

If your daily exercise now involves walking you should be comfortable! Here are some of our common tips and tricks to find a perfect pair of walking shoes:

1)    Buy your shoes at the end of the day when your feet are more likely to be swollen.

2)    Look at your old shoes for hints on the type of foot you have – if you are a pronator/supinator/neutral. This can help with finding your next pair.

3)    Most people benefit from a small heel pitch – we recommend you see a podiatrist, but try a shoe with a 10mm heel pitch and see how you feel.

4)    For a durable shoe you will need a durable upper – that is the part that covers your foot. Soft leather is a good option. The upper should also be flexible and bend easily where your toes bend – the shoe should not bend where your arch is.

5)    It’s best to go and try the shoes on before buying or ensure the online shop offers returns if they are not right. The shoes should be comfortable, and you should be able to press your thumb between your longest toe and the end of the shoe.

If you have any pain or discomfort give us a call 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.

CRACKED HEELS? WHY….

Cracked heels can occur as a result of the skin on the heels becoming very thick, dry and hard. The callous formation can crack, creating splits called fissures. The skin bordering the callused area may appear red and sore.

What are the most common problems with cracked heels

Cracked heels form gradually over a period of time and when any of the associated callous becomes too thick it can be very uncomfortable for you to stand and walk on. You may also experience pain as a result of increased pressure from unequal weight distribution and callous. Altering your style of walking due to pain may also cause other problems to occur.

How do these problems arise?

There are a number of things which may lead to you having cracked heels:

  • Wearing open backed shoes with no socks
  • Walking around barefoot
  • Skin conditions
  • Wearing synthetic material on the feet

How can they be treated?

  • Moisturising the heels daily.
  • Gently filing the heels with a foot file once – twice a week.
  • Limiting the period of time you spend barefoot.
  • Heel callus can be painlessly removed by a podiatrist. This can often help it to be managed much more easily at home through routine moisturising and filing.

When should they be checked by a podiatrist?

Cracked heels should be seen by a Podiatrist as early as possible so that the thickness of callous may be reduced and the underlying causes can be treated.

How can Total Care Podiatry help you?

At Total Care Podiatry, we can tailor a treatment plan which is specific to your needs in order to reduce discomfort related to your calloused and/or cracked heels.

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.

FOOTWEAR FOR CHILDREN

One of the most commonly asked questions in our monthly paediatric clinic is around what footwear is most appropriate for children. Before offering our advice, we like to point out that the brand doesn’t matter – what is more important, and more cost effective for you, is to be equipped with what to look for in the shoe features, to alleviate the stresses of shopping for children’s shoes!

FIT: 

Have the shoes fitted professionally at a footwear store – this is important because the fit of a child’s shoe will largely dictate the comfort and ability to move without pain – crucial for development! We recommend they be re-checked every 3-6 months to ensure there is still about a thumb distance between the end of the shoe and the longest toe (this may be the 2nd), and that the width is still appropriate. 

FASTENINGS: 

They should have adjustable fastenings to make sure the shoe stays firmly on the foot when they’re running around. It doesn’t matter if it’s Velcro, laces or straps – ideally something that your child can adjust themselves. 

THE SOLE (SHOE LAST): 

This refers to the bottom of the shoe – assess the shoe and ensure that it is more straight than curved. Often adult shoes have more of a curve than children’s shoes. 

THE BEND (FLEX POINT): 

When holding the shoe, fold it so that the shoe bends – shoes should bend at the flex point of the toes – not in the middle of the shoe. 

If you are unsure about how appropriate your child’s shoe is for them, or if they have any lower leg or foot concerns – give us a call.  It may be worthwhile for you to bring your child to our monthly paediatric clinic for up to 6 years old or to one of our back to school and family foot check events for school aged children. Call us on 5223 1531 for dates. 

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.

BEST THONGS

We all need some flip flops to cruise around in during the upcoming summer months – so now is the time to talk all things thongs! 

Generally, we recommend a sandal over a non-supportive, flat thong. But if you need a throw on pair – here’s some advice we recommend: 

  • Ideally something with a small heel 
  • Arch support is offered in some of the designs and you may find this more comfortable 
  • Fastening – a strap will help keep them on and prevent tendon problems from gripping too much 

If you can wear your preferred comfortable shoe for longer walks and sandals/thongs for periods where you will be sitting or going for short walks, we recommend you do so! 

At Total Care Podiatry we have thongs and sandals from Vionic, Revere and Orthaheel.

Orthaheel Spangle

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.