The Podiatry Post
​Keep up to date with all our latest news, tips, and updates right here.


Understanding Plantar Fibromas and How LFW Podiatry Can Help
If you’ve recently noticed a bump or discomfort on the bottom of your foot, you might be dealing with a plantar fibroma. This benign growth on the plantar fascia (the ligament running from your heel to your toes) can cause pain, especially when pressure is applied, such as while wearing shoes. While the condition is rare, it’s important to understand how it can affect your feet and how LFW Podiatry can help you manage the symptoms effectively.
​
What is a Plantar Fibroma?
A plantar fibroma is a small, firm growth that typically develops in the arch of your foot. Although it’s non-cancerous, it can cause discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied while walking or standing for long periods. In some cases, people may develop multiple fibromas, which is known as plantar fibromatosis. If you experience frequent fibromas, it's important to consult with a podiatrist to manage symptoms and prevent further issues.
​
Who’s at Risk?
Plantar fibromas can affect anyone, but certain factors can increase your risk:
-
Age: Individuals between 40 and 60 are more prone to developing fibromas.
-
Gender: Men are twice as likely as women to develop them.
-
Genetics: A family history of plantar fibromas or fibromatosis may increase your risk.
Other health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, and alcohol use disorder may also contribute to the development of fibromas.
​
Symptoms to Watch For
The most common symptom of a plantar fibroma is pain in the arch of your foot, which may feel like there’s a small stone under your skin. You may also notice a small, round bump under your skin that may make wearing shoes uncomfortable. If you experience these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a podiatrist to get a proper diagnosis.
​
How We Can Help at LFW Podiatry
At LFW Podiatry, we specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions like plantar fibromas. If you're experiencing discomfort or suspect you might have a fibroma, we can help you through the following steps:
-
Comprehensive Diagnosis: Through a physical exam, we’ll assess the growth and determine whether it’s a plantar fibroma or something else. If necessary, we may recommend imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI.
-
Effective Treatment Options: The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain and prevent further issues. We offer a range of treatments, including:
-
Custom orthotics to reduce pressure
-
Stretching exercises for the feet and calves​
-
​
What You Can Do to Help Manage Symptoms
In addition to professional treatment, you can take a few steps to relieve pain:
-
Wear supportive, comfortable shoes to avoid putting pressure on the affected area.
-
Use custom orthotics to cushion your foot.
-
Stretch your feet and calves regularly to reduce tension in the plantar fascia.​
​
When to See a Podiatrist
If you notice new growths or discomfort in your feet, don’t wait! Our team at LFW Podiatry can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you through the most effective treatment options.
Don’t let foot pain hold you back—book an appointment with us today to get back on your feet!
Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes & Treatment
Ingrown toenails are a common but often painful foot condition that can significantly impact your comfort and daily activities. At LFW Podiatry, we specialise in providing effective solutions for ingrown toenails, helping you get back on your feet and living pain-free. Read on and take a closer look at the causes of ingrown toenails, how we treat them, and what to expect from our nail surgery procedure.
​
What Causes Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. While ingrown toenails can affect any toe, they are most commonly seen in the big toe.
There are several factors that can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail:
-
Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
-
Tight or Ill-Fitting Footwear: Shoes that pinch or put pressure on the toes can force the nail to grow inward.
-
Trauma: Dropping something heavy on the toe, stubbing it, or repetitive injury can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
-
Genetics: Some individuals have nails that naturally grow curved, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails.
-
Poor Foot Hygiene: Not cleaning or drying feet properly can lead to infections that contribute to ingrown toenails.
-
Health Conditions: Diabetes or other circulation issues can also affect nail growth, making ingrown toenails more likely.
-
​
How We Treat Ingrown Toenails at LFW Podiatry
At LFW Podiatry, we understand how painful and frustrating ingrown toenails can be. If you’ve been dealing with an ingrown toenail, our team is here to help with personalised treatment options.
​
If your ingrown toenail is causing significant pain, discomfort, or infection, we may recommend nail surgery. This procedure can help remove part or all of the affected nail to allow for normal growth and healing.
​
What to Expect from Our Nail Surgery Procedure:
-
Consultation and Assessment: Your journey begins with a thorough examination by one of our experienced podiatrists. We will assess the severity of the ingrown toenail and discuss your treatment options based on your specific needs.
-
Local Anesthesia: To ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure, we use a local anesthetic to numb the area around the toenail. This means you won’t feel any pain during the surgery.
-
Removal of the Ingrown Portion: Depending on the extent of the ingrown nail, we may remove just the part that’s causing pain or, in more severe cases, remove the entire nail. This step helps relieve pressure and allows the surrounding skin to heal properly.
-
Cauterisation of the Nail Bed: To prevent the ingrown toenail from recurring, we may perform a procedure called cauterisation. This involves using a small chemical treatment to destroy the nail bed (matrix) and prevent the nail from growing back in the same abnormal way. Cauterisation ensures that the nail grows back in a healthy, straight manner, reducing the risk of future ingrown toenails.
-
Post-Procedure Care: After the procedure, we’ll provide instructions on how to care for your toe and promote healing. This may include keeping the area clean, avoiding tight shoes, and wearing a bandage for a few days. We’ll also schedule a follow-up visits to ensure the healing process is on track.
​
Why Choose LFW Podiatry for Ingrown Toenail Treatment?
At LFW Podiatry, we pride ourselves on providing compassionate care and effective solutions for foot and toenail issues. Our team is highly skilled in treating ingrown toenails and other nail-related problems, ensuring you receive the best care possible.
Whether you’re dealing with a mild ingrown toenail or need a more advanced surgical solution, we are here to help you every step of the way.
​
Don’t let an ingrown toenail keep you from enjoying life. If you're experiencing pain or discomfort, contact LFW Podiatry today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you get back to your normal activities, pain-free!

