Tag Archives: Perth podiatry

Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown Toenail

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, is a condition whereby the skin around the nail is punctured by the edge or corner of the nail. This often causes pain, inflammation, and sometimes, infection. It usually affects the big toenail and is a common condition that podiatrists at Dr7 Podiatry Yokine are trained to manage, both conservatively and surgically. You would want to come to consult a podiatrist at Dr7 Podiatry Joondanna if you have diabetes or any other conditions which relate to poor circulation of blood.

Causes

There are many causes for an ingrown toenail, including;
• Improper trimming technique or tendencies to tear nails off
• Repetitive or inadvertent trauma
• Genetic predisposition
• Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)
• Poor foot hygiene
While some of these factors are beyond our control, there are steps you can take to help prevent the development or progression of an ingrown toenail.

Prevention

Here are some tips to try to prevent the development of an ingrown toenail:
1. Cut the nail straight across. Try to avoid digging nail clippers down the sides of the nail, as this often leaves a barb that encourages the nail to grow into the flesh as opposed to straight out.
2. Keep your feet clean. This will help prevent an infection in the case of a preexisting ingrown toenail.
3. Wear shoes with a deep and wide toe box. This will reduce pressure on the toes and therefore the nails, decreasing the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail.

Management

1. If you have a painful ingrown toenail
• Keep it clean and protected
• Soak your feet in lukewarm water soapy for 15-20 minutes a day
• Visit your podiatrist to get the offending piece of nail clipped out
2. How to prevent infection
• Same as above
• Apply some betadine (or a topical antibiotic) to the nail edges and dress with a simple dressing (e.g. bandaid)
3. Signs of infection and what to do
• Signs of infection: swelling, redness, pus, malodour, heat
• If you notice any of the signs above, see your podiatrist immediately
• If you start to feel unwell in yourself (fever, chills, etc) see your GP or present to the emergency room
• If a severe infection is present, you may require oral antibiotics to resolve the infection before the ingrown nail can be treated
4. Surgical management
• If you suffer from recurring ingrown toenails, speak to your podiatrist to determine if you are a good candidate for permanent removal of the problematic nail edge, and to discuss the pros, cons, and risks associated with this procedure.

NDIS

NDIS

NDIS

National Disability Insurance Scheme or NDIS for short is a scheme where the Australian government funds certain services such as physiotherapy and podiatry for people with a disability. Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy Yokine, is a provider for NDIS patients and works closely with carers to set short- and long-term goals with a tailored plan for each person. The convenience of having a hydrotherapy pool located within the practice makes it more accessible for NDIS patients who want a physiotherapist to guide and assist with hydrotherapy and physiotherapy.

 

Am I eligible?

  • Aged between 7 to 65 years old.
  • Australian citizen or Permanent resident or have a permanent or special category visa.
  • Need support from a physiotherapist or podiatrist because of a permanent and significant disability.
  • Use special equipment because of a permanent and significant disability.
  • If you need more information, please visit https://www.ndis.gov.au/applying-access-ndis/am-i-eligible

 

How do I apply?

 

Why come to Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy?

  • Convenient to have three services located at the same practice.
  • Easy access and free parking bays.
  • Friendly, caring, and helpful staff members.
  • Highly trained and professional physiotherapists and podiatrists.
  • Located in a medical center that has various services such as GPs, pharmacy, psychologist, clinical labs, etc.

 

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy, Podiatry, and Hydrotherapy Joondanna accept all NDIS patients who are self-managed, plan managed but we DO NOT accept NDIA managed NDIS funds (Please call reception for billing information).

 

Please do not hesitate to call Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill and ask to see one of our physiotherapists today. Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry services Perth’s northern suburbs including Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth, and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/ (click on the “Book an appointment” button on the top right-hand side of the page) or over the phone on 9349 1777.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Sports

Sports Therapy at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry’s Yokine therapists have extensive knowledge of biomechanics as well as prevention and treatment of injuries from hobbies and sports. The therapists at Dr7 undertake a wide range of sports and hobbies themselves in their own time which gives them  “insider knowledge” of injury prevention and management. Below is a brief summary of activities undertaken by our staff:

 

Katie Starke

Physiotherapist

Katie has been dancing Latin styles for many years now such as salsa & bachata.  Over the last 8 months, Katie has been taking Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu lessons. Katie is also an advocate of yoga and pilates which she does herself on a regular basis. Katie also enjoys running, swimming, and gym-based exercise. Several years ago, Katie was involved in participating in short-distance triathlons.

Ryan Weir

Practice owner

Ryan plays social basketball and trains for long-distance runs and has completed several marathons. Ryan also undertakes gym-based exercise on a weekly basis.

