How We Help
Stride with Confidence
Foot problems can be painful, embarrassing and they can stop you doing the things you enjoy. Life is too short to suffer.
No matter how frustrated or worried you are about your foot problem, we are here to help you find a solution and we cannot be shocked.
Find your problem in the list below. Click to find out how we can help.
Ingrowing Toenails, Relief & Treatment
The Pain
Ingrowing toenails can be incredibly painful, often causing a sharp, throbbing discomfort along the edge of the toenail. This condition occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to inflammation, redness, and sometimes infection. The pain can make even the simplest activities like walking or wearing shoes a challenge, affecting your daily life.
The Impact
The impact of an ingrowing toenail extends beyond physical pain. It can disrupt your routine, making it difficult to stay active and perform everyday tasks. For those who spend a lot of time on their feet, it can hinder performance at work and overall well-being. The persistent discomfort can also take a toll on your mental health, causing stress and anxiety about when the pain will subside.
If Unresolved
If left untreated, an ingrowing toenail can become infected, leading to increased pain, swelling, and possibly more severe complications. Early treatment is key to avoiding these issues.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we offer a range of effective treatments for ingrowing toenails, tailored to your specific needs. Initial treatments may include carefully trimming the nail, reducing pressure around the nail, or prescribing antibiotics if an infection is present. In more severe cases, we may recommend a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the affected nail.
Our goal is to alleviate your pain and prevent the condition from recurring, using techniques that promote quick healing and minimal downtime.
How we helped a patient with an ingrowing toenail
At LR Podiatry, we recently treated a young athlete who had been struggling with an ingrowing toenail for months. The pain had become so severe that she was unable to participate in her favourite sport. After a thorough assessment, we provided a simple, minimally invasive procedure that relieved her pain almost immediately. Just a few weeks after treatment, she was back on the field, performing at her best, and thrilled to be pain-free. Stories like hers inspire us to continue providing compassionate, effective care to every patient who walks through our doors.
Verrucas - Understanding & Treating Foot Warts
The Pain
Having a verruca can be more than just a physical discomfort - it can also cause significant emotional distress. Many people feel self-conscious about the appearance of verrucas, especially when they are located on visible areas like the soles of the feet. This embarrassment can affect social interactions and personal confidence.
In addition to the emotional impact, verrucas can also be physically painful. The verruca often develops a hard, rough surface that can press into the sensitive tissues of your foot. This buildup of hard skin can cause sharp pain when walking or standing, as the pressure from the verruca can irritate the surrounding areas.
The Impact
The presence of a verruca can significantly affect various aspects of your daily life. The discomfort and visible nature of the verruca might make you hesitant to participate in activities that involve being barefoot or wearing open-toe shoes. This can limit your options for social activities, vacations, and even simple pleasures like relaxing at the beach.
Furthermore, the pain associated with verrucas can disrupt your daily routines. You might find yourself avoiding certain tasks or adjusting how you walk to minimise discomfort. This can lead to altered gait patterns, which over time might cause additional strain on other parts of your body, such as your knees or back.
If Unresolved
Verrucas are caused by a harmless virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). While they are not harmful to your overall health and will eventually resolve on their own, this process can be unpredictable. Some verrucas disappear within months, while others can persist for years or even decades if left untreated.
The emotional and social impact of unresolved verrucas can be significant. The ongoing presence of a verruca may exacerbate feelings of embarrassment and self-consciousness. You might find yourself avoiding social situations or activities that involve showing your feet, such as swimming or wearing sandals. This can lead to a reduced quality of life and heightened feelings of isolation or frustration.
In addition to these emotional effects, the continuous discomfort can make daily activities more challenging, further impacting your overall well-being.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we offer two advanced treatment options for verrucas:
- Swift Microwave Therapy: This cutting-edge treatment uses microwave energy to target and destroy the verruca virus deep within the skin. The procedure is quick, easy and no need for anaesthesia or dressings. Most patients experience significant improvement after just a few sessions, and there’s no downtime - meaning you can get back to your daily activities immediately.
- Verruca Needling: A highly effective treatment, especially for stubborn or multiple verrucas, needling involves puncturing the verruca under local anaesthesia to provoke an immune response. This technique encourages the body to respond to the virus from within, often leading to the complete resolution of the verruca 6-9 months after a single treatment.
How we helped a patient with a painful verruca
One of our patients, Sarah, had been struggling with a painful verruca for over a year. She had tried over-the-counter treatments with no success, and the pain was affecting her ability to run, something she loved doing. After consulting with our podiatrists, Sarah chose Swift Microwave Therapy. Within three sessions, her verruca had significantly reduced in size, and by the fourth session, it was completely gone. Sarah is now back to running pain-free and couldn’t be happier with her results!
