Image by Freepik. 3 reasons why you should get a foot health check this winter

3 reasons why you should get a foot health check this winter

by Business

Our feet aren’t something we tend to give much thought to on a day to day basis, that is, until we find ourselves with problems or dealing with pain – then we struggle to stop thinking about it as it disrupts our daily life. A foot health check is a perfect way to keep your feet healthy and happy this winter and beyond. But why are maintenance appointments worth their while, even if your feet feel fine?

In today’s post, we’ll be sharing 3 reasons why you should get a foot health check this winter. 

1. Get a regular foot health check to spot any issues early on

Your podiatrist will easily be able to spot any issues with your feet, most likely long before you even notice yourself. From verrucas and corns, to ingrown toenails and even issues with your bones – podiatrists are highly trained to identify those tiny telltale signs. We always get told that prevention is better than the cure, and that’s certainly no different when it comes to getting a regular foot health check, either.

2. Get a regular foot health check to ensure your nails and toes remain healthy

One of the biggest issues that patients come to our clinic with is ingrown toenails. They can be extremely painful, but, they’re so easy to prevent. Some ingrown toenails can happen as the result of ill-fitting footwear, but the majority of cases we see personally have been caused due to a bad technique when cutting the nails. Visiting your chiropodist regularly ensures that your toenails (and toes) can maintain their health and properly cut and cared for. Plus, you don’t have to struggle to reach if you have mobility problems.

3. Get a regular foot health check to maintain your foot health whilst having a little self-care

A lot of the time, we think of self-care as extravagant gestures to ourself, like luxurious spa days or treating ourself to a bubble bath and a glass of wine. But self-care also includes the little acts of care you take to ensure your body is well looked after. Just as we go for regular reviews with our GP or check ups with our dentist, we should also view out foot health checks in the same way. They’re vital to ensure that our feet remain as healthy as possible. After all, we rely on our feet a lot, so it’s important to take good care of them.

Did you know?

We offer gift vouchers! View our list of services here and pick the perfect option. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please get in touch and we’ll be more than happy to help you.

How do I purchase a voucher?

Buying your voucher is really easy – simply call our clinic on 01226 759 660 where Alex will be happy to assist you. Alternatively, please email us at info@carmenhancockchiropody and let us know your requirements.

Feature image by Freepik

Podiatry Christmas gift vouchers

Podiatry Christmas gift vouchers

by Business

As we get ready to enter into December (we know, the year has flown by!) It’s about time to start thinking about that perfect Christmas gift for someone special. Sometimes it can be hard to think of a gift that’s a little bit different or unique, but have you considered podiatry Christmas gift vouchers? 

Give the gift of happy, healthy feet this festive season

Our feet might not be the first thing we think of when it comes to gifting (unless you’ve got your eye on a pair of new heels or the latest Yeezys!), but without healthy, happy feet,  we’d really struggle. It’s not something we really give much thought to day to day. That is, until we begin to struggle or feel discomfort. But our feet go through a lot every single day, so it makes sense to take care of them and treat them to a little TLC.

What can podiatry Christmas gift vouchers be used for?

Our  podiatry Christmas gift vouchers can be used for many treatments. Whether your special someone requires more specialist care such as foot orthotics, or simply loves a pamper, there’s a treatment to suit everybody. And the best part? Our vouchers can be tailored just for them for the ultimate personalised gift.

Our services are vast – we offer daily podiatry care (such as pedicures to maintain your healthy feet) and warm wax therapy treatments (luxuriously relaxing treatments using specialist warm wax to pamper your feet) right through to the most specialised care for all kinds of foot issues. 

View our list of services here and pick the perfect option. Don’t see what you’re looking for? Please get in touch and we’ll be more than happy to help you.

How do I purchase a voucher?

Buying your voucher is really easy – simply call our clinic on 01226 759 660 where Alex will be happy to assist you. Alternatively, please email us at info@carmenhancockchiropody and let us know your requirements.

