Category: Podiatry Problems

Did you know shin splints affect close to 20% of runners? Fortunately our head podiatrist, Trevor Lane, has a special interest in sports podiatry, and is here to help!

What are Shin Splints?

Shin splints, medically known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) or Tibial Periostitis, refers to pain along the inner edge of the shinbone, or tibia.

It is caused by inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and tissue, and is commonly experienced by runners, athletes, football players, and dancers due to repetitive stress placed on the shinbone and surrounding muscles.

In fact, shin splints affect up to 20% of runners and contribute to close to 60% of their lower limb injuries (1).

Symptoms of Shin Splints

Shin splints typically present with one or more of the following symptoms:

• Pain: A dull, aching pain in the front or inner part of the shin. It may start off mild and become more intense over time.
• Tenderness: The inner part of the shin may feel tender to the touch.
• Swelling: Mild swelling in the lower leg.
• Redness: In some cases, there may be visible redness along the shin.
• Lumps or Bumps: In chronic cases, small lumps or bumps may develop due to bone or muscle thickening.
• Worsening Pain: Pain may worsen during or after exercise and improve with rest.

When Should I See a Podiatrist for Shin Splints?

If, despite resting, you’ve been experiencing the above symptoms for a couple of weeks, or if the pain’s worsening or interfering with your daily activities – we recommend seeing a local podiatrist for shin splints. For those based in or near the Redlands or bayside area of Brisbane, that’s Trevor Lane Podiatry.

We can assess your foot biomechanics (utilising the latest technologies like a digital gait scan), and design a treatment plan to help relieve pain, address any underlying causes, and prevent recurring issues.

Taping up Shin Splints and other Treatments

Depending on your individual situation, your treatment plan may include:

• Rest and Activity Modification: The most crucial part of shin splints recovery is allowing the shinbone and muscles to heal. You’ll be advised to reduce or temporarily stop activities that trigger the pain, and switch to low-impact activities such as swimming or cycling.

• Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day assists with pain and swelling.

• Compression and Elevation: Wearing compression socks, and keeping the leg elevated, to help reduce swelling and support the muscles.

• Taping and Strapping: Taping up shin splints with athletic tape may provide additional support to the muscles and help reduce pain during activity (2).

• Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Regular stretching of the muscles around the shin, including the calves, helps relieve tension. A podiatrist may also prescribe strengthening exercises to help build the muscles in the area, and help prevent shin splints from recurring (3).

• Orthotics: In certain cases, custom-made orthotics or insoles may be recommended to help correct abnormal foot mechanics which may be contributing to shin splints (4).

• Massage Therapy: Deep tissue massage to alleviate muscle tightness and improve blood circulation, to promote healing.

Prevention Strategies

The wonderful thing about podiatry is that is can be preventative (5). Our podiatrists are able to create a personalised plan for you which may include some of the following shin splint prevention strategies:

• Gradual Training: Increase your exercise intensity and duration gradually to avoid overloading the shins.
• Cross-Training: Incorporate low-impact activities to give your shins a break from high-impact exercises.
• Proper Footwear: Wear shoes with good arch support and cushioning is essential. We can guide you on the best shoes to suit your activity, foot type, and gait.
• Strengthening and Stretching: Regularly perform exercises that strengthen and stretch the muscles of the lower leg.
• Surface Selection: Avoid running or exercising on hard surfaces like concrete; opt for softer surfaces when possible.

Is There a Cure for Shin Splints?

While shin splints can be effectively treated and managed, they may recur if the underlying causes are not addressed. Following a comprehensive prevention plan as prescribed by a podiatrist or sports physician is key to reducing the risk of recurrence (6).

As a trained FMT Therapist with a special interest in sports podiatry, Trevor Lane is experienced in treating the shooting pain of shin splints. If you’re based in the Redlands, book your consultation with us today.

References:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11140428/#:~:text=Shin%20splints%20were%20seen%20in,of%20shin%20splints%20%5B5%5D
2. International Journal of Physical Education, Sports and Health 2018; 5(2): 124-125: Effects of kineseotaping on shin splints in runners
3. https://www.logan.edu/mm/files/LRC/Senior-Research/2005-Apr-42.pdf
4. https://journals.co.za/doi/abs/10.10520/EJC48589
5. https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00007256-198502020-00006
6. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11140428/#REF2

If you’re one of the 1 in 7 Australians living with arthritis, you know just how debilitating it can be. Fortunately, with podiatry – help is at hand (or foot!)

Arthritis is the leading cause of chronic pain in Australia, with three quarters of Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferers experiencing foot pain that severely limits their daily life. But it shouldn’t have to be that way!

At Trevor Lane Podiatry we offer a range of treatments to help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis in the feet and lower limbs (1), to improve the quality of life for our patients.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis refers to a group of conditions characterised by inflammation of the joints.

