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Footcare Archives - Best Podiatry and Chiropody Treatment in Amersham

Lockdown and Corona Virus Effect on Bucks Foot Clinic

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Lockdown and corona virus and Behind the Scenes

2020 will be a year we will remember and will be one for the history books.
We are glad to see that we are slowly going back to normal.
A global pandemic, something from fiction became our reality. It stopped everyone from going about their routines and closed businesses. For a large number of our patients it meant shielding and cocooning. After 8 weeks of forced closure with only emergency treatments being offered, we are permitted to re-open.

To reassure all our patients, there has been a deep clean of the premises, appointment gaps ensure minimal contact and allow a full wipe down between clients and the clinicians are wearing full personal protective equipment (gloves, apron, mask and visors). Please do not feel intimidated by any of this, it is intended to provide reassurance and keep all parties as safe as possible. It is very likely that we will be working in this way for many months, if you do not feel confident and comfortable to attend at this time, contact as and when you are, in the meantime if you require advice on self-management or need any products to assist you, please do not hesitate to call.

You may wonder what the team have been up to over the lockdown….

Behind the scenes…

Podiatrists were classed as keyworkers and essential in the prevention of additional stress on the NHS, we have all undertaken care of high risk category patients and emergencies through this period. Where possible we have kept in touch with our patients and been available for advice and support.

When you book for your appointment you will notice a few changes to how the clinics are run, this is for everyone’s safety and to minimise any transfer risks. Most notably you will see that the podiatrist are wearing visors, masks, aprons and gloves.

Leena lakhani

Leena has been busy preparing the various measures necessary to enable the clinic to reopen. The time to enjoy some family time and cooking up tasty treats, something that as a busy practice owner is a rarity. With a houseful of teenagers, there is never a dull moment!

Leena LakhaniBSc (Hons) MSChP – HPC Registered | Society Of Podiatrists And Chiropodists

Genevieve managed to complete on her house sale and moved as lockdown hit, although all her possessions are still in store until mid-June. The unexpected free time has meant lovely canal sidewalks in her new locality. She was also able to use the time to catch up on some CPD and general training, as well as taking up a new hobby - beaded jewelry making.

Genevieve StrowgerBSc (Hons) MSChP – HPC Registered | Society Of Podiatrists And Chiropodists
Genevieve
Bucksfootclinic

Sonal has been very busy working on the frontline in the NHS, seeing patients in hospital and in the community, in and around London. As a team we are very proud of her contribution during this challenging time and I am sure she will have a few tales to tell!

SonalBSc (Hons) MSChP – HPC Registered | Society Of Podiatrists And Chiropodists

Jez unfortunately contracted Covid and although poorly for several weeks, is now recovering and looking forward to getting back to work and treating patients. We wish him the best  We hope to get a flattering picture of him in PPE when he is up and working.

We very much look forward to seeing you fit, well and safe

Leena and the team at Bucks Foot Clinic

Verruca

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Small, spreading viral lesions. Unsightly and unpleasant, difficult to resolve.

If you or someone in your family or household has ever had these, you will very likely have at least dabbled with self-treatment and in some cases attempted to utilise the powers of folklore.
In the textbooks they are referred to as self-limiting benign tumors of the skin, that is to say that they are likely to resolve spontaneously and are no harm.

In reality, there are a large number of verruca which spread rapidly, cause pain and don’t seem to be affected by any number of treatments.

If there was one, absolute cure on the market, all the other self treatment / over the counter products would disappear…

However, there is a new therapy available through a registered podiatrist, which is a real game changer.

Swift, this deploys microwaves through a precise probe directly onto the lesion.

It is having a huge impact on the cure rate of even the most stubborn verruca.

It has a number of advantages over other self-applications and professional products.

There is no paste or liquid applied, therefore no dressing or padding required. This means that the foot can be showered and normal footwear worn.

The treatment time is a matter of minutes, although some describe some discomfort, it is generally less than and in shorter bursts than cryotherapy.

Treatment plans are usually for 3 treatments over a number of weeks, with the option to purchase the treatment as a package or singles.

Bucks foot clinic podiatrists are all trained and experienced in the use of swift. Book a consultation and find out which treatment is best for you.

veruucae
Don’t judge a man until you have walked in his shoes…

Don’t judge A Man Until you have Walked in His shoes

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Footwear can give podiatrists an insight to possible causes of foot problems and indeed help to resolve some foot health issues.