Image by valeria_aksakova on Freepik

How to give yourself a pedicure at home

How to give yourself a pedicure at home

by Business

When the weather turns colder and the nights draw in, many of us retire to the safe confines of our homes for cosy, warm nights in. Because we naturally tend to spend more time indoors during the winter months, now is the perfect time to treat your feet to a pedicure at home.

The winter months can have a tough impact on our feet – from stuffing our toes into our big comfy boots daily to bundling our feet up in layers of cosy socks. Without proper care, we’re unknowingly opening our feet up to fungal infections, dry skin and even corns and calluses. 

So, give your feet a little TLC with a home pedicure your chiropodist would be proud of!

How to give yourself a pedicure at home 

1. Give your feet the once over
Before you begin, take a good look at your feet. Notice anything different? It’s important to know our own bodies and know what’s normal for us, and our feet are included in that. From telltale signs of your footwear not being quite the right fit (look for pressure marks or corns) to looking out for ingrown toenails, giving your feet a maintenance check is a good habit to get in to.

2. Soak your feet
Once you’ve given your feet the once over, it’s time to sit back and relax. Soak your feet in warm water for 15 minutes and enjoy the soothing sensation. Better still, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil to the water or even a relaxing or revitalising bath soak. 

3. Remove any hard skin
Using a pumice stone, remove any hard skin from your feet. Be sure to be gentle on your skin and don’t remove too much at once.

4. Trim your toenails 
Your toenails are always so much easier to cut once they’ve been soaked and are softened. Give any longer toenails a trim ensuring to cut straight across (don’t follow the curve of your toe – this encourages ingrown toenails!), and use a nail file to soften any sharp edges. Need some help? Read our handy guide on how to trim your toenails at home here.

5. Paint your toenails
If you love wearing toenail polish, this is the perfect time to pick out your favourite colour and give your toes a twinkle!

6. Massage and moisturise
To end your at-home pedicure, take 10 minutes to give your feet a relaxing massage using a nourishing cream.

Want a helping hand? 

If you struggle to take care of your feet at home or simply want to enjoy a little pamper, call us on 01226 759660 or contact us here. We offer pedicure services as well as beautiful warm wax therapy treatments that will soothe and rejuvenate even the most tired and achy feet. 

Image by ArtPhoto_studio on Freepik

How to remove dead skin on your feet

How to remove dead skin on your feet

by Business

Party season is looming upon us. so naturally, you’ll want your feet to be feeling their best for those nights spent dancing away at Christmas parties or enjoying wintery walks through the woods. One thing that can really get in the way and become quite bothersome during the colder months is the dead skin on your feet. To help keep your feet dancing away merrily this festive season, read our top tips on how to remove the dead skin on your feet, and when to call your local chiropodist for a little help.

What causes dead skin on your feet?

Dead skin can have many causes. From ill-fitting footwear causing excess pressure on your feet, to a lack of moisture due to those oh-so-cosy layers of socks intended to keep your tootsies toasty. Dead skin can also be caused by health problems, or even by being obese due to the added weight and pressure on your feet.

Although hard skin can look unsightly and certainly doesn’t feel comfortable, there are many ways to safely remove it from the comfort of your own home.

How can I remove dead skin at home?

Firstly, if the dead skin on your feet feels painful, is cracked, or has an open wound, please schedule an appointment with your podiatrist rather than try to tackle it on your own at home. They will be able to safely and comfortably treat you, and also minimise the risk of any infection due to open wounds. 

If you’re ready to take on your hard skin at home, here are a few things you can try.

Slough away dead skin with a pumice stone
Firstly, start by giving your feet a relaxing soak in warm water for 10-15 minutes. After this, gently slough away dead skin using a pumice stone. Ensure to keep a light hand and treat your skin gently to avoid irritation.

Try an exfoliating foot scrub
Exfoliating scrubs are great for sloughing away dead skin cells and softening your feet. Ensure to follow up with a nourishing foot cream afterwards. 

