Long and thickened nails can be shaped and reduced / thinned down to look better and feel more comfortable.

There are lots of reasons why we can develop hard skin on our feet, from a skin condition or shape of our feet, to the shoes we are wearing. This thickened, hard and dry skin can be reduced / removed and advice given to prevent further build up.

These mostly form due to mechanical stress on the skin but can also be caused by some hereditary skin conditions. Corns can become increasingly painful and if untreated can lead to more serious problems. These can be removed and the area padded to remove stress on the skin. Footware advice can also be given.

This is a common problem where the nail grows into and pierces the flesh of the toe. If not treated can become increasingly painful and cause infection. The part of the nail causing the pain can be removed but if there is redness and swelling and a possible infection then a referral to a podiatrist or GP may be needed / recommened. Regular warm foot baths will help.

This is a common fungal skin infection, usually between the toes but can affect the soles or sides of the foot. There are itchy white flaky patches and cracked skin. If not treated with anti-funal creams, sprays or powders the infection can spread to your toe nails and cause a fungal nail infection.

This nail infection is usually spread from the skin to the nail bed and can be difficult to treat. Succesful outcome may take several months. The infected nail can become discoloured brittle and thickened. There are different treatments available in the forms of creams / lotions from the pharmacy or a tablet from a podiatrist or GP. The thickness of the nail can be reduced and treatment recommened. Keeping feet clean and dry is good preventative advice.

Verruca are very common and occur frequently in children and people with a lower immune system. They can be very difficult to irradicate. The skin can be paired down to reduce pressure and referral to a podiatrist for further treatment if nessesary. Traetment is nomally only recommended if painful.

Diabetes can significantly affect the feet. It affects the blood and nerve supply and reduces the ability to heal. This may affect the feeling in your feet (peripheral neuropathy) and the circulation in your feet (ischaemia). This may happen gradually. It is very important that each new patient has a full neurovascular assessment and then at least every six months or more frequent if high risk. A treatment plan will be discussed and referral to a GP may be needed / recommended. Keeping good control of your diabetes, cholesterol and blood pressure will help to control any problems that may arrise. Advice would be to: Check your feet daily for any blisters, breaks in skin, pain, swelling, heat or redness.

Wash your feet everyday in warm water and a mild soap. Do not soak feet as this may damage skin. Test the temperature of the water with your elbow.

Moisturise daily, Avoiding area between toes.

Toenails can be filed in between appointments to make sure there are no sharp edges.

Socks, stoclings and tights should be changed daily, with no bulky seams and no elasticated tops.

Try not to walk bare foot as you may damage your feet.

Check your shoes inside and outside before putting them on to make sure there are no sharp objects that could pierce your foot.

Your shoes should have a wide toebox, a midfoot fastening, and a cushioned heel to prevent damage to your feet.