Tag Archives: feet pain

podiatry

Podiatrists

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A lot of people ask me, “what do Podiatrists actually do?”. The common perception of our profession is the ability to only treat toenails and hard skin. I can guarantee we do so much more than that! Podiatrists are university trained to assess, diagnose, manage and treat all foot and ankle conditions in a conservative manner. If the case requires a surgical or more invasive treatment, we are able to refer on to Podiatric Surgeons or other professionals who can provide the service. As general podiatrists, we commonly treat the conditions below:

Bunions / hammer toes / Tailor’s bunions
Heel / arch pain / plantar fasciitis.
Ingrown toenails.
Warts.
Callus (hard skin / cracked heels).
Corns (pin-points of hard skin).
Fungal toenails / skin.
Morton’s neuroma (sharp, shooting forefoot pain).
Diabetic feet
Sports injuries; ankle, midfoot, forefoot.
Gait/Walking abnormalities
Paediatric conditions; club foot, pigeon toeing.

For the next few weeks I will talk more about the conditions above and go over signs and symptoms and when is the appropriate time to come in to be assessed by a qualified, AHPRA registered Podiatrist.

Any other foot problems not on the list? No worries, come and have your feet examined now at Dr7 Podiatry, call 9349 1777 to make an appointment.

Hannah Chun – Senior Podiatrist at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

Dr7 Podiatry Perth - Orthotics

A Guide To Orthotics

What is orthotics ? The word sounds strange, like some sort of arcane jargon that ordinary people shouldn’t know about.

In reality, orthotics are just devices made of lightweight, flexible materials. They are used as help correct a variety of problems concerning the feet and walking. They are either mass-produced designs or ones that are custom-made from 3D camera images, impressions and casts. Dr7 Podiatry Perth and Inner suburbs, we use all the mentioned techniques and different types of orthotics.

Mass-produced orthotics that are ready made to use are cheaper and widely available, but aren’t always ideal. It is best to have a podiatrist assess and custom fit a pair for your feet, with any adjustments needed along the way. Podiatrists may use taping or have you wear the over the counter ones ,with minor adjustment, for a time to gauge the suitability of long-term custom othotics.

Orthotics are useful for treating conditions like Achilles tendonitis, bunions, tarsal tunnel syndrome, and plantar fasciitis. There are other conditions, especially sporting conditions such as runnig knee that will respond well. However, it is imperative that you discuss your options and condition with a podiatrist so they can make a professional assessment and outline the ideal treatment plan.

In general, the inserts are meant to improve the overall health of the foot and ankle. Many are built to realign the structure of the foot or provide better support, easing pressure on the feet and ankles as you walk. Finally, they can prevent deformities of the feet if used preemptively.

You might also notice benefits for any pre-existing back and hips pain with the correct fitting orthotics.

The exact nature of your orthotics will vary based on your needs and the recommendations of your podiatrist. For example, someone with flat feet will want arch support. On the other hand, someone who does a lot of running on the job will need inserts that reduce pressure on the joints,  which could help to reduce any foot, ankle, knee or hip pain.

Custom-made inserts are more expensive compared to over the counter types. However, they are fitted to your feet precisely and offer greater support. The materials are also tougher and allow them to last longer. Additionally, this process is guided through by experienced podiatrists ,who are university trained health professionals.

Dr7 Podiatry are here to help and answer any questions about othotics or foot related issues.

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry

Dr7 Physiotherapy Podiatry BUPA members first

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine is calling out to all BUPA members as we are a BUPA preferred clinic- aka Bupa members first. Since June 1st, 2016, Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine is part of the BUPA Members First Network. This means that BUPA members will receive a discounted rate on initial and subsequent consultations for physiotherapy and podiatry, as well as 60% – 100% rebate for these services. Also, there will be NO out-of-pocket expense for physiotherapy and podiatry services for dependent kids under 25.

