Foot health is something many Kiwis take for granted – until it becomes a problem. From sore toes to chronic pain, our feet often bear the brunt of our busy lives. Whether you’re out hiking on the weekends or just standing long hours at work, foot issues can quickly disrupt your daily routine. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common foot problems faced by Kiwis and lower limb therapists can help you get back on your feet (literally!)
Understanding Common Foot Problems
Feet, much like cars, need regular maintenance, yet they’re often overlooked. From bunions to plantar fasciitis, the range of foot issues is vast, but many New Zealanders experience similar problems. Here’s a quick rundown of some common foot problems:
- Plantar Fasciitis: This is perhaps the most well-known foot complaint in NZ. It manifests as sharp heel pain, especially after sitting or sleeping. Often, it’s triggered by wearing unsupportive footwear or walking on hard surfaces.
- Bunions: A painful bump on the side of the big toe, bunions often form due to poor footwear or genetic predispositions.
- Ingrown Toenails: This is particularly common among younger people who may clip their nails incorrectly or wear shoes that pinch. While it often starts as a minor annoyance, it can lead to significant pain and infection.
- Achilles Tendonitis: Linked with overuse, this condition causes pain in the back of the heel and is frequently seen in active individuals like runners.
- Morton’s Neuroma: A sharp pain between the toes, often exacerbated by narrow shoes. It’s like having a pebble stuck under your foot – but much worse.
Causes of Foot Problems
Kiwis often blame bad footwear or ageing for their foot troubles, but there’s usually more at play. Genetics can predispose you to certain issues like bunions or high arches. The physical demands of New Zealanders’ active lifestyles can also increase the likelihood of developing foot problems. Occupational hazards, such as spending long hours on hard surfaces (retail or healthcare workers, for example), can lead to chronic issues. Essentially, there are a variety of reasons why your foot is playing up which is why we recommend seeing one of our lower limb specialists for a specific prevention and treatment plan.
The Role of a Lower Limb Therapist
What is a Lower Limb Therapist?
A lower limb therapist is more than just a specialist for feet – they are experts in treating the entire lower half of your body, from your hips down to your toes. Lower limb therapists, often physiotherapists with additional training, focus on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal issues that affect your ability to move and walk comfortably. This can range from addressing biomechanical imbalances and treating injuries, to preventing recurring problems.
How Can Lower Limb Therapists Help with Foot Problems?
Lower limb therapists offer a range of services, depending on your needs. Here’s a snapshot of how they help:
- Biomechanical Assessments: Lower limb therapists perform detailed evaluations to understand how your body moves. This might include gait analysis, checking your muscle strength, and assessing how your joints work together.
- Injection Therapy: For some conditions, your lower limb therapist might recommend injection therapy. It involves taking a small amount of your blood, concentrating its healing properties, and injecting it back into the injured area to speed up recovery.
- Minor Surgeries: Simple small procedures can be handled by lower limb therapists. These are done quickly, often under local anaesthesia, meaning you’ll be back to normal in no time
- Customised Exercise Plans: Therapists work with you to develop personalised exercise plans aimed at strengthening muscles, improving flexibility, and reducing the likelihood of re-injury. These exercises help your body move better and recover faster.
Prevention is Key: Tips for Maintaining Healthy Feet
Proper Footwear
It’s not just athletes who need good shoes – comfortable shoes are a must for everyone. The right pair can save you from aches, pains, and future issues like plantar fasciitis or blisters. Always choose footwear that offers proper arch support and cushioning. And for hiking, running, or any sport, make sure your shoes are designed for the activity – your feet deserve the right gear.
Regular Check-ups
Prevention beats treatment any day. Regular visits to a lower limb therapist or podiatrist can nip minor issues in the bud before they become major problems. If you have pre-existing foot issues or are at higher risk, aim for check-ups every six months. And even if your feet feel fine, an annual visit can help you avoid surprises down the track.
Exercise
Keeping your feet moving keeps them healthy. Regular exercise boosts circulation and strengthens the muscles that support your feet and legs. Low-impact options like walking, swimming, or yoga are great for keeping your feet flexible and pain-free. Even something as simple as daily toe stretches can work wonders.
Podiatry for All Walks of Life
Foot problems are more common than we like to admit but here’s the good news: most of these issues are entirely manageable and, even better, preventable. If you’ve been experiencing discomfort or simply want to keep your feet in top shape, book an appointment with Physio Connect today. Whether it’s for a routine check-up, advice on footwear, or addressing specific issues, taking that step now can save you from more serious problems down the track.
