Toenails, Corns, Calluses & Diabetic Checks- Foot Health FAQs, answered by an expert!
- Tamara Strand
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Considering a Foot Health Consultation but unsure on whether it's right for you?
Tamara, our Foot Health Practitioner at our College Road Clinic in Maidstone, offers Initial Consultations at a price of just £25. If you're ready to come in and enquire, book online below or give us a call on 01622 661 883.
But for now, learn more about what services you and your family may benefit from with the below FAQ's...
FAQ: What is an ingrown tail nail?
An ingrown toenail is a condition where your toenail is putting pressure on the surrounding skin/tissue, causing pain to develop in your toe. This may cause a break in the tissue and lead to the classic looking infected toenail; however, it can also be more subtle. In some instances, there may be some more minor rubbing and pressure that doesn’t cause your skin break yet still causes irritation and pain.
FAQ: How does an ingrown nail present in those who may be suffering?
Curved edges which push on the outer sides of the nail causing pain which can cause inflammation, redness and pinching pain when wearing shoes. If left untreated, infection can occur.
Ingrown toenails are a common nail condition which present more in teenagers and young adults.
FAQ: How can ingrown toenails be prevented?
· Straight line cutting.
· Avoid tight fitting shoes.
· Padding can be required to ensure less rubbing of the area.
· Regular toenail visits.
· If the ingrown toenail has occurred alongside inflammation, soak the toenails in warm salty water and consult your GP for antibiotics if required.
FAQ: What is a diabetic nerve assessment?
A diabetic nerve assessment is carried out on those who present with diabetes, showing signs of tingling and loss of pressure sensation in the feet. This assessment is carried out using a tool called a monofilament, with light pressure being applied to 7 areas on the foot to determine whether sensation can be felt. This assessment is carried out every 12 weeks to assess if any changes have occurred.
FAQ: Do I have a corn or callus?
The difference between Corns & Callus' are:
Callus' are a build up of dry skin in one area when constant pressure is applied, presenting as rough and dry but usually without pain.
Corns present a lot smaller that calluses, being round in appearance. When looking closely you may be able to see a black dot- this is called the ‘root’. Corns can present as pain when constant pressure is applied in these areas. The most common cause of corns are ill fitting shoes.
FAQ: What is toe and sole padding?
When looking at toe and sole padding, we use a dressing called semi compressed felt, which can be cut in all shapes and sizes to help reduce pressure from a certain area.
The reason padding may be used is to help those who have reoccurring corns or callus'. Padding is designed to support the surrounding area, while leaving the corn area exposed. This is done to help lift the area and prevent pressure being applied (as this can causes the corn to reappear).
FAQ: Do I need to see a Foot Health Practitioner?
If you think you have an ingrown toenail, corn, callus, verruca, are concerned about your diabetes or are unable to cut your own toenails, seeing a Foot Health Practitioner can help you manage.
If you feel you or your loved ones may benefit from regular foot health checks, don't forget to get your Foot Health Loyalty Card, with offers and discounts on your sixth treatment with Tamara! :)
By Tamara Strand, Foot Health Practitioner at Southcote Proactive Healthcare.
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