This page offers advice only. It is not a substitute for a proper consultation.

The keys to successful treatment are:

• an accurate diagnosis
• realistic expectation by the patient
• acceptance of the limitations of various treatments by the clinician

When to Seek Help

Urgent

• Injuries that stop you from taking weight, especially when associated with severe swelling and bruising.
• Lesser injuries which are not starting to settle within a few days. Remember RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
• Infection around the foot, especially if you you have diabetes (even if it is diet-controlled)

Soon

• Lumps present for less than six months, especially if painful at night.
• Diabetic foot problems such as a burning sensation at night, or the rubbing of toes which have been deformed.

Non-Urgent

• All other conditions around the foot, ankle and shin bone which are interfering with your life and you would like improving.

Who to Seek Help From

A&E Dept

• Urgent problems as listed above

Physiotherapist

• Problems with the achilles tendon

• Pain and stiffness of the ankle joint

 Podiatrist

• Flattening of the foot

• Help with diagnosis and provision of footwear for deformed toes

• Provision of insoles and devices to correct and support the foot

• Disorders of the nails including ingrowing toenails

• Help with pairing down of callosities around the ball and heel of the foot

• Diabetic foot conditions 

 Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgeon

• Problems which your doctor, physiotherapist or podiatrist are concerned about and where there is a difficulty with diagnosis.

• Conditions requiring surgical treatment