Diabetes-related foot disease is a widely feared complication among people with diabetes. Once diagnosed with diabetes, people often quickly become aware and concerned about the risk of amputation, without fully understanding how to reduce their risk. 4400 Australians have an amputation associated with their diabetes every year, and 85% of these amputations would have been preventable with early intervention and appropriate care (diabetesaustralia.com.au). Whilst across Australia, and indeed the world, the rate of diabetes-related foot disease is increasing, so too is the research and understanding of podiatrists and other health professionals in how to avoid complications. As a seasoned podiatrist, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating impact that poorly controlled diabetes can have on foot health. However, I also know that foot complications, such as ulceration and amputation, are avoidable. In this blog, we’ll explore how diabetes can affect foot health, delve into preventative measures, and, of course, sprinkle in a few puns to lighten the mood. Read more

Plantar warts, caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), can be a painful and persistent problem for many individuals. It is estimated that plantar warts have a 12% annual incidence within the general population and that up to 40% of the population is infected with HPV. Plantar warts are especially common in children and adolescents [1].

As podiatrists, we see firsthand the discomfort and frustration these warts can cause. Fortunately, advancements in treatment options have made managing and eliminating plantar warts more effective than ever before. In this blog, we’ll explore the latest treatments available, including common topical treatments, the innovative SWIFT therapy, and surgical options. Read more

A common question, oft heard around podiatry clinics, is “what can I do about my sore toenails?” Whether it is piercing the skin and infected, constantly breaking, or just curvy and unsightly, twisted toenails are pesky and persistent. While seemingly small, ingrown toenails can cause significant discomfort, inconvenience and can hinder day-to-day living. In this blog, we’ll unravel the mysteries of ingrown toenails, exploring causes, symptoms, and most importantly, effective and exciting new interventions when treating ingrown toenails to keep your feet happy and pain-free.

The Culprit: Ingrown Toenails

Causes:

Ingrown toenails are a common, and often painful condition. Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling and potential infections (Park & Singh, 2012). Common culprits include improper nail trimming, excessive pressure to the nail plate such as tight footwear, skeletal abnormalities, obesity, diabetes and arthritis (Guler et al., 2015).

Read more