what is a verruca

What is a verruca?

by Business

Welcome back to another mini series! This time, we’re discussing another popular question we get asked in our clinics: what is a verruca? 

Now that the summer months are here (yippee!), the number of patients seeking treatment for verrucas are beginning to rise. So, over the coming weeks, we’ll be giving you all the information you need to know on what exactly a verruca is and how to lower your risk of getting them. We’ll also be sharing our top tips on how to treat them to help keep your feet looking and feeling great this summer.

So, what is a verruca? 

A verruca is a wart on the foot that’s caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV): a super common virus that most people will have at some point in their lives. HPV is often asymptomatic, unproblematic, and disappears on its own without treatment. However, it sometimes leads to growths – like warts or verrucas. It can easily enter the sole of the foot through broken skin, making HPV highly contagious, and verrucas very common.

Verrucas are small, rough lumps that can vary in size: from the size of a tiny pinprick to 1cm more or more. They’re often white or have a yellow tinge. You can often spot the telltale sign of a verruca by their ‘cauliflower’ appearance, and the tiny dots of dried blood capillaries that can be spotted at their centre. Sometimes, a chiropodist may refer to them as a ‘plantar wart.’

Are verrucas painful?

Commonly appearing on areas of larger pressure, like the balls of the feet, or the heels, means that verrucas can indeed feel painful. Our patients often say that the pain feels like ‘standing on a needle’.

Image courtesy of NHS.uk

Can verrucas spread?

Yes – verrucas can actually spread fairly quickly if they’re left untreated. Because verrucas can be very itchy, patients often can’t resist the urge to scratch them. This can lead to the spread of the infection which causes a cluster of warts (known as ‘mosaic warts’). These are harder to get rid of and often cause more pain as the infected area becomes larger. 

It’s also really easy to infect other people if you have a verruca. The infection spreads by skin-to-skin contact, as well as via contaminated surfaces. So as you can imagine, places like swimming pools and communal changing rooms are real hotspots for picking up the virus. What’s more, if your skin is damaged or damp, you’re even more susceptible.

How do I prevent verrucas?

Great question! Next week, we’ll be sharing our top tips with you on how you can minimise the risk. Look out for our new post on Friday!

Need to book in for our verruca treatments?
Give us a call today on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.

dry cupping treatment showing cups on clients back

Reduce cellulite for summer with dry cupping

by Business

Looking to reduce the appearance of cellulite ahead of the summer months to feel more confident? Dry cupping with Jon Chapman Sports Massage may just be your new favourite treatment!

Read on to discover more, and take advantage of our special offer.

What is cellulite?

Cellulite is dimpled fat just beneath the skin. It’s common, but tends to be seen more in females in areas like thighs, hips and buttocks. Cellulite is totally harmless, but it can cause issues with body confidence. As a result, many women and men are keen to receive treatment to improve the appearance – if only temporarily.

What is cupping?

Cupping involves placing the open sides of heated cups directly onto the skin to create a vacuum effect. The skin tissue is then pulled into the cup. 

It’s a healing practice that’s actually been around for many years – thousands, in fact.

Reduce cellulite for summer with dry cupping

How does Cupping help to get rid of cellulite?

Firstly, the dry cupping treatments Jon offers at our clinic are intended to improve the appearance of the skin by draining fluids and toxins from the body. 

Secondly, dry cupping also promotes circulation which helps to smoothen the appearance of cellulite.

SPECIAL OFFER ON CUPPING TREATMENTS

Get 10% off when you book and pay for a course of six Cupping treatments*

Ready to feel amazing? Give us a call now to make your booking on 01226 759 660, or contact us here. 
Visit the Jon Chapman Sports Massage facebook page here.

Hurry! Our discounts will only be available for a limited time. 

*One treatment per week is required for six continuous weeks. 

women's feet on a brown rock

Answering your FAQ’s on Plantar Fasciitis

by Business

Today we’re going to be answering your FAQ’s on Plantar Fasciitis to conclude our mini series on this bothersome issue that so many of us have and will experience. 