Understanding Foot Pain
The Pain
Foot pain can manifest in many forms, from heel pain and plantar fasciitis to Achilles tendon pain, Morton’s neuroma, plantar plate tears, ankle pain, and flat feet. These conditions often cause discomfort, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, stabbing pain. Foot pain can be triggered by various factors, including improper footwear, overuse, injury, or underlying structural issues.
The Impact
When your feet hurt, every step can feel like a challenge. Foot pain doesn't just affect your ability to walk - it can impact your overall well-being. It can make it difficult to engage in daily activities, whether it's going for a morning jog, standing for long periods, or simply playing with your kids. The pain can be physically draining and emotionally exhausting, limiting your lifestyle and making it harder to enjoy the things you love.
If Unresolved
Ignoring foot pain won't make it go away. In fact, it often leads to more severe problems. Left untreated, conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendon pain, or flat feet can worsen over time, potentially leading to chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even more serious injuries. In some cases, ongoing pain can cause you to adjust your gait, which can then lead to issues with your knees, hips, or back. This domino effect can further impact your quality of life, making it even more essential to address foot pain early.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we believe in a comprehensive and personalised approach to treating foot pain. Our biomechanics assessments help us understand the root cause of your pain by analysing how your feet move and function. We then develop a tailored Stride to Success treatment plan that addresses your specific needs.
Our treatment options may include:
- Orthotics to provide the support your feet need;
- Physical therapy exercises to strengthen and improve foot function;
- Shockwave therapy to accelerate healing;
- Footwear advice to ensure you're wearing the right shoes for your foot type;
- Lifestyle and activity modifications to reduce strain on your feet.
Our goal is to not only relieve your pain but also prevent future issues, ensuring you can walk, run, and live without discomfort.
How we helped a patient with heel pain
One of our patients came to us with severe heel pain that had been bothering her for months. She even had to stop walking her dog because the pain was too intense. After a thorough biomechanical assessment, we diagnosed her with plantar fasciitis. We created a custom Stride to Success plan that included tailored orthotics, specific stretching exercises, and advice on choosing the right shoes. Within weeks, her pain had significantly reduced, and they were back to dog walking pain-free. Today, they're enjoying the beautiful Peak District with their dog and no heel pain!
Dealing with Fungal Nails
The Pain
Fungal nail infections can be more than just a physical problem. While the thickening, discoloration, and brittleness of nails are clear signs of the infection, the emotional impact can be just as significant. Many people with fungal nails feel embarrassed to show their feet, avoiding open-toe shoes, sandals, or going barefoot in public. This can lead to a loss of confidence and social anxiety, making you feel self-conscious about your appearance.
The Impact
The impact of fungal nails goes beyond aesthetics. It can affect your daily life and emotional well-being. Many people with fungal nail infections feel the need to hide their feet, leading them to skip activities they love, like swimming, going to the beach, or even wearing certain types of footwear. Additionally, untreated fungal nail infections can cause discomfort and pain, especially if the infection spreads or the nail thickens and presses against your shoes.
If Unresolved
Ignoring a fungal nail infection won't make it disappear. Over time, the infection can worsen, spreading to other nails or even the skin around your nails. The nail can become increasingly thickened and brittle, making it difficult to trim and maintain. In some cases, untreated fungal nails can lead to more severe infections, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes. This can result in pain, discomfort, and an increased risk of other foot-related problems.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we understand the physical and emotional challenges that come with fungal nails, and we are here to help you manage and treat the condition effectively. Our approach is both professional and compassionate, ensuring that you feel comfortable and supported throughout your treatment journey.
Our treatment options for fungal nails include:
- Conservative Management: We offer professional nail care, trimming, and maintenance to keep your nails manageable and reduce the visible effects of the infection.
- Topical and Oral Medications: Depending on the severity of the infection, we may suggest topical antifungal treatments or oral medications to help eliminate the fungus. Our team will guide you through the appropriate use of these treatments to maximize effectiveness.
- Minor Surgery: In cases where the infection is severe or resistant to other treatments, we may recommend minor surgical procedures to remove the infected part of the nail or even the entire nail. This allows for a fresh, healthy nail to grow back in its place.
Our goal is to provide a solution that not only addresses the infection but also helps restore your confidence, so you can feel comfortable showing your feet again.
