About
At Sydney CBD, we have a special interest in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and lower leg problems.
The main cause of nail thickening is trauma – this may be caused by a serious and direct trauma (e.g. dropping a heavy item onto the toe), or repetitive micro-trauma (e.g. the nails repetitively tapping the top of a narrow pair of shoes). Other reasons for nail thickening and discolouration may include a fungal nail infection.
Callus and corns are areas of hard skin which build-up as a result of increasing pressure and friction. Over time this build-up can become uncomfortable and very painful in certain cases.
The best at-home treatment is to regularly scrub feet with a pumice stone or callus file (purchased from your local chemist) and to keep the skin soft with regular moisturiser.
Common causes of ingrown nails include:
Fungal nail infections (onychomycosis) typically start with small white spots or strips on the surface of the nail but if they’re not treated will start to eat away at the keratin and cause the nail to thicken, discolour and crumble – making them look very unpleasant.
The medical name for a bunion is Hallux Abducto Valgus (HAV). It occurs when there is a deviation of the bones of the big toe and is usually identified by a bump on the inside of the first toe. Onset is gradual and may result in a red and painful joint.
Cracked heels frequently occur due to a build up in callus. Open shoes or the summer heat can cause moisture loss which further dries out the skin.
Plantar warts, also known as verruca are caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Warts are a small cauliflower-shaped skin lesion characterised by black dots, which sometimes cause discomfort when standing, walking or running.
Podiatrists play an enormously important role in monitoring and caring for diabetic patient’s feet. Diabetic assessments include assessment of:
Book in your initial consultation at a time that suits you. We’ll call you to confirm your appointment within 24 hours. Please bring short shorts or tights to the appointment if possible, as well as your old exercise shoes and old orthotics if you have any. Don’t buy new shoes before the appointment as we may guide you on your next pair choice.
All we need to know is:
