Toenail fungus (onychomycosis)
Thick, discoloured, crumbly nails. Most home remedies don't work. A podiatrist can confirm it's fungus (psoriasis and injury can look the same) and discuss treatments such as topical or oral antifungals and laser.
Foot conditions A to Z
Plain-language explanations of the most common foot problems, from two podiatrists. Use this to understand what might be going on, then see a podiatrist near you for a proper diagnosis.
Nails
Ingrown toenails
Pain, redness and swelling where a sliver of nail digs into the skin. Antibiotics can calm an infection, but removing the sliver is what fixes it.
Chronic ingrown toenails
When a nail keeps coming back, a quick procedure under local anaesthetic can permanently remove the nail border.
Skin
Plantar warts
Caused by HPV, often picked up in pools and locker rooms. Treatments range from topical options to newer therapies like Swift microwave treatment, which helps your immune system fight the virus.
Corns and calluses
Thickened skin from pressure and friction, usually from tight shoes. Don't cut corns yourself, especially if you have diabetes.
Athlete's foot
Itchy, scaly or blistered skin from fungus. Treat it early, before it spreads into the toenails.
Sweaty or smelly feet
Hyperhidrosis is common and treatable. Wicking socks and clinical-strength antiperspirants often help.
Heel, arch and ankle
Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
Often from faulty biomechanics, hard surfaces or worn-out shoes. Supportive footwear, stretching and orthotics are common first steps.
Heel spur syndrome
Usually settles with conservative care such as orthotics, ice and stretching.
Achilles tendinitis
Best treated early, with rest, specific exercises and support.
Flat feet and high arches
Both can strain ankles, knees, hips and back. The right shoes and orthotics make a big difference.
Orthotics and footwear
Arch supports
Over-the-counter inserts that help with mild symptoms and shock absorption.
Prefabricated orthotics
More corrective than arch supports and less costly than custom. Available for adults and kids.
Custom orthotics
Made for your feet after an in-person biomechanical assessment by a podiatrist.
Nerves, joints and general health
Morton's neuroma
Tingling, burning or the feeling of a pebble in the ball of the foot, often worse in narrow shoes.
Arthritis
Each foot has 33 joints. Supportive shoes and orthotics can ease pain.
Diabetes
Diabetes can reduce feeling in your feet, so small injuries go unnoticed. Check your feet daily and see a professional for any wound.
Circulation
Cold, numb, tingling or discoloured feet can signal other health problems. Get them checked.
See a professional if: you have diabetes or poor circulation, a wound that isn't healing, signs of infection (spreading redness, warmth, pus or fever), or pain that stops you walking. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
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