Luke Richards

Physiotherapist

Luke plays AFL football, runs, and attends the gym for strength-based training regularly. Luke has completed the Busselton jetty swim on several occasions.

Tess Moynihan                             

Physiotherapist

Tess previously competed intensively in outdoor Hockey for many years and trained heavily in Boxing. Currently, Tess is focused on equipment and functional-based strength training, such as rings, and beach swims.

Trevor

Physiotherapist

Trevor has worked for Circus-Soliel on several occasions, providing treatment to their high-level performers. Trevor was also part-owner in an aerial yoga company for many years. Currently, Trevor is focused on jiu-jitsu training, swimming, and trail run.

David Chia

Podiatrist

Dave plays social basketball weekly with Ryan Weir and trains regularly at his local gym. David is also a long-distance bike riding enthusiast.

Chris Gilomen

Podiatrist

Chris plays social soccer in a team in the Hills and also plays social basketball with David Chia on a weekly basis.

 

All our staff at Dr7physiotherapy and podiatry Joondanna are highly experienced in treating sports injuries and providing prevention methods such as dynamic warm-up stretches, RICE treatment protocols, sports strapping, and sports-specific biomechanics education.

From the wide range of exercises undertaken by our staff at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Tuart Hill, you may even be able to find a practitioner with a common interest!

Please contact our clinic on 9349 1777 to arrange an appointment today or book online at the top right hand of the homepage.

 

Working From Home

Working from Home

 

 

With a shift in the way we function in our current world, Australia has seen a rapid rise in the number of people working from home. When setting up your new work environment there are some crucial elements that need to be considered to avoid injuries and allow for optimal productivity.

Here at Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry Yokine we are here to help!
Read on to find out more about setting up your workstation in your humble abode.

 

Elements to Consider in your Work Space

 

Your Environment

When choosing a space to set up your workstation, ensure the area has enough lighting. A well-lit area is essential when reading documents and typing on your keyboard. Be careful that your computer isn’t positioned to reflect any glare. You can avoid this by facing your computer 90° away from the windows. Lastly consider trip hazards. Be sure to clear any obstacles around your legs that may cause you to adopt awkward positions or be at risk for a fall.

Your Equipment

Consider 3 zones when setting up your workstation.
1. Primary zone: Position items that are most frequently use comfortably within your reach with your elbows relaced in sitting position. [e.g. keyboard, mouse, notebook, pen]
2. Secondary zone: Position items that are occasionally used within an extended arms reach and your back comfortably against the back of your chair. [e.g. telephone, documents, coffee cup]
3. Non-working zone: Position items that won’t be moved. [e.g. monitor, pot plants, personal belongings]

The picture below gives you a visual representation of your workstations zones!

Tm blog 2

Yourself

Positioning yourself in relation to your workstation is essential. Minor changes can make a big difference. Follow these suggestions to ensure your body posture is correct:

Head/neck: Your eye gaze should be at the top 1/3 or top 3 cm of your monitor. Keep your chin tucked in and avoid a forward poking chin.
Torso/trunk: Ensure your back is against the support of the chair. There should be no gap between your back and your chair. A lumbar support or a small rolled-up towel can be effective in proving support to your lower back.
Hips: Make sure your bottom is seated at the very back of the chair. Adopt an angle of 90-120° at you hips with a slight recline of your computer chair.
Knees/feet: When seated, your knees should be shoulder-width apart and be at a 90-120° angle with your feet flat on the floor. If you feet are unable to reach the floor, prop them up with a foot support or some old textbooks. Keep your
Elbows: Elbows should rest at a 90-120° angle in line with your desk. When using your equipment be sure that your elbows refrain from moving more than 10-15cm away from your torso. Pull your chair close to your desk to avoid poor postures.
Wrists: Avoid planting your wrist on the surface of your desk as this puts pressure on your tendons and nerves. Avoid excessive wrist extension when using your mouse and keyboard and ensure your wrists are place higher than your keyboard. Wrist pads are not recommended however if you are using one make sure it is rested against your keyboard and is cushioning your palms.

Let’s break down these suggestions:
• Eye gaze top 1/3 of monitor
• Chin tucked in to neck
• Back and bottom against back of chair
• Opt to use a lumbar support or small rolled-up towel
• Adopt a 90-120° bend at you hips
• Knees shoulder-width apart
• Adopt 90-120° bend at your knees
• Feet flat on floor or support
• Elbows should rest at 90-120°
• Tuck chair close into desk
• Refrain from moving elbow 10-15cm away from the torso
• Avoid excessive wrist extension
• Do not rest your wrist against desk surface or wrist pad

Check out the picture below for optimal positioning!

