podiatrist

Heel Pain in Children

Custom orthotics for severs disease
Custom orthotics for severs disease 600 400 Ace Health Centre

Custom orthotics for severs disease

Custom orthotics are widly used for severs disease. If done right they can have a great effect in help reduce pain in in childrens feet, alowing them to continue doing exercise and walking with less if not no pain.

Severs disease is growing pains in the heel of kids feet. It mostly occurs in in children aged 9-13. Although they will eventually grow out of it, it can be debilitating at times. The pain can make children avoid speding time on their feet, doing sport and activities. Keeping chrildren active, moving and therefore happy is the main objective. Nobody in pain and avoiding the activies they love is happy.

Orthotic prescription

When prescribing orthotics for sever there a a few things that we aim todo.

  1. To start, we are aiming to take pressure away from the heel area. This is done by providing adequate arch support. The more weight we can redistrobute away from the heel the less pain that they will experience.
  2. The next is providing extra cushiong. Hard floors and vibrating increase pain, and so adding extra lawyers of cushing can reduce pain.
  3. Adding a heel lift helps reduce pull of the achillies on the heel. This is done via footwear that have a heel pitch built in. The orthotics under the heel also add a slight heel lift to reduce pain.
  4. Pronation can cause strain on the heel. The foot rolling inward causes the calf muslce to pull on the heel bone. The orthotics can be used to reduce pronations to help reduce pain.
  5. Soft top covers on the orthotics can help further add cushioning.

We commonly use Custom orthotics for severs and found them much more effective than off the shelf ones. This is due to the range of customisation we have to aim the orthotics at the child at hand. Having the right support, the right arch height, the right amount of chsioning to maximises the effects of the orthotics. They are also much more durable than over the counter products.

If your child is experiencing heel pain then give us a call today to see how custom orthotics can help them.

 

Blog written by Mike, Podiatrist

Custom orthotics for hypermobility

Custom orthotics for hypermobility
Custom orthotics for hypermobility 804 750 Ace Health Centre

Custom orthotics for hypermobility

Custom orthotics are widely used for symptomatic hypermobility. This occurs in adults and children. Hypermobility is widely genetic. Passed down from parents to children. There are also other types of hypermobilty which are genetic abnormalities such as marfams, or Ehlers danlos syndrome.

Joint range of motion

Joint have a range of motion that is whithin normal limits. Hypermobilty is when these joints move much further than they should do. For example. The big toe joint is meant to have aprox 45 degess for walking and up to around 60 degress. More than 90 degress is considered abnormal and hypermobile. The are a few different tests that you can do in order to see how flexable you really are. The main tests are done under the beightons scale for hypermobility.

Here are examples of a few test that are used in order to diagnose your level of hypermobiltiy.

  • Bend forward and place your hands flat on the floor without bending your knees.
  • Straighten your elbows past a neutral position (hyperextend) (one point for each elbow).
  • Straighten your knees past a neutral position (hyperextend) (one point for each knee).
  • Bend your pinky (little) fingers back beyond 90 degrees (one point for each finger).
  • Bend your thumbs back to touch your forearms (one point for each thumb).

The Orthotics

The orthotics that this client has been made for has been suffering from aching legs, feet, knees and loweer back. When a joint it hypermobile it becomes very unstable. This instubility requires your muscles to work overtime in order stablise the joint. This results in fatique and aching.

Custom orthotics are commonly used for hypermobilty to help stabalise the feet which can help in reduceing overuse. This in turns helps reduce the aching and fatique.The orthotics are only as good as the shoes that they are put into. This is why it is important for the podiatrist to give footwear recomendations that are suitable to put the orthotics into.

If you think that you are hypermobile and experience aching feet or legs then book in with our podiatrist today.

 

Blog written by Mike, Podiatrist

What's custom about your custom orthotics?

What’s custom about your custom orthotics?
What’s custom about your custom orthotics? 1920 1001 Ace Health Centre

What’s custom about your custom orthotics?

Many people receive their custom orthotics thinking that they looks like something they could have just purchased for a lot less from the chemist. This is defiantly not the case. The same as glasses from the chest look the same as glasses from the options but both are very different. Each sense is made to each eye, just like orthotics are designed for each foot. Each glass frame is tailored to each persons use for example reading glasses will be different to sports glasses. Orthotics are the same, each is tailored to the activity you want to use them for and the shoes they are going into. If they were that simple podiatrists wouldn’t spend 4 years learning how to to prescribe them.

