Leena Lakhani

What Are Ingrown Toenail Infections?

First, it would help to make it clear exactly what an ingrown toenail infection is and how it’s caused.
Ingrown toenail infections occur when the corner tip or edge of your toenail pokes into the skin surrounding it, instead of freely growing outwards. The toe that’s most likely to suffer from this issue is your big toe since it’s usually the one that’s most in contact with your footwear.
This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.|
If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Who Treats Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist.
A Podiatrist is a medical specialist that helps with problems related to your feet and lower legs. We can deal with complications from health issues like diabetes and even treat minor and major injuries. People also call us Podiatric Physicians or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, as well as Chiropodists.
Though a Podiatrist IS a doctor, we don’t go to traditional medical schools. There are separate schools and professional associations for Podiatrists. Doctors usually have an “MD” after their name, which stands for “Medical Doctor”. We have “DPM” at the end of our names. This stands for “Doctor of Podiatric Medicine”.
We can treat ingrown toenails, perform surgeries, reset broken bones, order lab tests or x-rays, and even rest broken bones. We’re completely licensed to do so, and we often work alongside other specialists that treat issues of the feet and lower legs.

Podiatrist vs. Chiropodist: What’s The Difference?

You may hear people use the term “Chiropodist” instead of “Podiatrist”. In truth, there is no difference between the two. They are interchangeable terms and both refer to foot specialists. The only real difference is that the term “Podiatrist” is relatively new compared to “Chiropodist”.
Another commonly used term to refer to podiatrists is “Foot specialist”.

How Do I Know If I Have An Ingrown Toenail Infection?

Now that you know what an ingrown toenail is, we can tell you what to look out for when self-diagnosing an ingrown toenail infection.

-You may have an ingrown toenail infection if you have any of the following symptoms:
-Swelling in the affected area
-Pain when you touch the area
-You feel pressure under your affected toenail
-Throbbing sensations in the area
-A foul smell coming from the affected area
-Warmth in and around the infected area (this is your body’s way of telling you that you have an infection, while also fighting off said infection)
-Hardened skin around the affected nail, accompanied by redness
-You may experience a build-up/ooze of fluid in the affected area
-Your nail is thick, yellowing, or cracked. This is a key symptom of a fungal infection and must never be ignored
-You may even develop an abscess that fills with pus, in the area where your nail has punctured your skin
-The edges of your nail have an overgrowth of new and inflamed tissue

Just like any other medical issue, an ingrown toenail starts with minor symptoms that can later on become more serious if not tended to. You must always try to identify an issue when it’s in its budding stage so you can take care of it before it gets too serious.

How Can We Help?

There are many ways in which our podiatrists can help you. They can give you advice and treatment to deal with discoloured toenails, nail infections, painful feet, cracksor cuts in your skin, growths like verrucas and warts, and more foot care-related issues.
Podiatrists can give you orthotics as well and can prescribe any medications you may need.
You don’t necessarily have to have a big issue to see a Podiatrist, as it’s recommended to visit one at least for a single session of consultation. Especially in the case of hard skin on your feet, or ingrown toenails.
Apart from this, Podiatrists can give you much-needed knowledge on foot care, like what kind of footwear to wear, and how to maintain foot hygiene.
They can also help with bigger issues and are very needed, especially for diabetic patients. They can treat issues and prevent them from recurring or becoming worse, and can also treat sports and exercise-related injuries.

Conclusion

Now that you know more about who treats ingrown toenails, what they are, and how to identify them, you may be looking for a podiatrist.

Look no further, Bucks Foot Clinic is here for you. Book an appointment with us today.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Verruca or verruca infections are a virus. It is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and is highly contagious. Verrucas on feet are commonly spotted on the soles of the areas around one’s toes. These viruses thrive in moist environments and tend to cyclically be an outbreak in children at the park (like hand, foot, mouth disease). Verrucas tend to look kind of like cauliflowers, but then they flatten up because of pressure when they are on the soles of your feet.

Sometimes verrucas can be painless, but more often than not they are very uncomfortable and even painful to deal with. They can disappear overnight or can be persistent for years on end.

How Do Verrucas Form?

As mentioned earlier, verruca infections are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There are lots of old wive’s tales surrounding the causes of verrucae, and the most common one is “swimming pools cause verrucae”. Though this is true, it needs a little more context. Swimming pools themselves do not cause the verruca infection, but since verrucae are highly contagious, it’s very easy to develop verrucae from being in the same swimming pool with someone who is affected.

Cross-infection is very common, and if you have a verruca and you’re walking around barefoot, you’ll probably infect the next barefoot person to walk on the same floor. You can also catch it by direct contact with another person’s verruca. In fact, you can even be contagious to yourself. If you have a verruca, and you touch it and then touch other parts of your body, you’re likely to spread the verruca infection.

How Do I Know If I Have Verrucas On My Feet?

It’s very easy to confuse verrucas on feet for other types of warts and corns. That’s why it’s important to know the distinct symptoms of verrucae (yes, that’s the plural of verruca!). This way you can identify them and give them the correct form of verruca treatment.

There are some key identifying factors when it comes to Verrucas which can help you single them out from all these other ailments:

• There’s a black dot in the centre of the raised skin (in most cases)
• The “wart” is oddly cauliflower-shaped
• You feel a stinging “stepping-on-a-needle” type of pain when you apply pressure
• The lump is small and rough
• You may have multiple on your hands and around your mouth as well (in the case of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, or HFM for short, which is common in most children)

Okay, I Have Verrucas On My Feet. Now What?

If you’ve noticed any of the above symptoms, you most likely have verrucas on your feet. You can try to deal with them using at-home remedies, but nothing works better than our Verruca Treatment in Chesham.

If you’re still unsure whether you’re dealing with verrucas or not, you can always book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic, where our top podiatrists can properly diagnose your condition.

Verruca Treatment Chesham

If you’re ready to bid your verrucas farewell, you can opt for our Verruca Treatment in Chesham.

Depending on the severity of your condition, there are different ways we go about verruca treatment in Chesham. The most common ones are Salicylic acid, Cryotherapy, and SWIFT verruca treatment. Our podiatrists will be able to tell you which verruca treatment is best for you.

Here’s some information on each verruca treatment:

• Salicylic Acid:
  There are many creams, gels and medicated plasters for treating warts and verrucas. You can buy these over-the-counter, but only do so if you’re sure it’s a verruca infection. Most of these contain salicylic acid which is a key ingredient in treating verruca infections. Be careful when applying these medications, and try to use as little as possible in surrounding areas because it can cause irritation to healthy skin. You can even protect the skin around the verruca infection with non-fragranced and natural petroleum jelly. Try not to get any of the treatment on broken skin. You can soften the area before-hand by soaking it in water and rubbing it to remove excess hard skin. Once dried, make sure to cover the affected area with a plaster. Apply the treatment according to your Podiatrist / Pharmacist’s advice.
• Cryotherapy:
  This is the process of freezing your wart or verruca using liquid nitrogen so it falls off. Most pharmacists have OTC cryotherapy preparations that contain other gases, but these don’t normally work too well because they can’t freeze at temperatures as low as liquid nitrogen, which is why it’s better if you visit a Podiatrist to get this done (book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic today!). During cryotherapy, your doctor will apply the liquid nitrogen to your verruca using either a spray or a cotton bud. It usually takes between 5-30 seconds to freeze depending on the size and location and also the method used. You may have to repeat the treatment multiple times till the verruca or wart eventually falls off. Cryotherapy, however, hasn’t been shown to work any better than salicylic acid and can often lead to blisters and scarring that can be painful, which is why it’s not recommended for younger children.
• SWIFT Verruca Treatment:
  SWIFT is a relatively new technology that’s been developed in the UK, and has been licensed for treating verrucas by podiatrists all over. SWIFT uses microwave energy, delivered through a probe which is put on the skin to treat the affected area. With SWIFT Machine Treatment, you can get rid of multiple verrucas and warts in just one sitting, and it’s quick and efficient in doing so. The cherry on top is that you don’t require anaesthetics or dressings afterwards!

Conclusion

If you want to efficiently and permanently remove your verruca, we suggest our SWIFT verruca treatment in Chesham. Most Podiatrists would opt for this treatment as it is a very efficient and good solution to the problem of verrucas on feet.

Book an appointment with us today.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

As podiatrists, we see a variety of conditions on a daily basis. One of the most common ones we treat is Ingrown Toenails.
When it comes to ingrown toenails, it is vital to know the symptoms to avoid infection. When you know ingrown toenail symptoms, you can treat the condition before it turns into something more serious. We’ve put together this article to educate you on ingrown toenail symptoms, management, etc.

Read on to learn more

Ingrown Toenails: Symptoms, Management, And More

Before we move on to ingrown toenail symptoms, treatment and management, it would help to make it clear exactly what an ingrown toenail infection is and how it’s caused.

Ingrown toenail infections occur when the corner tip or edge of your toenail pokes into the skin surrounding it, instead of freely growing outwards. The toe that’s most likely to suffer from this issue is your big toe since it’s usually the one that’s most in contact with your footwear.

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.
If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.

Ingrown Toenails Symptoms

As we mentioned earlier, it’s important to catch ingrown toenail symptoms in the beginning in order to avoid developing an infection. The leading cause of ingrown toenail infections is negligence and lack of knowledge when it comes to ingrown toenail symptoms.

Now that you know what an ingrown toenail is and why it’s important to know its symptoms early on, we can tell you what to look out for when self-diagnosing an ingrown toenail infection.

You may have an ingrown toenail infection if you have any of the following symptoms

• Swelling in the affected area
• Pain when you touch the area 
• You feel pressure under your affected toenail 
• Throbbing sensations in the area 
• A foul smell coming from the affected area
• Warmth in and around the infected area (this is your body’s way of telling you that you have an infection, while also fighting off said infection)
• Hardened skin around the affected nail, accompanied by redness
• You may experience a build-up/ooze of fluid in the affected area
• Your nail is thick, yellowing, or cracked. This is a key symptom of a fungal infection and must never be ignored 
• You may even develop an abscess that fills with pus, in the area where your nail has punctured your skin 
• The edges of your nail have an overgrowth of new and inflamed tissue 

Just like any other medical issue, an ingrown toenail starts with minor symptoms that can later on become more serious if not tended to. You must always try to identify an issue when it’s in its budding stage so you can take care of it before it gets too serious.