Hot Tip
At Dr7 Physiotherapy & Podiatry Joondanna we recommend a standing break or stretch every 20-30 minutes for 2-3 minutes. This will help promote circulation, avoid poor postures, and improve productivity!

If you are noticing any aches and pains reflected by your working situation get in contact with one of our experienced Physiotherapists today on (08) 9349 1777.

Happy working from home everyone!

Congratulations to Nera Jareb

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry would like to congratulate Nera Jareb, one of our long term patients, for running 2nd in the Melbourne Marathon in October 2019. Nera has been attending Dr7 Physiotherapy for a decade now and has always been such a determined and talented sportsperson. We feel privileged to be able to help her on her journey. She finished the Melbourne Marathon in a time of 2:36:41 and beating her previous PB of 2:37:30 in the Gold Coast Marathon in July 2019.

 

 

 

Children’s Feet Footwear

Footwear and Developing Miletones in Children’s Feet

 

From a young age, children’s feet are constantly evolving and changing shape. As a result, footwear is very important as your child progresses from their first steps to running around playing sports. Here are some common milestones to look for in your kids’ feet, and what to look for in footwear.

 

6 months – 2 years

Your kids’ feet are soft and malleable with a fused bone structure. We highly recommend walking barefoot to strengthen the muscles and develop correct bone structure.

 

FOOTWEAR TIP: look for a soft, flexible outsole with minimal structure. This allows the natural motion of the foot.

 

2 years – 6 years

Each bone in the foot is starting to form. Fatty tissue surrounds the foot, which will eventually form the shape of the foot.

 

FOOTWEAR TIP: shoes need to be durable, lightweight and flexible. Firm heel counters are necessary to hold the heel in place,

 

6 years – 16 years:

The foot is now taking shape and requires more support. High impact activities can cause stress on their feet. This is worsened by poor fitted, unstable shoes.

 

FOOTWEAR TIP: sturdy heel counter, stable midfoot and flexibility in the toes are vital to support the foot during the gait cycle

 

16 years +

The foot has now fully developed into 26 bones and over 100 muscles/tendons/ligaments that require support

 

FOOTWEAR TIP: extra stability in the heel and midfoot to prevent over-pronation (flat footedness) whilst remaining flexible in the forefoot. Each shoe has different levels of stability to support the different foot types and shapes.

 

If you have had any issues or want to speak to a podiatrist about how to manage your child’s feet call us on (08) 9349 1777 to book an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists today.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

Nail Fungal Infections

Fungal nail infections

What is a fungal nail infection?

Fungal nail infections, also known as onychomycosis or tinea unguium, are a common infection of the nail plate and/or nail bed. Most fungal nail infections are caused by dermatophytes, a type of fungus that require keratin for growth – nails and skin are the perfect environment for them to feed on.

 

 

 

Factors that place you at greater risk of developing a fungal nail infection include:

  • Use of communal showers, gyms, locker rooms
  • Exposure to moist environments and restricted ventilation of the feet
  • Age – related to decreased blood circulation and thicker nails
  • Other medical conditions, e.g. diabetes or psoriasis
  • Use of unclean or improperly sterilised nail salon equipment

 

How do I know if I have one?

The appearance of a fungal nail infection will vary, but the most obvious signs are:

  • Discolouration – usually a yellow, brown or white
  • Nails have become brittle or crumbly
  • Uneven texture and thickening of the nail plate in more longstanding cases

 

Fungal nail infections can be confused with a number of other nail conditions, so it is always best to see a podiatrist rather than self-diagnose.

 

How are fungal nail infections treated?

Treating fungal nail infections can sometimes be a long and tedious process, so early diagnosis and treatment is important. It is also important to treat these infections as they can spread to neighbouring nails, the skin (known as tinea pedis/athlete’s foot), or to other people.
First and foremost, good foot hygiene practices are a must:

  • Keep feet clean and dry
  • Favour cotton or bamboo socks
  • Replace hot and sweaty socks during the day if required
  • Avoid going barefoot in communal showers and locker rooms

 

For early or mild infections, twice daily application of tea tree oil to the nail plate can sometimes be sufficient. However, by the time most people seek treatment, the infection is more longstanding and therefore requires stronger treatment with a topical antifungal nail lacquer. For the most stubborn infections, more aggressive treatment may be needed. An oral antifungal can be prescribed by your GP, however treatment with these drugs may last several months and they can be accompanied by unpleasant side effects.

 

How can Dr7 Podiatry Yokine help?

The specific area of nail that is infected is often directly related to how difficult the nail will be to treat. A podiatrist at Dr7 Podiatry Tuart Hill can help to identify the type of fungal infection and the best course of treatment.

