Headaches are among the most common nervous system disorders, with many Australians experiencing them regularly. While headaches can have various causes—from stress and posture issues to hormonal imbalances or neurological conditions—an increasing number of people are turning to osteopathy as a non-invasive, drug-free treatment option. This article explores how osteopathic treatment works for headaches, what to expect from a consultation, and when to consider seeing an osteopath.

Understanding Headaches from an Osteopathic Perspective

Osteopathy views the body as a whole, interconnected system where structure and function are closely linked. In the case of headaches, an osteopath considers not just the symptoms, but also the underlying musculoskeletal, circulatory, and nervous system factors that may be contributing to head pain.

Common types of headaches treated by osteopaths include:

• Tension-type headaches: Often caused by muscle tightness in the neck, shoulders, or jaw.
• Cervicogenic headaches: Originating from dysfunction in the neck or cervical spine.
• Migraine headaches: While more complex and often neurological, osteopathy may help reduce frequency or intensity.
• Sinus-related or posture-induced headaches.

How Osteopaths Treat Headaches

Osteopaths use manual therapy techniques to relieve tension, improve mobility, and enhance blood and lymphatic flow. This can help reduce headache triggers and promote long-term wellness. Techniques may include:

• Soft tissue massage: To ease muscle tightness in the upper back, neck, and scalp.
• Joint mobilisation and manipulation: Especially of the cervical spine to restore proper alignment and movement.
• Myofascial release: Targeting fascial tension that may contribute to pain.
• Postural assessments and corrections: Identifying poor posture or workplace habits that exacerbate headaches.
• Lifestyle and ergonomic advice: Including hydration, exercise, and sleep recommendations.

Some osteopaths are also trained in cranial osteopathy, a gentle technique that may be particularly effective for certain types of tension and stress-related headaches.

What to Expect During Your Osteopathic Consultation

An initial consultation with an osteopath will typically include:

• A full medical history and discussion of your headache patterns.
• A physical examination, including posture and spinal alignment assessments.
• Manual therapy tailored to your specific needs and tolerance.

Ongoing treatment may span several sessions, depending on the chronicity and severity of your headaches. Many patients report relief even after the first few visits, which is why seeking professional headache treatment Melbourne can be an effective step towards managing chronic head pain.

Evidence Supporting Osteopathic Treatment for Headaches

Research suggests that manual therapies—including osteopathy—can reduce headache frequency and improve quality of life, particularly for tension-type and cervicogenic headaches. A 2020 review in BMJ Open found that osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) could significantly reduce pain intensity and headache-related disability.

It’s important to note, however, that osteopathy may not be suitable for all types of headaches, especially those caused by serious underlying conditions. Your osteopath will refer you to a GP or specialist if needed.

When to See an Osteopath

You might consider seeing an osteopath if:

• You experience frequent or persistent headaches that interfere with daily life.
• Over-the-counter medication offers only temporary relief.
• You notice a link between your headaches and neck pain, posture, or stress.
• You prefer a holistic, non-pharmacological approach to treatment.

However, if you experience sudden, severe headaches, visual disturbances, confusion, or other neurological symptoms, seek urgent medical attention first.

Final Thoughts

Osteopathic treatment offers a personalised, hands-on approach to managing headaches, focusing on identifying and addressing root causes rather than just masking symptoms. By improving musculoskeletal function and promoting overall wellbeing, osteopaths can be a valuable part of your headache management plan.

As always, consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine the best treatment path for your individual needs.

Ingrown toenails are a common yet painful foot condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to discomfort, swelling, and even infection. This condition can significantly impact mobility and quality of life if left untreated. Fortunately, residents in Canberra have access to expert podiatric care from highly qualified professionals.

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, redness, or pus around your toenail, seeking the help of a podiatrist is essential. Here’s a closer look at what causes ingrown toenails, when to see a podiatrist Canberra, and five highly regarded clinics in the area that specialise in treating them.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Several factors can contribute to ingrown toenails, including:

• Improper nail trimming – Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
• Tight footwear – Shoes that crowd the toes can push nails inward.
• Injury – Trauma to the toe can lead to abnormal nail growth.
• Genetics – Some individuals naturally have curved or thick toenails.
• Poor foot hygiene – Infections and excessive moisture can worsen the problem.

Why See a Podiatrist?