%20(1).png)
Let us help you reach your full potential.
Whether you're just starting your marathon training or are already deep into your preparation, taking the time to understand your body’s mechanics can pay off in a big way.
Marathon running is a test of endurance, and efficiency is key to performing your best and avoiding injuries. A gait analysis at LFW is a valuable tool that helps you gain insight into how your body moves, enabling you to fine-tune your technique and ensure you're ready for race day.
What to Expect During Your Gait Analysis at LFW:
Our expert team uses advanced technology to carefully observe your form, capturing real-time data on everything from your foot strike to your posture and stride. The process is quick and non-invasive, with the results giving you a comprehensive picture of how you move. We’ll provide you with detailed feedback and suggestions that are tailored specifically to your needs.
How It Helps Your Marathon Training:
Marathon training can take a toll on your body if your mechanics aren’t optimised. A poor running form or imbalanced gait can lead to muscle fatigue, stress on your joints, and even injuries that might sideline you for weeks. By identifying and correcting any issues early on, you can avoid long-term setbacks and improve your overall performance. Whether it’s adjusting your cadence, improving your posture, recommending the right footwear or creating a bespoke insole, a gait analysis at LFW gives you a personalised strategy for success.
​
At LFW, we offer custom 3D-printed Phitts Orthotics, trusted by athletes around the world to enhance performance and prevent injury. Our state-of-the-art gait analysis system analyses your running mechanics to design a bespoke insole tailored specifically to your feet. By identifying potential problem areas, we ensure that your insole not only addresses imbalances but also optimises your stride, helping you maintain better alignment and reduce the risk of injury.
Book Your Gait Analysis Today:
Don’t wait until an injury slows you down—start your marathon training with a solid foundation. Book your gait analysis at LFW today, and let us help you run smarter, not harder. With our expert guidance, you’ll be prepared to take on the challenge of the London Marathon with confidence and speed.
A new Pod on the block!
LFW Podiatry is excited to introduce a new Podiatrist to the team.
After graduating from The University of Salford in 2021 and recently moving to Yorkshire, we were delighted when Vicky applied for the position.
Vicky has been part of our team for a little over a month and has quickly become an integral part of the group.
Appointment requests are increasing, and Vicky's additional support is warmly embraced. New patients have given Vicky 5-star reviews, and the feedback is truly delightful to receive.
​
We are thrilled with the positive impact Vicky has made in such a short time. Her dedication to providing exceptional care and building rapport with patients has not gone unnoticed. The warm reception from both existing and new patients speaks volumes about her professionalism and genuine desire to help others. As we continue to grow and strive for excellence in foot care services, Vicky's expertise and enthusiasm are invaluable assets to the LFW Podiatry team.


Dermal Fillers for persistent corns
Lynda and Helen attend Dermal Filler training course.
If you have a stubborn corn causing you pain, consider Dermal Fillers as a solution. With treatment only required a 1-3 times a year, Dermal Fillers may be the answer.
One common reason for corns that persist is their placement on a part of your foot lacking natural cushioning.
​
Taking this into consideration, Lynda and Helen are now certified to address these regions with Dermal Fillers, forming a protective layer over the high-pressure area to avoid the corn from coming back.
​
Appointments for this treatment are coming soon!