BUPA Rates:

Our Prices at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Nollamara for 2017:

Physiotherapy: Initial $85 ,Subsequent:$75

Physiotherapy with BUPA: Initial: $83.50 ,Subsequent:$69

Podiatry: Initial $85 ,Subsequent: $75

Podiatry with BUPA: Initial $75 ,Subsequent: $65

Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill lets patients use the hydrotherapy pool for free after each physiotherapy consult. Dr7 Hydrotherapy Yokine allows patients to exercise and relax in the easy access 10 metre length pool and ranges from 1.1 metre to 1.8 metre in depth.

If you are with BUPA, under 25 and still a dependent child on your parents health cover come visit Dr7 Physiotherapy Joondanna for a fully covered consult. Dr7 Podiatry Osborne Park also offers the same fully covered consult if you are still under your parents health cover.

Did you know if you book via our Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiarty Coolbinia website (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au) its available 24/7 just click on the link and it will show you times and our practitioners. Select your preferred practitioner, day and time and book it in. You may also contact us on 9349 1777 from 7am to 7pm to book in appointments.

Contact us or BUPA if you have any further questions.

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

diabetes 2

Helping Seniors Manage Diabetes | Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Helping Seniors Live the Good Life despite Having Diabetes

Diabetes can happen to anyone at any age, but seniors are at risk of acquiring the disease for a variety of reasons. Although the condition is not age-related, the risk factors increase as you grow older. At Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine, we encourage our patients to live healthier and to be more active to help fight diabetes.

  • Type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed during childhood.
  • Type 2 diabetes is often diagnosed in adulthood.

diabetes

Who are at risk of diabetes?

  • Adults over 45 years old, who are overweight, have high blood pressure and a genetic predisposition.
  • Adults over the age of 55.
  • Adults who have heart disease or have a heart attack in the past.
  • Adults who are overweight and have polycystic ovary syndrome.
  • Adults over 35 years old and are Aboriginal Australian or Torres Strait Islander.

In Australia, an estimated 50% of those with diabetes are 65 years or older. The prevalence of diabetes increases rapidly up to age 75 based on 2014-15 data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) 2014–15 National Health Survey.

Clearly, there is a need to prevent diabetes from affecting anyone, but most especially seniors who would feel the complications twice as much.

The problem with this disease, however, is that symptoms don’t always manifest early on. It is not as obvious in young people as it is in the elderly. This calls for regular checkups of blood sugar levels.

Because failure to do so can lead to accumulation of glucose in the blood that can:

  • Cause damage to the artery and kidney
  • Increase the risk of heart attack and stroke
  • Result in eye damage that will lead to vision loss
  • Lead to erectile dysfunction in men
  • Cause nerve damage that can result in traumatic injury
  • Cause infection that can lead to amputation of limbs

When diabetes hits, however, the best approach is to manage the disease.

How do you help seniors manage their diabetes?

Consult the doctor regularly

Regular blood tests are necessary to keep the disease under control, as well as monitoring of weight, blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and health of the feet. Your doctor will also administer flu and pneumococcal disease vaccinations and prescribe insulin or oral hypoglycaemic agents.

See a podiatrist regularly

Serious foot complications can arise because of diabetes. Vascular disease, ulceration, and neuropathy are just three of the diabetic foot problems that seniors may experience. A visit to a podiatrist at Dr7 Podiatry Joondanna will help minimise nerve damage and promote proper blood flow to your legs and feet.

Podiatry services will include a complete diabetic foot assessment that is followed by recommendations on how you can keep your feet in good health. Dr7 Podiatry Yokine and our professional podiatrists can offer these services.

Some of the things you may need to do include:

  • Washing your feet in warm water daily
  • Checking for cuts, blisters, and sores
  • Moisturising dry skin, especially between the toes
  • Wearing socks/stockings to prevent blisters, and slipper or shoes to prevent injuries

In addition, you need to ensure proper blood flow to your limbs by putting your feet up when sitting down, not crossing the legs for long periods, and not wearing tight socks and garters.

