The 3 Most Common Foot Problems We See at Manor Podiatry
If you’re looking for a podiatrist in Slyne, Lancaster or Morecambe, you might be surprised to learn that many of the foot problems we treat are incredibly common. At Manor Podiatry, we help people of all ages with painful feet every day, and there are three conditions we see more than any others.
The good news is that these problems are usually very treatable, especially when assessed early.
1. Fungal Toenails
Fungal toenails are one of the most common reasons patients visit our clinic. A fungal infection can cause the nail to become:
● Yellow, white or brown
● Thickened
● Brittle or crumbly
● Misshapen
● Difficult to cut
Many people try over-the-counter treatments for months without seeing any improvement. One of the main reasons is that not every thickened or discoloured nail is caused by a fungal infection.
At Manor Podiatry, we can assess your nails and, where appropriate, arrange fungal nail testing to confirm the diagnosis. This helps ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment rather than wasting money on products that may not work.
2. Ingrowing Toenails
Ingrowing toenails can be extremely painful and are another condition we treat regularly. They occur when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to:
● Pain when walking or wearing shoes
● Redness and swelling
● Infection
● Bleeding or discharge
Trying to cut an ingrowing nail yourself can often make the problem worse.
We can sometimes safely remove the offending section of nail, relieve your pain and advise on preventing future episodes. If the problem keeps returning, nail surgery may provide a long-term solution.
3. Corns and Hard Skin
Corns and hard skin are caused by repeated pressure or friction and are among the most common causes of foot pain.
Hard skin often develops on the heels or the balls of the feet, while corns tend to form over pressure points they can sometimes be within hard skin.
Although hard skin may seem harmless, it can become thick, dry, cracked and uncomfortable. Corns, despite being much smaller, can be just as uncomfortable and feel like you’re walking on a sharp stone.
Many people attempt to remove corns or hard skin themselves using blades or medicated corn plasters. These can damage healthy skin and are not suitable for everyone, particularly people with diabetes, poor circulation or reduced sensation.
At Manor Podiatry, we safely remove corns and hard skin while also identifying the underlying cause. This may include discussing footwear, foot mechanics or pressure points to help reduce the likelihood of the problem returning