 

In most cases, treatment with a nail lacquer alone yields poor results. This is because the nail plate is thick and the nail lacquer is unable to adequately penetrate the nail to treat the infection, especially when the nail bed is also infected. A podiatrist at Dr7 Podiatry Joondanna can help to cut back the nail and thin it down with a nail burr to reduce the fungal load on the nail and to allow better penetration of topical treatment. This process should be painless. For optimum results, you will be required to return every 6 weeks to have the nail cut back and thinned down, until the healthy nail has grown out.

 

Total nail removal is rarely recommended as there is no guarantee the nail will grow back healthy, and there is a chance the nail will grow back thicker or misshapen.

 

If you think you have a fungal nail infection, please come in to see one of our friendly podiatrists at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Yokine.

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

 

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone.

 

$40 Initial Consults for Physio and Pod

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$40”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$40’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. A limited time – from 9th April 2019 until 30th June 2019.
2. Online bookings ONLY through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. New private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$40” special offer.

Senior Podiatrist at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry

Podiatrist Angelo

WHAT DOES OUR PODIATRIST ANGELO TREAT

 

Having been a podiatrist for approximately 4 years, our Senior Podiatrist Angelo has been exposed to all aspects of podiatry at Dr7 Podiatry Yokine. From diabetic risk assessments and foot care, to paediatric sports injuries and disability rehabilitation, he has seen and treated patients from all ages and backgrounds. He has also worked alongside several soccer teams in Perth to provide acute management of lower leg injuries.

Over the past years, Angelo has developed a strong interest in pain and injury rehabilitation, with a particular focus on ankle injuries and rehabilitation. Having injured and fractured his ankle twice in 18 months, he knows from personal experience just how important it is to rehabilitate and treat the ankle with care to prevent long-term complications and risk re-injury. Angelo uses a variety of mobilisation, needling, massage and strapping techniques, along with isolated exercise and strength/conditioning programs to guide you through your rehabilitation and ensure you return to activities in peak condition and with full confidence in your body.

Ankle Pain

He also retains a special interest in paediatric podiatry. Having completed several courses and attended several paediatric-specific conferences over the years, Angelo is fully competent to diagnose, treat and provide long-term advice for kids ranging from 1 years of age through to adolescent years at Dr7 Podiatry Joondanna. He predominately treats ‘growing pains’ such as Severs Disease, Osgood-Schlatters and Freiburg’s Disease, and also works with a lot of state and district football, cricket, netball and soccer players for ankle, calf and foot injuries. Angelo’s main aim is to keep you playing without having to cease your activity levels. Injury management generally covers footwear changes and modifications, massage and release and providing strength and conditioning training for young athletes.

Other conditions Angelo is competent to assess and treat include but are not limited to:

  • Bunions
  • Rheumatoid Arthritis pain
  • Morton’s Neuroma and bursitis
  • Achilles tendinopathies
  • Peroneal tendinopathies
  • Patello-femoral pain
  • Metatarsal stress fractures

If suffering from acute/chronic injuries or pain, book in for an extensive biomechanical analysis and treatment with Angelo at Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry in Yokine.

Happy feet
Happy feet

 

Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry provides services to the suburbs of Yokine, Tuart Hill, Joondanna, Osborne Park, Stirling, Nollamara, Dianella, North Perth and surrounding suburbs. Our friendly Physiotherapists and Podiatrists have appointments available Monday-Saturday.

Bookings are available on our website or over the phone on 9349 1777.

$40 special

$40 Physio and Podiatry Initial Consulation

$40 Physio and Podiatry Private Initial Consultation

Claim Instructions: (Only valid for booking on https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)

  1. Click the “Book an appointment” button at the top right of Dr7 Physiotherapy webpage (https://dr7physioandpod.com.au/)
  2. Select Physiotherapy or Podiatry
  3. Select appointment time and specific practitioner if you wish
  4. In the reason for visit box, type “$40”
  5. Inform reception upon arrival that you are claiming ‘$40’ website special.
    *Terms and conditions apply. Valid only for new clients to Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry clinic or past clients who have not visited greater than 3 yrs ago.

 

 

*Terms & Conditions
This offer is only valid for:
1. A limited time – until 1st March 2019.
2. Online bookings ONLY through our web page (www.dr7physioandpod.com.au)
3. New private clients to the Dr7 Physiotherapy and Podiatry Business ( or clients who have not visited for more than 3 yrs).
4. Initial consultation and treatment only but does not include stock, equipment or any take home consumables. Eg, if your practitioner recommends braces, orthotics, creams etc, then these are charged separately upon prior discussion and approval from you.

You must inform reception upon arrival for your appointment of the “$40” special offer.