The two most common types are:

• Osteoarthritis – a degenerative joint disease, usually associated with ageing, where the cartilage cushioning the ends of the bones wears down over time; and
• Rheumatoid Arthritis – an autoimmune disorder that can occur at any age, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium – the lining of the membranes surrounding the joints.

Arthritis can significantly impact the feet and ankles, leading to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility. If left untreated, it may also lead to knee, hip, and lower back pain.

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

A doctor can diagnose arthritis through physical examination, previous medical history, X-rays, and blood tests. The specific type of arthritis you have will determine the best treatment plan.

Why See a Podiatrist about Arthritis?

Podiatrists are able to support the overall health management of patients with arthritis, with a range of treatments that may alleviate the symptoms of arthritis in the feet and ankles – and may even help slow down the rate of joint damage and degeneration (2).

If you’re suffering from pain, tenderness, swelling, redness or heat in the joints of your lower limbs and feet – it’s worth booking an appointment with your local podiatrist.

Research has found regularly seeing a podiatrist for arthritis may be effective in:

• Reducing foot pain (4)
• Improving foot function and mobility (5)
• Reducing inflammation (6)
• Enabling early detection and treatment to prevent disease progression (2)
• Providing effective nonsurgical intervention, negating the need for surgery (7)
• Treating knee osteoarthritis (3)

Treatment Options

Depending on your individual needs, treatment for arthritis by our podiatrist may include:

• Foot Mobilisation Therapy – a non-invasive, manual technique that mobilises the joints of the feet and helps restore joint function and range of motion.
• Prolotherapy for foot pain – an injection technique that stimulates the body’s natural healing process and restores strength in painful soft tissue and joints.
• Physical therapy exercises to increase flexibility and mobility, and strengthen your muscles.
• Custom orthotics and footwear to provide support, reduce pressure on the joints, and improve foot alignment.
• Lifestyle modification guidance, such as appropriate exercise and footwear choices.
• Nail care and skin care as required, such as treatment of bunions and removal of hard skin.
• Potential referral for surgery, if your pain is disabling and you are not responding to less invasive treatments.

At our Redlands podiatry clinic, we understand the pain and discomfort that comes with arthritis. That’s why we provide tailored care that addresses the unique challenges of arthritis in the feet, knees and ankles.

If arthritis is affecting your daily life, book a consultation today with our experienced podiatrists today – and take a step towards a healthier, happier, more active YOU!

References:

1. https://nzmj.org.nz/media/pages/journal/vol-126-no-1370/936dd1a5b1-1696470731/vol-126-no-1370.pdf#page=70
2. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1757-1146-3-8
3. https://journals.lww.com/ajpmr/abstract/2011/03000/efficacy_of_knee_braces_and_foot_orthoses_in.9.aspx
4. https://nzmj.org.nz/media/pages/journal/vol-126-no-1370/936dd1a5b1-1696470731/vol-126-no-1370.pdf#page=70
5. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0269215521993316
6. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s13047-022-00542-7
7. https://journals.lww.com/co-rheumatology/abstract/2011/03000/arthritis,_foot_pain_and_shoe_wear__current.5.aspx

If you’ve ever had a black bruised toenail, you may think there’s no great mystery as to HOW you got it – of course you remember kicking your toe, or dropping that can of soup on it!

However we have seen patients who have been mystified to discover they have a black bruised toenail, as the cause is not so obvious.

Toenails might be only small but have a big impact when they hurt – so it’s important to find out why it happened, how to treat it, and how to prevent this sort of injury from happening again.

Common Causes of a Black Bruised Toenail

Most toenail injuries occur due to some form of physical trauma, which causes blood to collect under the nail in what is known as a ‘a subungual hematoma’ – the black or purple discolouration.

Regular running or hiking can cause ‘runner’s toe’, where the repeated rubbing of your nail against your shoe causes a black bruised toenail. Feet often swell during exercise, creating even more pressure.

Tight or badly fitting shoes can also cause repeated trauma as they rub or compress the toes, allowing the foot to slide forward and hit the toe box with each step.

Some years ago we had one young fellow visit our podiatry clinic, wondering why his big toe was sore and bruised – and it was only getting worse over time.

He worked as a kitchen hand for a fast-food restaurant, and further investigation revealed that he was in the habit of kicking open the heavy door of the cold room. This caused ongoing trauma to his toe, compounded by the ill fitting steel-capped boots he wore at work.

Treatment involved cleaning the trapped blood out from underneath the nail, trimming the nail (which had become thick and misshapen from injury), and advice on how to choose boots that fit correctly.

Do I need treatment for a toenail injury?