What Causes Ingrown Toenail Infections?

As we said earlier, the leading cause of ingrown toenail infections is a lack of understanding/negligence. When you have an ingrown nail, it is important to treat it with utmost care so as to not let it get infected. If you notice an ingrown nail, you must treat it so you can prevent infections from spreading into your foot. 

You can get ingrown toenails from cutting your toenails too short or keeping them too long, wearing improper footwear, angled nail cutting, toenail injury, and poor foot hygiene. 

Sometimes, it’s genetic too. If you have a genetic predisposition to having curved toenails, you are at high risk for ingrowths and infections. 

The best way to prevent these infections is to maintain proper foot hygiene, remember to cut your nails straight, wear shoes that fit you comfortably and check in with your podiatrist if something seems amiss.

Am I Susceptible To Ingrown Toenail Infections?

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.
If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner. 

How To Manage An Ingrown Toenail

Another very important thing to take care of is ingrown toenail management. When you have an ingrown toenail, and you practice ingrown toenail management, you are generally safe from fungus and infection. Good foot care and hygiene is very important. Here’s how you can go about ingrown toenail management: 

• NEVER yank or pull on your nail! This can break the skin severely and lead to horrendous complications. You might be able to access your ingrown toenail by lifting your skin gently with a piece of floss. Just make sure to never force it open, and also ensure that your hands are sanitised and clean before you try to treat your ingrown toenail infection.
  
• To drain the affected area of pus and to reduce your pain, you must fill a bucket with warm water and add Epsom salt or coarse salt to it. Then, gently soak your foot in this solution so your skin softens around your ingrown toenail.
  
• After softening your skin and draining it of any pus, you can put an antibiotic/antifungal lotion or cream on the nail and the skin around and under it. Apply the cream directly.
  
• If your pain is unbearable, you can take an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to help with it. Apart from this, you can also take OTC medications to reduce swelling and discomfort. If the pain truly is unbearable, though, we suggest seeing a podiatrist instead of jumping into OTC medications and trying to treat it on your own.
  

After you’ve tried all of the above, if your pain and infection persist after a few days, it’s advisable to visit a podiatrist. They’ll be able to lift and access the underpart of your nail much easier, so your topical antibiotics can be applied swiftly and can take effect better.

Conclusion 

We hope this article helped you understand ingrown toenails, symptoms, and management better. If you think you may have an ingrown toenail, it’s best to treat it as soon as possible to avoid a nasty infection from developing.

Looking for reliable podiatrists to help you out? Book an appointment with Bucksfoot Clinic for the best ingrown toenail treatment in town.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Out of all the patients we treat, we found that there was one very common issue they faced: Ingrown Toenail Infections.

Ingrown toenails are extremely common, but when left untreated, can lead to nail infections like fungal nail infections. That’s why it’s always best to treat your ingrown toenails before they get to this point. In case you’ve already developed an infection, we’ve put together this article to tell you how to get rid of a nail infection.

Read on to learn more.

Before we move on to how to get rid of nail infection, it would help to make it clear exactly what an ingrown toenail infection is and how it’s caused.

Ingrown toenail infections occur when the corner tip or edge of your toenail pokes into the skin surrounding it, instead of freely growing outwards. The toe that’s most likely to suffer from this issue is your big toe since it’s usually the one that’s most in contact with your footwear.

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.

If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.

How To Get Rid Of Nail Infection

Nail infections are definitely not a pleasant sight, this makes a lot of people adopt the idea of “out of sight, out of mind” and completely ignore the infection. Doing so just prolongs the ordeal even though one can get rid of the infection quite easily without a doctor’s appointment.

Here’s how to get rid of nail infection at home:

1. Non-Prescription Treatments/Over the Counter Remedies
   Some treatments do work when it comes to non-prescription treatments. It is possible to get inexpensive, non-prescription anti-fungal remedies at a drug store, but sometimes these tend to not be as effective, as they aren’t strong enough to fight the fungus.

Here are some other common treatments:

• Mentholated Salve/Vicks:
  It may seem unlikely since Vicks VapoRub is made for cough suppression, but it is a great topical ointment for fungal toenails. Its active ingredients like camphor and eucalyptus oil can help treat toenail fungus. All you have to do is apply tiny amounts of Vicks VapoRub to the affected area at least once a day. A study done in 2011 proved that this ointment had a “positive clinical effect” when it came to the treatment of toenail fungus.
  
• Snakeroot Extract:
  Snakeroot extract is an antifungal made from plants belonging to the sunflower family. A study done in 2008 showed that Snakeroot extract is as effective in treating fungal toenails as a prescription antifungal called ciclopirox. In the study, Snakeroot extract was applied to the affected areas every third day for the first month, twice a week for the second month, and once a week for the third month. It proved to be very effective.
• Tea Tree Oil:
  Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has antiseptic and antifungal properties. Small-scale clinical studies showed that tea tree oil may be effective in treating toenail fungus. To use this home remedy, all you have to do is apply tea tree oil directly onto the affected nail at least two times a day with a cotton swab.
• Listerine/Vinegar:
  This may seem like an unconventional method, but hear us out. Listerine mouthwash has ingredients like menthol, thymol, and eucalyptus. All of which are known to have antibacterial and antifungal properties. This is why it’s a popular home remedy for toenail fungus. People that have tried and tested this method say that you should soak the affected foot in a tub/basin full of amber-colored Listerine for 30 minutes every day.Vinegar is also a reasonably safe home remedy to try out, although there’s only anecdotal evidence saying that vinegar is an effective treatment for toenail fungus. For this method, soak the affected foot in one part vinegar and two parts warm water for 20 minutes a day.

2. Prescription Medications
   You should check in with a dermatologist or podiatrist if your nail fungus doesn’t clear up at home. Your doctor may gently scrape under your nail to remove some of the fungus or send it to a lab for diagnostic testing. Stronger medications may also be prescribed.

• Topical drugs
  For mild infections, your doctor may prescribe an antifungal cream or cream solution to apply to the nail or lacquer to paint on the nail. Before applying these remedies, trim your nails and soak the affected area. Using this technique, the drug is able to attack the fungus on the deepest level. In addition, your doctor may suggest that you thin your nail first with a file or urea lotion (which will also reduce pain). That can help the medicine work better, too.

To get rid of nail fungus, you may need to use topical drugs such as:

• Ciclopirox (Ciclodan, Penlac, Loprox)
• Efinaconazole (Jublia)
• Naftifine (Naftin)
• Tavaborole (Kerydin)
• Terbinafine (Lamisil)

When you apply them, you may experience side effects such as redness, swelling, stinging, and burning.

• Oral medication
  The doctor may prescribe an antifungal pill you’ll need to take for 12 weeks if the infection is severe. Several studies have shown that drugs like terbinafine (Lamisil) and itraconazole (Sporanox) are highly effective at encouraging a new, healthy nail to grow in to replace the infected one.
  It is not recommended to give these pills to people with liver or heart conditions. There may be interactions with any other medications you’re taking, including beta-blockers and antidepressants.

Conclusion

We hope this article helped you understand how to get rid of nail infections. If your nail infection persists or gets worse, you should visit a podiatrist immediately to avoid further complications. Book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic for the best podiatric care in town.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Do you feel pain in your toenail when you wear shoes? Or maybe the pain is prevalent irrespective of your footwear. Either way, you could just be dealing with an ingrown toenail or an ingrown toenail infection.

A lot of people aren’t sure how to properly treat and care for their ingrown toenails. In fact, some people even ask “who treats ingrown toenails?”. If you think you may be confused, this blog is perfect for you. We’ll explain what ingrown toenails are, their symptoms, how to deal with them, and who treats ingrown toenails (Podiatrists).

If you think you need to visit a podiatrist “near me”, book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic today.

First, it would help to make it clear exactly what an ingrown toenail infection is and how it’s caused.

Ingrown toenail infections occur when the corner tip or edge of your toenail pokes into the skin surrounding it, instead of freely growing outwards. The toe that’s most likely to suffer from this issue is your big toe since it’s usually the one that’s most in contact with your footwear.

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.

If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.

Ingrown Toenail Symptoms

Now that you know what an ingrown toenail is, we can tell you what to look out for when self-diagnosing an ingrown toenail infection.

You may have an ingrown toenail infection if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Swelling in the affected area
• Pain when you touch the area
• You feel pressure under your affected toenail
• Throbbing sensations in the area
• A foul smell coming from the affected area
• Warmth in and around the infected area (this is your body’s way of telling you that you have an infection, while also fighting off said infection)
• Hardened skin around the affected nail, accompanied by redness
• You may experience a build-up/ooze of fluid in the affected area
• Your nail is thick, yellowing, or cracked. This is a key symptom of a fungal infection and must never be ignored
• You may even develop an abscess that fills with pus, in the area where your nail has punctured your skin
• The edges of your nail have an overgrowth of new and inflamed tissue

Just like any other medical issue, an ingrown toenail starts with minor symptoms that can later on become more serious if not tended to. You must always try to identify an issue when it’s in its budding stage so you can take care of it before it gets too serious.

Who Treats Ingrown Toenails?

 If you’ve ever wondered, “who treats ingrown toenails?” we’ll clear up that doubt for you. The best person who treats ingrown toenails is a Podiatrist.

Lots of people still aren’t aware of what podiatrists do and still find themselves asking the question, “What is a Podiatrist?”

A Podiatrist is a medical specialist that helps with problems related to your feet and lower legs. We can deal with complications from health issues like diabetes and even treat minor and major injuries. People also call us Podiatric Physicians or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, as well as Chiropodists.

Though a Podiatrist IS a doctor, they don’t go to traditional medical schools. There are separate schools and professional associations for Podiatrists. Doctors usually have an “MD” after their name, which stands for “Medical Doctor”. We have “DPM” at the end of our names. This stands for “Doctor of Podiatric Medicine”.

