In recent years, shockwave therapy has emerged as a revolutionary treatment in various fields of medicine, particularly in podiatry. This non-invasive technique utilizes acoustic waves to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, making it an effective option for patients suffering from a variety of foot and ankle conditions. Let's explore how shockwave therapy can benefit individuals seeking treatment for podiatric issues. What is Shockwave Therapy? Shockwave therapy involves the delivery of low and high-energy acoustic waves to the targeted area of injury using a handheld probe. The waves penetrate deep into the tissue, promoting biological responses that aid in healing. This can lead to reduced pain and increased mobility, offering a promising alternative to more invasive treatments. Benefits of Shockwave Therapy in Podiatry 1. Pain Reduction One of the most significant advantages of shockwave therapy is its ability to alleviate pain. By activating the body’s self-healing mechanisms, shockwave therapy can reduce inflammation and promote pain relief for conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and other chronic foot and ankle pain syndromes. 2. Enhanced Circulation The acoustic waves generated during the treatment increase metabolic activity in the affected area. This leads to improved blood circulation and the formation of new blood vessels. Enhanced blood flow not only helps in delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the injured tissue but also aids in the removal of metabolic waste, speeding up recovery. 3. Promotion of Tissue Regeneration Shockwave therapy stimulates the body’s natural healing processes, encouraging the formation of new collagen fibers. This regeneration of tissue can significantly improve the healing of tendons, ligaments, and other structures around the foot and ankle, making it particularly beneficial for sports injuries. 4. Non-invasive and Convenient Many patients seek non-invasive treatments to avoid surgery and lengthy recovery times. Shockwave therapy offers a relatively quick procedure that does not require anesthesia or downtime, allowing patients to return to their daily activities shortly after treatment. 5. Effective for Recurring Conditions For individuals experiencing chronic conditions that haven’t responded well to traditional treatments, shockwave therapy can offer a new avenue for relief. Many practitioners have noted significant improvements in symptoms after a series of sessions, even for previously difficult-to-treat conditions. 6. Minimal Side Effects Compared to more invasive procedures or medications, shockwave therapy has minimal side effects. Patients may experience mild discomfort during the treatment or slight soreness afterwards, but these effects are usually short-lived. Conclusion Shockwave therapy is proving to be a valuable tool in the field of podiatry, offering a safe and effective treatment option for a range of foot and ankle conditions. From reducing pain and enhancing circulation to promoting tissue regeneration, the benefits are clear. If you’re dealing with persistent foot or ankle issues, it may be worth discussing with your podiatrist whether shockwave therapy could be right for you. With ongoing advances in this field, patients can look forward to more innovative treatments that support their journey to recovery.

The calf muscle is comprised of two separate muscles, the larger muscle on the upper half of the rear of the leg called gastrocnemius and a broader flat muscle that lies deeper inside called soleus. The tendon begins just under the belly of the calf muscle and goes all the way down to attach to the back of the heel bone. This can be the site of an immense amount of pain and discomfort. Symptoms usually develop over a prolonged period of time, often the pain is most severe when first getting out of bed in the morning. Although the condition is more common in athletes, it may affect anyone. In chronic cases, which have gone on for a long period of time, there may be a firm, swelling in the tendon which is tender to squeeze. The pain associated with Achilles Tendinitis may affect daily activities. Rest from sporting activities, or any activity which causes pain. Treatment Apply heat and stretch before any activities involving walking or running. Apply ice and stretch after activities. A heel lift placed in the shoes, or the use of shoes with thicker or higher heels. This, however, is only really successful when walking as most of the force on the Achilles tendon which develops when we run occurs when the heel lifts off the ground. Anti-inflammatory medications. Correcting any abnormal foot position. Occasionally a foot which pronates (rolls inward) excessively can contribute to Achilles tendonitis by creating an additional ‘twist’, or torque, in the tendon. Orthoses or more supportive footwear may help in these cases. Strengthening exercises for the calf muscles and tendons (‘eccentric loading’) should be discussed for conservative management.