Footwear must be fit for purpose and fit.

Which may seem a very obvious point. Wear the correct shoes for the activity being undertaken, for example: trainers for sport, cushioning and support if the activity involves extended time on your feet. Although as adults our feet are no longer growing, it is still important to have a little room between the end of the longest toe and the end of the shoe – this allows for extension of the foot in action and possible increase of size due to swelling/fluid retention. Similarly consideration should be given to the width in relation to foot shape and type. A simple tool for assessing foot size and shape in respect of a particular shoe is to take an outline of the foot and one of the shoe and compare the two, there should be no foot template showing outside of the shoe… A good shoe is foot shaped, feet vary in shape and size, not every shoe style will suit / fit every foot shape.

bucks foot clinic
bucks foot clinic

When purchasing it is worth paying attention to the materials used in the construction, leather shoes tend to have longevity and will, with wear mould to the foot shape. Some modern fabrics have wicking properties, particularly useful in sports wear and for those who are prone to sweaty feet. Cheaper man made fabrics may not remain aesthetic for long, and promote moisture retention, which in turn harbour fungus (causing athlete’s foot). Shoe hygiene is a consideration, and there are a number of products available to address the build up of sweat and smell, as well as antifungal preparations. Some modern shoes are even machine washable.

Talking style…

Fashion along with budget has a huge bearing on footwear choices. That being the case, what makes a good shoe?

  • Foot shaped, a shoe which is not competing against the natural shape of the wearers foot, will be more comfortable, no need to be broken in and give rise to fewer corns, calluses and deformities.
  • Fastenings, buckles, laces, Velcro or at least a high elasticated front interface, will hold the foot in the shoe. Very much like wearing a seatbelt in a car. In slip on pumps the foot is kept on the shoe as a result of two functional mechanisms both of which in the long term result in conditions requiring Podiatry treatment.
    • Snug fit, crowding the toes in a small space….
    • Clawing/gripping, the toes work in an attempt to hold the shoe on, often the cause of claw and hammer toes.

The shoe detective…

The wear and tear of a well-worn shoe can give the wearer and the clinician clues as to the way the lower limb and foot are working.

Uneven wear at the heel shows the position at which the foot/shoe strikes the ground during walking.

Distortion Of the upper in relation to the sole can show the professional a number of functional abnormalities that may benefit from biomechanical assessment and intervention. Similarly, evidence of fit can be assessed from the molding of the upper over bony prominences and observing the foot imprint on the integral insole.

The pattern of wear, spirals can show abnormal phases within walking, which give rise to pain and lesions and may be improved or resolved with orthotics.

The new shoe…

Whilst a well-fitting shoe should never need to be broken in, it may be advisable to wear for short but increasing periods initially, to allow the materials to ‘give’, to avoid blisters and allow acclimatisation of the new pair.

Limo shoes…

So-called because they are only worn to get from the car to the red carpet… these are truly unsuitable footwear and purely for appearances! Towering heels and skimpy straps – if you must have them, avoid weight-bearing or walking and kick them off under the table as soon as possible!

bucks foot clinic
Behind the scenes min

Behind The Scene Of Best Podiatry Treatment

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It is important to understand that the podiatrist is a highly qualified professional with special expertise in caring for all conditions affecting the foot and lower limb.

HCPC registration identifies those who adhere to guidelines on minimum standards of practice. It is also a prerequisite for employment within the NHS. Members are selected at random every two years for audit and must sign a declaration of competence to work in the profession, as well as participation in continuing professional development. These guidelines are there to protect you.
The register was first opened in 2003. It is possible for members of the public to look up whether or not their chosen podiatrist is registered with this body (www.hcp-U.K.org/check/).

Under these guidelines podiatrists are expected to meet criteria on how they work.

Examples include:

*How instruments should be sterilised
scrubbed to remove debris, ultrasonic cleaning to remove smaller particles and then vacuum sterilised where they are packed in pouches for single use.
Some of the instruments/tools are single-use – disposable (files and blades): Waste disposal sharps are initially placed in yellow bins and clinical waste is bagged for removal by specialist contractors for incineration. Paper waste and confidential material is professionally shredded by contractors.

*The type of flooring
Continuous with no joins to reduce cross-infection and improve the potential for sanitising.

*Professional conduct
The ability to safely perform tasks, communicate efficiently with the patient, Carter’s and other professionals.

Podiatrist may belong to a professional body CoP (formally SOCAP) Access to a consultation with a podiatrist may be through the NHS via a GP or self-referral into the private sector.

