When It’s Time to See a Podiatrist and How We Can Help

Your feet are your foundation, supporting your entire body as you go about your daily activities. Whether you’re walking, running, or standing, the health of your feet plays a pivotal role in your overall well-being. However, many people overlook foot health until pain or discomfort forces them to pay attention. In some cases, this can lead to more serious issues down the line, which is why seeing a podiatrist is so important for maintaining foot health.

If you’re experiencing foot or lower limb discomfort, or even if you just want to ensure your feet are in optimal condition, it might be time to consult a podiatrist in Milton Keynes. But how do you know when it’s time to seek professional help? 

When Should You See a Chiropodist/Podiatrist?

A Chiropodist/podiatrist is a healthcare professional who specialises in the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot and ankle conditions. They are trained to handle a wide range of issues, from general foot care to more serious concerns that could affect mobility and quality of life. Below are some of the key signs that it’s time to make an appointment with a podiatrist in Milton Keynes and areas around Buckinghamshire.

If you’ve been dealing with foot pain for an extended period, it’s time to consult with our expert team which not only includes a podiatrist but a physiotherapist too. Ignoring the problem may lead to worsening symptoms and potentially limit your mobility over time. A podiatrist will assess your condition and provide targeted treatments to address the root cause of your pain.

Difficulty Walking or Standing

If you find that you’re having trouble walking or standing for prolonged periods, this is another sign that a podiatrist should be consulted. Difficulty walking or standing comfortably could be due to various factors, such as poor foot alignment, muscle weakness, joint inflammation, or nerve issues. These problems can significantly impact your daily life, so early intervention is essential.

At Smile and Move Polyclinic, we are equipped to diagnose the underlying causes of mobility issues and offer tailored solutions. Whether you need specific exercises, footwear recommendations, or custom orthotics to improve your movement, we’re here to help you get back to your daily activities with ease.

Numbness, Tingling, or Burning Sensations

If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or a burning sensation in your feet or toes, it could be a sign of nerve-related issues, such as peripheral neuropathy. Conditions like diabetes, alcohol consumption, or vitamin deficiencies can contribute to nerve damage, leading to these symptoms. If left untreated, nerve-related problems can worsen and lead to complications.

Ingrown Toenails or Toenail Fungal Infections

Ingrown toenails or toenail fungal infections are common foot conditions that may seem minor at first but can become quite painful if not treated properly. If you have an ingrown toenail that is causing swelling, redness, or infection, or if you suspect a toenail fungal infection (discolouration, thickening, or brittleness), it’s important to see a podiatrist.

Ignoring these conditions can lead to severe discomfort or complications, especially if an infection spreads. Our experienced team at Smile and Move Polyclinic can treat these conditions effectively and help you maintain healthy nails and feet.

Athlete’s Foot or Skin Irritations

Skin conditions like athlete’s foot or other fungal infections can affect your feet, causing itching, redness, or peeling skin. While these issues are common, they can be contagious and irritating if left untreated. A podiatrist can prescribe the proper medication or recommend lifestyle changes to prevent the infection from returning.

If you experience chronic or recurring skin issues on your feet, it’s always a good idea to seek professional advice from a podiatrist who can provide effective treatments and tips for prevention.

Diabetes and Foot Care

Diabetes is a chronic condition with long-term complications, many of which arise from damage to large or small blood vessels. Over time, fatty plaques (atheromas) accumulate in the blood vessels, causing narrowing of the arteries, leading to poor blood flow and neuropathy. This can result in numbness, pain, tingling, swelling, and muscle weakness.

Supporting the diabetic foot with functional orthotics (shoe inserts) is crucial. These orthotics help reduce the risk of ulcerations, slips, trips, and falls while improving the natural walking pattern. Diabetic foot issues generally fall into two categories: the neuropathic foot and the ischaemic foot. Complications become more severe when both types are present in the same foot.

For neuropathic ulcers, timely and expert attention from a podiatrist is essential. The podiatrist debrides any callus and alleviates pressure on the affected area to facilitate healing. Recent research strongly recommends the use of functional orthotics (shoe insoles) to support this process and prevent further complications.

Proper foot care and early intervention are vital for individuals with diabetes. Regular consultations with a podiatrist, the use of functional orthotics, and proactive management can significantly enhance mobility and quality of life.

Corns and Hard Skin

Corns and hard skin (callus) are a common but easily treatable foot complaint. These areas of thickened skin often develop due to friction or pressure and can cause significant discomfort. Our experienced podiatrist can painlessly remove corns and calluses, offering immediate relief and improved comfort. Regular foot care can prevent recurrence and maintain healthy, pain-free feet.

Warts & Verruca Laser Clinic

Verrucae, a type of wart that appears on the soles of the feet, are often contracted from walking barefoot on wet surfaces like gym showers or swimming pools. If left untreated, verrucae can become painful and increasingly difficult to manage. Our experienced podiatrist can offer advanced treatment options to target and eliminate these stubborn growths, promoting faster healing and reducing the risk of spread. Early intervention is key to successful treatment, so don’t wait to seek expert care.

Persistent Foot Pain

One of the most common reasons people visit a podiatrist is because of ongoing foot pain. Whether it’s a dull ache or sharp discomfort, persistent foot pain can signal a range of underlying issues such as:

• Plantar fasciitis (heel pain)
• Achilles tendonitis (pain in the back of the heel)
• Bunions (bony bumps on the side of the foot)
• Flat feet or arch problems
• Morton’s Neuroma

How Can a Chiropodist/Podiatrist Help?

Seeing a podiatrist in Buckinghamshire such as ourselves can bring several benefits to your foot health, including:

• Accurate diagnosis: A podiatrist will carefully assess your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and provide a clear diagnosis, helping you understand the cause of your discomfort.
• Targeted treatment: Whether you need medication, custom orthotics, physical therapy (in conjunction with our physiotherapist) or surgery, your podiatrist will develop a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs.
• Prevention: A podiatrist will not only address your current concerns but also help prevent future foot problems through advice on proper footwear, stretching exercises, and lifestyle changes.
• Improved mobility: By treating issues that affect your ability to walk or stand, a podiatrist can help restore your mobility, allowing you to engage in daily activities with ease.

How Smile and Move Polyclinic Can Assist You

At Smile and Move Polyclinic, our team of expert podiatrists is here to help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet. Whether you’re dealing with a chronic condition, recovering from an injury, or simply need advice on foot care, we offer a range of services designed to address your specific needs. From initial consultations to advanced treatments, we are committed to ensuring your foot health is in the best hands.

If you’re experiencing any of the signs mentioned above, or if you simply want to take a proactive approach to your foot health, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team is ready to provide the support and care you need to get back on your feet.