Make healthy choices

It is not enough that you watch an elderly loved one’s diet. You also need to ensure they make healthy food choices, such as more fruits and vegetables and less fat. Foods that contain carbohydrates make ideal options. If they stay in aged care residences, a healthy diet should be easier to achieve.

If you live with an elderly parent or loved one, however, you should pattern your diet with theirs if you eat together to encourage them to change their diet and make healthy choices. You should also stock up on food that they should eat and remove anything that will tempt them to get off the rails.

Engage in some form of physical activity

There are many physical activities that can do wonders for ageing individuals, but exercise, in particular, can have an impact on diabetes. It can:

  • Improve glucose tolerance
  • Lower the risk of developing serious complications
  • Help the body manage, reduce, and relieve stress
  • Control weight, which is vital to ensure a successful diabetes treatment

For seniors who are still free from diabetes, exercise also serves as the best form of prevention.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill, has a hydrotherapy pool where patients can exercise in and we offer group aquafit and arthritis classes as well.

Help them quit smoking

This may be easier said than done, but you must insist. Smoking increases the risk of complications from diabetes, something an elderly parent would not want to endure or you would not want to witness. Find ways to encourage them to quit smoking or reduce their desire to reach for that cigarette.

Ensure recommended vaccinations are up to date

 

diabetes 1

Seniors with diabetes are more prone to acquiring various infections. This is why they should be vaccinated for some of the most common types of infections, such as Influenza & Pneumonia and Hepatitis B. Doing so will help ensure they don’t end up in hospitals more often than necessary.

Prevent diabetes whenever possible, and manage them properly when it hits you or an elderly loved one. Life goes on despite diabetes, after all.

Dr7 Podiatry orthotics

Orthotics at Dr7 Podiatry

Orthotics is a device inserted into footwear to correct or change the alignment of your feet to help alleviate foot, ankle, lower leg, hip or lower back pain.  All ages can benefit from orthotic wear, from young children to the elderly.

Orthotics can help reduce the strain and stress on your feet, legs, knees and lower back.  They are prescribed to treat acute injuries and also resolve long term chronic issues.

 

Types of orthotics that can be specially ordered by our podiatrists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Types of orthotics that can be specially ordered by our podiatrists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

What is included in an orthotic consultation?

An orthotic consultation which leads to an orthotic device is an all inclusive fee.  Our team at Dr7 Osborne Park understand you don’t like nasty financial surprises.  All fees will be clearly explained before commencement of treatment.

At Dr7 Yokine, an orthotic consultation from one of our professional team of podiatrists will:

  • explain in simple terms what is causing your pain and if orthotic therapy deemed required, it will be explained on how it will resolve your foot health issues.
  • provide a personalized clinical assessment of your feet according to your problem or symptoms
  • provide a comprehensive biomechanical analysis of your upper and lower body
  • gait analysis
  • provide a complementary* one month review appointment of your orthotics to ensure you are settling in your orthotics as expected (*no charge for complentary review appointment – applicable for customized orthotics only)

 

Custom made orthotics at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Custom made orthotics at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

How do orthotics work?

 Orthotics aim to support your arches, it addresses and fixes biomechanical issues which is causing your foot pain.

Everyone has different arch configurations, flat (pes planus), ‘normal’ or high (pes cavus) arches.  No matter what type of arch configuration you have, or whatever foot health issue you have, you can be assured the podiatry team at Dr7 Tuart Hill will issue and prescribe an orthotic specific to your requirements.

 

 Conditions that orthotics treat

  • Heel pain – heel spurs, heel bursitis
  • Plantar fasciitis – arch pain
  • Flat feet – causing overpronation when weightbearing resulting in tired, aching or sore feet
  • Childrens feet – growing pains, excessive pronation, biomechanical developmental assistance
  • Osteoarthritic & rheumatoid foot pain – bunions, hammertoes, clawtoes or deformed joints.
  • ankle sprains – lateral ankle instability
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Morton neuroma – nerve impingement pain in the forefoot.
  • Metatarsalgia – general forefoot pain
  • painful callous or corn areas on excessive loading areas of the feet
  • Cuboid syndrome – lateral foot pain from overuse of peroneus longus muscle due to excessive pronation
  • Shin splints
  • Knee pain – ‘knock knees’, excessive medial stress, arthritic knee pain
  • Lower back pain – if related to biomechanical issues in feet

 

Range of orthotics

Dr7 Coolbinia has an extensive range of orthotics to resolve your symptoms at a budget to suit you.

