Ski biomechanics talk

Tomorrow, I will be presenting to skiers on biomechanics and orthoses in skiing, and talking about some common foot and ankle problems experienced as skiers. The talk is part of the lockdown zoom talks hosted by Ski Instructor and Trainer Ali Smith at https://www.skidefinition.com

The talk will be from 1pm, and I can highly recommend both his zoom series (Every Wednesday from 1pm) and his on-snow ski coaching to keen skiers of all levels. All the details are on the Ski Definition website https://www.skidefinition.com

WHY BECOME A PODIATRIST?

Recently, I was asked by the College of Podiatry to be part of a series of videos on becoming a Podiatrist. Many of us step into the profession (pardon the pun) through an interest in health, sport, science and care for others. I first heard about Podiatry while working a Saturday job fitting ski boots but didn’t think any more of it. Later, while working as a ski instructor and boot fitter, I started to become fascinated with the biomechanics of the foot and lower limb, and a friend suggested looking into Podiatry as a career as a professional skier probably wouldn’t work out. Check out the video chat I had with the College Chair Matthew Fitzpatrick and some recently qualified podiatrists (as flattered as I was to be considered a recent graduate, I’m probably stretching that description).

Get your feet ready for the slopes!

Originally posted on the Betafeet Podiatry blog

Winter can be hard on our feet, and most skiers and snowboarders have experienced foot pain or cold feet at some point.  We believe that painful or cold feet need not stop you enjoying your ski or snowboarding trip this winter. 

 Our expert podiatrists at Betafeet Podiatry (www.betafeetpodiatry.co.uk)  have a wealth of experience dealing with ski and snowboard foot complaints and boot fitting issues. Matt at Tring clinic and worked as ski boot fitter and instructor prior to qualifying as a podiatrist, working with skiers and snowboarders from beginners to professional athletes and instructors.  We can offer a comprehensive assessment of your foot problem and then advise on boot modifications or changes as needed, and provide you with custom made orthoses (insoles) and boot liners to ensure you get the most out of your ski or snowboard trip in terms of comfort and performance.  We can even fit rechargeable heaters to your boots.

We are able to deal with foot pain, fitting issues and cold toes and are well connected with the ski industry should you require advice on new boots.

An assessment will take around 45 minutes and costs £75. First we will take a medical history and assess your level of performance and problems experienced. Next we will discuss your goals and aspirations in your skiing/boarding. We will check the fit and suitability of your boots, and advise on necessary modifications, changes and orthotic/insole options. 

Insoles range from £85 (prefabricated) to £350 (fully custom) and custom liners are from £250. Boot heaters start from £100.  A follow up appointment will be required to fit insoles, liners and heaters.

Call 01442 822 990 to book your ski or snowboard foot/boot consultation.

You can then enjoy the slopes in comfort as well as the après-ski!

Diabetic foot screening app

New Foot Screening App

Originally posted on the Betafeet podiatry clinic blog

Foot problems related to diabetes are common, and sensation and the blood supply to the feet can be impaired, which if not detected early enough can predispose a patient to ulceration and in some cases amputation. There are over 7000 diabetes related amputations annually in England, and many of these are preventable. Early detection of foot problems in patients with diabetes is vital in preventing these, including an annual foot check and ongoing monitoring and management by a podiatrist and the wider medical team as required. One of the most important issues however, is an individual’s awareness of their own condition and how it affects their feet.

Over the past year, I have been fortunate to be involved in a project with our professional body, the College of Podiatry and Foot in Diabetes UK as well as other professional groups including the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow, the British Association of Prosthetists and Orthotists on the development of a smartphone and tablet app for patients with diabetes on maintaining their foot health. The app is also recognised by the Royal College of Nursing and Diabetes UK.

  • For people with diabetes, this App has been developed through a unique multi-disciplinary collaboration, based on nationally approved guidelines. Supported by videos, this app and provide the following:Advice and information on your condition, exploring how diabetes can affect your feet
  • Track your routine screening appointments and offer reminders when they are due/upcoming
  • Detailed, practical information on how to look after your feet in accordance with nationally recognised and agreed guidelines and how to recognise when to seek advice.

I would encourage all of our patients with diabetes (or family members) to download the free app to their devices, as it provides straightforward, practical advice on looking after your feet, and how to recognise when things go wrong (and when and how to seek help).

The app is available on Apple iOS and will be available on Android devices soon.  For more information, search for diabetic foot screening app on the app store, or visit:

http://www.scpod.org

The app includes videos on what to expect at your annual foot assessment and allows you to save your appointments to your calendar and it notifies you beforehand. It also allows you to store important numbers including your GP, podiatrist and hospital foot clinic.