If you have diabetes or any condition that affects healing or circulation, it’s important to have your injury professionally assessed as soon as possible.

It’s definitely worth booking an appointment with your local podiatrist if you are otherwise healthy but have a black bruised toenail that hurts; has appeared gradually; or the discoloration has spread beyond the nail.

Preventing toenail trauma

Prevention is better than cure, so here are our top tips for preventing toenail trauma.

• Buy shoes that fit properly. Shop later in the day when feet are swollen. Find a shoe with good support and room in the toe box, as outlined in our blog post on choosing hiking boots – the tips are just as relevant.
• Trim your toenails – to reduce the chances of rubbing or pressure.
• Control moisture if you have sweaty feet – wearing socks, especially ones made of natural fibres with moisture-wicking properties, can help with this. 

If you live in the Redlands, Trevor Lane Podiatry is here to help with all your toenail problems – call us today on 3207 4736 or make an appointment 24/7 via our secure online booking system.

Your feet are quite miraculous!

Each foot is a complex mechanical structure comprising of 26 bones, 33 joints and over 100 tendons, muscles and ligaments.

Feet have a vital role in our mobility and capability to enjoy (or at least endure!) many aspects of life. We use our feet daily and take them for granted until they hurt.

But when foot pain strikes? It can be really debilitating and draining, as it impedes productivity and prevents us from doing the things we love.

If your feet are causing you grief, a trip to the podiatrist may sort the issue out for you before it causes bigger problems. If left to worsen, some of these conditions may cause pain further up your legs, through ankles, knees, hips and even lower back. Nobody wants that!

What are the Most Common Podiatry Problems?

Here are 10 of the most common foot problems our podiatrists help to diagnose and treat:

1.   Heel Pain

Heel pain is the most frequent reason for a trip to the podiatrist. Causes include over-exertion, poorly fitting shoes, and conditions such as plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, bursitis, and Achilles tendinitis.

2.  Achilles Tendinitis

The Achilles tendon facilitates your foot being able to move up and down. Achilles tendinitis is a painful strain injury from overuse and is often seen in those who love sports which involve a lot of running.

3.  Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia runs along the bottom of the foot and forms the arch. This tissue can become painful if it’s over-stretched or strained and small tears develop.

3. Blisters

When an area of your foot constantly experiences friction, fluid rushes in just under the skin, causing swelling and pain.

4. Corns

Corns develop due to constant rubbing and friction, for example, from poorly fitting shoes. A hard lump forms, surrounded by inflamed skin, which can be very painful.

5. Bunions

A bunion is a painful bony bump that forms at the big toe joint when it pushes inwards toward the second toe. Once again, shoes that don’t fit properly are usually the culprit!

6. Ingrown Toenails

These occur when the edges of the nail curve and grow into surrounding skin. This causes swelling and inflammation and may even lead to infection.

7. Gnarly or thick toenails

Thick and gnarly toenails are mostly caused by fungal infections but may also be from trauma, ageing, or psoriasis. It’s recommended that fungal infections be treated as soon as possible.

9. Neuromas

A neuroma may feel like a pebble stuck under the ball of your foot. It is a form of fibrous scar tissue which develops around a nerve in response to trauma or pressure – for example, surgery, bunions, or shoes that are too tight. In some cases they can be quite painful.

10. Flat foot

Flat foot refers to the lack of arch in your foot when standing. This is generally a genetic condition and contrary to popular opinion, flat foot only requires treatment if it causes pain or discomfort.

While some of these conditions may seem minor at first, if left untreated they may lead to further issues such as not being able to exercise, weight-gain, feeling unhappy or overwhelmed, and possibly other medical problems.

If you are suffering from any of these common podiatry problems – or any other issues with your feet, ankles or lower limbs – book a visit to your local podiatrist.

Healthy feet are happy feet … look after them so they serve you well!

As parents, it’s only natural to be concerned about our children’s health, and when it comes to their feet – flat foot fears top the list of worries we see in the clinic.

The fact is, there are a lot of flat foot myths floating around, so it’s essential to separate fact from fiction to put those worries to rest!

Firstly, it’s generally not until a child is five or six that a podiatrist would consider orthotics or another type of treatment for flat feet. Why?

Because in a child younger than that, flat feet are actually quite common – in fact, they can be developmental and not at all concerning in isolation.

What are Flat Feet?

Flat feet are a common condition where the longitudinal arch of the foot has not developed properly, causing the entire sole of the foot to make contact with the ground. This can be a result of genetics, injury, or weakened arch-supporting structures. It may not cause symptoms, but some individuals may experience foot pain, discomfort, or issues with balance and posture.

However, here’s the thing: Excess pronation (the natural inward rolling movement of the foot or ankle when a person is walking or running) can make your child appear like they have flat feet. But they don’t! It can just look more pronounced due to the bone growing faster than soft tissue, creating a temporary muscular imbalance.