We can perform surgeries, reset broken bones, order lab tests or x-rays, and even rest broken bones. We’re completely licensed to do so, and we often work alongside other specialists that treat issues of the feet and lower legs.

Managing Ingrown Toenails At Home?

If your ingrown toenail looks like it’s just about budding and is still in its early phase, you can go ahead and try out any of the below ingrown toenail management methods.

• NEVER yank or pull on your nail! This can break the skin severely and lead to horrendous complications. You might be able to access your ingrown toenail by lifting your skin gently with a piece of floss. Just make sure to never force it open, and also ensure that your hands are sanitised and clean before you try to treat your ingrown toenail infection.
• To drain the affected area of pus and to reduce your pain, you must fill a bucket with warm water and add Epsom salt or coarse salt to it. Then, gently soak your foot in this solution so your skin softens around your ingrown toenail.
• After softening your skin and draining it of any pus, you can put an antibiotic/antifungal lotion or cream on the nail and the skin around and under it. Apply the cream directly.
• If your pain is unbearable, you can take an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to help with it. Apart from this, you can also take OTC medications to reduce the swelling and discomfort. If the pain truly is unbearable, though, we suggest seeing a podiatrist instead of jumping into OTC medications and trying to treat it on your own.

After you’ve tried all of the above, if your pain and infection persist after a few days, it’s advisable to visit a podiatrist. They’ll be able to lift and access the underpart of your nail much easier, so your topical antibiotics can be applied swiftly and can take effect better. Finding a podiatry “near me” is fairly simple. You can just google it and you’ll find many viable results. Now that you’re here already, you can book an appointment with us too!

Podiatry near me

As we said above, it’s easy to find a podiatry “near me”. The internet is full of amazing information and businesses ready to help you out. We’re one of them! If you need a podiatrist near you, book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic today!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Are you experiencing pain in your toenail due to shoes? You could be dealing with an ingrown toenail. Everyone experiences an ingrown toenail at least once in their life. It is completely normal, especially since we put so much pressure on our feet all the time.

Some people get ingrown toenails more often than others, and this is usually part of a larger problem. If you deal with ingrown toenails regularly, it’s important to understand why and how you can stop them from recurring.

More often than not, wearing ill-fitting shoes can trigger your ingrown nail and cause pain in your toenail due to the shoes. Shoes are not always the cause of the issue, but they are a big culprit in most cases.

As podiatrists, we want to do everything in our power to promote proper foot care. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you understand why you may feel pain in your toenail in shoes. Read on to learn more.

Before we highlight the reasons for the pain in your toenail in shoes, we’ll give you a background on what ingrown toenails are so you can understand them better.

Ingrown Toenails occur when the edge or corner tip of your nail pierces into your skin and then begins to grow back into it. It can happen to everyone and is extremely common and can also be quite painful to deal with. When you have an unattended ingrown nail, chances of infections run high, especially if you’re on your toes a lot! When left unattended, these infections can spread into the underlying bone structures of your feet. This is why it’s always best to nip these painful growths in the bud!

Why Do I Feel Pain In My Toenail Due To Shoes?

 Now that you’re up to speed with what ingrown toenails are, here are the reasons you may be experiencing pain in your toenail in shoes:

1. Small, Misshapen or Cramped “Toe Box”:
   The “Toe Box” is where your toes sit in your shoes. No matter what shoes your wear, your toes must always have enough wiggle room to move up and down and even side to side.
   When your shoe’s “toe box” is too narrow, your toes will be rendered immobile from being crammed up together. This allows extra force to be exerted onto your toes; not just from the sides of the shoe, but from the toes rubbing against each other themselves. When your toes are forced into this position often, it can make your nails grow irregularly, and often into the skin (i.e. ingrown toenails).
   If you wear shoes that are a size too small, you’ll feel your toes cram up against the front of your shoe. This is problematic as well. Even more so if you have a habit of cutting your toenails too short.
2. Loose Shoes:
   Shoes that are too loose may slide around on your feet, especially when you’re running or playing sports. As opposed to being crammed in a small space, your toenails slam into the front of your shoes repeatedly.This is not an ideal situation either.This constant friction increases your risk of getting ingrown toenails, and it can also cause toenail trauma. Runners deal with “Black Toenails” a lot due to lose shoes, that cause bleeding under the nails. This can even lead to nails falling off and re-growing wrong.
3. High Heels:
   When you wear high heeled shoes, you exert extra pressure on the front of your feet. The higher your heels, the more weight are put on your toes. Ill-fitting high heels can also push your toes against the front of your shoes, leading to ingrown toenails.
   This of course doesn’t mean you have to throw out all your high-heeled shoes. Though we wouldn’t recommend wearing high heels on the regular, here are a few guidelines you can follow if you do wear heels:

• Try minimizing the amount of time you wear high heels. Maybe save them for just special occasions.
• Make sure your heels are 2 inches and no more than that.
• If you think you’ll be out for a long time, carry an extra pair of comfortable shoes to switch into.
• Try to wear “chunkier” heels like wedges, rather than thin ones like stilettos.
  

What If My Shoes Aren’t The Problem?

 As we mentioned earlier, ill-fitting shoes aren’t the sole cause of ingrown nails, but they are usually the culprit when it comes to recurring ingrown toenails.

If you try following the above guidelines and wearing the right shoes but still find yourself suffering from ingrown toenails, you could be dealing with something else. Here are a few possible suspects:

• The way you cut your nails. Cutting your nails too short, curving them in the corners too much, or leaving them long can lead to ingrown toenails and other issues. When you trim your toenails, make sure to cut straight across, corner to corner, with just a little “overhang.”
• Genetics: Sometimes, people are naturally predisposed to getting ingrown toenails. This usually happens due to unusually curvy nails.

Don’t let this get you down, however! If you have a persisting ingrown toenail problem, we can help you. At Bucks Foot Clinic, our podiatrists will be able to identify the root cause of the problem and find a permanent solution. Depending on the severity of the situation, you may need to undergo a simple surgical procedure to fix your issue. We’d love to help.

Contact us and book an appointment today!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Nail infections are a very common issue people deal with. No matter how old you are, you are susceptible to a nail infection if you don’t maintain proper foot hygiene and practice foot care. You can develop a nail infection from a seemingly small problem if you don’t handle it right. For example, if you leave your ingrown toenail symptoms unattended for too long, you run the risk of it getting infected.

There are many factors that could lead to nail infections. As podiatrists, we know the importance of foot care. That’s why we’ve put together this article to help you understand more nail infections and how to identify ingrown toenail symptoms. Read on to learn more.

If you’re showing signs of discolored toenails and other unpleasant symptoms, you may just be dealing with a nail infection. Nail infections tend to commonly be fungal in nature.

A fungal nail infection develops from the overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. It’s common knowledge that fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, so the nails on your feet have ideal conditions for fungi to naturally overpopulate. Most fungal nail infections are caused by the very same fungi that cause “athlete’s foot”, ringworm, and “jock itch”. The rapid overpopulation of fungi that are already present in your body can cause nail infections. Fungal nail infections are quite communicable, so if you’ve come in contact with someone who had a fungal infection, you may have contracted it too. Toenails tend to be affected more than fingernails since they’re usually confined to shoes, which are the ideal breeding grounds for these fungi.

Pedicures at nail salons can also lead to fungal nail infections, which is why you need to make sure the tools are cleaned and disinfected regularly and well. Tools like nail cutters and files can very easily spread fungal nail infections from person to person if they’re not sanitised properly.

What Are Ingrown Toenails?

A very common form of nail infection is an ingrown toenail infection. It’s important to know what an ingrown toenail is so you can treat it properly to avoid it getting infected.

Ingrown Toenails occur when the edge or corner tip of your nail pierces into your skin and then begins to grow back into it. It can happen to everyone and is extremely common and can also be quite painful to deal with. When you have an unattended ingrown nail, chances of infections run high, especially if you’re on your toes a lot! When left unattended, these nail infections can spread into the underlying bone structures of your feet. This is why it’s always best to nip these painful growths in the bud!

How Do Ingrown Toe Nail Infections Form?

The main cause of nail infections like these is negligence. When you have an ingrown nail, it is important to treat it with utmost care so as to not let it get infected. If you notice an ingrown nail, you must treat it so you can prevent infections from spreading into your foot.

You can get ingrown toenails from cutting your toenails too short or keeping them too long, wearing improper footwear, angled nail cutting, toenail injury, and poor foot hygiene.

Sometimes, it’s genetic too. If you have a genetic predisposition to having curved toenails, you are at high risk for ingrowths and infections.

The best way to prevent these infections is to maintain proper foot hygiene, remember to cut your nails straight, wear shoes that fit you comfortably, and check in with your podiatrist if something seems amiss.

Identifying Ingrown Toenail Symptoms

 In order to avoid nail infections like ingrown toenail infections, it’s important to recognize ingrown toenail symptoms in their early stages. This way, you can get the treatment you need at the earliest.

You may be dealing with an ingrown toenail if:

• You have tenderness/pain in your toe on one or both sides of the nail
• The area surrounding your toenail is red
• Your toe swells up around the nail
• You notice infection in the tissue around your nail

If you notice the above symptoms, visit a podiatrist and nip the issue at the bud before negligence turns it into a full-blown nail infection.

 How to Tell If it’s A Nail Infection

 In case you’ve landed on this article too late, and your ingrown toenail looks like it’s infected, but you’re unsure… Here are a few sure-shot symptoms that indicate you’re dealing with a nail infection:

• Swelling
• Pain on touching
• Pressure under the nail
• Hardening / Redness of the skin around the nail
• Bleeding
• Throbbing
• Foul smell
• Oozing fluid / fluid buildup
• Pus or an abscess in the affected toe
• Warmth emanating from the area around the nail

Am I Susceptible To This Nail Infection?

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.

If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat them accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.
If you suspect you have a nail infection, or if you’ve identified an ingrown toenail in its early stages, book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic. We can help you kick that nail infection to the curb!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

It is very common to experience pain in your toenails. Whether it is a pain in your toenail when pressed, or simply a general overall pain in the toenail, you should never ignore it. Pain in the toenail could be a smaller symptom of a much larger issue that requires immediate medical attention. Our podiatrists will be able to take a look at your aching toenail and diagnose the root cause of the issue and treat it accordingly.

