Why Foot Health Matters 

Why Foot Health Matters 

The Importance of Foot Health in Overall Health

When we think about health and wellness, we often think about our physical and mental health. However, there’s a crucial aspect that often goes overlooked – our feet. 

Our feet are like the foundations of our body, and taking care of them can have profound impacts on our overall health.

Why Foot Health Matters

Mobility and Independence

Our feet are often our primary means of getting around. Healthy feet allow us to walk, run, and engage in a wide array of physical activities. When our feet are in pain or not functioning properly, it can severely limit our mobility. This can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which is associated with numerous health issues such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. Keeping our feet healthy helps maintain our independence and ability to move freely.

Posture and Balance

The condition of our feet affects our posture and balance. Poor foot health can lead to issues such as misalignment, which can cause pain in other parts of the body, including the knees, hips, and back. Conditions like flat feet or high arches can alter the way we walk and stand, leading to an uneven distribution of weight and additional stress on our joints and muscles.

Early Detection of Health Issues

The feet can be a window into our overall health. Many systemic diseases manifest initial symptoms in the feet. By paying attention to changes in our feet, we can detect and address these health problems early.

Preventing Chronic Pain

Foot problems like plantar fasciitis, bunions, and Achilles tendonitis can cause chronic pain. This pain can lead to altering our gait or posture to avoid discomfort. These changes can result in additional problems and pain in other parts of the body. Addressing foot issues promptly can prevent this domino effect of pain and discomfort.

Common Foot Problems and Prevention

Understanding common foot problems and how to prevent them is crucial for maintaining good foot health.

  • Bunions: These are bony bumps that form on the joint at the base of the big toe. They can be managed, and following our advice on footwear/orthoses and special exercises we can reduce the problems this common condition can lead to.
  • Plantar Fasciitis: This condition causes pain in the heel and is often due to biomechanical issues that cause repeated micro trauma to the plantar fascia. Our custom orthoses / insoles, footwear advice and exercises for the feet and legs can help treat this painful condition and reduce the risk of recurrence. 
  • Athlete’s Foot: This fungal infection thrives in warm, moist environments. Keeping feet dry, changing socks regularly, and using anti-fungal sprays and creams can help prevent and treat this common issue.

Tips for Healthy Feet

Choose the Right Footwear

Wear shoes that fit well and provide adequate support. Avoid high heels and narrow shoes that squeeze the toes. Opt for shoes with good arch support and cushioning.

Maintain Good Hygiene

Wash your feet daily, dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes, and trim your toenails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.

Keep Your Feet Moisturised

Dry, cracked skin can lead to infections. Use a good foot moisturiser, but avoid applying it between the toes to prevent fungal infections.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise improves circulation to your feet. Activities like walking, stretching, and strengthening exercises can keep your feet flexible and strong.

Regular Check-Ups

Visit a podiatrist for regular check-ups, especially if you notice any changes or experience foot pain. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

Our feet play an important role in our overall health. By paying attention to foot health, we can prevent a host of other health issues, maintain our mobility and independence, and improve our quality of life. Remember, happy feet make for a happier, healthier you! 

 Take a step towards a healthy, active life by giving your feet the care and attention they deserve. 

Visit our booking page or call our team on 020 7381 6682 to book your appointment in our Fulham or Putney clinics today.

 

View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life

Meet our new Podiatrist, Alexa

Meet our new Podiatrist, Alexa

Meet our new Podiatrist, Alexa!

Joining us from Australia, Alexa is a deeply caring and warm podiatrist, committed to helping people feel better from the feet up. Her patients love her empathetic approach, a focus on holistic and sustainable treatment plans and her bubbly character.

Patients can expect treatment to begin with a thorough history-taking and biomechanical assessment of the entire lower limb, to identify and treat pain or discomfort.

Alexa is passionate about podiatry, as she experienced foot pain as a child and endured injuries as an active teenager, having played netball, basketball, athletics, swimming and dancing. As an adult, Alexa continues to remain active, having undertaken her Clinical Rehabilitative Pilates trying with Polestar Pilates, hiking on the weekends and strength training during the week. 

Alexa’s qualifications include a Bachelor of Health Science and Masters of Podiatric Medicine from Western Sydney University (Australia), and is strongly committed to ongoing education to help her patients.

Her musculoskeletal skill sets include trigger-point dry needling, Foot Mobilisation Therapy, EMS Dolorclast Shockwave Therapy, prolotherapy, gait and running assessments, lower body strength and conditioning training and orthotic therapy. Alexa also treats common foot issues related to skin and nails – having a gentle and conservative approach to treatment. She treats ingrown nails, corns, calluses and fungal nails. 