We thought we would just name a few things that we can tailor but remember that this is only a shorted list of everything that can be done.

The arch height

This is an obvious one. The arch height is tailored to your feet. Depending how much the podiatrists wants your foot to move and how much pressure they want to redistribute to other parts of your foot. This can be based on your injury, your foot flexibility, the shoes that you wear and more.

Custom widths

The widths of the orthotics heel and forefoot will help control your foot. Your foot needs to sit in the heel of your orthotics to  help guide it. If it is too small it will dig into your foot. if its too large you’re foot will roll around on it. We also need to keep in mid of fitting it into the shoe. Too wide and it won’t fit. Your foots width change from non weight bearing to weight bearing. The podiatrist needs to work out how much and what shoe it will go into to decide the widths.

Custom angles

Podiatrists can chose what angles we put your foot at. This means the heel or foot forefoot angle can be tailored. So if your foot collapses inwards an angle is put on to roll it outwards, and if your foot rolls outward an angle may be put on to make it roll inwards. These angle are dependant on your injury, flexibility, structure of your lower limb and more.

Extra padding

If you need extra padding in places the podiatrist can decide where it needs it and what material to use. Usually if something is so you will need padding around the area and not under the area. This is to take pressure away from the sore area. There are lots of different ways todo this and lots of different materials that have different properties to decide from

The material

Orthotics can be made from many different materials. EVA in many different densities, carbon fibre, pa12 nylon, pa11 nylon, poly propylene to name just a few. Each material has different properties and can be altered in many different ways. Podiatrists need to know what to use and when.

The thickness / flexibility

This is one of the most important factors when prescribing orthotics. The thickness of the orthotic will be one of the main properties to determine how flexible the orthotic is. Thing that will factor into this is the persons weight, flexibility, foot arch height, extra additions on the orthotics that affect the flex, the injury, the severity of the injury, the activity its being used for and more. This is usually changed in increments of 0.1mm

These are just the basic points of what can be done to customise your orthotics. The is a lot more you can do to change the design. Most designing is not done via 3d cad cam engineering software. Orthotics are then 3D printed using machines that cost upwards of $700k. These machines have a high accuracy and product a stable, durable product. Cheaper 3D printers do not yet have a material that can produce a product with the same strength and flex charactoristics.

 

If you want to get some new orthotics or have any other questions please contact us today on 0755726222 or book online.

Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running

Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running
Top 5 things to consider BEFORE you start running 1000 667 Ace Health Centre

This year, Ace Health Centre has entered a team for the Gold Coast Marathon. The Gold Coast Marathon weekend is July 6-7 and includes a range of distances for all ages and abilities!

For the kids, there are two races- a 2km and a 4km dash. For the big kids, there are the Gold Coast Airport fun run (5.7km), Southern Cross University Run (10km), Asics Half Marathon (21.1km) and the Gold Coast Marathon (42.2km). Ace Health Centre has a number of entrants in the Asics Half Marathon as well as two runners who are attempting their first ever Marathon,

There are lots of things to consider when you are planning your next (or your first) running event of any length! It is all well and good to have a goal in mind, but you need time to physically prepare your body and your mind for what you will endure on race day.

With the Gold Coast Marathon fast approaching maybe some of you are slowly but surely starting to panic because of the lack of training or because they haven’t trained at all. Something our head physio knows a thing or two about as well!

Scrambling to maximize her preparation time, Amelia compiled a list of things she really needs to get in check BEFORE starting her GC Marathon training program to maximize her chances to cross that finish line on July 7.

Small but crucial little details such as the right footwear, weather or mood, made it into her list. Despite her knowledge as a physiotherapist, Amelia found out the hard way and made mistakes you can avoid!

Here are Amelia’s top 5 things to consider before running. Read them, learn them and never forget them

 

1. ARE YOUR SHOES THE RIGHT SHOES FOR YOU?

Podiatrist are experts in all things feet! Before you start any kind of new exercise, be sure to make an appointment with a podiatrist.

