The Doppler Assessment

The Doppler Assessment

10, 09, 23

Brand-new treatment at Active Life Podiatry

Always on the frontline of innovation, the team at Active Life Podiatry are pleased to offer vascular assessments, part of which involves using the latest ultrasound Doppler equipment alongside their extensive list of lower limb specialist treatments.

This blog explains what the assessment is, how it works and who may benefit..

Why do Podiatrists use Doppler?

To assist in measuring blood flow to the foot and ankle, which might be compromised – a condition called Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD).

What does ultrasound Doppler do?

The Doppler effect or Doppler shift is the apparent change in frequency of a wave in relation to an observer moving relative to the wave source. It was discovered by Christian Johann Doppler.

A Doppler ultrasound is a noninvasive test that is used to accurately measure the blood flow through your blood vessels (arteries) by bouncing high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) off circulating red blood cells.

Why did you decide to introduce the treatment at Active Life Podiatry?

We have been using a simple ultrasound Doppler for some time – but new technology means we can now visualise the readings and also assess blood flow to the toes – not just the foot.

How long does a Doppler assessment take?

We advise that this should be done as a stand-alone appointment which takes 20 minutes.

Is the procedure painful?

This treatment isn’t painful, although you may feel a momentary pressure around your arm and ankle when the cuff is pressurised.

What does it mean if a Doppler test is positive?

A test is not as simple as positive or negative – but if your blood flow is reduced then we will inform you and if necessary, advise your GP who will then take appropriate action and treatment.

Who should have this assessment?

The Doppler assessment is advised for those patients who have diseases or conditions which may affect blood flow. People with diabetes or patients that smoke, or don’t not take frequent exercise, or if you have had recent trauma to the leg/s may be at risk of PAD. Warning signs are cold, clammy feet, swelling of the feet/ankles, unhealing sores or wounds.

If any of the above apply to you or, if in doubt please contact us or ask us during your routine appointment.

Book your Doppler assessment as a standalone treatment or an add-on to your routine appointment by calling our team on 020 7381 6682

 

View our services or head over to the booking page to book your appointment today.

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We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life
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Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

01, 08, 23

Chiropody vs Podiatry: The Modern Foot Care Specialist

When it comes to foot and lower limb treatment podiatry and chiropody are often used interchangeably. 

Chiropody originates from the Greek words “chiro” (meaning hand) and “pod” (meaning foot), emphasizing the manual aspect of foot care. 

The term “Podiatry” originates from “pod” (meaning hand) and “iatros”, which means “physician” in Greek. The change reflects the evolution of the podiatric profession as a recognised branch of modern medicine.

These two branches of medicine have virtually no differences in terms of education, scope of practice, and professional classifications. In this blog, we delve into the differences between podiatry and chiropody, the history and their roles in promoting foot health and overall well-being.

Podiatry is a medical profession focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of foot, ankle, and lower limb disorders. Podiatrists are extensively trained medical practitioners. Their comprehensive education covers both general medicine and specialised knowledge in podiatric medicine.

Reason for the change

The term chiropody has been traditionally used in the UK, and the term podiatry is recognised and used more internationally.

The UK adopted the term podiatry circa 2000 and it’s been used as the primary term ever since. 

Whilst there is still a use of both names, chiropodists are becoming more frequently referred to as podiatrists.

Scope of practice

Both podiatrists and chiropodists are highly trained medical professionals with extensive knowledge in podiatric medicine, allowing them to diagnose and treat a wide array of foot and ankle conditions, including complex surgical procedures.

They also carry out more basic foot care, such as routine nail trimming, callus removal, and general foot health advice.

Changing roles

As the world of modern technology has evolved, so has a podiatrist’s role. Skilled podiatrists are able to diagnose and carry out complex foot procedures and some surgeries, as well as musculoskeletal treatments and analysis.

What does a podiatrist do?

  • Podiatrists prevent, diagnose and treat feet and lower limb issues. At Active Life Podiatry our highly skilled team offer a range of services including:

    Routine Podiatry 

    • Ingrown or infected toenails
    • Fungal infections 
    • Involuted nails
    • Damaged nails 
    • Callus removal 
    • Verruca removal 
    • Painful corns 
    • Minor foot surgery

      Biomechanics and injury 

      • Biomechanical assessment 
      • Gait analysis 
      • Laser therapy 
      • Dry needling 
      • Acupuncture 
      • Injection therapy 
      • Foot and ankle mobilisation 

      Children’s Podiatry 

      • Ingrown or infected toenails
      • Fungal infections 
      • Involuted nails
      • Damaged nails 
      • Callus removal 
      • Verruca removal 
      • Painful corns 
      • Minor foot surgery 

      Children’s Injury Clinic 

      • Children’s biomechanical assessment 
      • Children’s mobility 
      • Developmental issues 
      • Children’s foot checks

        Orthoses

        We design and produce tailor-made orthosis or orthoses (such as insoles or shoe inserts) to support the foot, realign the feet, and correct gait problems or imbalance, as well as other walking or running pattern issues.

        Our orthotics are made in house for adults and children.

        To see a full list of our services, discover our price list or book your appointment with our expert team today. 

        So what’s the difference?

        In short – none! Both professions share a commitment to foot health and regardless of the title, seeking regular foot care from a qualified specialist is essential in maintaining healthy, happy feet.



To see a full list of our services, discover our price list or book your appointment with our expert team today. 

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We are here to help you to #TakeSteps

  • To an active recovery following injury
  • To active, healthy feet for your family
  • To a personal best
  • To an Active Life
Book now

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

16, 04, 23

#WalkThisMay for National Walking Month

Now the evenings are a little lighter and the days a little longer, it’s the perfect time to get outside and in nature for a walk. 

Walking is not only great for your overall health, but did you know it’s also great for your foot health?

Here’s just a few reasons why:

  • It strengthens the bones and muscles in your feet and ankles 
  • It supports and increases flexibility in your muscles, tendons and ligaments 
  • It gets the blood pumping around your body, helping oxygen flow and increasing your circulation 
  • Oddly enough, walking can actually reduce swelling in the lower limbs (although please do check with your Podiatrist first) 
  • It’s great for a lower limb workout. Walking activates your calves, glutes, hamstrings and quads
  • If you suffer with gout, walking can help reduce pain caused by uric acid build up
  • Regular walking helps maintain a healthy weight and relieves stress on your lower limbs 

How to make the most out of your walks:

  • Make sure you wear comfortable, supportive shoes. Don’t forget, we make our orthotics on site so can tailor your shoes to your specific needs and return them quicker than most places 
  • Pain when walking is not normal – if this is happening to you, please get in touch with our team and we can help
  • If you’re taking part in a sponsored walk for charity as part of National Walking Month, let us know! Active Life will sponsor our patients £10 to help you on your way. 
  • So many of us are deficient in Vitamin D, so walking in daylight will help your natural exposure. Go get your daily dose! 

 Don’t forget to tag us on your walks @activelifepodiatry using #WalkThisMay 

If you’re in pain, don’t wait. Get in touch and we’ll get you back to an active life. 



 

Experts in movement and the treatment of foot pain and problems, Active Life Podiatry will get you back on your feet again.

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#TakeSteps to look after your feet

Active Life have invested in high-tech specialist equipment and combined with their expert knowledge and technology can provide useful advice on your personal running style and how to improve.
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