What are the Biggest Flat Foot Myths?

Myth 1: Flat Feet are Abnormal in Children

In reality, it’s quite normal for infants and toddlers to have flat feet. Arch development is an ongoing process that continues throughout childhood – and you may not see it developing properly until even the age of six or seven.

Also, if you’re only seeing the flat feet while your child is standing, walking, or running it may just be excess pronation. In a true case of flat foot, the arch contour remains flat regardless of whether the child is standing or sitting.

Myth 2: Flat Feet Always Require Treatment

While you should always seek professional advice from a podiatrist for your child if you’re concerned, it’s another misconception that all cases of flat feet demand immediate intervention.

In truth, most children with flat feet don’t experience any pain or discomfort. Paediatric flat feet are often flexible, meaning the arch appears when the child stands on tiptoes but flattens when standing normally. Unless a child complains of pain or exhibits difficulty walking, there’s usually no need for concern.

Myth 3: Orthopedic Shoes are the Only Solution

Some parents mistakenly believe that the solution to flat feet lies solely in orthopedic shoes. In fact, with true flat foot there is no arch, so there’s no point treating the patient with orthotics as it would only cause them pain. So, while supportive footwear can be beneficial in certain cases, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Children with flexible flat feet also often outgrow the condition as they develop and may not require any intervention. However, if pain persists or if there are concerns about your child’s gait, it’s crucial to consult a podiatrist for personalised advice.

Myth 4: Flat Feet Cause Lifelong Problems

Contrary to popular belief, having flat feet during childhood does not necessarily translate to lifelong foot problems. Again, many children naturally develop arches as they grow. In cases where flat feet persist into adulthood and cause discomfort, appropriate interventions can be explored at that time. However, most cases of paediatric flat feet resolve on their own without causing long-term issues.

We hope it helps bring a sigh of relief knowing that flat feet in children are often a normal part of development. While it’s essential to monitor your child’s foot health, there’s no need to panic if flat feet are detected.

If you do have flat foot concerns or if your child experiences pain, Trevor Lane Podiatry is your Redlands family podiatry centre and can provide the best guidance for your unique situation. Book in for an appointment via our secure online booking system or call us on (07) 3207 4736.

“Cold feet” has come to mean that somebody is nervous or apprehensive about a major undertaking such as marriage – maybe because it’s true, stress CAN make your feet cold!

The soles of your feet have thousands of sweat glands, and since stress and sweating go hand in hand, your feet can feel clammy and cold.

What Causes Cold Feet?

In cold weather, blood flow around your body is constricted. Your vital organs require more blood to function, and there’s less blood circulating to the extremities, like your feet. 

While they’re normal during winter, cold feet may be caused by other factors like:

• Lack of iron in your diet. If you don’t consume and absorb enough iron, you may not have enough healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen around your body. 
• Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. The thyroid controls your metabolism, which regulates body temperature and blood flow.
• Type 1 or Type 2 Diabetes. Diabetes may cause nerve damage, so see your podiatrist urgently if you are experiencing numbness, or pins and needles, or feeling cold in your feet.
• Raynaud’s Disease. Smaller arteries that supply blood to the skin become narrow, limiting blood flow to fingers or toes. Your feet may be numb, and they may appear white or blue.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis. Similar to Raynaud’s disease, your feet may change colour when it’s cold outside. The tiny blood vessels and nerves in your feet are affected, leading to numbness and tingly sensations.
• High blood pressure. Peripheral Arterial Disease narrows the arteries, restricting blood flow to the legs.
• Poor circulation. This is common as we age, but it may also occur due to obesity, blood clots and even sitting too much.

Addressing the underlying cause is the best way to go about solving the problem of cold feet.

Cold Feet at Night

Cold feet can stop you having a good night’s rest, by making it hard to fall asleep or by waking you up in the wee hours.

Pre-warming the bed and wearing thick socks can help your toes feel toasty all night long.

When To Be Concerned

Although cold feet might seem like a minor complaint, you should be concerned if you have cold feet AND any of the following symptoms:

• Fever
• Joint pain
• Fatigue
• Rash
• Weight changes
• Numbness
• Severe Pain
• Sores on the feet which won’t heal

If so, make an urgent appointment with a medical professional, to find out what’s going on.

How to Stop Cold Feet

In order to warm up those frozen feet, here are a few simple tips:

• Make sure your whole body is warm, not just your feet.
• Woollen socks are better than cotton, especially if teamed with boots or slippers.
• Try to be more active by walking or exercising every day, as this helps improve blood circulation. 
• Put your feet up on a pillow when lying down, and use a wheat bag, hot water bottle or electric blanket to prewarm the bed.