Moisturise your feet daily
Use a rich, nourishing cream to tackle any dryness and treat mild cases of dry skin.

When should I call my chiropodist?

Still not getting the relief you need? It might be time to call your chiropodist. If your hard skin is causing you physical pain or is affecting your confidence and self-esteem,  your podiatrist can help. Hard skin is so common, and most of the time, is so easy to treat and keep on top of. Don’t suffer in silence – give us a call and let us help you to feel your best this winter and beyond. 

Ready to book an appointment or ask for some advice?
Call us today on 01226 759660 or contact us here.

Image by jcomp on Freepik

Keep your feet cosy this winter

Keep your feet cosy this winter

by Business

Ready to keep your feet cosy this winter?

We know, the year is flying by, isn’t it? Winter is officially on the way and the dark nights are drawing in. And although we’re looking forward to those cosy, warm evenings at home with a hot chocolate and a good book, it’s important to remember to keep a check on our feet through the chilly season. After all, the colder weather along with those chunky socks and winter boots can contribute to conditions like chilblains and fungal infections.

Layer up on socks

Keep your feet cosy this winter with layering! Building layers helps to retain more heat than adding just one pair of chunky socks, so, try two pairs of thinner socks the next time your feet are feeling the cold.

Alternate your footwear

In the winter months, we sometimes get attached to the same old pair of boots that fit like a dream and keep us cosy all day. But it’s important to allow your footwear to air properly after a day of wear. Moist environments are the perfect space for bacterial and fungal infections – so by alternating your footwear (and making sure to wear clean, dry socks every day) you’re decreasing the risk.

Wear cushioned shoes

Wearing cushioned, comfortable shoes is a must all year around. Make sure your shoes offer good arch support and that they fit correctly. If in doubt, get professionally measured to ensure a great fit.

Stay hydrated and well-moisturised

Dry skin can become sore and cracked, which is why it’s especially important to stay hydrated and well moisturised. Hydrate from the inside out by drinking plenty of water, and make sure to use a nourishing body moisturiser to keep skin supple, soft and healthy.

Take a maintenance check

Having a regular maintenance appointment with your local podiatrist is a great way to keep your feet looking and feeling their best. From toenail cutting to spotting any issues, your local podiatrist will keep your foot health on track. 

Ready to book an appointment or ask for some advice? 
Call us today on 01226 759660 or contact us here. 

What are chilblains and how to treat them?

What are chilblains and how to treat them?

by Business

As the colder months are beginning to settle in, we’re beginning to see more patients with chilblains once again. But what exactly are they, and how do you treat them? 

What are chilblains?

Chilblains are small lesions on the skin that are caused when tiny blood cells become inflamed after exposure to cold air. They can feel very painful, and tend to be found on the tips of your fingers and toes.

What are the symptoms?

  • Dry skin that splits and cracks easily
  • Pain and burning sensations on the skin
  • Red, white or blue patchy areas of skin
  • Intense itching
  • Swelling around the affected area

In severe cases, secondary infections can occur and lead to ulceration which needs professional medical attention from your podiatrist.

What causes chilblains?

Chilblains are thought to be caused be a combination of poor circulation, and cold weather. If you’re exposed to cold air more often, you’re more likely to suffer with chilblains.

How do I treat chilblains?

There are a few measures you can take to help you prevent and treat chilblains.

Keep your body warm
Keeping your whole body warm is important in the treatment and prevention of chilblains. Although warming the area too fast can cause more damage, gently warming your whole body is the best option.

Try woolly socks
Woolly socks help to insulate, which means they’ll trap the heat and keep your feet feeling warm and cosy.

Don’t scratch the area
We completely understand how hard it is to not scratch an itch, but resist the urge as best you can to avoid causing further damage. 

Use lanolin 
Gently rubbing lanolin into the feet will help you to retain body heat.