How we helped a patient with a fungal nail infection
One of our patients had been struggling with a fungal nail infection for years. They felt embarrassed to wear sandals or go barefoot in public, always trying to hide their feet. After visiting LR Podiatry, we carefully assessed their condition and started a treatment plan that included both oral medication and regular nail care. Within months, they noticed significant improvement in the appearance of their nails. The infection was under control, and their nails were healthier and more presentable. Today, they confidently wear their favourite sandals, no longer worried about showing their feet.
Freedom from Painful Corns
The Pain
Corns are small areas of thickened skin that develop due to repeated pressure or friction, often from ill-fitting shoes or abnormal foot mechanics. While they may be small, the pain they cause can be significant. Corns can feel like walking on a pebble with every step, creating constant discomfort. This pain can make it difficult to wear certain shoes or walk comfortably, affecting your daily life. Beyond the physical pain, corns can be unsightly, leading to embarrassment and self-consciousness about your feet.
The Impact
Painful corns can impact your life in more ways than you might realize. They can limit your choice of footwear, forcing you to avoid stylish shoes that you love. The constant pain can make walking a challenge, discouraging you from enjoying activities that require you to be on your feet, such as shopping, traveling, or simply taking a walk in the park. Over time, the ongoing discomfort can lead to frustration and negatively affect your mood and quality of life.
If Unresolved
Ignoring painful corns can lead to more severe problems. Corns can grow larger and deeper, causing increased pain and discomfort. If left untreated, they may lead to ulcers or infections, especially in individuals with diabetes or poor circulation. Additionally, continuing to walk or stand in a way that avoids putting pressure on the corn can lead to other foot and joint problems due to altered gait patterns.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we offer a range of effective treatments to relieve the pain of corns and prevent them from recurring. One of our innovative solutions is the use of Curacorn dermal fillers, a specialised treatment designed to cushion and protect the areas of your feet prone to corns.
Our treatment options include:
- Conservative Corn Care: For immediate relief, we can safely remove the corn using specialised instruments, reducing pain and discomfort on the spot. Regular maintenance appointments can help keep pain at bay.
- Curacorn Dermal Fillers: This advanced treatment involves injecting a soft, cushioning gel into the areas around the corn, providing immediate pain relief by reducing pressure and friction. Curacorn fillers offer a longer-lasting solution to painful corns, allowing you to walk comfortably and wear your favourite shoes without pain.
- Footwear Advice: We provide personalised recommendations for footwear that can help reduce pressure on your feet, preventing the formation of new corns.
- Orthotics: Custom orthotic devices can redistribute pressure across your feet, minimizing the development of corns and other painful conditions.
Our approach is to provide both immediate relief and long-term solutions, ensuring that you can walk comfortably and confidently.
How we helped a patient with painful corns
A patient came to us with painful corns that made every step a challenge. They had tried different shoes and over-the-counter treatments without success. We decided to treat the corns with Curacorn dermal fillers, which provided relief by cushioning the area around the corn. Combined with custom orthotics and proper footwear advice, their pain disappeared, and they could walk without discomfort. Today, they are back to enjoying their daily activities, free from the pain that once held them back.
Restoring Confidence with Nail Reconstruction
The Pain
Damaged nails can be more than just a cosmetic issue - they can affect your confidence and how you feel about showing your hands or feet. Whether caused by injury, infection, or medical conditions, nails that are cracked, discoloured, or missing can make you feel self-conscious. This can lead to avoiding open-toe shoes, sandals, or even refraining from activities where your nails might be visible. The emotional impact of damaged nails can be significant, making you feel embarrassed or anxious about your appearance.
The Impact
The impact of damaged nails often goes beyond just looks. You may find yourself hesitating to participate in social events, avoiding beach trips, poolside gatherings, or even everyday activities like wearing sandals or flip-flops. For many, this leads to a constant effort to hide their feet or hands, impacting their wardrobe choices and lifestyle. Feeling self-conscious about your nails can take a toll on your overall confidence and self-esteem.
If Unresolved
Leaving damaged nails untreated can lead to more problems over time. Infections can worsen, and the nail bed may become more damaged, making it harder to grow healthy nails in the future. Without intervention, the nails can continue to look unsightly and may even become painful or uncomfortable. For those who experience chronic damage or are unhappy with the appearance of their nails, finding a reliable solution is key to feeling comfortable and confident again.
Treatment Options
At LR Podiatry, we understand the importance of healthy, attractive nails for your confidence and well-being. We offer a variety of solutions to help you manage and improve the appearance of damaged nails, including our popular nail reconstruction service. Our temporary prosthetic nails are an excellent option for special occasions, holidays, or whenever you want to show off your hands or feet with confidence.
Using specialised materials, we can create a natural-looking prosthetic nail that blends seamlessly with your existing nails. This temporary solution is perfect for events like weddings, holidays, or any time you want your nails to look their best.