When we think of Diabetes it is easy to focus on sugars as the biggest concern. But did you know that Diabetes can affect a range of other structures throughout the body including the eyes, kidneys and the feet? Diabetes can have a great impact on the blood supply, nerves and structure of the feet and lower limb if not managed properly. It is important to consider: Diabetic understanding and knowledge Attitudes and behaviours towards Diabetes Appropriate examinations, support and management for Diabetic care Understanding and knowledge about the effects of poorly managed diabetes and the potential for poor circulation, nerve pain or numbness and poor healing. Which is why it is important to maintain general foot care to prevent ulcerations and infections. Attitudes and behaviour surrounding the complications of diabetes and how to appropriately manage it. If you are unsure, contacting a GP is always a great point of call. They will help direct you to a podiatrist and other vital health services that can assist in improving your overall health. Appropriate examinations by a podiatrist are essential for prevention of complications and maintaining healthy feet. We recommend at least an annual check in to make sure there are no complications or changes to your feet. An examination with one of our podiatrists will include tests to assess: Vascular assessment (ensuring blood flow to the feet is adequate) Neurological assessment (any loss of feeling, pins and needles) Musculoskeletal (any toe deformities such as bunions that may be a risk for complications) Skin and nail care (ensuring there are no areas of built up hard skin, cracks or pesky nails that may be causing you grief) Footwear assessment (to prevent any discomfort or rubbing reducing ulceration risk) Support and management another vital part to holistic management of diabetes is education and support. With our regular check ins, we will be happy to discuss any areas of your general foot health as part of the consult as well as providing education on preventing infections and avoiding complications. Some key points are noted below: Checking feet daily for any cuts, blisters, redness, or changes to prevent wounds Washing feet daily and drying feet thoroughly (especially between the toes!) Using talcum powder between the toes to keep them dry and avoid infections Using moisturisers daily on the tops and bottoms of your feet, especially around the heel Daily changes of socks Keeping nails short and avoiding painful pointy edges Wearing shoes at all times, even around the house Knowing and understanding the warning signs of an infection or wound and knowing who to contact for help. Prevent the frustration of having to deal with these complications by booking an appointment with one of our friendly podiatrists at the Gait Way Podiatry team today.

Dreading those first few steps in the morning or at the end of the day?  While the pain is worse first and last thing in the day, it can also be triggered from long periods of standing or when you get up from sitting. Interesting, the pain can be slight to non-existent during periods of exercise. Sounds familiar? You could be suffering from a condition called Plantar Fasciitis . What is Plantar Fasciitis? Plantar Fasciitis is the term that refers to inflammation (“-itis”) of the connective tissue (“Fascia”) under the base of the foot (“Plantar”). It usually occurs at the point where the plantar fascia originates at the heel bone. What causes Plantar Fasciitis? While there may be no obvious cause of the start of Plantar Fasciitis, there are a few factors that increase your risk at developing this condition. Age . Plantar fasciitis is most common (but not limited) to people between the ages of 40 and 60. Exercise . Activities that place a lot of stress on your heel (long distance running, dancing, HIT classes,  jumping) can all be contributing factors. Foot Mechanics . Flat feet, high arches or abnormal walking pattern Weight . Excess weight puts more pressure and stress on all your joints, ligaments and tendons, especially your plantar fascia in your feet. Occupation . Standing on hard surfaces can damage the plantar fascia, so it goes without saying that any occupation that requires long hours of standing or walking are at risk of developing plantar fasciitis. Treatment Where can I get help for Plantar Fasciitis? The big question is: “Should you see a GP, a Physiotherapist or a Podiatrist for plantar fasciitis heel pain?” Just like your dentist specialises in teeth and oral problems, podiatrists specialise in feet and heel pain problems. There are times when Physiotherapists and General Practitioners can work wonders for many problems, but your best first contact is a podiatrist experienced in the treatment of plantar fasciitis. Fortunately, the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry have over 45 years of combined experience in the treatment of plantar fasciitis and associated heel pain. Don’t delay, BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY : (07) 3385 0567 The treatment you require depends on what we diagnose, but most common options include exercise, shockwave therapy, mobilisations or orthotics. What can I do at home to help my Plantar Fasciitis? Calf stretches – slow controlled stretches for at least 30 seconds against a wall is a simple yet effective way to help reduce strain on those heels. Footwear change – look to avoid completely flat shoes and those without any cushioning. One with both cushioning, support and a slight heel are ideal. Loose Weight – Weight loss is a great way to reduce the forces on your feet which applied to the heel also. What else could cause this heel pain? Your heel pain could be from a variety of conditions such as a heel spur, muscle tear, tendonitis or bursitis. Each condition needing a different diagnostic assessment and treatment, which is why it’s important to get an expert to diagnose the issue. So, if your heel pain has not responded to traditional therapy, there may be something else that has been missed, and the podiatrists at Gait Way Podiatry are trained to find these problems. BOOK AN APPOINTMENT TODAY: (07) 3385 0567 Our blogs are educational in nature and are not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Because your condition is unique to you, it is recommended that you consult with your health care provider before attempting any medical or therapeutic treatments.