Missed any of our last posts? Don’t worry! You can find them all here:
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
5 tips to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis at home
How a Podiatrist can treat Plantar Fasciitis

women's feet on a brown rock

Let’s begin answering your FAQ’s on Plantar Fasciitis.

Why have I got Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis can be caused by a number of reasons. Some of which include: standing or sitting for long periods of time, exercising on hard surfaces, being overweight and wearing poorly-fitting footwear. 

How can I prevent Plantar Fasciitis?

First and foremost, consider your footwear carefully. You need to make sure you’re wearing well cushioned footwear that support your foot and arch. 

Before exercising, make sure you warm up and stretch properly to avoid injury, and try to do low-impact exercises like swimming over running.

How long will Plantar Fasciitis last?

Usually, Plantar Fasciitis resolves by itself within 6-18 months with self-care at home. However, it can last much longer and become a chronic condition. It’s important to speak to your Podiatrist if you’re struggling with Plantar Fasciitis – you may need specialist care which will help you get the relief you deserve.

Should I lose weight to get relief?

If you’re overweight, it’s always a great idea to healthily lose the extra weight. This reduces the pressure on your Plantar Fascia, which will in turn give you some relief.  

What is the best painkiller to take?

Ibuprofen is a great over the counter medication for Plantar Fasciitis pain. NSAIDs like this (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) work by blocking your body’s production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. In turn, this decreases swelling and eases pain.

Alternatively, your GP may prescribe a medication called Naproxen which is also an NSAID.

Can I still exercise if I have Plantar Fasciitis?

Yes! It’s as important to keep moving as it is to rest when it comes to Plantar Fasciitis. As we mentioned above, go for low impact exercises like swimming. Also, make sure you do your stretches as recommended by your Podiatrist (you can find them in this post here.)

I’ve got back pain – is this caused by my Plantar Fasciitis?

Sometimes, perhaps, due to the change in your posture (as you try to avoid the pain), you can experience back pain with Plantar Fasciitis.

What’s the best thing to do if I think I have Plantar Fasciitis?

Call your Podiatrist and arrange an appointment to go see them. They’ll be able to offer you a diagnosis and treatment options. 

We really hope you’ve enjoyed our mini post series on Plantar Fasciitis and that it’s been helpful.

Don’t forget that we’re always here for you if you need us. Give us a call today on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.

Girl standing on painted yellow smiley face with arrow pointing to the smiley face

How a Podiatrist can treat Plantar Fasciitis

by Business

Welcome back to our blog! We hope you’ve been enjoying our mini post series all about Plantar Fasciitis. In today’s post, we’ll be telling you all about how a Podiatrist can treat Plantar Fasciitis.

If you’ve missed our previous posts, you can find them here to catch up:
What is Plantar Fasciitis?
5 tips to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis at home

So, now you’re all clued up on what Plantar Fasciitis is, and how you can treat it at home – what happens if you still can’t seem to get any relief?

This is where your local Podiatrist will become your new best friend!

A healthcare professional, a Podiatrist is a specialist in diagnosing and helping to treat conditions and issues of the feet and lower limbs. So whether you’re struggling with a verruca, have an ingrown toenail or have Plantar Fasciitis, a Podiatrist will help get your feet feeling fabulous again. 

Girl standing on painted yellow smiley face with arrow pointing to the smiley face

Here’s how a Podiatrist can treat Plantar Fasciitis.

1. Giving you a diagnosis

Your Podiatrist will usually be able to diagnose Plantar Fasciitis by asking you about your symptoms, and giving you a foot examination. Sometimes they might check your BMI to ensure you’re within a healthy weight (as obesity can make you more likely to experience Plantar Fasciitis). They may also refer you to have an X-ray, or an ultrasound to rule out any other causes.

2. Recommending the best at-home self care to try

Podiatrists are true experts in all things feet, and have plenty of home-care tips and tricks to help you get the pain relief you deserve. Click here to read our previous post to check out five of our top tips for at-home relief. 

3. Showing you pain-relieving exercises

Along with the tips above, your Podiatrist will show you the most effective exercises to help you find relief. 