Take gentle exercise
Gentle exercise is great as it increases the circulation to the feet and the body. Try a gentle stroll, or simply regularly moving your feet and legs if you’re not able to move around freely.

When to see your podiatrist

If you’re struggling with pain, or your chilblains have ulcerated, it’s important to see your podiatrist as soon as possible. We can help you to feel much more comfortable again and have you on the route to recovery. 

Ready to book an appointment or ask for some advice? 
Call us today on 01226 759660 or contact us here. 

Taking care of baby's feet

Taking care of baby’s feet

by Business

Taking care of baby’s feet can feel like a daunting task. After all, our babies can’t tell us if they’re feeling pain or discomfort with their feet at such a young age. So what can you do to ensure baby’s feet are healthy, happy and well cared for?

Check baby’s feet for any signs of trauma

Once your baby begins to move around on their own, there is more potential for them to cause injury to their feet. From stepping on a toy by accident, (parents, you’ll know how painful this is if you’ve ever stepped on lego!) to a seemingly simple trip, there are many things that can cause injury or discomfort. Keeping a check on baby’s feet regularly will help you to spot any signs of injury. If in doubt, see your local podiatrist who will be able to give you advice. 

Taking care of baby's feet

Let baby go barefoot (or in socks)

Baby’s feet are rapidly developing as they continue to grow. During these stages, it’s important that their feet aren’t restricted on the movement and space they need to develop. Allowing baby to go barefoot until they’re ready to walk around outside will also help to improve their range of motion. 

Wash and dry baby’s feet thoroughly

Moist feet are a welcome environment for bacterial infections and cracked skin. So washing and drying baby’s feet properly is really important to ensure they stay happy and healthy. 


Keep baby’s toenails trimmed

Sharp, overgrown toenails can damage the delicate skin around baby’s nails. Trimming their toenails regularly will ensure this doesn’t happen. However, there is a ‘right way’ to cut toenails. Ensure you cut them straight across (don’t follow the natural curve of the nail as this can cause ingrown toenails), and don’t cut them too short.

Measure baby’s feet regularly

Baby’s feet are rapidly growing at this age. So once they’re ready for shoes, it’s important to regularly check on their measurements. 

Remember, if in doubt, call your local podiatrist who will be able to advise you on taking care of baby’s feet.

Ready to book an appointment or ask for some advice? 
Call us today on 01226 759660 or contact us here. 

Keeping your feet healthy during pregnancy

Keeping your feet healthy during pregnancy

by Business

Keeping your feet healthy during pregnancy can be a breeze – in today’s post, we’ll tell you how. 

Expecting a baby anytime soon? If so, congratulations! Pregnancy is a weird and wonderful journey. Your body is going through many changes, and everybody has their own unique experience throughout. But one thing that most people have in common at some point during pregnancy is this: aches and pains in their feet. 

Is foot pain normal when you’re pregnant?

In short, yes. The sudden weight gain can increase pressure on your ligaments around your feet and ankles, which can then lead to pain in the arches of your feet. Other common spots for aches and pains are your calves which can suffer with cramps, your lower back and pelvis.

During pregnancy, your ligaments become much more flexible to help your body prepare for birth. Because of this, you will sometimes feel increased discomfort.

Keeping your feet healthy during pregnancy

Treat yourself to a relaxing pedicure

Is there anything nicer than a relaxing pedicure and a soothing foot massage? Whether you ask your partner to treat you to an at-home spa experience (after all, it’s hard to reach your own feet when you’re pregnant), or visit us in the clinic, we’ll have you feeling like you’re walking on air in no time. 

Check your feet for corns or calluses, and treat them accordingly

The extra weight that comes along with pregnancy naturally causes more pressure on your feet. This in turn can lead to calluses and corns which you might not normally suffer with. Keeping your feet healthy during pregnancy by checking them regularly will help you to spot any niggles that might be causing you discomfort. Spotted a callus or corn? Although using foot files and a nourishing moisturiser can be helpful, we recommend having them removed professionally for comfort and relief. 