Heel pain is one of the most common conditions treated by podiatrists.  It is often a message from the body that something is in need of medical attention.  Pain that occurs right after an injury or early in an illness may play a protective role, often warning us about the damage we have suffered. Who gets heel pain? The greatest incidence of heel pain is seen in middle-aged men and women.  It is seen in those who take part in regular sporting activities and those who are significantly overweight and on their feet a lot. Heel pain can also occur in children, usually between 8 and 13, as they become increasingly active in sporting activities.  The Causes of Heel Pain The research shows that higher arches or flatter arches, or feet that role in too much, are causes of heel pain.  This can place too much stress on the heel bone and the soft tissues attached to it.  The stress may also result from injury, or a bruise incurred while walking, running or jumping on hard surfaces, wearing poorly constructed footwear or being significantly overweight.  Certain diseases can also contribute to heel pain. Specific conditions Plantar Fasciitis Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick, fibrous band that runs under the foot from the heel bone to the toes. It is a vital structure that makes up the arch of the foot and functions as our natural shock-absorbing mechanism. Unlike muscle or tendons, the plantar fascia is not very elastic and therefore is very limited in its capacity to stretch or elongate. Herein lies the problem: when too much traction is placed on the plantar fascia (for various reasons) micro-tearing will occur, resulting in irritation, inflammation and pain. Plantar Fasciitis usually causes pain under the heel, however some people may experience pain under the arch of the foot. Both heel pain and arch discomfort are related to Plantar Fasciitis, with heel pain being far more common than arch pain. Heel Spur A heel spur is a bony growth at the front/underside of the heel bone. This type of calcification is also referred to a “calcaneal spur” (calcaneus is the anatomical name for heel bone). The reason for the development of a spur is that the body responds to the constant traction and pulling from the plantar fascia away from the heel bone. The fascia itself cannot become any longer, so instead the bone will ‘assist’ the fascia and grow. They can also form on other areas of the body including the posterior (back of) the heel bone also due to the pull of the Achilles tendon at its attachment onto the heel. A heel spur will show clearly on an X-Ray of your foot and this referral for an X-ray may be made if a heel spur is suspected. This is often a factor that is predictive of the long term prognosis of the heel pain; if a heel spur is found, the likelihood of recurrence of pain is high so biomechanical correction will be required indefinitely. Spurs take many years to develop and indicate that there has been tension on the bone for a long period of time. They can worsen if the tension in the fascia (or tendon) is not reduced. It should be noted that a heel spur may be found incidentally on an x-ray but not be producing any pain for the individual. It is however a risk factor for heel pain due to the formation of one being due to tension on the bone so one should be mindful of this as precautions can be made to minimize the risk of the spur becoming symptomatic. Achilles tendonitis Is a common injury in athletes particularly those doing sports involving running and jumping. The Achilles tendon attaches the calf muscles to the back of the heel and can become inflamed with overuse of the calf muscles. The pain is felt either on the back of the heel on the bone or a few centimetres above and may have swelling or thickening felt in the area.  Being a tendon, this injury responds well to stretching and specific exercises. In addition, reducing the load through the tendon with activity modification and orthotic therapy greatly improves the recovery time.  Sever’s Disease In teenagers, pain around the heels is usually a sign of Sever’s disease, a condition caused by the Achilles tendon placing extra strain on the heel bone and swelling in the growth plate around the heel. Sever’s disease will ultimately resolve as the growth plate around the heel bone fully develops and the bones fuse by approximately age 15, but damaging foot problems can develop through altered biomechanics.  Early treatment can relieve discomfort and prevent the incidence of additional injury. Treatment options Early treatment might involve shoe recommendations, taping, icing and anti-inflammatory medication. Other physical therapies may also be used which include shockwave, exercise, stretching and strengthening program and prescription orthotics for long term management. As a general rule of thumb, the longer the injury has been going on without treatment, the longer it will take to recover so it is always advised to have the pain seen to early to ensure a speedy recovery. How do orthotics help heel and arch pain? Any slight alteration to foot posture or function can cause significant discomfort due to increased load through particular muscles/tendon/fascia/joints. To help alleviate foot and lower limb pains, or in some people to prevent the development of potential problems, an orthotic can be prescribed. Your podiatrist will be able to assess if you would benefit from an orthotic device. The assessment will involve observation of the feet and lower limb standing, running / walking and also an examination when non weight bearing to check the joints. From this assessment, the orthotic can be made for the shoe that provides support for the appropriate areas of the feet.