You must never ignore any pain you feel, especially if you experience pain in your toenail when pressed. It could be a sign of an infection. You must always practice proper foot care and make regular visits to the podiatrist to help prevent serious illnesses. Especially if you have diabetes and other circulatory problems, a simple pain in your toenail could lead to a nasty infection, and when ignored for too long, could even result in amputation.

We’ve put together this article to help you understand the common causes of pain in toenails. Read on to learn more.

Here are a few possible reasons for the pain in your toenail:

1. Paronychia

Paronychia is an infection that affects the skin around your nails. Though it usually affects your fingernails, it can also affect your toenails.

You are at an increased risk of developing paronychia if you suffer from trauma to your toenail or have an untreated ingrown toenail. These issues make it very easy for bacteria to enter your system and give you an infection.

Often a simple foot soak can help ease pain and swelling. If even after frequent foot soaks your symptoms worsen, if you see pus or infection, or if you suffer from any immune system issues like diabetes, you would have to see your physician and get the infection drained.

With paronychia, you have to be on the lookout for any signs of cellulites. These signs could include pain, redness, and warmth of the cellulite-laden skin. These symptoms could present a serious bacterial infection, communicable to the surrounding tissue. If these symptoms do occur, see your physician immediately and be prepared for antibiotics.

With the increased severity of cellulites, you might see red streaks on your legs, fever, and nausea. If this does happen, you should get immediate medical care.

Symptoms:

• Pain in toenail
• Warmth in skin and redness
• Swollen toe
• Pus
• Chills
• Fever
• Nausea

2. Toenail Trauma

Toenail trauma can occur when you drop something heavy on your foot, fall, stub your toe, or even wear shoes that don’t fit you right. You could also experience toenail trauma from exercising.

You’ll experience minor bruising, but it’ll go away on its own. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes to allow your feet to heal and ease the pain.

If your pain is severe, however, visit a podiatrist. They’ll be able to drain the blood out from under the affected nail. Never do this at home, because it could lead to a severe infection.

In some instances of toenail trauma, your toenail may just fall off entirely. The nail will regrow within the next few months. In case this occurs, make sure you keep your toe dry and clean at all times. Wear shoes to protect the sensitive area that is normally covered by the nail. Avoid shoes that put pressure on your toes.

You can take over the counter pain relievers to deal with the pain. Make sure to keep your foot elevated, because this helps decrease the swelling in your feet and toes.

If you still suffer from pain and there’s discolouration, or if you notice a dark area of “growth” under the infected nail, see a doctor immediately to rule out tumors.

Symptoms:

• Reddish-black bruise under your nail
• Pressure under your nail
• Pain in toenail
• Visible and distinct separation from skin and nail

3. Hangnail

Though they are called “Hangnails”, they are not actually nails. Hangnails are actually small bits of skin that peel off the corner of your nail. They’re very common and can lead to pain in your toenail. They’re more common on fingernails but can also affect your toes. Some common causes are:

• Soaps that irritate your skin
• Cold climate
• Nail-biting (for fingers)
• Dry skin

It’s important to remember that you should never rip off a hangnail, as it can lead to infection. Hangnails may also bleed in some cases.

4. Fungal Infection:

Fungal infections can affect your toenails or the skin on your feet and toes. When they affect your toenails, it’s called Onychomycosis. When it affects your skin, it could be athlete’s foot.

Onychomycosis can discolour and thicken your toenail. You may also experience pain, specifically when pressure is applied to your nail while wearing shoes.

You can usually treat this condition with medicated nail polish, which is available at most pharmacies near you. If you notice your symptoms get worse or do not go away, visit a podiatrist and they’ll be able to find the right antifungal medicine for you!

Symptoms:

• Discolouration and thickening of the nail
• Pain in toenail
• Nail splitting
• Itchy or painful feet or toes
• Skin peeling between your toes
• Redness

5. Pain in Toenail When Pressed? It Could Be An Ingrown Toenail!

The most common cause behind pain in toenail when pressed is Ingrown Toenails. An ingrown toenail happens when the skin that surrounds your nail grows over the tip. When you cut your toenails shorter than you need to, or if you wear shoes that are too tight, you make yourself susceptible to ingrown toenails. When untreated, an ingrown toenail can be very uncomfortable and can also lead to infections like paronychia.

If your ingrown toenail is not significantly bad and doesn’t show signs of infection (like drainage and warmth), it can be treated at home. Soak your feet in warm water multiple times a day, this will help you with the tenderness and redness.

To give yourself relief when you have an ingrown toenail, take over the counter medicines for the pain and make sure to wear shoes that fit you well, i.e. don’t pinch your toes. This will allow your nail to heal as well.

If at-home treatments don’t help you, visit a podiatrist. They’ll be able to trim or partially remove the affected nail. If you notice your simple ingrown nail is worsening, visit a podiatrist immediately. You’ll know it’s worse if you notice pus, an unpleasant smell, and discharge.

If you have a condition like diabetes, visit a doctor or podiatrist as soon as you notice an infected ingrown toenail. You’re at high risk of developing a severe infection.

Symptoms:

• Pain in toenail and skin surrounding it
• Redness around nail
• Fluid-filled bump on edge of your nail bed

Conclusion

Now that you know some of the common reasons people get pain in their toenails, you’ll be able to identify and treat the pain in your toenail properly. Book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic for the best podiatric treatment in town.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

As well-renowned podiatrists, we see a varying array of foot problems every day. Among the most common is “Corns”. These are very simple issues, but if not treated well, can turn sour very quickly. Much like most health issues, it is important to know more about corns and how to identify them, so you can give them the correct treatment.

That’s why we’ve put together this article. This article will answer simple questions like “what’s a corn?” and “Are you likely to get one?”, and even delve into deeper topics like their symptoms and how to treat a corns.

Read on to learn more!

If you’ve ever found yourself wondering, “what’s a corn?” we’ll clear that doubt up for you.

Corns are usually classified alongside calluses, as they are usually similar in nature. The major difference is that corns tend to be painful in comparison to calluses. Corns and calluses are usually hard buildups of thick skin. They can form pretty much anywhere on your body but are most commonly spotted on your feet, fingers, and hands.

How Are Corns Formed?

Corns and calluses are usually the results of repeated friction, irritation, pressure, or rubbing on the skin. They are usually seen on prominent and bony areas of your body, like your feet and fingers. On the fingers, they form where there is constant friction on the skin. For example, when you hold a pencil or pen and write for a long time.

Corns and calluses tend to be hard as this is your body’s defense to protect the underlying area of skin from constant pressure and irritation.

Here are a few examples of reasons people usually develop corns:

• Deformities in the structure of your feet. E.g. Hammertoes, bunions, and arthritis in feet.
• Wearing socks that bunch up or slip around.
• Not wearing socks with shoes.
• Walking around barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially shoes that tend to be too narrow for your feet. When your shoes are too tight, it creates pressure on your toes from friction. This can lead to the development of corns and calluses. People who tend to wear high-heeled shoes a lot can also develop corns and calluses on the balls of their feet due to the pressure created while moving.
• Staying on your feet for long periods of time, such as running, walking, or standing.
• Activities that tend to put pressure on your feet, especially labor and sports activities.
• Improper posture while walking; can put excess pressure on the outer or inner edge of your feet.
• Activities that cause constant friction on your feet and fingers.

If you do any of the above on a regular basis, you are highly likely to develop corns and calluses.

How Do You Know If You Have A Corn?

Corns are rather distinct, so if you think you may have corn, here are the symptoms to look out for. You can identify corn on your foot if:

1. You have a hard bump on your skin, which is surrounded by a dry patch of skin
2. You have a tender and raised lump on your skin, that is painful to pressure

Corns are often confused with calluses. The main difference between corns and calluses is that corns are painful, while calluses are normally not painful. Corns have a central core that acts as a pressure point, which is the sensitive part the corn is protecting. So, when pressure is applied, corns tend to hurt.

Are You Likely To Get Corns?

Corns and calluses can affect pretty much anyone. You are more likely to get corn if:

• The bones in your feet are misaligned due to a medical condition. E.g. in the case of bone spurs, hammertoes, bunions, and arthritis in the feet.
• You don’t wear socks with shoes.
• You don’t practice proper foot hygiene, or wear footwear that is not suited to your feet.
• You smoke cigarettes.

How to Treat Corns

 Now that you’ve found the answer to the question, “what’s a corn?” and learned a little bit about corns, we can finally give you some insight on how to treat a corns.

If it isn’t infected, here’s how to treat corn at home:

• Soak your feet in warm water to soften the corns
• Use a foot file/pumice stone to gently rub and file away the hardened skin
• Moisturise the area to keep the skin soft
• Make sure to keep the area clean and moisturised, and wear cushioned socks with wide and comfortable shoes to avoid constant friction

It is always best to visit a podiatrist if you are unsure of how to treat corn at home, especially if you have diabetes or any other circulation-related issues. Here’s how a podiatrist can help you:

• We’ll take a look at your corn first to identify it
• We may prescribe antibiotics if it is infected
• To remove the corn, we will slowly and gently cut it away
• We will give you patches to help soften the area for removal
• We can also prescribe you special soft pads to wear with shoes to take the pressure off the area.

You’ll be happy to know that there are a few considerably painless methods a podiatrist will use to treat your corn. Here they are:

• Trimming: Your podiatrist will most likely remove your corn by trimming it down using a tool. You can try doing this at home by soaking your feet for around 20 minutes in order to make the skin soft. Then, go ahead and gently scrape away at the rough skin using a pumice stone.
• Chemical: This type of corn treatment for the foot is similar to trimming, but uses chemical products instead to slowly dissolve the affected skin. A common product used is salicylic acid, which dissolves keratin (what dead skin is made of).
• Toe Protection / Footpads: Though not really a form of treatment, it’s worth mentioning. Using foot pads can help ease the discomfort significantly. You can also use toe splints to prevent your toes from creating friction with each other.