The good news is that cold feet are normally harmless, but there are times when it could be a sign that something serious is going on in your body. So if you’re concerned about cold feet, get in touch with us today!

A plantar wart starts out as a tiny growth on the sole of your foot; you might notice it when washing your feet.

At first you may not even be able to see it, but as it grows, the skin gets rough and it may become painful, especially when walking or standing. Sometimes little black dots may appear inside the lesion.

Plantar Wart Removal Brisbane

If you’ve ever had a plantar wart, chances are you’re familiar with the scenario above.

In days gone by, your treatment may have included covering them with banana, pineapple, apple, or potato slices – none of which were particularly effective! The thinking was that if you cut off the supply of nutrients, the wart would die. Other popular treatments included rubbing chalk on them, or bathing them with the milk of a dandelion plant.

These days, thankfully, there are better (and less messy) treatment options to choose from.

What Are Plantar Warts?

Warts on the feet are known as plantar warts or ‘Verruca pedis’. 

They’re caused by a viral infection from the Human Papilloma Virus. While there’s over 100 different strains of HPV, only a few of them cause plantar warts¹.

Although they’re not harmful, plantar warts can become painful or bleed.

While plantar warts may develop at any age, they are most commonly seen in children and teens. 

How Can a Podiatrist Help?

Plantar warts can be stubborn and hard to get rid of, but podiatrists have a range of effective treatments that aim to kill the wart. 

Best results come from using a combination of treatments over several months, such as:

• Debridement, which is a fancy term for thoroughly cleaning the wound, removing thickened skin, and taking off the top surface of the wart.

• Electrosurgery that burns away wart tissue using a small needle with an electrical pulse.

• Applying a topical solution such as Duofilm to the wart.  It can take between 6 and 12 weeks for treatment to be effective, but there’s no pain and the wart will eventually peel off.

While your wart is being treated, sponge rubbers and felt can be used to cushion around it, so you won’t have any pain with extra pressure.

Do All Plantar Warts Need Treatment?

No, not necessarily. If you’re not experiencing any pain, you could just leave it alone. 

In fact, watching and waiting can be a viable treatment option since warts can spontaneously resolve in up to 80% of patients within 2 years²!

Where To From Here?

Research is currently being done into the efficacy of injecting Vitamin D3 into the lesion, and the results are promising as there are minimal side effects and a low rate of recurrence³.

As the health professional trained in all things feet – contact Trevor Lane Podiatry about planter wart removal or treatment if you live in the Redlands or Brisbane’s bayside.

References:

1. Witchey, D.J., Witchey, N.B., Roth-Kauffman, M.M., and Kauffman, M.K. “Plantar Warts: Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Clinical Management” Journal of Osteopathic Medicine, vol. 118, no. 2, 2018, pp. 92-105.  https://doi.org/10.7556/jaoa.2018.024
2. Hekmatjah, J., Farshhchian, M., Grant-Kels, J.M., Mehregan, D. The status of treatment for plantar warts in 2021: No definitive advancements in decades for a common dermatology disease, Clinics in Dermatology, Volume 39, Issue 4, 2021, Pages 688-694.  https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0738081X21000894
3. Ahmad, N., Waleed, A., Amira, I.  & Khattab, F M. (2022) Immunotherapeutic modalities for the treatment of recalcitrant plantar warts: a comparative study, Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 33:2, 922-927, DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2020.1789540

Bunions. It’s a word that strikes fear into the heart of any style-loving fashionista!

If you’ve never suffered with one, and you think that it’s something that only ‘old people’ have to deal with – then you’re one of the lucky ones! Bunions don’t discriminate and can develop at any age; and women are also more likely to suffer from them, than men.

What is a Bunion?

A bunion (rhymes with ‘onion’) is a bony lump or bump that forms on the base of your big toe, on the side of your foot. 

Why do they develop?

A bunion starts to form when the bones at the front part of your foot move out of place.  Your big toe is forced towards your other toes, and the joint at the base of your big toe begins to stick out.

Bunions may be caused by wearing shoes that are too tight, due to a genetic or hereditary disposition, or as a result of a medical condition such as arthritis.

Signs and Symptoms

Signs that you have a bunion may include:

• Swelling at the base of your big toe
• Redness
• Pain
• Restricted movement of the big toe
• Numbness

It’s important to note that bunions don’t just go away, and ignoring a bunion may lead to further problems down the line.

Lifestyle Effects of Bunions

Without proper treatment a bunion may cause more problems than just localised pain, all of which may have a significant impact on your lifestyle.