 

Pre-made – Over the Counter (OTC) orthotics

  • Dr7 Joondanna stocks premium pre-made or over the counter (OTC) orthotics.
  • Professional podiatric brands such as Vasyli, Vasyli + Dananberg, X-lines and ICB orthotics are ready to be dispensed at time of consultation.
  • Kiddy pre-made orthotics are also stocked for young children.
  • OTC orthotics are made from soft, medium or hard density EVA. Density of EVA given will differ according to symptoms, activity level and age.
  • OTC orthoses have a life span between 1-3 years depending on usage, weight of individual and type of activity used for.

 

Pre-made and over the counter orthotics are available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Pre-made and over the counter orthotics are available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

Customised orthotics

  • Before an impression of your feet is performed a thorough biomechanical assessment is done. Biomechanical analysis will include assessment of leg length difference, shoulder & hip tilt assessment, lower back configuration, hip & knee & sub-talar joint range of motion, calf flexibility assessment and gait analysis.
  • Dr 7 Menora uses state of the art impression techniques for our latest designed prescribed or customized orthotics.
  • Customised orthotics are tailored for the individual and requires an impression mould or scan of your feet.
  • Our impression techniques include traditional plaster of paris casting, box 3D scanning and the latest IPad 3D scanning technique using the AOMSTOT and Meshlab application program.
  • Customised orthotics traditionally are made from German made high quality polypropylene and is guaranteed to last over 10 years.
  • Custom orthoses may be made from soft, medium or hard density EVA if required.
  • differing designs offered: slim line orthotics (suitable for shallow footwear), full length covers, Cobra slim (for sporting boots)
  • differing covering colours available for aesthetic purposes
  • Dr7 Dianella uses top line Australian orthotic laboratories for our manufacture: Biolab Precision Orthoses; Artisan Orthotics and Orthotech Orthotics.

 

Different type of material and colours for your custom orthotics available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry
Different type of material and colours for your custom orthotics available at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

 

Refurbishment of existing orthotics

Should you have existing orthotics and in need of a refurbishment or modification, the team of podiatrists at Dr7 Balcatta can easily arrange to have your existing orthotics looking and feeling brand new again.

Orthotics should be reviewed annually to check for optimal fit and integrity.

The friendly podiatry team at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry look forward to assisting you on any foot relating health issue.

 

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

Corns_and_Calluses-530x320

Corns and Calluses

Corns and Calluses forms when there is continuous pressure and friction on an area of skin. The pressure causes the layer of skin to die and a hard layer of skin is then formed to protect it. Corns are usually smaller than calluses and are formed on places like top, side and in between your toes. Calluses usually develop underneath your foot like on the heel and may differ in size and shape. Corns are more painful then calluses where as calluses can be uncomfortable.

corns and calluses

Causes:

Continuous pressure and friction can cause corns and calluses to form, these are some of the reasons:

  • Wearing shoes either too loose or too tight can cause friction on certain places on your foot. If the shoe is too loose your foot will be sliding around causing friction to the side of the foot.
  • High heels will compress the front of your toes and put pressure on the heel of your foot.
  • Not wearing socks will create friction within the shoe between your foot and the shoe itself.
  • Claw toes and bunions may contribute to the development of corns and calluses.

Treatment:

If the pain remains then you may come to Dr7 Podiatry in Yokine for a podiatrist to:

  • remove or debride the corns or calluses , this should not be done by yourself because it may be easily infected if not done properly
  • Over the counter medicine for corns and calluses  such as patches and cream may be applied, usually things that include salicylic acid. But this is not recommended because it will cause more problems in the future.
  • In rare cases surgery may be an option so that they may align your foot correctly.

