Foot Care Treatment

FAQs

• What is foot care treatment, and how can it benefit me?

  Foot care treatment is a professional service that helps keep your feet healthy by addressing common concerns like corns, callouses, cracked heels, ingrown toenails and fungal infections. Unlike at-home care, a podiatrist provides expert assessment, diagnosis and treatment to manage these issues effectively.

  At Podiatry First, we keep general foot care treatments to around 30 minutes, ensuring thorough care without unnecessary delays. If more advanced treatment is needed, we’ll recommend the best course of action based on your condition.

• How does a foot care specialist diagnose foot conditions?

  A foot care specialist begins by examining the skin, nails and structure of your foot to identify any issues. They will also ask about your medical history and footwear habits to determine contributing factors. For more complex matters like biomechanical imbalances or persistent pain, additional assessments such as gait analysis or imaging may be recommended. Diagnosis is based on clinical expertise and evidence-based methods to provide the best treatment plan.

• How often should I visit a foot care specialist for routine foot care treatment?

  It depends on your individual needs. For general maintenance, treatment frequency can vary between every 6 weeks to every 6 months to maintain foot wellness. If you have a specific condition, such as recurring corns or chronic callouses, your podiatrist may recommend more frequent visits. Those with diabetes or circulation issues may need check-ups more regularly to monitor foot health and prevent complications.

• Can a foot care specialist help prevent foot issues before they become serious?

  Absolutely. Preventative foot care is one of the main benefits of seeing a podiatrist. Regular check-ups help identify minor issues early — like pressure points that could lead to corns or callouses or nail changes that may develop into infections. A foot care specialist also provides advice on footwear, hygiene and lifestyle adjustments to keep your feet healthy. Prevention is always better (and easier) than treating advanced foot conditions.

• What are the benefits of professional foot care treatment compared to over-the-counter remedies?

  Over-the-counter products can provide temporary relief, but they don’t treat the underlying cause of foot problems. For example, corn plasters may remove the surface layer of corn, but they won’t address the pressure or friction that caused it.

  Professional treatment ensures the corn is removed properly while reducing the strain that led to its development, whether by recommending better-fitting footwear, cushioning to offload pressure or orthotics to correct foot mechanics. By addressing both the symptom and the cause, podiatric care provides long-term relief rather than just a temporary fix.

• Can foot care treatment help with sore feet and discomfort?

  Yes, general treatments for the feet can help relieve soreness caused by common issues like callouses, corns, cracked heels and ingrown toenails. However, targeted treatments beyond routine foot care may be required if foot pain is severe or linked to an underlying problem like an injury or joint misalignment. Contact us to discuss the best treatment for your needs.

• Does foot care treatment hurt?

  Most treatments are generally well-tolerated and are meant to relieve discomfort rather than cause it. Some sensitivity may be felt if thickened skin is treated, but any discomfort is usually minimal and brief. 

  For more involved procedures, such as treating infections or ingrown toenails, a local anaesthetic or topical numbing gel may be used to ensure comfort. If you have concerns, let your podiatrist know so they can adjust the treatment as needed.

• Are there side effects to foot care treatment?

  Foot care treatment is generally very safe when performed by a professional podiatrist. However, like any medical procedure, there can be mild side effects depending on the treatment performed.

  • Minor soreness or sensitivity — If thick callouses or corns are removed, the skin underneath may feel slightly tender for a short time.
  • Temporary redness or irritation — Some people may experience mild redness, especially if the skin is dry or cracked before treatment.

  Most side effects are mild and short-lived, and a podiatrist will provide aftercare advice to ensure proper healing and comfort. If you have concerns, it’s always best to discuss them with your podiatrist before treatment.

• How do I prepare for my foot care treatment?

  Give your feet a gentle wash with soap and water before your appointment, especially if you’ve been on your feet all day. Avoid applying creams or nail polish, as these can make it harder for your podiatrist to examine your skin and nails properly. If you have an infection, keep the area clean and avoid self-treatment.

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