• Damaged foot function – As a bunion grows it will put more pressure on your other toes, which may lead to issues such as corns, callouses and ingrown toenails.
• Reduce your independent lifestyle – the pain and discomfort generated from a bunion and associated issues can stop you from maintaining an active and healthy lifestyle. 
• Balance issues – attempts to reduce the painful effects of a bunion may force you to put pressure on parts of your foot that you don’t normally use. This in turn places stress on your other joints up the line, such as your ankle and knee joints and may even cause back problems.
• Restrict your footwear choices – not all podiatrist approved shoes are attractive, an absolute tragedy for the fashionistas amongst us!

Why See a Podiatrist about Bunions

If you are troubled by bunion pain, seek expert help and advice from your local podiatrist, as they are trained in all things feet. Treatment may involve:

• Bunion Pads – these can be bought over the counter at your local chemist and provide a first line of defence against the pain.
• Taping – using medical tape to strap the foot into a better position may also help with reducing pain.
• Changing your shoes – it’s time to give up the pointy toes and instead get a wide shoe with a square toe box for plenty of room.
• Pain Relief – topical creams, paracetamol or ibuprofen may be helpful in reducing the pain and discomfort of a bunion.
• Orthotic Inserts – a custom made shoe insert may be prescribed by your podiatrist, to help correct alignment and pressure issues.
• Physical therapy – may assist in improving muscle strength around the bone as well as reducing the pain and inflammation.
• Surgery – if none of the above offer any real assistance in managing your bunion pain, then surgery to remove the bunion and realign the bones may be offered as a last resort.

It doesn’t matter how old you are, if you are experiencing bunion pain, it’s time to give it the boot. Call our Redlands podiatry clinic on (07) 3207 4736 for an appointment, or use our secure online booking system.

Nothing disrupts daily life more than pain; apart from being, well, painful, it prevents us from doing the things we love, or just need to do. 

Sore feet can be super annoying, and a little thing called plantar fasciitis is perhaps THE most common cause of foot pain.  If you are like 10%¹ of the population and have had to endure it, you will clearly remember the difficulty of getting out of bed in the morning and trying to walk to the bathroom.

If you are suffering from it now, then you have probably thought: Plantar fasciitis, does it ever go away? 

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is an inflammation of the “plantar fascia”, a ligament that connects your heel to the front of your foot. It lies directly beneath the skin and supports the arch. 

What causes it?

Too much pressure on your feet can damage or tear this ligament; once it has been overstretched, it causes pain in the heel. 

Active men and women between the ages of 40-70 are most at risk of developing plantar fasciitis, though it does tend to affect women more than men.

Limb-length discrepancy may also be a contributing factor², as can joint replacement (eg hip or knee), or simply as a result of the body adapting a compensatory gait because of another injury.

Plantar fasciitis may also arise due to growth issues (eg an imbalance between bone length and muscle flexibility), or due to tight or shortened calf muscles.

Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis

The most common symptoms of plantar fasciitis are:

• Pain on the bottom of the foot near the heel.
• Pain associated with the first few steps upon getting out of bed in the morning, or after a long period of rest.
• Greater pain after (not during) exercise.

Treatment Options

• Rest – Decreasing or even stopping the activities that cause the pain, is the first place to start.  No more pounding the pavements or dancing the night away … instead, consider switching to a low impact exercise such as swimming or cycling.
• Stretching – Plantar fasciitis is aggravated by tight muscles in your legs and feet, so stretching your calves is one of the most effective ways to relieve the pain.
• Supportive footwear – Shoes with thick soles and extra cushioning may help; or your podiatrist may recommend an orthotic support.
• Night splints – These help to stretch the plantar fascia whilst you sleep.  It may be a little difficult to get used to at first, but most people report that it helps with relieving the pain.
• Medication – Taking anti-inflammatories may provide temporary relief although it’s not going to help fix the problem.
• Foot Mobilisation Therapy – gentle manipulation by a podiatrist trained in FMT techniques.

If the condition doesn’t respond favourably to these conservative measures, and an ultrasound has revealed that there aren’t any tears, modern treatment options include:

• PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) Treatment – The patient’s own blood is drawn and the plasma extracted and concentrated. Being rich in the proteins that support cell growth, this formula is then injected into the damaged tissue to promote healing.
• Prolotherapy – A procedure where an irritant solution (usually dextrose) is injected into the problem area, to stimulate the body’s own healing response;
• Surgery – This is usually considered as a last resort, and may be considered if the condition remains for longer than 12 months.

So in answer to your question, plantar fasciitis, does it ever go away?  Yes, it can. But like most things, it takes the right treatment – and time!

If you think you may have plantar fasciitis, let us help you here at Trevor Lane Podiatry.  Call us on (07) 3207 4736, or book an appointment online today!