Our approach combines medical expertise with a keen eye for aesthetics, ensuring that your nails not only feel better but look great too.
How we helped a patient with damaged toenails
One of our patients had severely damaged toenails due to a past injury. They were embarrassed to wear sandals and had been avoiding beach trips for years. Before a long-awaited holiday, they came to us seeking a solution. We provided them with temporary prosthetic nails that looked natural and beautiful, allowing them to enjoy their holiday without worrying about their feet. They were thrilled with the results and felt more confident than they had in years. Now, they no longer shy away from showing their feet, feeling happy and comfortable in any setting.
Ready to take the first step towards pain-free living?
Schedule your consultation today
Stride with Confidence
Patients' Perspectives at LR Podiatry
FAQs for Podiatry Problems
Yes, verrucas are a common foot problem. They are a type of wart caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and typically appear on the soles of the feet. Verrucas can affect people of all ages but are especially common in children and teenagers. They often spread in places where people walk barefoot, such as swimming pools, communal showers, and changing rooms. Although verrucas can go away on their own, they can be painful and may require treatment, especially if they persist or cause discomfort. A podiatrist can provide expert advice and effective treatment options for managing verrucas.
Yes, a podiatrist can treat verrucas effectively. Verrucas, which are warts on the foot caused by a viral skin infection, can be managed using a variety of treatment methods. At LR Podiatry we have a range of resources available, from conservative approaches such as monitoring and leaving the verruca alone, to more active treatments including Swift Microwave Therapy. Other options like Faulkner’s needling are also used to stimulate the body’s immune response. With many treatments at our disposal, we can tailor an approach suited to each patient’s needs to help remove verrucas effectively.
Yes, plantar fasciitis is a very common problem. It is one of the most frequent causes of heel pain, affecting a wide range of people. This includes runners, people who stand for long periods, and those with certain foot structures like flat feet or high arches. It’s estimated that about 1 in 10 people will experience plantar fasciitis at some point in their lives, making it a significant concern in podiatry and sports medicine.
Yes, podiatrists do treat ingrown toenails and are the most appropriately qualified medical professionals for this care.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of the nail, typically on the big toe, grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, inflammation, and potentially infection. This can result from nail shape or improper trimming.
We can use our expertise with scalpels and local anaesthesia to remove the portion of the nail causing the issue, promoting healing without the need for antibiotics. For recurring problems, we can perform nail surgery to permanently remove part of the nail, preventing regrowth of the problematic section and providing a lasting solution.
The cost of treating ingrown toenails at our clinic begins with an initial assessment, which is essential for reviewing your medical history, performing a condition assessment, and determining the right treatment plan. This initial consultation costs £79. Depending on the situation, if feasible and time allows, we will aim to provide some relief during your visit, although it may not always be possible to fully resolve the issue on the same day.
If nail surgery is required, the costs are £450 for one toe and £580 for two toes. This surgical procedure offers a permanent solution to ingrown toenails and includes not only the surgery itself but also aftercare appointments and all necessary dressings until we are satisfied that the toe has fully healed and is no longer causing any problems.
We use a diverse range of tools to assess, diagnose, and treat foot and lower limb conditions. For diagnosing circulation issues, we use Doppler ultrasound devices, which help assess blood flow in the arteries and veins, providing critical insights into vascular health. We may also measure blood pressure monitors and perform an Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI) test, which compares blood pressure in the ankle and arm to check for peripheral artery disease.
To evaluate nerve function, we use monofilaments to assess sensitivity and detect signs of neuropathy, particularly in patients with diabetes. For skin and dermatology assessments we use a Dermatascope, offering detailed insights into skin lesions.
The expertise of our podiatrist’s is particularly critical in interpreting this data accurately and devising customized interventions. When it comes to hands-on treatment, podiatrists frequently use a scalpel for precise procedures like removing calluses, corns, or other skin lesions. Skill in scalpel technique is essential, allowing for careful removal of tissue without harming surrounding areas. Additionally, podiatrists might rely on various orthotic devices and custom insoles to correct foot posture and alleviate pain, as well as therapeutic wraps or specialised footwear to support recovery and improve patient comfort.
Through a combination of technology, diagnostic skills, and precise manual techniques, we address a wide spectrum of foot and ankle conditions, helping our patients improve mobility, reduce pain, and prevent further complications.
The nature of individual health problems means that previous success in helping patients with these problems is no indicator of a guaranteed positive outcome for everyone. We are unable to predict or guarantee outcomes for any patients.
LR Podiatry
15 North Church Street
Sheffield
S1 2DH