They will:

– assess your gait

– evaluate your current footwear

– recommend the perfect shoes for you

– suggest where to buy the right shoes (we can’t rate anyone higher than Athlete’s Foot Pacific Fair)

– discuss the need for orthotics if required

– flag any biomechanical issues that may require further intervention from a physiotherapist, exercise physiologist, remedial massage therapist or strength and conditioning coach.

 

2. ARE YOU STRONG AND FIT ENOUGH TO START RUNNING?

Over the years, running has developed a bit of a reputation for injuries. However, most running injuries occur due to overuse. If you continue to run on structures that are not strong enough to take the excessive force that running can cause, you are an injury waiting to happen! Get into the gym and build up some baseline strength and fitness before you attempt to tackle running. If you are clueless on where to start, see a physiotherapist for an assessment and to run a specific strength program.

 

3. HAVE YOU CHECKED THE WEATHER?

If you want to reduce your risk of injury when running, be sure to not only listen to what the weatherman has to say but also take a look outside on the day. Too hot? Wait till the afternoon to cool down a little. Too rainy? We live in Queensland- it won’t last long. Running in excessive heat is not recommended, especially for novice runners. Save yourself the pain and the risk of heat stroke, and wait for more suitable weather before you take on a run. Running in the rain can create slippery surfaces and puddles- both of which can lead to a fall or trip.

 

4. ARE YOU FUELING YOUR BODY FOR RUNNING?

We recommend that EVERYONE spends some time with a dietician to create an ideal eating plan for you. Consuming the right food can provide you with the fuel required for all activities, running included. As you then increase your running distances, a sports dietician can teach you more about substrate usage and when gels and fluids may improve your performance.

 

5. HAVE YOU GOT A PROGRESSIVE PROGRAMME IN PLACE?

Sure you could just run 10km every day from now until the day of the race, but there are far more superior training programs out there. Your training program should allow for enough time for the goal event (hurry up;) ), and should gradually increase work volume. There will be periods of scheduled rest and cross training to reduce the chance of overuse injuries, and it should be malleable, should injuries arise. A physiotherapist, running coach or decent podiatrist should be able to help you out with a comprehensive training program.

If you haven’t started your marathon training, then you have to start now! Amelia’s tips will help you to get the most out of a very short timeline. Who says there are no shortcuts to success?

Podiatry Bulk billing explained - ACE Health Centre

Podiatry Bulk Billing explained
Podiatry Bulk Billing explained 1000 667 Ace Health Centre

First of all, we believe that great treatment shouldn’t matter on the type of insurance cover you have or the amount of money that’s sitting in your account. At ACE Health Centre, we provide excellent podiatry services for everyone – bulk billed or not.

 

What is Bulk Billing?

To be able to Bulk Bill you must have an EPC or TCA care plan from your doctor. There is a range of assessments your doctor will need to perform to see if you qualify for bulk-billed podiatry. But if you do, your GP can provide you with up to 5 visits per year for podiatry needs.

 

What do I get out of Bulk billed podiatry visits at ACE?

Think of it as a free trial at the gym. Our sessions work pretty similarly. You’ll get a chance to see our Podiatrists, either at Clear Island Waters or Nerang for a 30-minute visit under the Medicare, Bulk Billed Podiatry care plan.

Yes, you read right! Only at ACE will you get 30min instead of 20min consults to ensure you’ll be well taken care of. Even though Medicare only pays for 20-minute podiatry sessions, we believe that the 10 minutes on top of that will make all the difference to make sure we have enough time with each patient and assess and diagnose without having to rush through things.

 

Where can I get Bulk Billed Podiatry treatments?

Our podiatrists work at our main clinic in Clear Island Waters (close to Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach, and Carrara). Alternatively, you can see Mike Luker, our head podiatrist, at Nerang (close to Gold Coast hinterland and Mudgeeraba), so regardless where you live on the Gold Coast, there’s always an ACE clinic nearby.

 

What Podiatry treatments and services can be bulk-billed?

 

Our Podiatrists at Clear Island Waters specialize in

  • Gym for strength and rehab
  • Gait analysis
  • Diabetic assessment
  • Custom orthotics
  • Verruca and wart treatment
  • Corns and callous treatment
  • Ingrown toenail surgery and more

Although a little smaller in size, our Podiatry clinic in Nerang can assist with

  • Custom orthotics
  • Verruca and wart treatment
  • Corns and callous treatment
  • Diabetic assessment
  • Ingrown toenail surgery and more

 

Get in touch with us to find out if you qualify for Bulk Billing and / or to book an appointment with one of our podiatrists at ACE Health Centre, Clear Island Waters or Nerang.

