HCPC registered podiatrists
Orthotics available
Over 35 years' experience
Heel pain from plantar fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, that is a ligamentous band running across the sole of each foot, from the heel to the toes. The inflammation is caused by excessive stress at its attachment to the heel bone, or sometimes along its length in the arch. It feels like a deep bruise which is most painful when you first stand in the morning or after sitting.
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It usually starts the day after some unusual activity, it may be a long walk, run or even having to stand in flat shoes for an unusually long time. Sometimes it is linked to sudden weight gain. It should heal naturally but sometimes becomes chronic, and doesn't heal because of underlying biomechanical problems such as overpronation and restricted ankle joint mobility, often due to tight calf muscles. For more information, please get in touch.
Neuromas
These are painful swellings in the sheath encasing digital nerves as they pass between the metatarsal joints. They can occur when the nerves are pinched due to tight shoes or poor foot function. It most commonly occurs in the cleft between the 3rd and 4th toes. If treated early simple insoles can settle the inflammation. However if the neuroma is larger they still respond particularly well to corticosteroid injections.
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Ultrasound scans are a useful aid to diagnosis.
Podiatric biomechanical assessment
Whether you're involved in professional sports or just on your feet a lot at work, the way your feet function can lead to excessive stress and strain on muscles and ligaments throughout your body. Podiatrists are able by examining the feet to assess the cause of poor foot function and the treatment needed to improve it. The podiatric biomechanical assessment involves a thorough examination of the mobility, range of motion and alignment of the joints in the feet and legs, when resting, standing and walking improve it. We use the Podosmart 3D analysis system to aid the diagnosis by inserting insoles with sensors into your shoes which transmit data to our computer so we can see how your feet are moving when you walk.
Arthritic joints, gout & bunions
There are 26 bones in each foot, so there are lots of joints, each with the potential for injury and inflammation. The most commonly effected joint is at the base of the big toe, it can become painful and swollen. Old injuries from sport or tight shoes can damage cartilage causing excessive wear in the joint, leading to extra bone outgrowth which stiffens the joint. Many other joints can be affected, and lead to callouses and corns. Corticosteroid injections, therapeutic ultrasound and insoles or orthotics can be effective treatments.
Achilles tendonitis & shin splints
Achilles tendonitis presents as pain in the back of the heel or along the Achilles tendon. Shin splints present as pain along the front of the lower leg at the muscle attachment to the shin. Anterior knee pain presents as pain under or around the knee cap. They are commonly caused by overpronation of the foot in people on their feet a lot either at work or in a sporting activity. Orthotics are probably needed to reduce overpronation reducing stress on the tendons, muscles and ligaments.
"Can highly recommend! Levi was absolutely brilliant, highly empathetic and caring. He looked after me and my daughter in such a caring and considerate way. Thank you so much!"
Find the solution for your musculoskeletal foot pain
Contact Twickenham Health Care to arrange an appointment.
