Advanced Podiatry

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Musculoskeletal Laser

Podiatry
Lasers have been used in various medical applications, and some lasers are specifically designed for musculoskeletal issues.

These lasers are often referred to as "therapeutic lasers" or "low-level laser therapy" (LLLT) devices. When applied to musculoskeletal structures, such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints, they are able to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. The light energy from the laser stimulates cellular activity, which may enhance tissue repair and reduce discomfort.

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT)

Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) has been investigated as a potential treatment for various conditions affecting the foot and ankle. While its effectiveness may vary for different individuals and conditions, some of the foot and ankle conditions that LLLT has been studied for include:
Plantar Fasciitis

This is a common condition characterised by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. LLLT may help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the affected area.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy involves pain, inflammation, and degeneration of the Achilles tendon. LLLT might assist in improving tendon healing and reducing pain.

Ankle Sprains

LLLT could potentially accelerate the healing process of ligaments and tissues involved in ankle sprains.

Arthritis

Both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can affect the joints of the foot and ankle. LLLT might be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with these conditions.

Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy, which can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in the feet, might be managed using LLLT to potentially improve nerve function.

Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome

This condition is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome but affects the tibial nerve in the ankle. LLLT may play a role in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.

Post-Surgical Recovery

After foot or ankle surgery, LLLT might be used to aid in the healing process, reduce pain, and improve mobility.

Before undergoing any treatment, including LLLT, individuals should consult with their podiatrist to determine the most appropriate course of action based on their specific condition and medical history.
Advanced Podiatry Team

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Diagnostic Ultrasound

Advanced Podiatry utilises a diagnostic ultrasound, which is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the internal structures of the human body. Our podiatrists, that specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of foot and ankle conditions, can use our onsite ultrasound to visualise various structures within the foot. This is a valuable tool at Advanced Podiatry as it allows for real-time assessment of soft tissues and certain joint structures.

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Here are some of the things our podiatrists can see with an ultrasound in the foot

Soft Tissues

Ultrasound can provide detailed images of muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues within the foot. This is particularly useful for evaluating conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, and forefoot pathology.

Tendons and Tendon Pathology

Ultrasound can help assess the health of tendons, detect inflammation, tears, and degeneration. Common tendons of interest in the foot include the Achilles tendon, posterior tibial tendon, and peroneal tendons.

Joint Spaces

Ultrasound can visualise joint spaces and synovial fluid. It can be used to assess conditions like synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining) or effusion (excess fluid within a joint).

Cysts and Masses

Ultrasound can identify cysts, soft tissue masses, and other abnormalities. This is helpful in diagnosing conditions such as ganglion cysts or soft tissue tumors.

Nerves

Ultrasound can visualise nerves and help identify nerve compression or entrapment, which can contribute to conditions like Morton's neuroma.

Foreign Bodies

Ultrasound can aid in locating and assessing foreign objects that may be embedded in the foot.

Bursae

Ultrasound can help visualise bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that cushion and reduce friction between tissues, helping to diagnose conditions like bursitis.

It’s important to note that while ultrasound is a useful imaging tool for many podiatric conditions, it may not be suitable for all situations. Depending on the specific clinical scenario, other imaging modalities such as X-rays, MRI, or CT scans may also be employed by our podiatrists to provide a comprehensive assessment and accurate diagnosis.
Advanced Podiatry

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Radial shockwave therapy

Podiatry
Radial shockwave therapy is a non-invasive medical treatment that uses high-energy shockwaves to stimulate healing and regeneration in various musculoskeletal conditions.

The technology behind this therapy is based on the principles of acoustic waves, which are mechanical pressure pulses that propagate through a medium, such as tissue in the human body. In radial shockwave therapy, a device generates these shockwaves and delivers them to the affected area of the body through a handheld applicator. The waves are focused on the target tissue, where they create microtrauma, promoting blood flow and increasing the release of growth factors and healing agents.

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Radial shockwave therapy is commonly used to treat conditions such as:

Plantar fasciitis

A condition that causes pain in the heel and bottom of the foot due to inflammation of the plantar fascia.

Achilles tendinopathy

A condition that involves degeneration and pain in the Achilles tendon

Patellar tendinopathy (jumper′s knee)

A condition that results in pain and dysfunction in the patellar tendon, located below the kneecap.

Myofascial trigger points

Localised areas of muscle tightness and discomfort.

Heel Spurs

Heel spurs are bony growths that can develop on the bottom of the heel bone, often associated with plantar fasciitis. Shockwave therapy may help reduce pain and inflammation associated with heel spurs.

Morton's Neuroma

This is a painful condition that affects the nerves between the toes, typically between the third and fourth toes. Shockwave therapy might provide relief by reducing nerve irritation.

Chronic Foot and Ankle Pain

Shockwave therapy can be considered for chronic pain that hasn't responded well to other treatments, including conditions like tendinopathies, fasciopathies, and other soft tissue injuries.

The therapy is usually administered in a series of sessions, typically once a week for several weeks and each session lasts around 30-40 minutes. Our podiatrists are highly trained in the use of shockwave therapy and can help determine if this therapy is appropriate for your specific condition and medical history.

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry

Get In Touch With Our Friendly Team

Advanced Family & Sports Podiatry, located at 37/39 Pioneer Road, Albany, is a modern, well equipped and professionally managed podiatry practice servicing the Albany community.
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