Conclusion

 We hope this article helped answer your questions surrounding what corns are and how to treat corns. If you think you have corn, but it isn’t getting better over time, it may be time to visit a Podiatrist. Book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic for the best podiatric treatment in town!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Ingrown Toenail Infections are surprisingly common, and they usually occur due to negligence.

Read this article to learn more about ingrown toenail infections, their symptoms, and how to go about ingrown toenail management.

It is necessary to know what you’re looking for when self-diagnosing yourself with an infection. You can’t confirm something unless you know what it is. So, what exactly is an Ingrown Toenail Infection?

Ingrown Toenails occur when the edge or corner tip of your nail pierces into your skin and then begins to grow back into it. It can happen to everyone and is extremely common and can also be quite painful to deal with. When you have an unattended ingrown nail, chances of infections run high, especially if you’re on your toes a lot! When left unattended, these infections can spread into the underlying bone structures of your feet. This is why it’s always best to nip these painful growths at the bud!

What Causes Ingrown Toenail Infections?

The main cause of ingrown toenail infection is negligence. When you have an ingrown nail, it is important to treat it with utmost care so as to not let it get infected. If you notice an ingrown nail, you must treat it so you can prevent infections from spreading into your foot.

You can get ingrown toenails from cutting your toenails too short or keeping them too long, wearing improper footwear, angled nail cutting, toenail injury, and poor foot hygiene.

Sometimes, it’s genetic too. If you have a genetic predisposition to having curved toenails, you are at high risk for ingrowths and infections.

The best way to prevent these infections is to maintain proper foot hygiene, remember to cut your nails straight, wear shoes that fit you comfortably and check in with your podiatrist if something seems amiss.

Ingrown Toenail Symptoms

 Now that you know what an ingrown toenail is and why it’s important to know its symptoms early on, we can tell you what to look out for when self-diagnosing an ingrown toenail infection.

You may have an ingrown toenail infection if you have any of the following symptoms:

• Swelling in the affected area
• Pain when you touch the area
• You feel pressure under your affected toenail
• Throbbing sensations in the area
• Foul smell coming from the affected area
• Warmth in and around the infected area (this is your body’s way of telling you that you have an infection, while also fighting off said infection)
• Hardened skin around affected nail, accompanies with redness
• You may experience a build-up / ooze of fluid in the affected area
• Your nail is thick, yellowing, or cracked. This is a key symptom of a fungal infection and must never be ignored
• You may even develop an abscess that fills with pus, in the area where your nail has punctured your skin
• The edges of your nail have an overgrowth of new and inflamed tissue

Just like any other medical issue, an ingrown toenail starts with minor symptoms that can later on become more serious if not tended to. You must always try to identify an issue when it’s in its budding stage so you can take care of it before it gets too serious.

Who Is Likely To Get Ingrown Toenail Infections?

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.

If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.

Ingrowing Toenail Management

If your ingrown toenail looks like it’s just about budding and is still in its early phase, you can go ahead and try out any of the below-ingrown toenail management methods.

• NEVER yank or pull on your nail! This can break the skin severely and lead to horrendous complications. You might be able to access your ingrown toenail by lifting your skin gently with a piece of floss. Just make sure to never force it open, and also ensure that your hands are sanitised and clean before you try to treat your ingrown toenail infection.
• To drain the affected area of pus and to reduce your pain, you must fill a bucket with warm water and add epsom salt or coarse salt to it. Then, gently soak your foot in this solution so your skin softens around your ingrown toenail.
• After softening your skin and draining it of any pus, you can put antibiotic / antifungal lotion or cream on the nail and the skin around and under it. Apply the cream directly.
• If your pain is unbearable, you can take an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine to help with it. Apart from this, you can also take OTC medications to reduce swelling and discomfort. If the pain truly is unbearable, though, we suggest seeing a podiatrist instead of jumping into OTC medications and trying to treat it on your own.

After you’ve tried all of the above, if your pain and infection persist after a few days, it’s advisable to visit a podiatrist. They’ll be able to lift and access the under part of your nail much easier, so your topical antibiotics can be applied swiftly and can take effect better.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

Apart from ingrown toenail management, it’s important to know how you can prevent the infection altogether. Prevention is always better than cure, so follow these rules so you never have to suffer from an ingrown toenail infection:

• Whenever you trim your toenails, make sure to trim straight across. The edges of your nail must never curve inwards.
• Try not to cut your nails too short.
• Always only wear shoes that fit you properly. Your shoes must never be too tight, and your toes must always have breathing room inside. The same applies for socks and tights.
• If you work in conditions that are hazardous in nature, i.e. construction, try to wear steel-toed boots while working to prevent heavy objects falling on your toenails and hurting them.
• If you suspect that your toenails may be abnormally thick or curved, visit a podiatrist for confirmation. Surgery may be necessary for prevention in this case.

Conclusion

If you’ve tried the entire above pre-infection ingrown toenail management techniques, and it hasn’t worked… It may be time to visit a podiatrist. Book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic today and kick all your foot problems to the curb.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Toenail fungus is a very common reason for pain in toenails. Though it is a very common issue, there are still questions surrounding what toenail fungus looks like and how to treat fungal toenail.

We’ve put together this article to help you learn more!

If you’re showing signs of discolored toenails and other unpleasant symptoms, you may just be dealing with toenail fungus.

A fungal nail infection develops from the overgrowth of fungi in, under, or on the nail. It’s common knowledge that fungi thrive in warm and moist environments, so the nails on your feet have ideal conditions for fungi to naturally overpopulate. Most fungal nail infections are caused by the very same fungi that cause “athlete’s foot”, ringworm, and “jock itch”. The rapid overpopulation of fungi that are already present in your body can cause nail infections. Fungal nail infections are quite communicable, so if you’ve come in contact with someone who had a fungal infection, you may have contracted it too. Toenails tend to be affected more than fingernails, since they’re usually confined to shoes, which are the ideal breeding grounds for these fungi.

Pedicures at nail salons can also lead to fungal nail infections, which is why you need to make sure the tools are cleaned and disinfected regularly and well. Tools like nail cutters and files can very easily spread fungal nail infections from person to person if they’re not sanitised properly.

Toenail fungus is a form of infection that basically travels through the cracks in your nail / the cuts on your skin. It can change the colour of your toenail and make it much thicker than normal. It can also be very painful to deal with. Since toes are usually kept warm and may be damp due to sweat, they act as the perfect breeding ground for fungus, allowing it to thrive in these conditions. There are different types of fungi and even yeast that can affect the different parts of your nail. When left without treatment, the fungus can spread to your skin, the other toenails, and sometimes even your fingernails!

What Does Toenail Fungus Look Like?

A very common question that gets asked is “what does toenail fungus look like?” It’s good to know the symptoms so you can know how to treat your fungal toenail.

What does toenail fungus look like, you ask? Here’s your answer:

• A change in colour of your toenail, to either yellow, brown, and even white
• Thickened and often misshapen looking toenail
• Chalkiness / cloudiness in spots on your toenail
• Your toenail is separated from your nail bed
• Lots of breaks and cracks in one or multiple spots on your toenail

There are many ways toenail fungus can alter the visual appearance of your toenails. That’s why it’s important to know what it looks like, so you can treat it before it gets more serious.

If you find yourself noticing any of the above symptoms, you may just be dealing with toenail fungus and you should seek treatment with a podiatrist accordingly.

Am I At Risk For Fungal Toenails?

If you’re wondering whether you’re a candidate for toenail fungus, we’re here to answer your question. Just like all infections and diseases, certain people tend to be more at risk when it comes to contracting fungal nail infections.

You’re at higher risk of contracting fungal nail infections if you:

• Have diabetes
• Are over 65 years of age
• Wear artificial nails / regularly get pedicures
• Have a disease that causes poor circulation
• Have a nail injury
• Swim in public swimming pools often
• Have a skin injury around your nail
• Wear close-toed shoes often
• Have a weakened immune system
• Leave your toes moist for extended periods of time

If you check yes under any of the above, don’t ignore your discolored toenails and see a podiatrist for treatment!

How to Treat Fungal Toenail

 It is very important to know how to treat fungal toenail, so you can avoid further infection/damage. When left undiagnosed and ignored, fungal toenails can go south very quickly.

If you think you may be dealing with toenail fungus, here are some home remedies to help treat it:

• Snakeroot Extract: Sometimes the best solutions are found in nature. The extract of this antifungal plant can be used to treat fungal nail infections, and has proved to be as effective as ciclopirox, a drug-store anti-fungal treatment.
• Ozone Oils: Oils like sunflower oil and olive oil are oils that contain the same gases that exist in the ozone layer. Many studies have been conducted that have concluded that these “ozonized” oils are effective when it comes to treating nail fungus and may just be the best home remedy on how to get rid of a nail infection. In fact, a study took place in which sunflower oil had higher clinical effects than a common antifungal medication called ketoconazole.
• Oregano Oil: Another proof of the effectiveness of nature is oregano oil. It contains “thymol”, a naturally occurring phenol that is said to have antifungal properties. In treatments, this oil is also combined with tea tree oil, but this increases the risk of negative side effects, irritation, and allergic reaction.

Not all of these at-home remedies may be best suited to you. The effectiveness of treatment truly depends on your symptoms and situation. Seeing a professional podiatrist will ensure a proper diagnosis which will lead to better treatment. In general, podiatrists will prescribe you with oral antifungal medications. These medicines are very effective and show the most potential in toenail fungus treatment. Apart from oral medicines, you may even be prescribed a topical antifungal cream. Pairing these two is usually your best bet for swift treatment.

Conclusion

We hope this article helped answer your questions surrounding toenail fungus. If you think you may be dealing with any issues related to your feet, book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic! We’d be happy to help you.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

You probably landed on this article because you googled “what is a podiatrist?” or “podiatrist near me”. Either way, it means you’d like to learn more about podiatrists and find one near you!

We’d love to help answer your questions, and let you know that we’re here for all your foot-care needs. Read on to learn more about how we can help you!