Podiatrists are healthcare professionals specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and lower limb conditions. When it comes to ingrown toenails, a podiatrist can:

• Provide immediate pain relief
• Offer non-surgical and surgical treatment options
• Prevent infections from spreading
• Give expert advice on nail care and prevention
• Treat chronic or recurring cases safely and effectively

Now, let’s look at five reputable podiatry clinics in Canberra where you can receive expert care for ingrown toenails.

5 Podiatrists to Visit in Canberra

• CBR Podiatry
• Capital Podiatry
• The Walking Clinic
• ACT Podiatry
• New Step Podiatry

When to Seek Immediate Help

See a podiatrist if:

• You notice signs of infection (redness, pus, swelling)
• Home treatments don’t relieve symptoms
• You have a medical condition such as diabetes
• The ingrown toenail keeps returning

Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure a quicker recovery.

Final Thoughts

An ingrown toenail may seem like a minor issue, but it can lead to severe pain and infection if ignored. Canberra residents have excellent options when it comes to podiatric care. Whether you need a routine fix or more advanced treatment, the clinics listed above provide expert solutions tailored to your needs.

For those dealing with ongoing discomfort, don’t delay—book an appointment with a trusted podiatrist in Canberra and take the first step towards pain-free feet.

Maintaining good posture and spinal health is essential for overall well-being. It affects everything from our comfort levels to our ability to perform daily tasks. As an integral part of the musculoskeletal system, the spine plays a vital role in supporting the body and protecting the central nervous system. When spinal health is compromised, it can lead to a range of issues, including back pain, neck discomfort, and poor posture. This is where chiropractic care comes in.

Chiropractors are healthcare professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the spine, muscles, and nervous system. Through a combination of manual adjustments, exercises, and lifestyle recommendations, chiropractors can help improve posture, relieve pain, and promote long-term spinal health.

Understanding Posture and Spinal Health

Posture refers to the way we hold our bodies while sitting, standing, or moving. Good posture ensures that the body’s muscles and joints are aligned, preventing unnecessary strain and reducing the risk of injury. Poor posture, on the other hand, can lead to imbalances in the spine, contributing to discomfort and even long-term health problems.

Spinal health involves the proper functioning of the spine and its ability to support the body and protect the nervous system. The spine is made up of vertebrae, intervertebral discs, muscles, and ligaments, all of which work together to provide stability and flexibility. If any of these components are out of alignment or injured, it can lead to pain, limited mobility, and other health complications.

The Chiropractor’s Approach to Posture and Spinal Health

Chiropractors use a range of techniques to address posture and spinal issues. Here are some of the most common methods they employ:

1. Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractic spinal adjustments, also known as spinal manipulations, are a cornerstone of chiropractic care. These adjustments involve the application of controlled force to specific points on the spine, aimed at realigning the vertebrae and improving their function. A chiropractor spine adjustment can help correct misalignments, known as subluxations, and restore the natural curves of the spine. This not only relieves pressure on nerves but also improves posture and alleviates discomfort caused by spinal dysfunction.

2. Posture Assessment

One of the first steps a chiropractor takes in treating posture-related issues is a thorough assessment of the patient’s posture. This includes examining the alignment of the spine, the positioning of the head, shoulders, and hips, as well as how the patient moves during everyday activities. Chiropractors, such as those at Northside Chiropractic, can identify postural imbalances like slouching, forward head posture, and uneven shoulder heights, which can contribute to spinal dysfunction.

Once the assessment is complete, the chiropractor will develop a personalised treatment plan to address the specific issues affecting the patient’s posture and spinal health. Chiropractic care is particularly effective when seeking a chiropractor for poor posture. Chiropractors are skilled in diagnosing and treating the underlying causes of poor posture, such as spinal misalignments and muscle imbalances. By addressing these issues, they can help restore proper alignment and function to the spine, leading to significant improvements in posture. This approach not only relieves pain but also promotes long-term spinal health by correcting postural habits that may have developed over time.

3. Corrective Exercises

Chiropractors often recommend a series of corrective exercises to help improve posture and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. These exercises focus on areas such as the core, back, and shoulders, helping to stabilise the spine and maintain proper alignment.

For example, exercises that target the muscles of the upper back and neck can help counteract the effects of forward head posture, which is common in people who spend long hours sitting at desks or using electronic devices. Strengthening the core muscles can also improve posture by providing better support for the spine and preventing slouching.

