Make a Podiatrist your first port of call if you have a foot problem.

You do not need a referral from your GP to seek a private consultation.

For further information see our Fact Sheets Page

Here are some of the common foot problems

Athletes Foot and Fungal Nail

Athletes foot is a common condition, a fungus which can affect the skin anywhere on the foot but is most commonly found between the toes causing itching, scaling, redness often accompanied by small blisters. If the condition spreads to the nails it causes a fungal nail.

Bunions

A bunion is an enlargement of the joint at the base of the big toe often caused by ill fitting shoes worn between the ages of fifteen and twenty two.

Corns and Callus

A callus is the build up hard skin on a prominence due to pressure and friction. If the pressure continues unchecked then the callus will form a hard centre called a corn.

Flat Foot

This is where the inner arch of the foot has flattened, or pronated, causing pain and difficulty in standing, walking and running. There are different stages of flat foot. Mild flat foot can be treated with insoles and exercise, chronic flat foot may require surgery.

Hammer Toe

Hammer toe is when a toe becomes bent into a claw like shape due to the tendon on the underside shortening, often because the toes have to bend to ‘grip' an unsupportive shoe such a court shoes or flip flops.

Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenail is a condition caused when the side of the nail digs painfully into the skin at the side of the toe.Mild cases just cause discomfort and a little reddening of the skin. Acute cases can be very painful and are often accompanied by infection.

Plantar Faciitis or Heel Pain (also known as Policeman’s Heel)

Plantar Faciitis is the inflammation of the long band of connective tissue running from the heel to the ball of the foot often characterised by pain towards the inside of the heel and worst first thing in the morning or after resting.

Verruca

Verrucas are known as plantar warts or warts. A verucca is caused by a viral infection of the skin and commonly caught by walking barefoot in wet communal areas such as swimming pools and changing rooms. They can be painful and professional advice should always be sought before considering any treatment.