A great source of information for effective exercises comes from BUPA:

“Achilles tendon and plantar fascia stretch
Keep a towel by your bed. Before you get up, loop a long towel around the ball of your foot and pull it. Keep your leg straight. Hold this for 30 seconds. Repeat this three times for each foot.

Wall push
Stand facing a wall, with one foot in front of the other. Your feet should be shoulder width apart and facing the wall, with your front knee bent and your back knee straight.

Place both your hands on the wall, shoulder width apart. Lean towards the wall by bending your front knee. You’ll feel the stretch through your calf in the back leg. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds, then relax. Repeat three to four times, two to three times a day.

The further the back leg is from the wall, the greater the stretch. So, you should start closer to the wall to begin and over time move the back leg further way from the wall.

Stair stretch
Stand on a stair, facing upstairs and holding onto the rail for support. Position your feet so that your heels hang over the end of the step, and your legs are slightly apart. Lower your heels, until you feel tightening in your calves. Hold this position for 20 to 60 seconds, then relax. Repeat six times.

Plantar fascia stretch
While you’re sitting down, roll your foot over a round object – such as a rolling pin, drinks can or tennis ball. Allow your foot and ankle to move in all directions. Carry on for a few minutes or until you feel discomfort. Repeat at least twice a day.

Another way to stretch your plantar fascia is to sit down, crossing one foot over your knee. Then, grab your toes and pull them back towards your body. Hold this for 15 to 20 seconds and repeat three times.”

4. Making custom-made orthoses

From insoles to heel and arch supports: did you know that Podiatrists can actually make custom-made orthoses for you? This gives you the perfect support within your footwear and helps to give you relief. Additionally, your Podiatrist might suggest taping your foot or even wearing a splint during the night. 

5. Referring you for further treatment 

Sometimes, further treatment for Plantar Fasciitis is needed. From steroid injections to shockwave therapy. If your Podiatrist feels this is necessary, they’ll refer you for further treatment and help you get the relief that you need. In extreme cases, surgery is sometimes offered as a very last resort.

Need a little help or advice for your Plantar Fasciitis? Give us a call today on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.

Woman holding massage oil beside foot

5 tips to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis at home

by Business

Welcome back to our blog! In today’s post we’re going to be sharing our 5 tips to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis at home.

If you missed our first blog post where we explained exactly what Plantar Fasciitis is, and who is most likely to get it, click here to have a read.

Now, put your feet up and get comfy, it’s time to get into into our top 5 tips.

Woman holding massage oil beside foot

1. Make the most of massage

There’s nothing more relaxing than a massage, so treat yourself to a little ‘you’ time whilst you work the aches and pains away. Better yet, ask a family member or friend to massage your foot for you – paying extra attention to the heel.

2. Ice up

Using cool packs can really help to ease the inflammation caused by Plantar Fasciitis. Plus, a cool compress feels great on painful, heavy feet. Use your compress three to four times a day for around 10-15 minutes at a time for the best results.

3. Self medicate

Over the counter medication like Ibuprofen is helpful for conditions that cause pain through inflammation. NSAIDs like this (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) work by blocking your body’s production of certain natural substances that cause inflammation. In turn, this decreases swelling and eases pain.

4. Give your footwear a health check

Guilty of squeezing into skyscraper heels that look absolutely gorgeous but leave your feet feeling battered and bruised? Or perhaps you’re besotted by ballet flats and flip flips? Either way, if your shoes don’t have built in arch support and are sturdy and well-cushioned, it’s a one way street towards foot pain.

5. Limit activity (and inactivity)

We know it’s tricky to find a balance here, but it’s crucial that you don’t do too much, or too little. If you work in an office and have to be seated for longer periods of time, make sure to get up often and have a little walk around. Work in retail where you’re constantly on your feet? Ensure to sit down for rest periods to ease the pain and discomfort.

BONUS TIP!
The best way to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis is with the help of a Podiatrist. We understand the pain this condition causes, and have treatments available to help get you back on your feet again and feeling fabulous.

Give us a call today on 01226 759 660 or contact us here to book your appointment.

Join us next week for a new post on how we can help you to get relief from Plantar Fasciitis with our specialist treatments.

