Summer can be a tricky time as the hot weather takes its toll on our toes. Luckily, Etienne, a Tooting-based podiatrist who runs a Monday clinic at Pearl Chemist, has some top tips to keep your feet healthy and happy!

I started my career in the sports retail industry more than 20 years ago as a running shoe expert. Since qualification as a podiatrist 10 years ago, I now work in both the NHS and private practice and have recently attained a Masters degree in Musculoskeletal Podiatry which is a specialism that involves the treatment/management of bony and soft tissue abnormalities of the foot.

Podiatry (or chiropody) is the branch of medicine dedicated to the study, diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the foot, ankle and lower extremity. In order to practice, a podiatrist needs to successfully complete a 3 year undergraduate degree at university before being eligible for registration with the Health and Carers Professions Council (HCPC). 

I offer treatment for a variety of foot problems and conditions associated with skin and nails including thickened and hard to cut nails, in-growing toenails, callus/corn removal, verrucae and also mechanical foot pain. I also offer foot care to those individuals at potential high risk of developing foot complications, including those with diabetes.
 

My top tips for happy feet this summer

1. The skin on our feet can tend to get very dry during the summer, particularly around the heels – this can be exacerbated if you wear sandals/flipflops or walk around barefoot. Ensure that you apply a good foot-specific moisturiser daily. Look out for those creams containing urea and lactic acid as they are more effective, especially if you are prone to cracked skin.

2. If you suffer from sweaty feet, always carry a spare pair of socks to change into. Favour socks with good moisture wicking properties and avoid synthetic socks such as acrylic or nylon. Those that experience excessive sweating should try an antiperspirant foot spray (consult the staff at Pearl) to help manage the moisture and foot odour.

3. Allow your shoes adequate time to air-dry before or between use as moist or sweaty shoes provide ideal conditions for foot fungus, therefore increasing the risk of developing athlete’s foot.

4. Use supportive sandals with adjustable straps when you are planning to walk longer distances, as prolonged walks in slip-on sandals or flip-flops can leave your feet feeling tired quicker.

5. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen to your feet! Sunburn to feet can be very painful and potentially lead to other complications, especially if you are diabetic or prone to infection.

Etienne welcomes anyone to discuss any foot-related complaints. His clinic is situated at Pearl Chemist, 159 Mitcham Road, SW17 9NH and is available by appointment on Mondays from 9:00am to 5:30pm. He also offers home visits on request. For further information and booking, please call him on 07722 047 086, email evnpodiatry@gmail.com or call Pearl Chemist on 020 8672 2157.

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