Alexa will be situated at both Parsons Green on Mondays and alternate Wednesdays and Fridays at our Putney Clinic.

Visit our booking page or call our team on 020 7381 6682 to book your appointment with Alexa today.

 

View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life
John’s going back to school

John’s going back to school

Clinic Director and Owner, John Durkin returns to Brunel University to complete a postgraduate certification in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound of the Foot & Ankle. 

Whilst John promises this is his last university stint, we dig a little deeper into what the next year has in store for Active Life’s Clinic Director.

This blog explains what the qualification is, how it works and who may benefit..

What are you studying and is this a widely offered treatment?

The course specialises in ultrasound imaging, a diagnostic tool which sends out high frequency sound waves to the tissues and these rebound at different rates and from this an image is formed.

The course enhances anatomy knowledge and specific pathologies of the foot and ankle. Ultrasound scanning gives a good picture of injury and conditions without causing any pain or side effects that happen with x-rays which emit radiation.

It is highly specialised and only a few podiatrists have this skill/qualification.

We are one of very few centres that can offer this service. Fellow Active Life Podiatrist Marc Barton has previously completed the course and offers ultrasound scanning, and it’s popular with patients who are experiencing pain. 

 

What qualification will you get?

A Postgraduate certification in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound of the Foot & Ankle. This lets patients and fellow healthcare providers know that a high level of competency has been achieved which can be extended into a Masters level qualification.

What will the course do for your patients?

Many of our patients see us for many problematic and painful conditions that may be ongoing like plantar fasciitis or they may have a sudden injury such as a sprain; ultrasound can greatly assist in the diagnosis, location and extent of the problem thus enabling better management and outcomes for our patients. 

Why is it important for you to keep learning?

The world of healthcare and in particular podiatry is constantly evolving, with fantastic new treatments and knowledge that are helping in patient care. We pride ourselves as providers of top quality podiatric care and therefore we must and will continue to keep abreast of latest developments.

What do your family think about you going back to Uni?

My family think I have FOMO by going back to Uni as our daughter (aged 18) is just about to start her studies – sadly not in Podiatry!

Book your musculoskeletal ultrasound as a standalone assessment or an add-on to your routine appointment by calling our team on 020 7381 6682

 

View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life

The Doppler Assessment

The Doppler Assessment

Brand-new treatment at Active Life Podiatry

Always on the frontline of innovation, the team at Active Life Podiatry are pleased to offer vascular assessments, part of which involves using the latest ultrasound Doppler equipment alongside their extensive list of lower limb specialist treatments.

This blog explains what the assessment is, how it works and who may benefit..

Why do Podiatrists use Doppler?

To assist in measuring blood flow to the foot and ankle, which might be compromised – a condition called Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

What does ultrasound Doppler do?

The Doppler effect or Doppler shift is the apparent change in frequency of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source. It was discovered by Christian Johann Doppler.

A Doppler ultrasound is a noninvasive test that is used to accurately measure the blood flow through your blood vessels (arteries) by bouncing high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) off circulating red blood cells.

Why did you decide to introduce the treatment at Active Life Podiatry?

We have been using a simple ultrasound Doppler for some time – but new technology means we can now visualise the readings and also assess blood flow to the toes – not just the foot.

How long does a Doppler assessment take?

We advise that this should be done as a stand-alone appointment which takes 20 minutes.

Is the procedure painful?

This treatment isn’t painful, although you may feel a momentary pressure around your arm and ankle when the cuff is pressurised.

What does it mean if a Doppler test is positive?

A test is not as simple as positive or negative – but if your blood flow is reduced then we will inform you and if necessary, advise your GP who will then take appropriate action and treatment.

Who should have this assessment?

The Doppler assessment is advised for those patients who have diseases or conditions which may affect blood flow. People with diabetes or patients that smoke, or don’t not take frequent exercise, or if you have had recent trauma to the leg/s may be at risk of PAD. Warning signs are cold, clammy feet, swelling of the feet/ankles, unhealing sores or wounds.

If any of the above apply to you or, if in doubt please contact us or ask us during your routine appointment.

Book your Doppler assessment as a standalone treatment or an add-on to your routine appointment by calling our team on 020 7381 6682

 

View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life

Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

When it comes to foot and lower limb treatment podiatry and chiropody are often used interchangeably. 

Chiropody originates from the Greek words “chiro” (meaning hand) and “pod” (meaning foot), emphasizing the manual aspect of foot care. 