Two pairs of feet on a beach with sandy toes

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

by Business

In today’s blog post we’ll be answering a common question: what is Plantar Fasciitis?

With summer just around the corner, our thoughts are turning to those beach holidays with long sunset walks along the shore. Summer is certainly a time for getting out and about and having fun in the sun, but if you’re currently dealing with Plantar Fasciitis, it can really take that sparkly summertime feeling away.

With pain whether you’re resting or active, it can feel tricky to know what to do to get a little relief. But the good news is, we’re here to help you to feel more comfortable again.

Over the next few weeks we’re going to be taking a deeper look at Plantar Fasciitis to bring you our top tips on how to help prevent, treat, and get relief from this common orthopaedic issue.

Two pairs of feet on a beach with sandy toes

So, what is Plantar Fasciitis?

In short, Plantar Fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia – a part of your foot that connects your heel bone to your toes.

When this is inflamed, you’ll feel pain around the heel and arch of the foot, which may feel worse in the morning, or after resting for a long period of time.

What causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Often, it’s caused by repetitive motion or anything that puts a lot pressure on the arch of your foot. So, activities like running, jogging and walking, or consistent long periods of standing or being on your feet, can lead to Plantar Fasciitis.

You’re more likely to get it if:

  • You’re an athlete – particularly runners or jumpers
  • You exercise on hard surfaces
  • You stand for long periods of time
  • You’re wearing unsupportive footwear
  • You have high-arched, or flat feet

What are the main symptoms?

Symptoms can vary from patient to patient. Some of our patients feel a duller, milder pain that they can cope with. But some patients struggle with relentless pain that really hinders their day to day activities.

The most common symptoms include:

  • A dull and/or stabbing pain on the bottom of the heel
  • A dull and/or stabbing pain in the arch of the foot
  • A swollen heel
  • Tight Achilles tendon
  • Increased pain after exercise
  • Increased pain after longer periods of rest

How long does it last?

Plantar Fasciitis usually resolves on its own within 6-18 months without medical treatment. However, for some people, it can become a chronic condition that requires medical intervention.

What should I do if I get Plantar Fasciitis?

Luckily, there are lots of things you can do at home to relieve your symptoms which we’ll be sharing with you in next weeks post. But one of the best things you can do is to book an appointment with your local Podiatrist. We understand how terribly painful it is, and we have treatments available to help you get back up on your feet again.

Struggling with foot pain? Contact us today to book an appointment.

Sports massage in Barnsley

Jon Chapman Sports Massage now available at our Clinic

by Business

We are so pleased to welcome a new addition to our clinic: Jon Chapman Sports Massage.

Contrary to popular belief, this type of massage isn’t actually just for athletes! Whether you have a muscular skeletal injury or simply want to increase your muscle condition and flexibility: sports massage techniques can be truly life-altering.

Sports massage in Barnsley

Proven to release and reduce tension in muscles, the massage is highly beneficial to promote recovery and reduce the chances of muscle injury. Alongside this, it’s also proven to increase circulation and helps to remove waste products within the body (like lactic acid).

Helping with a variety of injuries, muscle aches, and chronic pain, Jon’s extensive knowledge and expertise spans treatments including:

Sports Massage
Deep Tissue Massage
Myofascial Release
Muscle Energy Technique
Micro Current Technology
Taping for sports and pain relief
Dry Cupping  

Call us on 01226 759 660 to book your appointment, or message us here, and discover how Jon can help you today.

Christmas Gift Vouchers from Carmen Hancock Chiropody

by Business

Looking for the perfect gift for that special someone? Treat them to one of our Christmas gift vouchers to redeem on any of our in-clinic services.

Gift Vouchers from Carmen Hancock Chiropody

Treatments for heavenly feet

Our feet aren’t really something that we tend to give much thought to. That is until we have health issues that sweep us right up off of them. And not in the Christmas panto Prince Charming kind of way!

Looking after our feet is so important. After all, they need to last us a lifetime, so it makes sense to keep them healthy and happy!
Our Christmas gift vouchers can be used for General Chiropody right through to Cosmetic Podiatry, and everything in between. Whether they require specialist treatment as a diabetic or would like to be assessed and prescribed foot orthotics for comfort and relief, our gift vouchers can be tailored just for them.