ACE dry needling treatment

Dry needling?! Don’t be scared.
Dry needling?! Don’t be scared. 1000 667 Ace Health Centre

Most people would run for the hills when they hear the word needle and even more so when those needles are about to enter their skin. Most experiences that require the use of tiny, sharp metal sticks are usually not pleasant ones. Unless we’re talking about dry needling at ACE Health Centre!

Dry needling, also known as myofascial trigger point treatment, is the next big thing, used around the world when it comes to pain management and pain reduction. If that sounds all a little too scientific for you then read on! Our head podiatrist, Mike Luker took the time to write down a few notes for our patients to explain what dry needling is and what it does for those who experience some form or arches and pains in their body.

What is it Dry needling?

Dry needling is the process of inserting a thin filament needle into the muscle trigger points, tendons, fascia, ligaments, etc. This helps in stimulating the healing process of the soft tissue. It, therefore, results in pain relief and a reduction in muscle tension.

Is it painful?

No, it isn’t painful. Yes, the needles are inserted in the skin, but the needles are so thin that it’s usually a pretty gentle and pleasant kind of treatment. Some people might feel a brief local twitch response or mild pain sensation such as tingling, cramping or cramping sensation but compare to those needles at the dentist or doctor, it’s a walk in the park.

Dry needling VS Acupuncture

Dry needling is often associated with acupuncture as both use the needles to speed up the healing process. However, it can be well differentiated from acupuncture based on objectives and the philosophy behind both. Unlike acupuncture, which uses the Chinese points of insertion, dry needling uses trigger points to decide points of insertion.

What are the benefits?

Dry needling is beneficial for relieving a variety of musculoskeletal problems including:

  • Acute injuries
  • Chronic injuries
  • Muscle spasms
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Plantar Fasciitis
  • Shin splints
  • Ball of foot pain
  • Calf pain
  • Tendinitis
  • Hip pain
  • Knee pain
  • Sciatica

Research has therefore shown that the use of needles can improve pain control, electrical and biochemical dysfunction of motor endplates and reducing muscle tension.

Consult a podiatrist at ACE Health Centre to discuss your condition and see if the treatment is for you.

A podiatrist is much more than just a foot doctor

A Podiatrist is much more than just a foot expert
A Podiatrist is much more than just a foot expert 926 639 Ace Health Centre

Not many people know that, but a Podiatrist doesn’t just treat injuries relating the feet. They are experts in their field and can diagnose, treat and manage injuries. These can be injuries concerning the feet, knees, hips and even the lower back.

What does a podiatrist treat?

On average, 1 in 6 people living on the Gold Coast has experienced foot complications in some form in their lives. A number all but surprising, considering the fact that people are up on their feet, putting all of their body weight through the soles of their feet most of the day.

Getting your feet and lower limbs checked regularly by a podiatrist can help to discover any predisposing factors.  This may help prevent much unnecessary pain and problems.

Podiatry practice is a discipline of medicine that’s obtaining recognition from people who are going through lower limb injuries. These injuries can be around the feet, the knee hip, and lower back.

Why are healthy feet and ankles so important?

People generally forget about taking care of their ankles and feet. Even though they hold by far, the most burdens of the human body. Day in Day out, they keep us balanced, absorb the vibration, and provide propulsion to allow us to move.

As you start to age people discover that their feet exhibit complications as a result of deterioration of extended years of use. Complications such as arthritis, reduced blood flow, damaged nerves may develop. With the aid of a podiatrist, they can study the cause of the problem, diagnose, and then suggest treatment strategies.

Podiatrists are experts in their respective fields

Becoming a podiatrist isn’t easy. It is an exclusive practice that necessitates the podiatry student to pass through 4 years of difficult university exams and 1000 hours of practical work.

At first sight, people believe that the feet are simply a basic portion of the human body. However, if we provide distinctive attention to how many bones, nerve fibers, connecting tissues, and joints located in the feet and ankles, and the stress that they go through, we’ll value and understand the importance of taking care of our feet.

Happy feet is the key to a happy life so make sure you get yours checked regularly by an experienced podiatrist in your area.

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