SPECIALIST TREATMENTS

The following details the specialist treatments that we offer:

NAIL SURGERY

This is a sterile procedure carried out under local anaesthetic, providing a permanent solution for acute or long standing ingrowing toenails. The technique used ensures minimal discomfort both when anaesthetising and post-operatively. Only the section of nail that is causing the problem is removed and a chemical then used to prevent that area of nail growing again. There is no stitching of the area. Once healed the nail grows with a straight edge and the appearance is aesthetically good.

The patient can usually return to school/work the following day, as long as the toe is protected and the advice sheet given is adhered to. Healing is usually complete in approximately six weeks, during which time regular appointments will be made for dressings and checks.

GAIT ANALYSIS/ORTHOTIC PROVISION

Biomechanics (the study of the movement of body segments and the forces acting upon them) deals with problems arising from the way your joints are aligned and your muscles function.

The foot is made up of 26 bones, 33  joints and more than a hundred ligaments, tendons, and muscles as well as other soft tissue structures. Efficient foot function depends upon the way these structures move in relation to each other, maintaining flexibility for shock absorption yet strength and rigidity during each step as your body weight passes through each foot. Problems may arise not only due to issues directly within the foot but also as a result of factors higher up in the leg or body.

Many people have structural imbalances (curvature of the spine, knock knees, bow legs etc). When we walk, the body compensates for these anomalies, which may cause strain of muscles, joints and ligaments as they function in a compromised way. Over time the structures can become inflamed and injured, resulting in back, hip knee or leg problems and poor foot function.

Gait analysis or ‘structural assessment’ will help to identify the causes of such problems, which may be treated with exercises and/or provision of Orthotics. These are customised insoles that aim to reduce the symptoms of biomechanical problems. Often they are known for their use in controlling excessive pronation (commonly known as ‘flat feet’ or ‘fallen arches’) but they are also used for many other conditions.  Referral maybe made to other clinicians for provision of certain orthotics.

FOOT SURGERY

Podiatric surgeons operate on a range of foot problems. Most commonly referrals are made for surgery to ‘bunions’ , hammer toes and other toe deformities, neuromas and soft tissue lesions.

Surgery is usually carried out under local anaesthetic,  on a day-care basis