OUR SERVICES
TOENAIL PROBLEMS
Painful ingrown toenails can be caused by improper nail trimming combined with an inherited abnormally deep nail groove. Also, nail problems are often encountered after trauma or injury to the toe. We also see abnormal nail changes associated with sport activities such as running, racquet sports, or basketball. The nail is traumatized by the foot moving or pistoning excessively within the shoe. Thick, discoloured, and fragmented nails are common and are frequently caused by a fungus associated with athlete's foot.
GENTLE TREATMENT OF CORNS AND CALLOUSES
The skin responds to friction or stress by producing additional layers in an attempt to protect the area. Corns and callouses can form anywhere on the foot where there is this abnormal shearing stress. We can reduce the discomfort by paring down the skin and applying an accommodative padding to decrease pressure. Sometimes we fabricate a custom accommodative orthotic as a more permanent solution to the problem if the callous is located at the bottom of the foot.
PLANTAR VERRUCA (PLANTAR WARTS)
Plantar verruca (plantar warts) is a localized viral skin infection caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). It is often seen on the sole of the foot. It may be transmitted by walking unprotected in health clubs, pool decks, or anywhere where people are frequently barefoot. We utilize several different topical treatment methods which may include liquid nitrogen. We often employ the CryoProbe™ to allow us a precise method to freeze the affected area and eliminate the wart.
SOFT TISSUE SURGERY
Soft tissue surgery is sometimes utilized when a condition is not amenable to more conservative treatment. The procedures are carried out using local anaesthetic to minimize discomfort.
ORTHOPAEDIC PROBLEMS
Bunions, hammertoes, and Morton's neuroma are often symptoms of a mechanical imbalance in the foot. Many times, symptoms can be reduced or eliminated by fabrication of a custom orthotic. Children's foot problems are commonly encountered and may include symptomatic flat feet, excessively high-arched feet, heel pain, and "growing pains." Often, we can help reduce discomfort and prevent future symptoms or damage to joint structures by utilizing custom, made-to-measure, state-of-the-art, foot orthotics.
DIAGNOSTIC X-RAYS
Diagnostic foot and ankle x-rays are conveniently available in our office.
ORTHOTICS
We use the state-of-the-art, 3-dimensional SmartCast® system. This allows us to obtain a more precise cast, and therefore, a more comfortable fit. We employ 1.5mm graphite composite material to provide more space for the foot in the shoe or boot. Many times, the orthotic will fit nicely without having to purchase a larger size shoe or boot. We also make custom orthotics for children and adolescents. Additionally, we specialize in custom orthotics for skates and ski boots.
DIABETIC FOOT CARE
Diabetes is a common medical condition we encounter in our office. As such, we are experienced with care of the high-risk foot.