Discover our services

Rewind and relax

Looking to gift a little R&R to that special someone? Our warm wax treatments offer therapeutic healing effects to soothe sore and aching joints. A thoughtful gift for anybody, but particularly those suffering from arthritis and rheumatic pain – especially in the colder winter months.

Or perhaps you have someone that would love a sports massage therapy treatment? Using deep tissue massage techniques, this specialist treatment soothes and massages away those aches and knotted muscles. Commonly thought upon as just for people who play sports, a sports therapy massage is actually beneficial for a number of people. Whether they’re suffering from DIY strains after putting those Christmas lights up again, or even pains from prolonged bad posture, this specialist treatment will bring much comfort and relief.

Gifting made easy

Ready to purchase your gift voucher? Great! 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.

Want to stay a little longer? Click here to read our previous blog posts. Blog – Chiropody Podiatry | Carmen Hancock

January 2021 restrictions

by Business

We remain open during the January 2021 restrictions

January lockdown

Hello, I hope you are all staying safe? I’m sure that you are all aware that the Prime Minister announced that in order to curb the spread of the new mutant COVID-19 virus, England will return to a full lockdown with immediate effect.

Health Care is not affected HCPC registered Podiatrists are allowed to remain open.

Podiatrists can continue with clinic visits, home visits and treating patients in nursing homes. Patients can still travel for their healthcare needs.

We will continue to review this information and correspond any changes advised from our governing bodies; GOV.COM, NHS and CoP (College of Podiatry).

Shielding

Patients who are shielding, we are a safe environment for you to visit, we have, HEPA air purifiers in all our rooms, and the surgery is certified Bio-Clean once a month, this is in addition to our daily routines. For your safety and the safety of our staff we have installed shielding screens in our reception and our treatment room, all staff are wearing PPE.

Should you have any concerns please contact the surgery 01226 759660 or use the contact form on this site. Contact Us.

Safety First

To make your visit as safe and as efficient as possible, we ask that you follow the below protocol:
– Please arrive just on time – our waiting room will not be available during this time.
– Please arrive to your appointment alone or ask your chaperone to wait outside.
To minimise the risk of infection, we are adhering to the strictest of hygiene practices as usual. Additionally, we will be allocating extra time in-between appointments to allow us to clean our workspace and reception area thoroughly.
We will also be wearing PPE including aprons, double gloves and face protection.
We appreciate if payments are made by card where possible.

We are unable to accept patients who are isolating, or live within a household that is isolating.

November lock down

by Business

Hands – Face – Space

We remain open during the forthcoming lockdown

Hello to my wonderful clients. I hope you are staying safe? I’m sure that you are all aware that the Prime Minister is moving us all into a November lock down.

As regulated medical professionals I’m pleased to announce after confirmation from the College of Podiatry that we are able to remain open, obviously this will be kept under review and may change as we continue to get medical updates from our governing bodies; GOV.COM, NHS and CoP (College of Podiatry).

We feel confident that our surgery is a safe environment for our patients. We will continue to provide treatments for our existing and new patients, in our Covid compliant surgery.

Shielding patients rest assured that we are a safe environment for you to visit, we have, HEPA air purifiers in all our rooms, and the surgery is certified Bio-Clean once a month, this is in addition to our daily routines. For your safety and the safety of our staff we have installed shielding screens in our reception and our treatment room, all staff are wearing PPE.

Should you have any concerns please contact the surgery 01226 759660 or use the contact form on this site. Contact Us.

Safety First

To make your visit as safe and as efficient as possible, we ask that you follow the below protocol:
– Please arrive just on time – our waiting room will not be available during this time.
– Please arrive to your appointment alone or ask your chaperone to wait outside.
To minimise the risk of infection, we are adhering to the strictest of hygiene practices as usual. Additionally, we will be allocating extra time in-between appointments to allow us to clean our workspace and reception area thoroughly.
We will also be wearing PPE including aprons, double gloves and face protection.
We appreciate if payments are made by card where possible.

We are unable to accept patients who are isolating, or live within a household that is isolating.