4. Lifestyle and Ergonomic Recommendations

In addition to spinal adjustments and exercises, chiropractors often provide lifestyle and ergonomic recommendations to help maintain good posture throughout the day. These may include advice on how to sit correctly, stand properly, and sleep in a way that supports spinal health. Chiropractors may also suggest changes to your workspace, such as adjusting the height of your desk or computer monitor, to promote better posture and reduce strain on the spine.

5. Stretching and Mobility Techniques

Stretching exercises are another important component of chiropractic care. Chiropractors often recommend specific stretches to improve flexibility and reduce muscle tightness, especially in the areas surrounding the spine. Regular stretching can help alleviate tension in the back, neck, and shoulders, which is particularly beneficial for those who experience discomfort from poor posture or spinal misalignments.

6. Ongoing Monitoring and Care

Chiropractic care is not a one-time fix; it requires ongoing attention to ensure that improvements in posture and spinal health are maintained. After the initial treatment phase, chiropractors may schedule regular follow-up visits to monitor the patient’s progress, make adjustments as needed, and provide additional guidance on maintaining spinal health.

The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Posture and Spinal Health

Chiropractic care offers numerous benefits for individuals seeking to improve their posture and spinal health. These include:

• Pain Relief: Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain caused by misalignments, muscle tension, and poor posture. By addressing the root cause of the pain, chiropractors can provide long-lasting relief without the need for medication or invasive procedures.
• Improved Posture: Regular chiropractic adjustments and exercises can help correct postural imbalances and promote better alignment, leading to improved posture and reduced strain on the spine and muscles.
• Increased Flexibility and Mobility: Chiropractic care can improve the flexibility and mobility of the spine and surrounding muscles, helping individuals move more freely and comfortably.
• Prevention of Future Issues: By addressing spinal misalignments and postural issues early on, chiropractic care can prevent the development of more serious spinal conditions in the future, such as herniated discs or degenerative joint disease.
• Enhanced Overall Health: Because the spine plays a crucial role in the functioning of the nervous system, maintaining spinal health through chiropractic care can have a positive impact on overall health, including improved sleep, digestion, and immune function.

Conclusion

Your chiropractor plays a pivotal role in improving posture and spinal health through a combination of spinal adjustments, corrective exercises, ergonomic advice, and ongoing care. By addressing the underlying causes of poor posture and spinal misalignments, chiropractic care can provide significant relief from pain, prevent future issues, and enhance overall health. Whether you are dealing with chronic discomfort, poor posture, or simply want to maintain your spinal health, chiropractic care is a safe and effective option to consider.

Foot and ankle pain can significantly impact your daily activities, from walking to more demanding tasks like running or playing sports. Many people ignore foot pain, assuming it’s a minor issue that will resolve on its own. However, persistent pain in these areas can signal underlying problems that require professional evaluation and treatment. Visiting a chiropodist can provide the specialized care you need for your feet and ankles. Below are the top 10 reasons to consider making an appointment with a chiropodist.