References:

1. https://www.ripublication.com/ijaer18/ijaerv13n17_39.pdf
2. Mahmood, S., Huffman, L. K., & Harris, J. G. (2010). Limb-Length Discrepancy as a Cause of Plantar Fasciitis, Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, 100(6), 452-455. Retrieved Oct 28, 2022, from https://japmaonline.org/view/journals/apms/100/6/1000452.xm

A podiatrist is a registered health professional, qualified to treating concerns relating to the feet and lower limbs – although some people may refer to them as a chiropodist, which is the term still commonly used in the UK).

Both “podiatrist” and “chiropodist” come from the Greek word “pod” – meaning “foot” – which forms the basis of our English words tripod, podium and antipodes, etc.

The most common reasons to see a podiatrist include:

• unexplained or unresolved pain in the lower limbs eg heel pain, joint pain, plantar fasciitis,
• problems with an ingrown toenail
• a sprained ankle or other injury affecting the toes, feet or lower limbs
• concerns about the appearance or development – eg flat feet, limb length discrepancy, a bony growth on the heel (heel spur), bow legs, duck toes.
• issues that affect walking and mobility.
• calluses, corns, cracked heels, bunions, plantar warts … pretty much any issue with the toes, feet, ankles, up to your knees.

However, you may be surprised by these three more unusual reasons to see a podiatrist:

1 – Back Problems

If you are experiencing lower back pain, it could be that there is a problem with the structure and function of your feet – which is causing you to walk in a particular way, resulting in additional stress on your back.

As we age, years of poor biomechanics in our feet begin to take their toll and although we may never have had a problem before, all of a sudden we are plagued by backache.

Conversely, if you are suffering from pain and discomfort in your feet, the culprit could very well be a problem in your back! The connective nature of the body means that you are experiencing what is known as “referred pain” – a problem with your back, is causing the symptoms in your feet.

2 – Diabetes

What does the level of glucose in your blood have to do with your feet? And how could a podiatrist possibly help?

When your body has problems with producing and maintaining your glucose levels, it can affect your feet in the following ways:

• Damage to the delicate nerve endings, causing reduced sensation in the feet. Have you ever had a blister develop when wearing a new pair of shoes? Ouch! A person with diabetes however, may not actually feel or even notice the blister. Although this sounds like a good thing, it can be dangerous especially when combined with the second side effect of diabetes, which is …
• Reduced blood flow to the extremities. This means that a blister on your foot will take a lot longer to heal. Together, these two side effects of diabetes increase the risk of infection and serious problems with your lower limbs – and in worst case scenario, amputation may be required.

For these reasons,  your doctor will refer you to see a local podiatrist if you are diagnosed with diabetes.

3 – Before you take up running or a new sport

Yes, podiatrists treat injuries and ailments of the feet and lower limbs. Why would you see one before any damage is done?

It all comes back to that old proverb, “prevention is better than cure”.

Running and some sports (eg netball, football) place an incredible amount of force on the feet and lower limbs – a hard surface, speed, and sudden changes in movement and direction can all take their toll.

With 52 bones in your feet, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles – you can see why there is a lot of potential for damage!

Your podiatrist can give you information and advice – from choosing the best running shoes for your needs, to warm up exercises – to help you prevent injury.

If after reading these reasons to see a podiatrist, you want to make an appointment at our Redlands clinic, you can call us on 3207 4736 or try our secure online booking system.

Although most of the population naturally have a difference in the length of their limbs (1), it is usually so minimal that they don’t even realise, nor does it require treatment.

Pain in the lower back and legs could indicate that there is more significant leg length discrepancy which may benefit from podiatry care; other signs may include a head tilt, shoulder dip, limping, or a variation in shoe sizes.

Your local podiatrist is the expert in all things feet, and can diagnose as well as recommend solutions such as orthotics or shoes for leg length discrepancy.

However what many people don’t realise is that a leg length discrepancy may also arise later in life, following an injury and/or surgery.

Signs of Leg Length Discrepancy

Should leg length discrepancy develop following these circumstances, you may notice pain in the:

• lower back;
• buttocks;
• running down the back of the leg;
• in, or on the outside of the knee;
• ankle;
• foot.

There may even be an increased risk of stress fractures (2).

These problems arise because the differing leg lengths place increase pressure on the nerves in the lower back, which innervate the foot.

The Impact of Injury or Surgery

While surgical interventions such as hip or knee replacements, ligament or tendon repair, may fix one problem, these procedures – and aids such as crutches and moon boots – can affect the length of your limbs.

The simple ankle sprain is also a common culprit. We often see clients many months afterwards, reporting that although the sprained ankle is now healed, it still doesn’t feel quite right. The incredible forces placed on the site during the injury have caused joints to pop out of alignment. As a result the individual begins walking differently to compensate, without even realising it – upsetting the body’s natural balance.

