The foot is a intricate structure which includes 26 bones, 33 joints and various ligaments, muscles and tendons which must move together and in all the right positions during the gait cycle. The integrated movement of all these structures is called biomechanics and is a complex study. Given this complexity, it is not surprising that most people will experience some problem with their feet at some time in their lives.

Foot conditions treated at this clinic include;

Achilles Tendonitis

Ankle Instability /sprains

These are often caused by structural and muscular imbalances and may be treated by strapping and correction of the underlying structural defect by using orthotic insoles to change the way the foot moves on the ground and correct the walking pattern.

Arthritis of the Foot & Ankle

Athletes Foot

Calluses

Corns

Diabetic Foot conditions

Hyper pronation (Flat Feet)

Ingrown toenails

These are usually caused by improper nail trimming, but can also result from shoe pressure, damage, a nail fungal infection, inherited nail shape or abnormal foot function. The corner or sides dig into the flesh and may set up an infection. It can be prevented by not cutting down the sides of nails or seeking help before an infection sets in. Clinical treatment of Ingrowing toenails may include careful painless clinical treatment to gently remove the part of the side of the nail which is causing the pain treatment.

Fungal Toenails and other toenail problems

Hammertoes

Plantar fasciitis (Heel Spurs)

This is a common complaint involving inflammation on the bottom of the foot that leads to heel and/or arch pain. Injury or abnormal foot biomechanics can cause plantar fasciitis. Treatment initially consists of ice, foot and leg stretching exercises combined with specialised strapping technique to take the strain off the plantar fascia; the ligament which connects the heel to the front of the foot. Prescription of orthotic insoles can help to correct the foot position and relieve strain on the arch. If these do not relieve the pain, steroid injections may be indicated.

Infections

Pain in the ball of the foot (Metatarsalgia)

Neuromas

These are painful enlarged fibrous growths around a nerve, usually between the 3^rd and 4^th metatarsal joints. Neuromas are caused when the joint rubs against the nerve and causes irritation and eventually fibrous tissue around the nerve sheath. This can be caused by tight shoes which squash the joints or abnormal foot biomechanical function. Treatment depends on the severity of the pain; orthotic insoles, cortisone injections or surgical removal of the growth.

Patient education

A diagram of the foot and a brief explanation of most of these conditions can be found on http://www.webmd.com/pain-management/picture-of-the-feet