Wear comfortable footwear

Supportive, cushioned footwear is a must – especially during pregnancy. If you’re struggling with swollen feet and need to wear open shoes, make sure to find a good pair with arch support. If in doubt, ask your podiatrist for their recommendations on comfy, supportive shoes to wear during pegnancy.

Keep up with maintenance podiatry appointments 

Having a regular maintenance appointment is a great way to keep your feet happy and healthy. Seeing a professional podiatrist as part of your routine means that you’ll be able to keep on top of any issues (like corns or ingrown toenails), and feel as comfortable as possible. 

Ready to book an appointment or ask for some advice? 
Call us today on 01226 759660 or contact us here. 

Give your feet a little TLC this autumn with our Prende Pedicure

Give your feet a little TLC this autumn with our Prende Pedicure

by Business

We can hardly believe that we’ve hit the season of autumn once again! The time for pumpkin spice, cosy evenings at home, and of course, long walks through the crunchy golden leaves. It’s also the time where we start  bundling our feet into those cosy socks and chunky boots to keep them toasty for the cooler weather. So, to keep your feet feeling happy and in top shape this season, why not treat your feet to a little TLC with our Prende Pedicure? The ultimate smoothing and soothing treatment.

What is Prende Pedicure Warm Wax Therapy?

The Prende Pedicure is a therapeutic treatment to smooth the feet and relieve those bothersome aches and pains.

The comforting warm wax therapy increases your blood-flow and tolerance for pain. Additionally, it relaxes your muscles and increases hydration to your skin, whilst providing a therapeutic and healing effect for those sore and aching joints.

Who can have Prende Pedicure Warm Wax Therapy?

It’s a soothing, relaxing treatment for anybody. But it’s particularly beneficial for patients suffering from arthritis and rheumatic pain. The soothing heat helps skin to feel amazing and look healthier, too. So whether you’re booking for yourself or treating a loved one, we know you’ll love the experience and the results. 

How much does it cost?

Treatments start from £30, or £25 if taken in conjunction with a chiropody treatment

Book your Prende Pedicure Wax Therapy appointment today
Give us a call on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.

Foot care tips for runners this summer

Foot care tips for runners

by Business

Avid runner or just starting out? Our foot care tips for runners will help you to keep your feel healthy and happy this summer, no matter how many miles you clock up!

Choose the right footwear

One of the biggest foot care tips for runners is to choose the right footwear. As obvious as it sounds, many people end up choosing footwear that doesn’t offer the support needed. There are many types of trainers for running: from trainers designed for seasoned long-distance runners, to trainers for different terrains. Make sure you choose a pair that are designed for your needs, and that give support to your foot, along with adequate cushioning. 

Wear the correct socks

Most people think 100% cotton socks are a great option. But they actually retain moisture and don’t provide any insulation. Choose a pair of specialist socks for running (available at most good sports stores) which are breathable and cushioned for comfort and support. Don’t forget to clean and dry your feet after your run, and always wear fresh, clean socks. 

Keep your toenails short

Avoid injuries and infections from the rubbing of long nails. Just ensure you cut your toenails properly using our handy guide here, to ensure you avoid ingrown toenails. 

Massage and moisturise daily

Soothe away any aches with a daily massage with your favourite moisturiser. Keeping your skin soft and supple helps to keep it at its healthiest. Struggling with foot pain after running? Speak to your podiatrist who will able to help diagnose and recommend a treatment for you to relieve any pain.

Treat your blisters gently

The most tempting thing to do is to pop those blisters, isn’t it? But by doing so, you’re prolonging the healing process, and leaving yourself open to infections. Instead, gently cleanse your blisters before adding a little Savlon. If your blisters are bothering you, add a clean, dry dressing to protect the area and relieve any pain.

Now you’re armed with our top tips, it’s time to go enjoy your run!

Need some more advice?
Give us a call today on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.