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

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