The term “flat foot” refers to a condition where the foot lacks an arch. In children, the arch on the inside of the foot may begin to develop from four years of age, and should be developed by the age of six. Most children will eventually develop a normal arch, however in some children the arch may fail to develop normally. In most children flat feet are asymptomatic, and of no concern. However, over time flat feet may lead to an altered walking pattern; clumsiness; limping after long walks; and pain in the foot, knees or hips. It is therefore important that appropriate treatment commences as early as possible. Causes There are many causes of flat feet.  Below are the most common causes of flat feet Hypermobility Torn muscles in the legs or feet Fracture or dislocation of foot bones Posterior tibial tendon dysfunction Poor foot alignment Injury Less common causes include Charcot foot; a condition found in diabetics Birth defects Tarsal coalition Treatment options Flat feet can be treated with supportive footwear and possible arch padding. More serious cases of flat foot may require orthotics (special shoe inserts) to reposition the bones and joints in the arch of the foot, and surgery may be advised in the most severe cases. Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

Warts can occur at any age, but are most commonly found in children. They are caused by a group of viruses called the HPV (human papilloma viruses) and can be found anywhere on the body, with hands and feet the most common spots. As warts are caused by a virus, they are highly contagious. Plantar warts are the common complaint we see as podiatrists, especially common in children. Often mistaken for a corn, a plantar wart is a benign lesion of the outer surfaces of the skin on the foot or toes. Plantar warts are contagious and are spread through direct contact – either with someone that has the virus, or from sharing floors, shoes and socks with someone who has the virus. This means warts can quickly spread through families if care is not taken.  Signs of a plantar wart  Warts and corns can look very similar, and as they have very different treatment requirements, it’s highly recommended having a podiatrist assess and diagnose the condition.  The visible signs of a plantar wart are tiny blood vessels at the base of the wart (which tend to look like small black dots in the centre of the wart). If your wart is causing you pain, discomfort, or is affecting the way you walk, we highly recommend having it treated. Treatment  Contact Gait Way Podiatry and book an appointment with a qualified podiatrist. We will assess the size and depth of the plantar wart and recommend the best type of treatment for you. Preventing Warts Keep your feet clean and dry. Avoid going barefoot, particularly in moist and communal environments. Sporting club showers and swimming pools are prominent places where the wart virus may spread. You are more at risk of being infected if your skin is damaged, wet or in contact with roughened surface. The following may help with preventing warts: Avoid walking barefoot in communal changing or shower rooms. Change shoes and socks daily. Keep feet clean and dry. Check children’s feet periodically. Avoid direct contact with warts on other persons or on other parts of the body. Do not ignore growths on, or changes in, your skin. Visit a podiatrist immediately if you notice and lumps or sores on the feet. Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

When it comes to school shoe shopping time, make sure you go armed with the knowledge and everything you need to pick the right shoes for your child. Children’s feet grow on average 1-2 sizes per year, so it’s important to have their feet measured before buying new shoes. Always have the shoes fitted for both length and width. Bring their school socks to make sure the shoes fit comfortably, and try shoes on at the end of the day to account for the natural swelling that occurs throughout the day. Look for a shoe that has cushioning and arch support. A cushioned heel will absorb shock and protect their young joints. Toenail length can affect the shoe comfort and fit, so keep your child’s toenails trimmed. If your child wears orthotics, bring them when trying on shoes to ensure there is sufficient depth to fit the orthotics comfortably. If you have any concerns about your childrens shoes or foot health, our experienced podiatrists are here to help. Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

Ingrown toenails are when one or both sides of the nail begin to grow into the skin next to it, which can lead to pain, redness and swelling. This can lead to infection because of the bacteria that is found on the feet – and usually happens on the big toe. Symptoms pain swelling around the ingrown edge pink or red skin If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, signs may include: pain that gets worse liquid or pus discharge a warm feeling a bad smell from the toe Causes  Common causes of ingrown toenails: Inherited tendency to ingrown toenails  Tight shoes/tight socks An injury/trauma to the toe Incorrect nail cutting technique i.e. cutting nails too short where the skin on the sides cover the corners of the nail, can cause the nail to grown back into the skin.  Treatment  As soon as you notice signs of an ingrown toenail, schedule an appointment with a Podiatrist before it worsens or infections sets in. Until you can see a podiatrist, we recommend soaking your child’s foot in warm, salty water for up to ten minutes two or three times a day. This cleanses the area and increases the flexibility of the nail. Once the nail is soft and flexible you may be able to gently lift the nail away from the skin at the side of the toe. We strongly advise against parents trying to cut ingrown toenails out themselves as there is a high risk of infection and other complications. A podiatrist may need to remove the corner of the nail that is stuck. If infection recurs following treatment, minor ingrown toenail surgery may be the best option for resolution.  Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