1. Persistent Foot or Ankle Pain
   One of the most common reasons to visit a chiropodist is persistent foot or ankle pain. Whether it’s sharp pain while walking, a dull ache that won’t go away, or discomfort that worsens throughout the day, these symptoms should not be ignored. Chiropodists are trained to diagnose the causes of pain, which may include conditions like plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or arthritis. They can provide a targeted treatment plan tailored to your needs, helping you find relief and regain mobility.
2. Sports Injuries
   Athletes and active individuals are more likely to experience foot and ankle injuries. Conditions like sprains, fractures, and Achilles tendonitis can occur due to the physical demands placed on the feet and ankles during sports. Chiropodists can assess sports injuries, provide treatment options, and help you develop a rehabilitation plan. They can also offer advice on preventing future injuries, such as proper warm-up techniques, stretching, and choosing the right footwear for your sport.
3. Diabetic Foot Care
   For people with diabetes, foot care is crucial. Diabetic patients are at a higher risk of developing foot complications due to reduced blood flow and nerve damage. Common issues include foot ulcers, infections, and neuropathy. Regular check-ups with a chiropodist can help monitor foot health, catch potential problems early, and provide appropriate treatment. A local foot care clinic can help manage these concerns and ensure you maintain healthy feet as part of your diabetes care plan.
4. Ingrown Toenails
   Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can lead to pain, swelling, and infection. While many people try to treat ingrown toenails at home, it’s often best to seek professional help. A chiropodist can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail and provide advice on preventing future occurrences. They can also identify contributing factors, such as improper nail trimming or ill-fitting shoes.
5. Bunions and Other Deformities
   Bunions are bony protrusions that develop at the base of the big toe, causing the toe to lean toward the other toes. This condition can be painful and may worsen over time if untreated. Other foot deformities, such as hammertoes or flat feet, can also cause pain and mobility issues. Chiropodists specialize in diagnosing and treating these conditions, offering options from conservative measures like orthotics to surgical interventions if necessary. Early treatment can prevent further progression and alleviate discomfort.
6. Fungal Infections
   Fungal infections like athlete’s foot and toenail fungus are common conditions that affect the feet. Symptoms may include itching, redness, and thickened nails. While these infections are often considered minor, they can become chronic or lead to more severe complications if untreated. A chiropodist can diagnose the type of infection and recommend effective treatments, including topical medications or oral antifungal prescriptions. They can also offer guidance on how to prevent future infections through proper foot hygiene and care.
7. Foot and Ankle Swelling
   Swelling in the feet and ankles can result from various factors, including injuries, medical conditions, or prolonged standing. While occasional swelling may not be concerning, persistent or unexplained swelling should be evaluated by a chiropodist. They can assess your symptoms and identify underlying causes such as venous insufficiency or heart problems. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, physical therapy, or medical interventions to reduce swelling and prevent complications.
8. Nerve Pain and Neuropathy
   Nerve pain, including conditions like peripheral neuropathy, can cause tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the feet. This condition can result from various factors, including diabetes, injury, or exposure to toxins. Chiropodists can help diagnose the underlying cause of nerve pain and recommend appropriate treatments. Early intervention is crucial to prevent further complications and improve quality of life.
9. Footwear Advice and Custom Orthotics
   The shoes we wear greatly impact our foot health. Poorly fitting shoes can lead to blisters, calluses, and chronic pain. Chiropodists can assess your footwear and recommend styles that provide the necessary support for your foot type. They may also prescribe custom orthotics—specialized shoe inserts designed to correct alignment issues, provide cushioning, and improve overall foot function. Investing in the right footwear and orthotics can prevent future foot problems and enhance your overall comfort.
10. Chronic Conditions and Overall Foot Health
    Foot and ankle pain can be symptomatic of chronic conditions like arthritis, gout, or peripheral vascular disease. If you have a pre-existing medical condition that affects your feet, regular visits to a chiropodist can be beneficial. They can help manage your condition, provide treatment options, and offer advice on maintaining optimal foot health. Chiropodists can also educate you on preventative measures and self-care strategies to keep your feet healthy as you age.

Foot and ankle pain should never be dismissed as a minor inconvenience. If you’re experiencing discomfort, seeking help from a qualified chiropodist is essential. Whether you’re dealing with a specific injury or a chronic condition, or just want to maintain healthy feet, a chiropodist can provide the specialized care you need.

Don’t let foot and ankle pain interfere with your daily activities or quality of life. Schedule a visit to a reputable chiropody clinic and take the first step toward healthier, pain-free feet. Your feet are the foundation of your mobility, so investing in their care is an investment in your overall well-being.

Podiatric medicine continues to evolve with advancements in analysis and treatment techniques. From custom orthotics to innovative therapies like dry needling and laser therapy, podiatrists are equipped with diverse tools to address foot and ankle conditions effectively.

Orthotics provide vital support, aiding in pain relief and rehabilitation post-trauma or surgery. Dry needling offers swift relief by targeting muscle tension, while laser therapy accelerates healing processes. Physiotherapy remains a cornerstone, addressing various health issues from chronic pain to pregnancy-related discomfort.

This article explores these innovations, highlighting their transformative impact on podiatric care.

Orthotics

Orthotics are prescription shoe inserts that treat many foot conditions and help relieve heel, foot, and ankle pain. They are often used as an adjunct to other treatments including physiotherapy, exercises, and in some cases medication. Orthotics can help improve balance and posture in patients suffering from foot and ankle injuries and are an essential component of rehabilitation after trauma or surgery to the lower extremities.

Having the right foot support is vital to maintaining mobility and preventing painful overuse injuries such as shin splints and plantar fasciitis. A podiatrist can prescribe a custom orthotic for your specific needs to address your foot problem. These can vary in shape, size, material, and cost depending on where you get them from.