The term “Podiatry” originates from “pod” (meaning hand) and “iatros”, which means “physician” in Greek. The change reflects the evolution of the podiatric profession as a recognised branch of modern medicine.

These two branches of medicine have virtually no differences in terms of education, scope of practice, and professional classifications. In this blog, we delve into the differences between podiatry and chiropody, the history and their roles in promoting foot health and overall well-being.

Podiatry is a medical profession focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot, ankle, and lower limb disorders. Podiatrists are extensively trained medical practitioners. Their comprehensive education covers both general medicine and specialised knowledge in podiatric medicine.

Reason for the change

The term chiropody has been traditionally used in the UK, and the term podiatry is recognised and used more internationally.

The UK adopted the term podiatry circa 2000 and it’s been used as the primary term ever since. 

Whilst there is still a use of both names, chiropodists are becoming more frequently referred to as podiatrists.

Scope of practice

Both podiatrists and chiropodists are highly trained medical professionals with extensive knowledge in podiatric medicine, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, including complex surgical procedures.

They also carry out more basic foot care, such as routine nail trimming, callus removal, and general foot health advice.

Changing roles

As the world of modern technology has evolved, so has a podiatrist’s role. Skilled podiatrists are able to diagnose and carry out complex foot procedures and some surgeries, as well as musculoskeletal treatments and analysis.

What does a podiatrist do?

  • Podiatrists prevent, diagnose and treat feet and lower limb issues. At Active Life Podiatry our highly skilled team offer a range of services including:

    Routine Podiatry 

    • Ingrown or infected toenails
    • Fungal infections 
    • Involuted nails
    • Damaged nails 
    • Callus removal 
    • Verruca removal 
    • Painful corns 
    • Minor foot surgery

      Biomechanics and injury 

      • Biomechanical assessment 
      • Gait analysis 
      • Laser therapy 
      • Dry needling 
      • Acupuncture 
      • Injection therapy 
      • Foot and ankle mobilisation 

      Children’s Podiatry 

      • Ingrown or infected toenails
      • Fungal infections 
      • Involuted nails
      • Damaged nails 
      • Callus removal 
      • Verruca removal 
      • Painful corns 
      • Minor foot surgery 

      Children’s Injury Clinic 

      • Children’s biomechanical assessment 
      • Children’s mobility 
      • Developmental issues 
      • Children’s foot checks

        Orthoses

        We design and produce tailor-made orthosis or orthoses (such as insoles or shoe inserts) to support the foot, realign the feet, and correct gait problems or imbalance, as well as other walking or running pattern issues.

        Our orthotics are made in house for adults and children.

        To see a full list of our services, discover our price list or book your appointment with our expert team today. 

        So what’s the difference?

        In short – none! Both professions share a commitment to foot health and regardless of the title, seeking regular foot care from a qualified specialist is essential in maintaining healthy, happy feet.



To see a full list of our services, discover our price list or book your appointment with our expert team today. 

We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

Now the evenings are a little lighter and the days a little longer, it’s the perfect time to get outside and in nature for a walk. 

Walking is not only great for your overall health, but did you know it’s also great for your foot health?

Here’s just a few reasons why:

  • It strengthens the bones and muscles in your feet and ankles 
  • It supports and increases flexibility in your muscles, tendons and ligaments 
  • It gets the blood pumping around your body, helping oxygen flow and increasing your circulation 
  • Oddly enough, walking can actually reduce swelling in the lower limbs (although please do check with your Podiatrist first) 
  • It’s great for a lower limb workout. Walking activates your calves, glutes, hamstrings and quads
  • If you suffer with gout, walking can help reduce pain caused by uric acid build up
  • Regular walking helps maintain a healthy weight and relieves stress on your lower limbs 

How to make the most out of your walks:

  • Make sure you wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Don’t forget, we make our orthotics on site so can tailor your shoes to your specific needs and return them quicker than most places 
  • Pain when walking is not normal – if this is happening to you, please get in touch with our team and we can help
  • If you’re taking part in a sponsored walk for charity as part of National Walking Month, let us know! Active Life will sponsor our patients £10 to help you on your way. 
  • So many of us are deficient in Vitamin D, so walking in daylight will help your natural exposure. Go get your daily dose! 

 Don’t forget to tag us on your walks @activelifepodiatry using #WalkThisMay 

If you’re in pain, don’t wait. Get in touch and we’ll get you back to an active life. 



 

Experts in movement and the treatment of foot pain and problems, Active Life Podiatry will get you back on your feet again.

#TakeSteps to look after your feet

Active Life have invested in high-tech specialist equipment and combined with their expert knowledge and technology can provide useful advice on your personal running style and how to improve.