Lots of people still aren’t aware of what podiatrists do and still find themselves asking the question, “what is a Podiatrist?”.

A Podiatrist is a medical specialist that helps with problems related to your feet and lower legs. We can deal with complications from health issues like diabetes, and even treat minor and major injuries. People also call us Podiatric Physicians or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, as well as Chiropodists.

Are Podiatrists Doctors?

Though a Podiatrist IS a doctor, they don’t go to traditional medical schools. There are separate schools and professional associations for Podiatrists. Doctors usually have an “MD” after their name, which stands for “Medical Doctor”. We have “DPM” at the end of our names. This stands for “Doctor of Podiatric Medicine”.

We can perform surgeries, reset broken bones, order lab tests or x-rays, and even rest broken bones. We’re completely licensed to do so, and we often work alongside other specialists that treat issues of the feet and lower legs.

Common Conditions Treated By Podiatrists

 Keeping in mind that podiatrists treat from any age bracket, here are some of the conditions they treat:

• Sprains and Fractures: Podiatrists often work with athletes and treat them for sprains and fractures and how to avoid them. And are also actively involved in sports medicine and treatment of other foot-related issues.
• Nail Disorders: It isn’t uncommon to visit your podiatrist for an infected toenail. These can be caused by an ingrown nail or be of fungal nature. Either way, it’s always best to get it checked by a podiatrist immediately.
• Hammertoes and Bunions: In the case of a hammertoe, one isn’t able to bend the toe in the right manner. Bunions, on the other hand, occur when the big toe joint gets enlarged or moves out of place. Note that both bunions and hammertoes are problems related to the bones in one’s feet.
• Arthritis: Arthritis is a condition that occurs due to the wear and tear, inflammation and swelling of one’s joints. Depending on the intensity of the arthritis, your podiatrist will prescribe either drugs or medical shoes for posture and also physical therapy. In the off chance that conventional treatment isn’t helpful, one can undergo surgery.
• Growing Pains: The formative years are very important as this is the stage your body is creating its structural base. Thus if one notices any irregularities with the structure of their children’s feet, like toes not lining up or flat feet, one should visit your podiatrist. They may advise a particular exercise or braces or even correctional surgery.
• Diabetes: Diabetes boils down to the body’s mismanagement of the hormone known as insulin. Insulin is a compound produced by the body to break down sugar for the body. One of the effects of diabetes is nerve damage and difficulty supplying oxygenated blood to your feet. This can cause serious complications and can even result in a foot amputation. Meeting your podiatrist at an earlier stage is very crucial, as with the right aid one can avoid severe complications.
• Heel Pain: Heel pain is commonly caused by calcium buildups at the bottom of your heel, known as “heel spurs”. These occur due to rigorous running, being overweight, or simply wearing ill-fitting shoes. There are other reasons you may be facing heel pain, as well. Plantar Fasciitis is a common reason, and it is basically the inflammation of a connective tissue that goes along your foot’s bottom area. This occurs widely due to non-supportive shoes and strenuous sports activities. Another common cause for heel pain is “Overpronation”, which is when your foot may bend inwards or outwards while walking. This usually affects athletes. Another reason for heel pain is “Achilles Tendinitis”, which makes the back of your heel ache, where the tendon is. Podiatrists can treat all of these issues with a wide range of treatments. Most commonly, they will start you off with OTC medications. They may even prescribe shoe inserts known as “Orthotics”. They can even perform surgery in dire situations.
• “Morton’s Neuroma”: You can experience pain or burn in your feet due to nerve problems related to the third and fourth bones in your feet. It may even feel like there’s something in your shoe when there isn’t. This is called “Morton’s Neuroma”, and is commonly seen in runners. Wearing shoes that are too tight, or being affected by overpronation just makes it worse. Podiatrists are well equipped to handle this issue, and they can administer shots for pain and inflammation. They can even find the right orthotic (shoe insert) for you and perform surgery to remove it altogether.

Why Should You See A Podiatrist?

Feet are often overlooked, but they are extremely important as they support you throughout your life. Did you know that by the age of 50, most people would have walked approximately 120,700 km? Can you imagine the stress on your feet for a lifetime? Feet are very important, complex structures consisting of tendons, ligaments, and bones. All of these parts have to work carefully in unison to keep you moving around. This is why it’s important to take care of your feet and visit a podiatrist the minute you notice something strange is afoot (pun intended!).

Book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic if you’re dealing with any of the following:

• Discolored/thickened toenails
• Cuts/cracks in the skin on your feet
• Warts and other growths
• Pain in your feet
• Peeling / scaling on the soles of your feet

Though these may seem like small issues, they can often lead to much bigger problems in the future. Our professionals will take a good look at your problems and help you with all your needs, so you never have to search “podiatrist near me” online again!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Although corns and calluses are a very commonly faced issue, there are still lots of questions surrounding them. If you think you may have a corn, but aren’t certain for sure, this article may help you. We’ll even help you answer questions surrounding how to treat a corn and whether a corn is serious.

So, if you want to learn more about the hard bump on your foot, read on!

Before we get into how to treat a corn and the different types of corns, it’ll help to know just what a corn is. Corns and calluses are usually hard buildups of thick skin. They can form pretty much anywhere on your body, but are most commonly spotted on your feet, fingers, and hands.

What Are The Different Types of Corns?

 Corns are significantly easy to identify, as they are characteristically round and small. You’ll most likely see these hardened areas of skin on the sides of your toes, or the top of them too. There are a few different types of corns, as follows:

• Hard Corns: These types of corns tend to be small, hard, and dense. They usually encompass a much larger area of your skin and are commonly seen on the top of your toes. They usually occur due to bone pressure, hence the location.
• Soft Corns: Soft corns tend to have a greyish/whitish tone, and are much softer and rubbery compared to hard corns. They usually show up in between your toes.
• Seed Corns: These types of corns are normally seen on the bottom of your feet and they are typically small.

Why Do Corns & Calluses Form?

 Corns and calluses are usually the result of repeated friction, irritation, pressure, or rubbing on the skin. They are usually seen on prominent and bony areas of your body, like your feet and fingers. On the fingers, they form where there is constant friction on the skin. For example, when you hold a pencil or pen and write for a long time.

Corns and calluses tend to be hard as this is your body’s defense to protect the underlying area of skin from the constant pressure and irritation.

Are Corns Painful?

 Corns and calluses can either be painless, or can turn painful if not treated well. They are usually not painful as they develop, but become painful as they get harder over time. The area of skin that is raised can be sensitive or tender to touch. In general, though, corns aren’t too painful to deal with. However, like anything else, if they get infected, they can cause discomfort and pain.

Is A Corn Serious?

Corns are generally not a serious issue. They can be easy to deal with, but if you don’t treat them properly from the get go, you could potentially develop an infection. That would make the issue a serious one. Especially if you have diabetes or any other circulation-related issues. You should never try to treat your corn (or any other issue, for that matter) on your own when you have diabetes.

Am I Likely To Get A Corn?

 Corns and calluses can affect anyone. You are more likely to get a corn if:

• The bones in your feet are misaligned due to a medical condition. E.g. in the case of bone spurs, hammertoes, bunions and arthritis in the feet.
• You don’t wear socks with shoes.
• You don’t practice proper foot hygiene, or wear footwear that is not suited to your feet.
• You smoke cigarettes.

What Are The Common Causes of Corns?

There are many reasons people develop corns. Such as:

• Wearing ill-fitting shoes, especially shoes that tend to be too narrow for your feet. When your shoes are too tight, it creates pressure on your toes from friction. This can lead to the development of corns and calluses. People who tend to wear high-heeled shoes a lot can also develop corns and calluses on the balls of their feet due to the pressure created while moving.
• Staying on your feet for long periods of time, such as running, walking, or standing.
• Activities that tend to put pressure on your feet, especially labour and sport activities.
• Walking around barefoot on hard surfaces.
• Not wearing socks with shoes.
• Wearing socks that bunch up or slip around.
• Improper posture while walking; this can put excess pressure on the outer or inner edge of your feet.
• Activities that cause constant friction on your feet and fingers.
• Deformities in the structure of your feet. E.g. Hammertoes, bunions, and arthritis in feet.

If you do any of the above on a regular basis, you are highly likely to develop corns and calluses.

How to Treat A Corn

 If it isn’t infected, here’s how to treat a corn at home:

• Soak your feet in warm water to soften the corns
• Use a foot file / pumice stone to gently rub and file away the hardened skin
• Moisturise the area to keep the skin soft
• Make sure to keep the area clean and moisturised, and wear cushioned socks with wide and comfortable shoes to avoid constant friction

It is always best to visit a podiatrist if you are unsure of how to treat a corn at home, especially if you have diabetes or any other circulation-related issues. Here’s how a podiatrist can help you:

• We’ll take a look at your corn first to identify it
• We may prescribe antibiotics if it is infected
• To remove the corn, we will slowly and gently cut it away
• We will give you patches to help soften the area for removal

We can also prescribe you with special soft pads to wear with shoes to take the pressure off the area.

If you’re dealing with a corn or callus that is hard to manage, don’t hesitate to contact us! Here at Bucks Foot Clinic, we offer the best solution to all your foot-related problems.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

If you’ve landed on this article, you probably googled something like “ingrown toenails cure near me” and are looking for ingrown toenail remedies in Amersham. You’ve come to the right place!

Bucks Foot Clinic is here for all your podiatry needs, and we believe in educating our audience above all. So, we’ve put together this article to let you know everything you need to know about Ingrown Toenail Infections, including ingrowing toenail management. Read on to learn more.

Ingrown toenail infections occur when the corner tip or edge of your toenail pokes into the skin surrounding it, instead of freely growing outwards. The toe that’s most likely to suffer from this issue is your big toe, since it’s usually the one that’s most in contact with your footwear.

This condition is potentially very painful and can affect pretty much anyone, of all ages. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can lead to other infections that may even spread into the underlying bone structure of your feet.

If you have a condition that reduces the blood flow to your feet, like diabetes and peripheral arterial disease, you’re more likely to suffer from an ingrown toenail. In fact, if you suffer from any of these conditions, your ingrown toenail can turn sour very quickly and lead to severe complications. This is why it’s important to know the symptoms early on and treat it accordingly.