MJB Balwyn North podiatrists will evaluate your foot and how you move (known as gait analysis) to determine whether orthotics are needed. They will take into account medical problems, your lifestyle and activities, and your foot type. They will also assess your weight-bearing foot position, joint axis positioning, range of motion, muscle strength, and foot function.

Dry Needling

When muscles are overused or strained, they develop knotted areas of muscle called myofascial trigger points. These areas are painful and limit movement. Dry needling uses needles to break up these tight muscle knots decrease pain and improve mobility. Many patients experience improvement in their pain and mobility almost immediately after their first session of dry needling. Others may require more than one session.

The goal of dry needling is to disrupt the status quo in your muscles and bring new blood into the area, stimulating the release of your body’s natural painkillers. The prick from the needle can also fire off nerve fibers, which help your brain calm down the area.

A trained practitioner will insert a needle through the skin directly into your muscle’s trigger point. They might move the needle around a bit in an attempt to get what’s known as a local twitch response, which is a quick spasm of the muscle. This reaction is a good sign that the treatment is working.

Studies have found that if you get your trigger points treated regularly, it can reduce the symptoms of several conditions. These include neck and back pain, jaw problems, such as temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, and carpal tunnel syndrome. The treatments can also ease chronic headaches, such as tension or migraine headaches.

Laser Therapy

Laser therapy is a non-invasive, painless treatment that helps speed up healing and improve foot and ankle health. Also known as photobiomodulation, laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate deep into tissues and stimulate cellular processes.

It is very safe, and there are no significant side effects associated with this procedure. You may experience a slight tingling sensation in the area of the treatment, which usually subsides within four to six hours. A cooling pad or moist cloth can be used to reduce this feeling if necessary.

In addition, laser therapy has been shown to increase the levels of a substance called superoxide dismutase, which helps eliminate inflammatory chemicals and speeds up the body’s natural healing process. Because of this, it can be an effective treatment for conditions such as plantar warts.

It is important to discuss your motivations, expectations, and potential risks with a podiatrist before you undergo any procedure. You will also need to let your doctor know if you take any medications that can affect blood clotting as well as whether you are pregnant or breastfeeding. It is also recommended that you arrange for someone to drive you home if you are having laser therapy under sedation. Depending on the type of treatment you receive, you might have to keep the treated area covered with a nonstick dressing or ointment until it heals.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a physical treatment that uses manual techniques such as massage, stretching, joint manipulation, and movement exercises. Physiotherapy is used to diagnose, treat, and manage health problems, injuries, and disabilities. It focuses on the musculoskeletal system and is a great option for treating a wide range of conditions like chronic pain, arthritis, fibromyalgia, and respiratory disorders.

Physiotherapy is very important during pregnancy and after childbirth, as it addresses musculoskeletal discomfort and enhances general physical well-being. It can also improve a person’s ability to participate in their everyday life and activities by increasing strength, balance, and mobility. It also helps with age-related symptoms by enhancing quality of life and managing pain effectively. This can be done through a combination of therapies including manual therapy, exercise, education, and advice.

For those interested in delving deeper into innovative podiatric care and exploring personalized treatment options, a visit to the Muscle Joint Bone Clinic is highly recommended. This comprehensive resource offers insights into advanced podiatric techniques and services, provided by their expert practitioners. By browsing their website, individuals can gain a better understanding of tailored orthotic solutions, along with other cutting-edge therapies like dry needling and laser therapy. With a focus on patient-centered care and holistic foot health, Muscle Joint Bone Clinic provides valuable information for optimizing foot function and overall well-being. Visit website here now.

Corns and calluses, though seemingly innocuous, can cause significant discomfort and affect daily life. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into effective podiatric strategies for managing these common foot ailments.

From preventive measures to surgical interventions, we explore a spectrum of approaches tailored to alleviate pain and enhance foot health. Whether it’s understanding the root causes, implementing home remedies, or seeking professional consultation, this article equips you with the knowledge to navigate corns and calluses effectively.

Join us as we unravel the intricacies of podiatric care, empowering you to stride confidently toward relief and long-term management of corns and calluses.

Preventive Measures

Corns and calluses are the body’s natural response to prolonged or repeated pressure and friction on a spot of skin. These thick areas of hardened skin may appear on the feet, toes, or hands. They can be painful, and if left untreated, they can bleed. A person can prevent the formation of corns and calluses by wearing shoes that fit well, using padding, and taking other self-care measures.

