Feet play a crucial role in your daily life, from allowing you to move from one place to another to support your body weight. Unfortunately, your feet are also prone to various problems that can cause pain and discomfort.
Some of these problems can be addressed through simple home remedies, while others may require professional treatment from a podiatric clinic. Though there are various problems, 60% of Australians have quoted pain as the first and foremost reason to visit a podiatric clinic.
Sydney is the largest city in Australia and is home to a thriving healthcare industry, including podiatry. With its large and diverse population, Sydney has a significant number of podiatrists who provide a wide range of services to their patients.
According to the Podiatry Board of Australia, there are over 1,700 registered podiatrists in New South Wales, with a significant number located in Sydney.
Whether you live in an urban or rural place, ensure you find the right podiatric clinic. If you live in Sydney and experience any of the issues, it may be time to seek out the help of a Sydney podiatry specialist.
Check out some of the most common foot problems that are treated in a podiatric clinic are addressed.
Ingrown toenails
The most common foot problem that people experience is ingrown toenails. This happens when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, triggering pain. Sometimes, an ingrown toenail can become infected and require medical treatment.
A podiatrist can help treat ingrown toenails by getting rid of the offending portion of the nail and guiding how to prevent the problem from recurring. They may also prescribe antibiotics if the toe is infected.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis impacts a band of tissue that steers along the base of the foot. It is a common cause of heel pain, particularly in the morning or after prolonged periods of sitting or standing. This condition can be caused by overuse, flat feet, or tight calf muscles.
A podiatrist can treat plantar fasciitis through a variety of methods, including stretching exercises, custom orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medications. They may also recommend physical or shockwave therapy to help alleviate pain and promote healing.
Bunions
Bunions are a usual foot issue indicated by a skinny bump that develops on the joint at the big toe’s base. Genetics, tight shoes or foot conditions such as flat feet can cause them.
A Sydney podiatry expert can treat bunions through various methods, including padding and taping, custom orthotics, and shoe modifications. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to realign the bones of the foot and correct the problem.
Corns and calluses
Corns and calluses can be painful and unsightly, sometimes leading to more severe foot problems. A podiatrist can treat corns and calluses by removing the thickened skin and providing guidance on preventing them from returning. They may also recommend custom orthotics or shoe modifications to help distribute pressure more evenly across the foot.
Fungal toenail infections
Fungal toenail infections are a common foot problem that can cause the toenails to become thick, discoloured, and brittle. They can be caused by exposure to damp environments, poor hygiene, or certain medical conditions.
A podiatrist can treat fungal toenail infections through a variety of methods, including topical antifungal medications, oral medications, and laser therapy. They may also recommend changes to your hygiene routine to help prevent the infection from returning.
Wrapping up
These are just a few foot problems that a podiatrist can treat. If you are experiencing any of these or other foot-related issues, it is vital to seek professional help to prevent further damage or discomfort. An expert can provide personalized treatment and guidance to help you get back on your feet and live a more comfortable, pain-free life.