Ingrown toenails are treatable at home, but at-home treatments can lead to complications if not carried out properly and hygienically. These complications will require immediate attention from a podiatrist or medical practitioner.

Symptoms to Look Out For

 Here are some of the main symptoms to look out for, in order to identify an ingrown toenail infection so you can go about ingowing toenail management correctly.

• Swelling in the affected area
• Pain when you touch the area
• Pain in toenail
• Pain in toenail due to shoes
• Pain in toenail in bed
• You feel pressure under your affected toenail
• Throbbing sensations in the area
• Foul smell coming from the affected area
• Warmth in and around the infected area (this is your body’s way of telling you that you have an infection, while also fighting off said infection)
• Hardened skin around affected nail, accompanies with redness
• You may experience a build-up / ooze of fluid in the affected area
• Your nail is thick, yellowing, or cracked. This is a key symptom of a fungal infection and must never be ignored
• You may even develop an abscess that fills with pus, in the area where your nail has punctured your skin
• The edges of your nail have an overgrowth of new and inflamed tissue

Ingrowing Toenail Management

 Ingrown toenail infections are easy to cure at home if you identify them soon. Never yank or pull on the ingrown nail; you shouldn’t force it and you must always make sure your hands are clean and dry before attempting to fix it at home.

Some home remedies include:

1. Soaking your foot in warm water and Epsom salt / coarse salt to soften the skin around your nail. This will also help drain the pus out and reduce pain.
2. Applying antibiotic or antifungal lotion onto the nail and skin under and around the nail.
3. Taking over-the-counter pain medication to help with the discomfort, pain, and swelling.
4. Wearing comfortable and breathable shoes.

If these don’t home remedies don’t work, and you find it hard to manage, your doctor may do some of the things listed below:

1. Pack an antibiotic soaked gauze under your nail to eliminate infection and encourage the nail to grow out normally
2. Trim or cut off the ingrown part of your nail
3. Surgery, only if the case is serious and / or recurring

If your ingrown nail persists and the infection isn’t getting better, it’s time to see a doctor near you.

Ingrown Toenail Remedies Amersham

 There are also a few other ways you can go about caring for your ingrown toenail infection. If you’re looking for ingrown toenail remedies in Amersham, you may try the following (but it’s better to visit a podiatrist):

• Snakeroot Extract: Sometimes the best solutions are found in nature. The extract of this antifungal plant can be used to treat fungal nail infections, and has proved to be as effective as ciclopirox, a drug-store anti-fungal treatment.
• Ozone Oils: Oils like sunflower oil and olive oil are oils that contain the same gasses that exist in the ozone layer. Many studies have been conducted that have concluded that these “ozonized” oils are effective when it comes to treating nail fungus and may just be the best home remedy on how to get rid of a nail infection. In fact, a study took place in which sunflower oil had higher clinical effects than a common antifungal medication called ketoconazole.
• Oregano Oil: Another proof of the effectiveness of nature is oregano oil. It contains “thymol”, a naturally occurring phenol that is said to have antifungal properties. In treatments, this oil is also combined with tea tree oil, but this increases the risk of negative side effects, irritation, and allergic reaction.
• VapoRub: Though commonly used to treat colds and coughs, vicks vaporub has proved itself beneficial in treating fungal nail infections, in a study done in 2011.

If your infection has more serious symptoms, or persists after taking the above measures, visit a podiatrist immediately.

The best way to permanently deal with and cure your ingrown toenail infection is by visiting a podiatrist near you. For the best podiatric treatment near you, visit Bucks Foot Clinic. We’ll be able to help you resolve your issue with ease.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Verruca Infections are very common, and we see them in our patients almost on a daily basis. They’re a pretty simple issue to deal with, but they can often become painful and hard to manage if not properly cared for.

There are lots of questions surrounding verrucas on feet, one of the most common being “Do I have a verruca or a corn?”. We’re here to give you the answers you need. So, if you want to know more about verruca infections, read on!

Verrucas are a type of wart that develop on your feet. This type of wart is specific to the feet and is surprisingly common. Verruca infections are usually harmless, and so many people aren’t even aware of their existence. You can either have a single verruca that develops on your foot, or you can also have a cluster of verrucae that covers a greater area on your foot.

Verruca infections are a result of a viral infection called the Human Papilloma Virus, or HPV for short. There are so many types of HPV, but in particular HPV 1, 2, and 4 are the subtypes that are most likely to lead to verrucae development.

How Can You Tell If You Have A Verruca Infection?

Chances are you’ve had a Verruca before and just confused it for a corn or a wart. But there are some key identifying factors when it comes to Verrucas which can help you single them out from all these other ailments. Verrucas are actually an infection caused by HPV and can be painful in comparison to normal warts or corns. They tend to form on the soles of your feet and may have tiny black dots in the centre, where blood has clotted in tiny vessels on the surface of your skin. They can be painful when you put weight on them, kind of like stepping on a needle. They also tend to look flat because of the constant pressure put on them. They even develop in clusters in some cases and can fuse together, forming “mosaic warts”. Which, again, sound super fancy, but definitely aren’t a piece you’d put up in an art exhibit. They’re actually kind of grotesque, but are totally normal.

To sum it up, you know it’s Verrucas on your feet when:

• There’s a black dot in the centre (in most cases)
• The “wart” is oddly cauliflower-shaped
• You feel a stinging “stepping-on-a-needle” type of pain when you apply pressure
• The lump is small and rough
• You may have multiple on your hands and around your mouth as well (in the case of Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease, or HFM for short, which is common in most children)

How Do Verrucas on Feet Form?

As mentioned earlier, verruca infections are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). There are lots of old wive’s tales surrounding the causes of verrucae, and the most common one is “swimming pools cause verrucae”. Though this is true, it needs a little more context. Swimming pools themselves do not cause the verruca infection, but since verrucae are highly contagious, it’s very easy to develop verrucae from being in the same swimming pool with someone who is affected.

Cross-infection is very common, and if you have a verruca and you’re walking around barefoot, you’ll probably infect the next barefoot person to walk on the same floor. You can also catch it by direct contact with another person’s verruca. In fact, you can even be contagious to yourself. If you have a verruca, and you touch it and then touch other parts of your body, you’re likely to spread the verruca infection.

Do I Have A Verruca or A Corn?

Most people tend to confuse Verrucas for Corns. It’s a very common problem seen by Podiatrists everywhere. A lot of times, patients come in after “mistreatment” caused by the confusion. When you can’t tell if it’s a verruca or a corn, it’s probably best to see a medical professional (why not book an appointment with Bucks Foot Clinic?) before you treat it at home. The wrong treatment for the wrong lesion can sometimes even lead to more serious problems. So it’s best to know how to SPOT the difference between these spots.
Since you already know how you can tell if it’s a verruca on your feet, we won’t get into too much detail. In fact, we have an article specifically for this question alone. So, if you want to know if you’re dealing with a verruca or a corn, read this article of ours. It’ll give you better insight into properly identifying the differences between the two so you can tell if you’re dealing with a verruca or a corn with ease.

Now that you know everything you need to know about verruca infections, it’ll be easier for you to identify them and get the proper treatment required. In case you’re dealing with verrucas on your feet, or any other issue related to your feet, visit a podiatrist immediately.

Bucks Foot Clinic is here to help you! Book an appointment with us for quick and painless relief.

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

There are lots of issues you can face with your feet, but among the most annoying and unattractive ones is Verrucae. Luckily for you, there is now a permanent solution to this problem that prevents it from recurring ever again. SWIFT Machine Treatment is the best way to permanently treat your Verrucae, so you never have to worry about them coming back again.

This article will tell you everything you need to know about SWIFT Treatment in Beaconsfield and Little Chalfont.

Before we tell you everything you need to know about SWIFT Machine Treatment, we’ll explain what Verrucae are.

Verruca infections are a virus. It is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and is highly contagious. Verrucas on feet are commonly spotted on the soles of the areas around one’s toes. These viruses thrive in moist environments and tend to cyclically be an outbreak in children at the park (like hand, foot, mouth disease). Verrucas tend to look kind of like cauliflowers, but then they flatten up because of pressure when they are on the soles of your feet.

Sometimes verrucas can be painless, but more often than not they are very uncomfortable and even painful to deal with. They can disappear overnight, or can be persistent for years on end. They are highly contagious and so they spread from person to person in a seemingly never ending cycle. They are spread through both direct and indirect skin contact, so they really are a virus to look out for!

What Is SWIFT Treatment in Little Chalfont?

 SWIFT is a relatively new technology that’s been developed in the UK, and has been licensed for treating verrucas by podiatrists all over. SWIFT uses microwave energy, delivered through a probe which is put on the skin to treat the affected area. With SWIFT Machine Treatment, you can get rid of multiple verrucas and warts in just one sitting, and it’s quick and efficient in doing so. The cherry on top is that you don’t require anaesthetics of dressings afterwards!

Is SWIFT Machine Treatment Painful?

 Treatment for most skin issues can be slightly uncomfortable. It’s the same for verrucas as well. You may feel a slight amount of discomfort during the treatment, but pain is a very subjective thing. Some people may find it more painful than others but the general consensus is that SWIFT Machine Treatment is not too painful. A common comparison made by people who’ve undergone SWIFT treatment is that it feels like a sudden heat that lasts for 2-3 seconds and then subsides. You don’t require anaesthetics for the treatment, but if you feel like you have a very low pain tolerance, you can choose to apply them 45 minutes prior to the session. Depending on the size of your verruca, your podiatrist may even choose to reduce the lesion with a blade.

How It Works

As mentioned earlier, SWIFT uses microwave energy to help heal the infected area of your skin. With SWIFT, you don’t puncture or damage the skin, and the treatment is quick and effective. It uses the same technology that’s been used to effectively treat cancer for the last 30 odd years. SWIFT Machine Treatment is completely non-invasive and is a super effective procedure. As it is with most skin conditions and viruses, the best way to treat verrucas is by triggering the body’s immune system to allow it to naturally heal and clear the infected area. This is precisely what SWIFT treatment does. It uses microwave technology to make electromagnetic waves penetrate deep into the infected area to alert the immune system of the verruca to instigate the self-healing process, while also destroying the verruca as well.