Children’s feet are different from adults, as they are not yet fully formed. At 6 months of age, a babies’ foot is still mostly cartilage, in fact the last bone doesn’t start forming until children are about 3 years old. By the time we turn 18 the bones in our feet are fully matured. Here are some tips for different life stages for foot development: Babies It’s recommended to keep your baby’s feet unconstrained. Playsuits with feet, socks or even natural fibre shoes can be used to keep little feet warm, but can also restrict muscle development in their legs and feet. It’s great to let your baby go barefoot as much as possible, this is how they learn to control and use their feet, through feeling.  Toddlers Many children begin to walk between approximately 10 and 20 months of age.  It is important to remember that each child is unique and will move through the development stages at their own pace. Sometimes children may walk with their feet pointed inward (in-toeing) or outward (out-toeing) and most of the time, children will outgrow these walking styles. If these walking patterns persist or if you have any concerns it is recommended, you get in touch with your podiatrist.  School Children This is a period of rapid growth for children, where the length, shape and arch of their feet is constantly changing. This is why it’s important to keep a close eye on the size of their shoes and socks and make sure they properly accommodate their foot size (tips for choosing school shoes). This is also the age where children tend to take up a sporting activity. If your child is complaining of pain in their feet, which limits their activity or causes them to limp, it is recommended to consult a Podiatrist.  Children’s Sport injuries Children don’t necessarily get a sporting injury due to their body failing them. Sometimes this can be the result of a biomechanical instability somewhere, or a developmental condition called Severs Disease, Osgood-Schlatters or Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. This is why it’s so important for a qualified podiatrist to assess the injury if it’s a true sports injury or if a biomechanics structure needs to be addressed. Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet

A bunion (also referred to as hallux-abducto valgus–HAV ) is often described as a bump on the side of the big toe. The visible bump is caused by changes to the big toe joint and the big toe (hallux) will begin to deviate towards the second toe, rather than pointing straight ahead. They develop gradually over time and many people will not experience any pain or discomfort unless the bunion is irritated by tight shoes that rub against it. However, over time this can become a fixed and rigid deformity. Causes  Common causes for developing a bunion include: Hereditary factors (by far the biggest factor) Prolonged use of inappropriate footwear (i.e. shoes that are too narrow) Biomechanical factors  Arthritis in the feet  Treatment  At Gait Way Podiatry we will assess your bunion, your foot, gait, the severity of your condition, and go through the range of treatment options. Some common treatments for bunions include: Custom orthotics – to assist with offloading areas that are being overloaded and worked and help realign the foot and prevent the toe from turning further inwards.  Exercises to help improve the strength of some of the smaller muscles around the joint. Footwear advice – assess your footwear and give you appropriate advice to reduce bunion progression and pain. Joint mobilisation – involves using hands-on therapy to help improve the joint. If pain persists, or worsens, we may refer you for a surgical opinion. Bunions are a very common issue we see in our clinic. If you’re suffering from pain or concerned about your bunion, feel free to get in touch as we can fully assess your issue and work with you to find the best solution. Related Conditions Arch Pain Are Your Feet Ready For the Jetty to Jetty Fun Run? Bunions Claw Toes Foot Pain Investing in Tradespeople’s Health: Why It Matters Morton’s Neuroma Plantar Fasciitis PROLOTHERAPY Sesamoiditis

When children are first starting to learn to walk, they may tiptoe. This may then become a habit. The child displays a pattern of walking where their heels do not make contact with the ground, and they remain on the toes for each step.  Running gait usually appears normal and if instructed to walk on the heels, the child is usually able to do this. Tip toe walking should be outgrown by the age of 3. If it is not, it is recommended to have an assessment with a podiatrist to rule out more serious causes of the toe walking and potentially treat physical and developmental conditions. Causes  Sometimes children with no health, medical or developmental condition will also walk on their toes. These children seem to walk on their toes for no known reason, or out of habit. This type of toe walking is called idiopathic toe walking . Most children with idiopathic toe walking are able to stand flat footed, and are often able to walk flat footed if you ask them to. Other certain underlying health, medical or developmental conditions can cause a child to walk on their toes.  These conditions include cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, and autism spectrum disorder. Treatment Stretching and/or strengthening programs Footwear advice In-shoe padding or orthotics  Any neuromuscular conditions are referred to a specialist Related Conditions Children’s Foot & Leg Development Flat Feet in Children Hypermobility Ingrown Toenails on Babies & Children Intoeing (Pigeon Toes) Knock Knees School Shoes Severs Disease/Heel Pain Toe Walking Warts on Children’s Feet