All podiatrists will be able to advise and treat a wide number of foot pathologies from routine nail care, corns and callus to infections, footwear and preventative care.

Podiatrists hold a BSc Hons in podiatry, usually, a three-year full-time course incorporating clinical learning, placements, and lectures.

Further training and qualifications may lead to Podiatric surgeon status or the ability to prescribe medication relevant to the care of the foot.

Specialisms may include: biomechanics, sports medicine, cosmetic, nail surgery Generalists may treat many of these conditions in a broad sense before referral to colleagues who specialise.

Meet the team

Leena Lakhani BSc (Hons) MSChP Podiatric Medicine, HCPC Registered
Resident nail surgery lead and practice owner/manager qualified in 1996 from Southampton University

Jez Ousey BSc (Hons) MSChP Podiatric Medicine, HCPC Registered
Biomechanics specialist and sports medicine in podiatry qualified from University of East London

Genevieve Strowger BSc (Hons) MSChP Podiatric Medicine, HCPC Registered
Special interest in dementia care relating to podiatry and medi-pedi/cosmetic lead, Qualified in 1996 from the University of Brighton

Behind the scenes HPC

We look forward to helping you towards happy, healthy feet.

Verrucae are often confused with corns. Corns are the result of friction…

Verrucae Are Often Confused With Corns

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Verrucae are often confused with corns. Corns are the result of friction and / or pressure, whereas verrucae form due to a viral infection. Both can be unsightly and painful!
Although verrucae are considered to be harmless, they can be notoriously difficult to resolve.

There are a huge number of products available over the counter and online, but know what you are treating and remember that podiatrist are specialists with access to a number of proven treatments all at their disposal.

Verrucae commonly occur in young teens and those who are immunosuppressed (due to drug therapies, age or health condition). They are caused by the same group of viruses that cause warts. These lesions are highly infectious, meaning they are easily passed from person to person and area to area.

The first thing your podiatrist will do, identifies the true nature of the lesion – verrucae or corn, before then advising you on the best treatment regime for you – even if this is to not treat. Several of the treatment options rely upon creating an immune response so that the body actually fights the infection to resolve it and reduce the chance of developing further infections in the future.

Prevention is better than cure – how to avoid catching verrucae.

• Avoid direct contact with verrucae/warts, including your own warts, remember to wash your hands after touching/treating warts/verrucae. Do not be tempted to pick or cut lesions.
• Avoid walking barefoot around swimming pools, locker rooms and gyms. wear flip flops/wet shoes or protector spray to prevent spread and re-infection. If you have a verruca – wear a rubber verrucae sock.
• Do not use the same emery board, pumice stone, or nail clippers that you would use on healthy skin. Do not share these tools with others.
• Do not share footwear.

Early detection and treatment often results in faster and better outcomes.

Treatment options available at Bucks Foot Clinic

* Swift Microwave Therapy –
This is the very latest in verrucae treatment and only available in a handful of practices, it has been particularly helpful in the treatment of stubborn lesions.

* Chemotherapy / Acid –
We have a number of different high strength acids which we expertly apply and monitor.
Homeopathic options are also available – a form of algae.

* Cryotherapy / freezing therapy –
Freezing kits are available to buy from pharmacies, however, they are not as effective or as cold as the cryogen we utilise. This device allows liquid nitrogen to be accurately targeted at even the most awkwardly located lesion.

* Dry Needling –
This physical method is usually done under local anesthetic for maximum comfort.

Together we can find the perfect solution.

Foot Focus: All I want for Christmas is party feet

Foot Focus: All I want for Christmas is party feet

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Foot Focus: All I want for Christmas is….. Party Feet

Christmas is on the horizon and it’s time to sparkle… but it’s hard to glitter when your feet hurt…

Wearing winter shoes and heels brings on the corns and calluses, out of sight out of mind, summer is a distant memory!

Just because our toes are tucked up in thick, cozy socks and sensible boots it is still important to keep up a simple footcare routine. Wash your feet daily and dry thoroughly, checking between the toes for any signs of athletes foot. Use a pumice or foot file on the thickened skin. Apply a good quality foot cream and treat yourself to a little massage whilst you do so: rubbing and stroking towards the heart. Bucks Foot Clinic stock a number of foot creams and sundries.