Can I Get Swift Machine Treatment in Beaconsfield?

If you’re wondering whether you can get SWIFT Machine Treatment, here’s your answer. Pretty much anyone with skin lesions can undergo SWIFT treatment, but there are a few exceptions (listed below). SWIFT Machine Treatment is suitable for children who are older, and also low-risk diabetics with good circulation in their bodies. Before undergoing treatment, your podiatrist will assess you and advise you accordingly.

SWIFT Treatment may not be suited to you if:

• You have heart problems or wear a pacemaker
• You have nerve damage in your feet
• You have poor circulation or diabetes (high-risk)
• You have metal pins/plates/replacement joints in your feet/ankles
• Your body doesn’t heal too well
• You’re on immunosuppressive drugs from cancer treatment/rheumatoid arthritis (since they lower your immunity)
• You are under 10 years old
• You’re very sensitive to pain (fear not, however, because in this case, you can use analgesics and go ahead with the procedure)

You’re pregnant/breastfeeding since your immune system is very turbulent during this period. So, the SWIFT Treatment results may not be as successful.

Now that you know about SWIFT Machine Treatment and how it can help you permanently fix your problem, you may be wondering where you can undergo this process.

Bucks Foot Clinic offers the best SWIFT Treatment in Little Chalfont and Beaconsfield. Contact us and book an appointment today!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

If you’ve been googling “foot specialist near me”, that’s a big teller that you are in need of foot care. Perhaps you’re dealing with a nasty nail infection that you’re not quite sure how to get rid of.

Whatever the case may be, a podiatrist can help you with your foot care issues with ease. Podiatrists are also called foot specialists, and they specialize in your feet, so they know everything there is to know when dealing with nail infections and other foot care-related issues.

If you want to know more about how a foot specialist can help you, you’re in luck! This article will tell you more about what foot specialists do and will teach you how to deal with nail infections as well.

Read on to learn more.

“Foot Specialist” is an easy term for Podiatrists / Chiropodists. In simple words, they handle all things foot-care-related.

A Podiatrist is a medical specialist that helps with problems related to your feet and lower legs. We can deal with complications from health issues like diabetes and even treat minor and major injuries. People also call us Podiatric Physicians or Doctors of Podiatric Medicine, as well as Chiropodists.

Though a Podiatrist IS a doctor, they don’t go to traditional medical schools. There are separate schools and professional associations for Podiatrists. Doctors usually have an “MD” after their name, which stands for “Medical Doctor”. We have “DPM” at the end of our names. This stands for “Doctor of Podiatric Medicine”.

We can perform surgeries, reset broken bones, order lab tests or x-rays, and even rest broken bones. We’re completely licensed to do so, and we often work alongside other specialists that treat issues of the feet and lower legs.

How A Foot Specialist Near Me Can Help

There are many ways in which a foot specialist can help you. They can give you advice and treatment to deal with discolored toenails, nail infections, painful feet, cracks or cuts in your skin, growths like verrucas and warts, and more foot care-related issues.

Foot specialists / Podiatrists can give you orthotics as well and can prescribe any medications you may need.

You don’t necessarily have to have a big issue to see a Podiatrist, as it’s recommended to visit one at least for a single session of consultation. Especially in the case of hard skin on your feet, or ingrown toenails.

Apart from this, Podiatrists can give you much-needed knowledge on foot care, like what kind of footwear to wear, and how to maintain foot hygiene.

They can also help with bigger issues and are very needed especially for diabetic patients. They can treat issues and prevent them from recurring or becoming worse, and can also treat sports and exercise-related injuries.

Podiatrist vs. Chiropodist: What’s The Difference?

You may hear people use the term “Chiropodist” instead of “Podiatrist”. In truth, there is no difference between the two. They are interchangeable terms and both refer to foot specialists. The only real difference is that the term “Podiatrist” is relatively new compared to “Chiropodist”.

Dealing With A Nail Infection

If the source of your foot care troubles is a nail infection, a foot specialist / Podiatrist can help you easily. There are a few home remedies for infected nails, but we advise you to see a podiatrist. These home remedies give instant relief, but aren’t a permanent solution.
A few common home remedies are as follows:

• Snakeroot Extract: Sometimes the best solutions are found in nature. The extract of this antifungal plant can be used to treat fungal nail infections and has proved to be as effective as ciclopirox, a drug-store anti-fungal treatment.
• Ozone Oils: Oils like sunflower oil and olive oil are oils that contain the same gasses that exist in the ozone layer. Many studies have been conducted that have concluded that these “ozonized” oils are effective when it comes to treating nail fungus and may just be the best home remedy on how to get rid of a nail infection. In fact, a study took place in which sunflower oil had higher clinical effects than a common antifungal medication called ketoconazole.
• Oregano Oil: Another proof of the effectiveness of nature is oregano oil. It contains “thymol”, a naturally occurring phenol that is said to have antifungal properties. In treatments, this oil is also combined with tea tree oil, but this increases the risk of negative side effects, irritation, and allergic reaction.
• VapoRub: Though commonly used to treat colds and coughs, vicks vaporub has proved itself beneficial in treating fungal nail infections, in a study done in 2011.

Now that you know more about foot specialists and how they can help with foot care, you probably want to know where you can find the right person for the job. You can stop googling “foot specialist near me” because you’re in the right place already.

Bucks Foot Clinic has professionals who have lots of experience and knowledge in the field. If you have any foot care-related issues or nail infections, we can handle them with ease. So, contact us and book an appointment!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now

Verrucas on feet are very common. Though they are so common, there are lots of questions surrounding verrucas. Some people even ask, “is a verruca a sore?”. As professional podiatrists, we want to educate you as much as we can.

So, if you’d like to learn more about verrucas on feet, if a verruca is a sore, and how we go about verruca treatment, read on!

Verruca or verruca infections are a virus. It is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and is highly contagious. Verrucas on feet are commonly spotted on the soles of the areas around one’s toes. These viruses thrive in moist environments and tend to cyclically be an outbreak in children at the park (like hand, foot, mouth disease). Verrucas tend to look kind of like cauliflowers, but then they flatten up because of pressure when they are on the soles of your feet.

Sometimes verrucas can be painless, but more often than not they are very uncomfortable and even painful to deal with. They can disappear overnight, or can be persistent for years on end.

What Causes Verrucas on Feet?

Now that you know more about the Verruca infection, it’d do you good to understand where it comes from so you can prevent it from happening to you. Especially if you have children or young adults at home since they’re the most prone and the virus is extremely contagious.

Verrucas are caused by HPV. Verruca infections can spread from person to person via direct skin contact or even just contact with surfaces contaminated with the virus. You’re also more likely to get infected if your skin is damaged or wet, so swimming pools and communal showers tend to be a breeding ground for verruca infections. Apart from infecting (or being infected by) others, you can even further infect yourself by touching unaffected areas of your body. The viral particles tend to spread when you scratch a verruca. As with most viruses, your chances of developing verruca infections runs high if you have a weak immune system.

Is A Verruca A Sore?

A very common question people ask is “Is a verruca a sore?”. In fact, verrucas often get confused for many things, like corns and other types of warts.

Verrucae aren’t really sores, but they can cause a feeling of soreness on your feet due to their uncomfortable positioning. In reality, verrucae are a type of wart that are formed by the HPV virus and they tend to be very contagious.

Verrucas also are’t corns. To learn more about how you can differentiate between the two, read this article!

Verruca Treatment

Now that you know a lot more about verrucas on feet and what causes them, you’d probably want to know how to go about verruca treatment.

There are many ways you can go about treating verrucas on your feet. Though they normally go away with time, if you find yourself plagued with verrucas on your feet and they’re either painful or just an eyesore, here’s a few treatments:

1. Home Remedies:

• A great home remedy is taking a piece of banana skin and cutting it to be the same size as the verruca on your feet. Then, go ahead and place the piece of banana skin on the verruca and secure it with a plaster. Do this for about two weeks, every night before bed.
• Garlic is an all-round cure-all and is generally just really good for your health. You can use garlic to treat your verruca as well. Take a piece of garlic and put it over your verruca infection and secure it with a plaster. If you do this daily for a month, your verruca should go away.
• A study was done in which it was proven that duct tape surprisingly helps get rid of verrucas. Take a piece of duct tape and cover your verruca with it, and it should go away in a few weeks.

2. Medication:

• There are many creams, medicated plasters, and gels that you can use to aid the treatment of your verruca. Most of these are readily available as over the counter products, so you can get them at your local pharmacy.
• Salicylic acid is the key ingredient in all of these products and this is what actually treats your verruca. It helps soften the verruca significantly.
• Never use salicylic acid products on your face because that can lead to some really bad scarring. Also, if you have pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes, consult your doctor before using these products.

3. Cryotherapy:

   Cryotherapy is a very effective way to remove your verruca. It is the process in which your verruca is frozen with liquid nitrogen, which makes it fall off. If you’re interested in cryotherapy, please visit a podiatrist and never try to do this on your own. It can lead to scarring and is typically also mildly painful, so it’s not a great option for children and people who are sensitive to pain.

4. Check-In With Your Podiatrist:

   The best way to treat anything related to your feet is by visiting a podiatrist. They are experts at all things foot-related and will be able to treat your verruca with ease and painlessly. When you visit a podiatrist, they will most likely use SWIFT Machine Treatment to get rid of your verruca. SWIFT is a very quick and efficient way to treat verrucas, it’s in the name itself! SWIFT uses microwave energy for verruca removal. To learn more about what you can expect from SWIFT treatment, read our article on this topic!

If you think you’re dealing with verrucas on your feet, don’t hesitate to seek help. Instead of suffering the soreness and the possibility of recurrence, visit a Podiatrist to help you deal with it permanently.

At Bucks Foot Clinic, we offer the best podiatric services. Contact us to book an appointment!

Please call us on  0800 107 3290 / 077 99 122 099 Or contact us now