If you have a foot problem that makes you more prone to developing corns and calluses, such as hammertoes or bunions, your healthcare provider can give you tips on how to prevent them. For example, he or she might recommend that you soak your feet and hands in warm water until the skin softens — this can help reduce irritation from rubbing against shoes and socks. You might also use a pumice stone or nail file to trim away the thickened skin after it’s been softened in warm water.

You should avoid cutting corns or calluses, especially if they are painful, bleed easily, or produce pus. This could lead to an infection. If a corn or callus becomes very painful, leaks fluid feels warm, or is red, you should seek medical advice as it may be infected. Infections are more likely in people with diabetes or other health conditions that cause poor circulation and those who wear tight shoes.

Home Remedies

Corns and calluses are a result of pressure or friction in one or more areas of the foot. The body responds by developing thickened skin in an attempt to protect the underlying tissues. Over time this can become painful and unsightly. Prevention starts with good footwear – especially shoes that fit well and don’t restrict the feet. Keeping the skin of the feet soft and moisturised is also important.

Over-the-counter products are available that contain strong acids that peel this excess skin away. However, these may cause chemical burns and should not be used by diabetics. A better option is to soak the feet each day in warm soapy water and use a pumice stone or emery board to gently “file” the dead skin. This is very important to avoid tearing and bleeding of the thickened skin. After filing, apply a good moisturizer to the area.

Individuals who are diabetic or have poor circulation should seek podiatric care immediately if their corns or calluses become painful and inflamed. For these individuals, the loss of sensation in the feet can make them unaware that they are rubbing or compressing the sensitive areas of the foot until serious complications develop. Podiatrists can safely trim calluses and corns in the office, usually without anesthesia. They can also recommend shoe inserts (orthotics) to prevent recurrence and surgery to correct deformities that lead to increased rubbing and friction e.g. bunions and hammer toes.

Surgical Procedures

If corns and calluses are left untreated, they can become painful, irritated, and develop inflamed skin or even break down into a sore. These conditions can also impact the quality of an individual’s life by causing chronic discomfort and making everyday activities difficult.

A healthcare provider can usually diagnose a corn or callus by examining the affected area of the foot. They may ask you about your daily routine to understand if the condition is caused by footwear or activity and they can take X-rays of your foot if necessary.

Your healthcare provider can recommend pads and protectors to help reduce the friction causing your corn or callus. They can be worn between the toes, on top of or underneath a callus, and are often available at drugstores. They can be a great preventative measure to keep the friction from reoccurring.

Surgical removal of corns and calluses is usually reserved for those cases where less invasive methods have not been successful in alleviating your symptoms. In most cases, the procedure is done under local anesthesia. The surgeon will make an elliptical incision over the corn and will then remove the horny layer of skin along with the underlying bone prominence.

Your health care provider may also prescribe padded shoe inserts (orthotics) to help reduce the friction that causes your corn or callus. This is a good option for those with a recurring issue as it addresses the root cause of the corn and callus.

Consultation with a Podiatrist

If you have corns and calluses that are painful or are affecting your ability to walk or stand, you should seek professional advice from the podiatrists in Talaria Podiatrist of Thornbury (view website here). You can try some at-home treatments, like using a pumice stone or foot file, moisturising cream, or foam wedge to relieve pressure, or wearing looser shoes that allow the toes more room. However, it’s important not to attempt self-treatment if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or are taking medication that affects your feet (such as antibiotics).

A thorough examination is the first step in treating corns and calluses. The podiatrist may use X-rays to assess the condition of your feet, watch how you walk, and take your medical history. They will also ask what causes the corns and calluses to develop, such as pressure or friction. The podiatrist can diagnose corns and calluses by examining the thickened skin and paring away a bit of it, to see if it bleeds or reveals black points (dried blood).

Once they have examined the area, your podiatrist will remove the corn or callus using specific sterilised medical instruments. They will then advise on management solutions to reduce pain in the short term and prevent recurrence over the long term. Generally, patients will be given toe separators for footwear to help keep the toes apart and stop them from rubbing together (particularly in high heels). A regular 6-weekly review for foot and nail care is also recommended to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Corns and calluses may be common, but they need not be debilitating. By embracing preventive measures, seeking timely professional guidance, and adopting appropriate interventions, individuals can effectively manage these foot conditions. Remember, proactive foot care is key to preserving comfort and mobility. With the insights gained from this guide, you can confidently navigate the journey toward relief and long-term foot health.