New patient podiatry appointments at the Foot Clinic are up to 45 minutes long, giving our podiatrist a chance you get to know you, as well as your feet! This initial new patient appointment is essential for assessing your feet, identifying any underlying conditions or issues you are facing, and formulating a treatment plan.
Exactly how your initial appointment pans out will depend on what brought you to us.
From Joli
"Once I have gathered all the relevant information, I will assess your feet thoroughly, this will start with a visual assessment of the skin and nails, followed by a vascular assessment to check the circulation in your feet, as well as a few tests to check your nerves are functioning well.
The initial appointment also includes basic nail and skin care. I will ensure your nails are properly cut and filed, as well as reducing nail thickness if required, and the removal of any hard skin, as well as offering general advice on foot maintenance.
The weight-bearing parts of your feet may be prone to corns, due to the high pressure experienced in these areas. While some corns don’t cause any real issue, others can be incredibly painful. Even if your corn isn’t causing you any pain, it’s a sign of a pressure induced problem that needs addressing. Likewise, calluses can be uncomfortable and unsightly, these thick yellow patches of skin on our feet not only look bad, but they can also be very painful. Usually found in the areas of your foot being exposed to an excessive amount of friction pressure. Corns and calluses are easily dealt with at your initial appointment.
From your initial foot assessment, I can also diagnose other common conditions including verruca, ingrowing toenails, and fungal infections of the nail and skin. If any of these are discovered we can discuss treatment plans, some of which can be started immediately at your first appointment if required".