Podiatry Conditions
Skin and Nail Conditions
The health of our skin and nails is essential to our overall well-being, and this is particularly true for our feet which are often under pressure from daily activities.
Podiatric skin and nail conditions encompass a variety of disorders, ranging from cosmetic concerns to serious infections that can impact mobility and quality of life.
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Have a question or do you require an appointment with a podiatrist? Use the following contact details or use our booking form to schedule in your appointment today.
1 Lefroy Road, Bull Creek, WA 6149
(08) 6500 7300
- Fungal Infections (Onychomycosis and Athlete’s Foot): Fungal organisms thrive in warm, moist environments, making feet a common target. Onychomycosis, a fungal nail infection, leads to discoloured, thickened, and sometimes painful nails. Athlete's foot, known medically as tinea pedis, causes a scaly rash that typically itches, stings, or burns. Treatments include topical antifungal creams and, in more persistent cases, oral medications.
- Psoriasis: This chronic autoimmune condition can cause thick, scaly patches on the skin, including the feet. Psoriatic lesions on the feet can be particularly uncomfortable due to the pressure exerted when walking. Podiatrists often work in conjunction with dermatologists to manage foot psoriasis through topical treatments, phototherapy, and systemic medications.
- Dermatitis: An umbrella term for skin inflammation, dermatitis can result from allergic reactions, irritants, or genetic factors. On the feet, contact dermatitis can occur from allergens in shoes or socks, while stasis dermatitis is related to poor circulation. Treatment typically involves identifying and avoiding triggers and using emollients and creams to manage symptoms.
- Ingrown Toenails: When the edge of a toenail grows into the skin of the toe, it can cause pain, redness, and swelling, potentially leading to infection. Ingrown toenails may be caused by improper nail trimming, tight footwear, or injury. Podiatrists can provide treatments such as lifting the nail, partial nail removal, or in some cases, a minor surgical procedure to remove a portion of the nail bed.
- Nail Trauma: Injury to the toenails is common and can cause conditions such as subungual hematoma (bruising under the nail) or permanent nail deformity. Acute trauma may require draining of a hematoma, while chronic issues might need more complex care, including surgery.
- Plantar Warts (Verrucae Plantaris): These warts are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and appear as thickened, rough, callus-like skin on the soles of the feet. They can be painful when pressed and often require treatments such as cryotherapy, salicylic acid applications, or laser therapy.
- Circulation issues such as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) and Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) can also result in foot and leg pain. These are serious issues requiring immediate medical attention.
- Sciatica: This condition is due to irritation or compression of the sciatic nerve and causes sharp pain that travels from the lower back to the leg.
- Preventative care for skin and nail issues includes maintaining good foot hygiene, wearing appropriate footwear, and regular self-examination of the feet. If you have concerns about the health of your skin or nails, a consultation with a podiatrist can lead to early detection and management of potential problems, keeping your feet healthy and functional.