Martin Jenkins, Author at Bartholomew Way Clinic https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/author/martin Chiropody | Podiatry | Physio | Orthotics | Footwear | Orthopaedic Shoe Modifications in Horsham West Sussex Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:01:32 +0000 en-GB hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=7.1 Why Are Verrucae So Stubborn? A Guide to Improving the Effectiveness of Treatment https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/why-are-verrucae-so-stubborn-a-guide-to-improving-the-effectiveness-of-treatment Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:01:29 +0000 https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/?p=8290 The post Why Are Verrucae So Stubborn? A Guide to Improving the Effectiveness of Treatment appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]>

The post Why Are Verrucae So Stubborn? A Guide to Improving the Effectiveness of Treatment appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]> Are Your Legs Trying to Tell You Something? Don’t Ignore the Signs of PAD. https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/are-your-legs-trying-to-tell-you-something-dont-ignore-the-signs-of-pad Thu, 09 Oct 2025 15:13:17 +0000 https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/?p=8272 The post Are Your Legs Trying to Tell You Something? Don’t Ignore the Signs of PAD. appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]>

Have you ever been on a walk and had to stop because of a persistent ache or cramp in your legs?

…Or perhaps you’ve noticed some unusual changes to the skin or nails on your feet and lower legs? These might not be simple signs of ageing; they could be your body’s way of signalling a common condition known as Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

PAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to your limbs become narrowed, reducing blood flow. This can lead to a range of symptoms that you shouldn’t ignore.

Check the Symptoms: Do Any of These Sound Familiar?

  • Pain During Activity: A cramping pain in your legs, thighs, or buttocks that consistently appears when you’re active (like walking) but eases after a few minutes of rest.
  • Shiny Skin & Hair Loss: The skin on your lower legs and feet may appear shiny, and you might notice a loss of hair in that area.
  • Brittle, Slow-Growing Toenails: Your toenails may become hard, brittle, and seem to take forever to grow.
  • Changes in Skin Colour: You might notice your feet or legs changing colour, from a healthy pink to pale white or even a bluish tint, and they may feel cold to the touch.

Getting a Clear Diagnosis

If these symptoms resonate with you, the first step is to get a proper assessment. Here at our clinic, we can determine what’s going on using a number of simple, painless tests, including:

  • Doppler Ultrasound: To listen to the blood flow in your arteries.
  • Capillary Refill & Sensation Tests: Quick checks to assess your circulation and nerve function.

Your Path to Better Health

The good news is that PAD is manageable. Treatment primarily focuses on positive lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. The most effective steps include:

  • Regular, gentle exercise to improve circulation.
  • Quitting smoking, which is crucial for arterial health.
  • Eating a balanced, healthy diet.
  • Reducing alcohol consumption.

Every positive change, no matter how small, contributes to better health and can make a difference.

If you’re concerned about your leg and foot health, don’t wait. Contact us today to book an assessment and take the first step towards getting back on your feet with confidence.

The post Are Your Legs Trying to Tell You Something? Don’t Ignore the Signs of PAD. appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]> Plantar Plate Tears https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/plantar-plate-tears Wed, 25 Jan 2023 14:59:21 +0000 https://bartholomewwayclinic.co.uk/?p=7708 A plantar plate tear is an injury to the fibrocartilage tissue that supports the bones in the ball of the foot. The plantar plate is located at the base of the toes and helps to maintain the stability and alignment of the bones in the forefoot. When the plantar plate becomes damaged, it can result in pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving the affected toe. Plantar plate tears can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, improper foot mechanics, and trauma to the foot. Symptoms of a plantar plate tear include pain and tenderness in the ball of the foot, especially when bearing weight or moving the affected toe. Swelling and stiffness may also be present. The treatment of plantar plate tears typically begins with rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Wearing shoes with good arch support and a stiff sole will also help alleviate symptoms. In most cases cases orthotic inserts can be used to help improve foot mechanics and reduce the risk of re-injury. In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged plantar plate. Recovery from surgery can take several months and may include physical therapy to help […]

The post Plantar Plate Tears appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]> A plantar plate tear is an injury to the fibrocartilage tissue that supports the bones in the ball of the foot. The plantar plate is located at the base of the toes and helps to maintain the stability and alignment of the bones in the forefoot. When the plantar plate becomes damaged, it can result in pain, inflammation, and difficulty moving the affected toe.

Plantar plate tears can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse, improper foot mechanics, and trauma to the foot. Symptoms of a plantar plate tear include pain and tenderness in the ball of the foot, especially when bearing weight or moving the affected toe. Swelling and stiffness may also be present.

The treatment of plantar plate tears typically begins with rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Wearing shoes with good arch support and a stiff sole will also help alleviate symptoms. In most cases cases orthotic inserts can be used to help improve foot mechanics and reduce the risk of re-injury.

In more severe cases, surgery may be required to repair the damaged plantar plate. Recovery from surgery can take several months and may include physical therapy to help regain strength and range of motion in the affected foot.

As with any injury, it is recommended to consult a podiatrist if you suspect you have a plantar plate tear, in order to get proper diagnosis and treatment.

Call us on 01403 276272 or book online here to see a podiatrist about your foot problem

The post Plantar Plate Tears appeared first on Bartholomew Way Clinic.

]]>