Diabetic & high-risk foot assessment

Whether diabetic or not, the main aim in caring for the high-risk patient is to prevent complications, for example infections which can lead to amputation.  A neurological assessment is completed, checking for any damage to the nerves whilst also checking blood flow, which may highlight any undiagnosed signs or symptoms not presented by the patient.  Complications may arise such as nerve damage which can lead to a loss of feeling in the feet, referring on for further investigations if necessary. People living with diabetes need regular treatment and self-care advice to prevent diabetes impacting their quality of life.

Fungal Nail

Fungal nail, or onychomycosis can affect anyone, including people with a weak immune system, diabetics or someone currently undergoing treatment for cancer. There are some signs to be aware of, the distal end of the nail; the white free edge may become brittle and start to crumble, the infection can make the nail thicker in places and discoloured. Treatment will help prevent the infection getting worse or spreading to other nails, people who are vulnerable due to being in the high-risk category need to seek timely treatment to prevent the infection spreading past the foot.

Corns and callus (hard skin)

Corns and callus are formed when there has been an excess of pressure, which can be from ill-fitting footwear or certain sports, the skin thickens to give protection but if left untreated corns can develop, also the area may begin to crack leading to risk of infection.  Treatment usually includes callus reduction and corn debridement; padding may also be used to offload and re-distribute pressure. 

Thickened nail

Thickening can occur across the whole nail or partially, this is referred to as ‘Rams Horns’ and presents slightly brown in colour.  Most commonly caused through trauma, but can also be caused by poor peripheral circulation, especially in the elderly.  Treatment includes reducing the nail size at each visit to as near as normal size as possible; this will reduce any pain caused from the pressure of the nail on footwear.

Involuted or ingrowing toenails

There are a number of causes for ingrowing and/or involuted nails including faulty nail cutting or pressure from wearing ill-fitting footwear, although they may also be caused from excessive sweating, diseases or genetics.  Treatment can include regularly trimming the side of the nail to remove the pressure and ensuring the nail conforms to the shape and length of the toe.

Athlete’s foot

Athlete’s foot or tinea pedis is a fungal infection that can affect anyone, but some are more at risk than others. Socks, tight shoes and sweating provide the ideal environment and men tend to be more susceptible than women, diabetics and people suffering with a circulatory disorder are also at a greater risk. Athlete’s foot can present between the toes or a moccasin infection, affecting the planter area of the foot, looking like a moccasin shoe. Treatment will also include information on preventative self-care advice.

Verruca’s

Verruca, or also referred to as plantar wart, are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Although they can clear without treatment it can take a couple of years, but there are times when treatment is required as they can be painful, affect a person’s gait or some people just want them removed for aesthetic reasons. Assessment, diagnosis, treatment and advice to be considered would be discussed during the consultation.

Dementia and Foot Care

Healthy feet are important to maintain mobility as people living with dementia are at risk of sensory loss and/or loss of elasticity in their feet, they may also experience reduced blood flow and fallen arches, which can all result in unsteadiness and a greater risk of falling. Communication can also be a problem, as they may not be able to explain any feelings of pain or discomfort. It is recommended that feet are routinely checked to keep them healthy and pain free, which is essential to a person’s wellbeing whilst also preventing any foot issues becoming serious.

Monday to Friday : 9am – 8pm

Saturday : 10am – 7pm

Sunday : 10am – 6pm