It can take a full 6 to 12 months for the body to recover from surgery or injury. In the meantime however, our body has compensated and while we may have completed the rehabilitation process, all of a sudden something else is getting sore. The lower back, the ball of the foot, or the outside of the knee are suddenly causing pain! But why?!

All of these problems may affect your limb length, and ultimately, your body’s balance.

FMT, Orthotics or Shoes for Leg Length Discrepancy

Following injury or surgery, the connection between the foot and brain – and vice versa – can be lost.

In order to improve your body’s balance and reconnect that neurological pathway, and to compensate for the problems cause by a leg length discrepancy, at Trevor Lane Podiatry we may use treatments such as:

• Foot Mobilisation Therapy (the only local podiatrist qualified in this modality);
• orthotics or shoes for limb length discrepancy;
• kinetic tape.

However we can only assess what else was interrupted during that healing process, by physical examination, digital gait analysis or other diagnostic imaging, once you’ve recovered from the initial bruising, swelling, stitches, crutches, boots etc.

Sometimes there are other factors which may be at play, meaning that podiatry treatment may not be suitable.

At these times your local podiatrist may refer you to another allied health care practitioner such as a chiropractor, osteopath, or physiotherapist. While your podiatrist plays a key role in a complex overall picture, the aim is to work in conjunction with other health services to ensure the best possible result for you as the client.

If you have recovered from a physical trauma, but now experience pain in your feet, lower limbs, or lower back, you can click to book an appointment online or call Trevor Lane Podiatry on 3207 4736.

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1232860/
2. http://www.podiatryinstitute.com/pdfs/Update_2011/2011_35.pdf

Children’s bodies grow and change so much in the first years of life that it can be hard to know what is normal, and what is not – which is why we get many parents calling or asking about podiatry for kids.

From flat feet to pigeon toes, ingrown toenails and making sure shoes fit correctly, our Redlands podiatrists are trained professionals in matters relating to the feet, toes, and lower limbs for every member of the family.

While there are many reasons a parent might seek out podiatry help for their child, some of the more common concerns are listed below.

Lower Limb Development

The good news is that often what might seem abnormal compared to adult feet, is quite common in children.

Things like pigeon toe (in toeing), duck feet (feet that turn out), bowed legs, knock knees, flat feet, even walking only on their tip toes, can be normal in young children, and in most cases will resolve on their own by the time a child reaches school age.

However if you notice that your child has developed an unusual gait, for example limping or favouring one side; or that they seem to trip or fall a lot more than their peers, taking your child to a podiatrist for an assessment is a good idea.

Uneven shoe wear can also be a sign that there is a problem with your child’s biomechanics (ie the way that they are walking and moving), which could potentially cause extra strain on muscles, ligaments and joints, or even increase the risk of injury.

Pain, Injury and Infection

Carrying the full weight of our body is no easy feat for our feet, no matter what age we may be!

Your child may complain of pain from an easily identifiable cause such as a plantar wart or an ingrown toenail, both of which could benefit from a visit to your local podiatrist for treatment so your child is running around again in no time.

However sometimes it may seem that there is no apparent reason for your child to be experiencing leg or foot pain.

A condition known as “Sever’s disease” may cause heel pain in one or both feet, and is most commonly seen in children between the ages of about eight and fourteen, particularly those who lead an active life. While this is one of those conditions that children do grow out of, in the meantime your local podiatrist is able to help with managing symptoms and reducing pain.

What about Growing Pains?

Some children suffer from growing pains, and even though we don’t fully understand the cause, the pain is very real.

Growing pains tend to occur in the muscles of the legs and get worse later in the day, even interrupting your child’s sleep – only to disappear in the morning. If your child is affected, try gently massaging the affected area, some over the counter pain relief, or a wheatie or hot water bottle to help with symptoms and soothing your child.

If however you notice that your child is experiencing pain during the day, is limping, or otherwise unwell, or their leg is sore to touch, further investigation is warranted as it could be a sign of an underlying virus, infection, or other problem requiring treatment.

How to Look after your Child’s Feet

While the usual foot care tips apply, there are a couple of extra things to be aware of when it comes to looking after your child’s feet:

• There is no need for shoes (except for warmth) in babies that are not yet walking.
• Your child’s feet can grow up to 17 sizes in the first dozen years of their life, so make sure that they are not restricted by booties, socks, or shoes that are too tight or rigid.
• Such rapid growth can make it tempting to buy your children shoes with plenty of “growing room” – however don’t go overboard, as poorly fitting shoes can increase the risk of injury such as a sprained ankle or foot fractures.

If you are looking for a Redlands podiatrist with experience in podiatry for kids, at Trevor Lane Podiatry we are here to help. You can call us today on 3207 4736 or make a booking online 24/7.