General Podiatry
Hallux AbductoValgus (Bunions)
Hallux AbductoValgus (HAV) or bunions are the deformity of the 1st metatarsophalangeal joint (Big toe joint) Bunions cause a sideways deviation of the great toe towards the lesser toes. This increased angle and associated destabilisation of the plantar plate leads to the great toe either sitting over or under the 2nd toe. A Bunion can start for a number of reasons:
Corns
Corns can form anywhere on the foot, these result from increased pressure or rubbing to an area. There are different types of corns that are dependant on the area and reason for them growing. The bodies response to this increased pressure or rubbing is to lay down more hard skin protein (Keratin). Keratin is extremely dense and is compressed by
Callus / Cracked Heels
Callus or hard and thickened skin, is often a result of the bodies efforts to protect an area from pressure or rubbing. This is usually a result of poor footwear or problems in the way you walk. Callus’ hard quality is due to a higher concentration of the protein keratin (That’s the one that makes your hair and nails strong)
Warts
Warts are a contagious skin lesion caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There are several different strains of HPV, each with different areas of the body they affect. The strains that cause Warts or Verrucae’s being benign. Contracting a Wart is surprisingly easy, all it takes is a break/scratch in the skin. The wart virus is very resistant and can
Diabetes
Did you know that Diabetes affects roughly 5 out of every 100 people in Australia? The complications from Diabetes are wide ranging and can be simple to potentially life threatening. Luckily our understanding of Diabetes and the complications arising from it has increased significantly and we are able to manage complications while minimising the likelihood of amputations/serious complications. There are
Falls
Every year in Australia around 30% of adults over 65 experience at least one fall per year. This number is expected to increase with our ageing population with the number of people over 65 inreasing from approximately 14% in 2010 to 23% by 2050. There are a number of reasons that a fall can happen. The severity of a fall is
Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disease which affects many areas of your body. This results in a slowed walking style that is inherently unstable. People suffering with Parkinson’s disease often have reduced mobility and therefore will struggle with many aspects of self care. As Podiatrists we can help with keeping you on your feet longer by: Correcting the way
Ingrown / Involuted / Painful Nails
Ingrown nails can be a painful and unsightly condition caused by a variety of factors. Any side of any toe can be affected, however generally it is the big toe nails that are the culprit. There are several mechanisms for an ingrown nail to occur and frequently these are: Ill fitting shoes Incorrect cutting technique Poor range of movement through