When you have lower limb problems, it can be difficult to decide what’s normal, what will ‘sort itself out’ and what is
medically urgent. Now, for absolute clarity, at Adam Smith Podiatry we will never roll our eyes & turn you away for ‘wasting our
time’. If something is concerning you, we want to know about it and assess it. The worst thing that can happen is it’s nothing &
you’re left with peace of mind to carry on your life!
But here are FIVE scenarios where we absolutely, categorically, want to see you in the clinic as soon as possible!
Persistent Foot & Ankle Pain
Let’s get the most obvious one out of the way first. If you have lower limb pain that doesn’t go away on its own, doesn’t improve with ice/rest/over the counter medication OR returns - it usually means that your problem isn’t going to get better without medical intervention. It’s also likely it could get worse if left. Book yourself an appointment at our East Lothian Clinic where we can assess, diagnose & treat your specific problem.
Heel Pain in the Morning
If you experience sharp heel pain, especially first thing in the morning when you take your first steps out of bed (but the pain might improve throughout the day) - then this is a key signifier for us that you’re probably suffering with Plantar Fasciitis. Again, this isn’t going to get better on its own. At Adam Smith Podiatry & Sports Clinic, we have several treatment options for Plantar Fasciitis. Between Shockwave Therapy, Laser Pain Relief Therapy & Custom insoles - we can create a pain-free morning routine for you!
Ingrown Toenails
Do not, under any circumstances, try to deal with an ingrown toenail yourself. You’re just setting yourself up for a nasty infection & a lot more pain. If you think you have an ingrown toenail, it is important to consult a qualified podiatrist. Early treatment means better health outcomes and, often, better results. In most cases, we can treat your ingrown toenail by gently and painlessly clearing the section of nail that is pressing against the skin which will result in immediate relief on the day! We’re also able to perform a small surgery on the nail if needed, as well as prescribe antibiotics. We’ll also be able to offer up some sound advice, in showing you how to cut your toenails properly to avoid ingrown toenails in the future.
Frequent Ankle Sprains
If you’re someone who ‘always sprains their ankle’ and you’ve been like that since your school days - this isn’t a quirk…it’s a biomechanical problem, or weak ligaments, or something that needs fixing. As you get older, these ankle sprains will become less funny & quirky - turning more sinister & more debilitating. Book yourself in for an appointment so we can conduct a thorough biomechanical assessment & figure out a treatment pathway that solves the problem. This may include custom orthotics, strapping or strengthening exercises.
Numbness, Burning, Tingling or Discolouration
If you have these sensations in your feet then we’re possibly looking at nerve compression, neuropathy or circulation issues. These
are conditions that need to be identified, regardless of who you are. However, it’s absolutely critical to come and see us if you are a
Diabetic so we can conduct a more thorough assessment. Foot Health in Diabetes must be taken seriously, to avoid major complications.
Ultimately, you cannot put a price on your foot health. By investing some time & money in getting a suspected lower limb problem assessed and treated - you’re investing in your future! Don’t delay in booking an appointment to see our friendly & welcoming podiatry team at our East Lothian Clinic!