It is often difficult as a parent to know what is normal for your child's feet. Below is list of some of the reasons why you may want to get your child's feet assessed by a Podiatrist.

In toeingToe walkingSymmetry - If your childs feet/legs/body is uneven when they walkFlat feetIngrown nailsFoot shape - Should be straight, not curved like a bananaPain - This could be at the feet, legs or sometimes even backClumsy/not keeping up with peers in the playground

Biomechanical assessments look at the child as a whole as well as isolating different muscles and joints to look for any imbalances.

If in doubt, it is better to be safe and have your child assessed.

Sydney Mobile Podiatry provide assessments for children. Many parents comment on how it is a great option because their child is very comfortable (as oppose to in a clinical setting which can be quite intimidating).

If you would like to book an appointment please give us a call on (02) 8068 7547. We are happy to help!

Dry and cracked heels are a common complaint. This problem is even more prevalent among diabetics. While for many it is an aesthetic issue, cracks in the skin can actually be a portal for bacteria. Below are some tips for keeping your heels healthy and smooth.

See your Podiatrist. Have your Podiatrist remove hard callus so it will be easier for you to maintain. They will also be able to provide you with further advice.

Moisturise daily. The skin on your feet is thicker to the rest of your body. for this reason it is important to use moisturiser specifically formulated for the feet. We advise a cream with 15-25% urea. Please contact us if you wish to purchase urea cream.

File. To maintain your skin between appointments, use a file or pumice stone to take back the superficial skin. Do NOT use anything sharp such as a blade or razor.

Consider biomechanics. If you have hard skin developing in specific spots on your foot, it may be worth having a biomechanical assessment done by your Podiatrist. This is because callus develops to protect areas under high pressure. You may benefit from insoles designed to redistribute pressure and therefore reduce callus formation.

For further advice please make an appointment by calling (02) 8068 7547 or email sydneymobilepodiatry@outlook.com.au

There are many benefits to choosing a Podiatrist over a pedicure. To begin with, there are many limitations in relation to what a Pedicurist is really allowed to do.

Additionally:

Podiatrists are practitioners who have been trained at University for a number of years. This training allows them to identify problems and risk factors at the feet which you may have otherwise been unaware of.

All equipment used by Podiatrists has undergone processes to ensure a sterile and safe treatment. Adherence to national infection control standards means no cross contamination will occur between patients.

Podiatrists are able to debride (remove using a scalpel) callus, remove corns and clear ingrowns. They will also address the cause of your problems not just the symptoms.

You are still able to get the relaxing benefits of a pedicure. Foot baths may be available upon request and the use of a liner once again prevents cross contamination. Podiatrists are also trained to carry out therapeutic massage of the lower limb and feet.

Nail polish can prevent oxygen from reaching the nail and create an optimal environment for fungus to grow. Podiatrists often recommend avoiding nail polish or to use it on occasion and remove as soon as possible. If you do wish to wear nail polish it is important you have your own bottle and don't share, as this can put you at risk of infection.

Traditionally Podiatry is a health service where as pedicures are a beauty service. However, your Podiatrist can help you achieve beautiful, happy and healthy feet.

Making the decision to put your loved ones in to an aged care facility can be a very hard one. Every person is different and every situation is different. In many cases the thought of leaving home brings with it feelings of fear and anxiety. For this reason, it is important to consider whether the move is completely necessary before making a final decision.

The good news is there are now many services available to help your loved ones in the comfort of their own home. Whether it is assistance with daily tasks, palliative care or other medical needs, it is no longer necessary to jump straight in to an option that involves leaving the home.

The benefits of home care go beyond simply having tasks completed that would otherwise be difficult. Further benefits include:

Freedom to live independently. Whilst aged care facilities are often fantastic at what they do, they are very structured to ensure they operate effectively. With home care, you have the flexibility to do things on your own time. Greater independence can mean greater happiness.

Home visits tend to engage individuals who may otherwise be lonely at home. This companionship can also add to quality of life and reduce the chances of developing depression.

It is easier to monitor ones’ health status when it is being checked regularly. When there is a nurse visiting the home they get to know your loved ones and can help determine when Doctor’s appointments or further intervention may be required. Taking care of small things before they become a problem can make a big difference in someone’s life!

Generous government subsidies are currently available.

Sydney Mobile Podiatry is just one example of a service which is able to help people in the comfort of their own home. We are more than aware it can become very difficult to get down and safely tend to your feet! Other services available include nursing, physiotherapy, cleaning and shopping assistance just to name a few.

For some people living in an aged care facility can be the right choice. They enjoy the scheduled activities and opportunity to talk to others. Others prefer to stay at home and maintain their independence for as long as possible. Discuss the possible options with your family Doctor and come to a decision in the best interest of your loved ones.

For home care recommendations in Sydney please don’t hesitate to contact us at sydneymobilepodiatry@outlook.com.au We have some great contacts and are more than happy to help!