If you have sore areas or corns, book in with a podiatrist to treat these. Don’t be tempted to use corn plasters or corn remover pastes, particularly if you have diabetes or circulatory issues.
And for those parties, try to find heels which are comfortable to have you dancing into the small hours. Towering heels might be the height of fashion and a party season must have, but if they cause your face to grimace rather grin, it’s not seasonal cheer… Look for styles with functional straps to hold the foot securely, avoid overly pointed toes – consider instead peep-toes.

Think about block heels or wedges for stability and greater comfort. If possible try to wear the party shoes for short periods ahead of the big night. Some designs incorporate padding in the soles and are well worth seeking out. And if that pair of “Cinderella must go to the ball” shoes is falling short on the comfort level, there are products that can help. Silicone foot pads can reduce the pain of overloading, gel sleeves can protect sore toes and heel grips assist in keeping the shoe on properly. Silicone spray can be helpful at stopping blisters and rubbing in new shoes. Many of these products can be purchased from our clinic along with help and advice from our team of foot experts. If all else fails pop a little pair of soft pumps in your bag and change into them.

Perhaps consider a medi-pedi, for yourself or as a gift for a fellow Christmas party goer! A medi-pedi is a combination of routine podiatry care – addressing corns and calluses and the luxury of a pedicure using lovely botanical products and a professional nail polish. Bring your own Christmas favorite or purchase from our range of Dr. Remedy nail polishes – we have berry reds, sophisticated navy’s and neutrals and sparkles aplenty!

From Bucks Foot Clinic, May we thank you for your business and wish you a very merry Christmas – go be fabulous and sparkle for the whole season with happy healthy feet!

FootFocus AllIwantforChristmasispartyfeet
Chilblains article

Chilblains article

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Foot Focus The chill factor

As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, we know that winter will soon be upon us. Whilst we romanticise about toasting our toes in front of the log fire, it is worth remembering the common seasonal complaint of chilblains. More women than men are affected.

Characteristically presenting itself as painful, often itchy and burning, red, swollen areas on the toes, fingers, and ears. For most, this is a mild discomfort which readily resolves, however in some cases, the areas blister and become open wounds and may require professional assistance.

The underlying cause is one of a circulatory nature, where the tiny blood vessels of the area have not responded appropriately to changes in temperature. People, particularly at risk, are those with family history, poor circulation, exposure to cold and damp conditions, poor nutrition or low body weight and smokers (nicotine having a constricting effect on blood vessels).

For many, chilblains are seen as an old-fashioned ailment, and there is some truth in that. In the days before central heating, when the population was more likely to be underweight, footwear was more basic, smoking was a common pastime, employment was physical and in poor conditions, often outside or on hard cold floors, chilblains would have been a common blight.

As a result, there are many historical references, folklore and old wives tales regarding their treatment, varying from rubbing the areas with raw onion, to soaking the feet in wee – but in these enlightened times, these are not recommended nor do they help.

In mild to moderate cases the discomfort can be alleviated by the application of calamine and witch-hazel, this may help with the associated itching. Foot warming creams and balms available from your podiatrist may prove beneficial.

In instances where the skin has become broken or where the condition seems ongoing, a podiatrist will be able to treat and advise.

In stubborn cases, Nifedipine, a prescription-only medication, may be indicated.

Prevention is better than cure!

It is surprising how much of an impact such a potentially minor ailment can have, ask anyone who has suffered from chilblains, it is miserable!

* Avoid exposure to cold, when cold, allow warming in a natural way – not toasting your feet in front of an open fire! Pre-warm footwear. Good hosiery (thermal fibers)

* Promote healthy circulation – exercise, smoking cessation, healthy diet.

* Good skincare – checking feet for early signs, applying the cream to improve skin quality, rubbing/ massage will also stimulate the microcirculation.

* Good ambient temperature – not a direct heat source, no draughts.

* Well fitting footwear – and fit for purpose. Chafing or tight areas can give rise to chilblains too.

If in doubt make an appointment to see your podiatrist!

Bucksfootclinic
Bucks Foot Clinic Podiatry

Bucks Foot Clinic Podiatry

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Welcome to Bucks Foot Clinic. As the Lead Podiatrist, I am happy to help you with any questions. With over 20 years’ experience in podiatry, and up to date with all the latest treatments and methods in foot care and management. We will always give you accurate and honest advice about your feet and management. This ensures that your feet can get the best possible care in all cases.

We also give you a guarantee on the quality of our services. We will make sure that you get the best possible service at any time.

Thanks