Prevention:

You may apply these methods everyday to prevent corns or calluses from forming:

  • Moisturise the foot to keep the skin soft.
  • Wearing comfortable cushioned shoes and socks.
  • Custom orthotics may also align your feet and prevent friction within the shoes. You may book an appointment with Dr7 Physio and Podiatry Yokine Perth for a casting and dispense of custom orthotics.

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001.

blister2

Blisters

 

 

Blisters are a very common foot problem due to shoes not fitting correctly, either too tight or too loose. They are small pockets of skin filled with fluid caused by friction of the foot and the shoes most commonly. Walking or standing for several hours may also contribute to the cause due to the pressure you put on your feet. Moisture on your foot can also lead to blisters due to your pores being clogged up by sweat.

Treatment:

Unburst Blisters:

It is better to keep blisters unburst to avoid the risk of infection. Try not to cover up your blisters and let it breathe, but you may also put a plaster or bandage on it to prevent it from friction.

Burst Blisters:

If the blister has burst due to the large amount of friction that has been put on it, do not remove the skin. Instead you should wash it properly and use sterile dressing to dress it everyday until it is healed.

blister1

Draining Blisters:

This is not recommended but if the blister is in an awkward area or causes too much pain, you may burst and drain it yourself.

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly and sterilise a needle
  2. Puncture the sides of the blister with the sterile needle and not the centre of it
  3. Gently press down on the blister and let the fluid drain out
  4. Wash the blister after all fluid is drained
  5. Dry the area and apply a sterile dressing over it and change this everyday to avoid infection.

If there is blood in the blister this method is not recommended and instead you should not burst it and just let it heal itself.

blister

Prevention:

  • Wearing Shoes that fit well and not lacing up your shoes too tight
  • Wear socks that are breathable and moisture wicking
  • Putting orthotics in your shoes may position your foot better, we can custom make orthotics at Dr7 Physio and Podiatry.
  • Keeping your feet dry by putting talcum powder or antiperspirant

 

We are well located to provide physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage to  Yokine, Dianella, Joondana, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Coolbinia, Mount Lawley, Bedford, Inglewood, Balcatta, Stirling, Nollamara and surrounding Perth communities.

We have been providing friendly and professional physiotherapy, podiatry, hydrotherapy and massage treatment since 2001

 

athletes foot 1

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot is one of the most common foot problems a person could encounter if they do not keep their feet clean. It happens when a fungus grows most commonly in between the toes and can spread to the other parts of the foot. It can inflame the skin and develop a white and scabbing rash on your feet.  Athlete’s foot can also cause itching, soreness, burning and sometimes a slight smell .

athletes foot 1athletes foot

Causes:

  • Walking barefoot at showers, locker rooms, swimming pools
  • Sharing socks and shoes with an infected person
  • wearing shoes that are too tight
  • Sweaty and having your feet wet for a long time

 

Symptoms:

  • Itching and burning of the feet and in between your toes
  • Dry skin on the feet and between your toes
  • Discolored toenails
  • peeling skin on your feet

 

Prevention:

  • Washing your feet daily
  • Keeping the feet dry and always changing your socks so there is no moist area for fungi to grow
  • clipping your toenails short to prevent growing of fungus
  • Avoid tight footing footwear and wear well ventilated socks so your feet can get some air into them.
  • wearing sandals or thongs in communal areas such as bathrooms where the fungus can grow and get attached to your feet.

Wash feet

Treatment:

  • Athletes foot will usually treat itself without any medication but you must not wear or use the same socks or nail clipper where the fungi may have latched onto.
  • Wash your feet thoroughly once or twice per day
  • Apply over the counter anti-fungal cream after you wash it.
  • If the condition is not recovering you should see a podiatrist to get stronger medication.

how-to-cure-athletes-foot

Home remedies:

  • You may soak your foot in salt water or diluted vinegar to dry up the blisters on your foot
  • Tea tree oil can also be applied to infected areas