Skin Conditions
Foot and Lower Limb Skin Conditions
At Flo Paul Podiatry we treat many skin conditions affecting your feet and lower limbs. The conditions listed below are the most commonly seen and treated.
Please consult us for any undiagnosed foot pain or concern.
Skin Conditions Treated Include:
Corns and callus
Cracked heels & dry skin
Verrucas
Skin infections
Blisters
Eczema and Psoriasis
Splinters & foreign bodies
Ulcers and wounds
Chilblains
General foot health care
Please scroll down for detailed information and guidance on which appointment to book.
Corns & Calluses
Corns and Calluses can can cause discomfort and if left untreated prevent people continuing with exercise. Podiatrists will determine the cause of the pressure which causes corns and callus. We can then advise on footwear, insoles, emollients and home care. In addition regular podiatry treatment removing hard skin will return the skin to normal enabling people to walk pain free.
They appear as thick or hard areas of skin and are often caused by repeat friction, rubbing or pressure on your feet and toes.
Please book a Podiatrist initial consultation and treatment appointment or for subsequent visits a podiatrist treatment .
Cracked Heels
Cracked heels, also known heel fissures, occur when the bottom and heels of your feet become dry, thick and hard and start to split. The splits can be shallow or deep and the skin of the heel may also become yellow in colour. Although cracked heels are typically mild, in some cases they can lead to pain, discomfort and can also bleed.
Cracked heels are caused by dry skin, standing for extended periods of time, wearing open back shoes or sandals or going bare foot can make conditions worse. Cold weather, hot showers, and not moisturising your feet can also lead to dryness. Sometimes medical conditions such as diabetes or eczema make people more susceptible to cracked heels.
Please book a Podiatrist initial consultation and treatment appointment or for subsequent visits a podiatrist treatment .
Skin Infections
Skin infections of the feet are common conditions that can affect people of all ages. They range from mild irritations to more serious infections and are often caused by bacteria, fungi, or viruses. The warm, moist environment of the feet, especially when enclosed in shoes for long periods, provides an ideal breeding ground.
Common skin infections seen by podiatrists include but not limited to:-
- Fungal infections such as athlete’s foot.
- Bacterial infections such as cellulitis from cuts or bites.
- Cracks, or blisters that become infected
- Viral infections like verrucae and warts.
Poor hygiene, sweaty feet, or compromised immune systems can increase risk.
Please see the section on Splinters and Foreign Bodies if you suspect this to be the cause of an infection.
Signs to look out for if you suspect you have a Skin infection can include redness, swelling, warm to the touch, pain and discomfort and any signs of pus and an odour. In some cases you may also feel unwell and develop a fever.
Blisters
Blisters on the feet are small fluid-filled pockets that form on the skin, typically caused by friction. They often develop from wearing ill-fitting shoes, walking or running for long periods, or wearing socks that do not protect the skin properly.
Symptoms include pain, redness, and a raised bubble filled with clear fluid.
Immediate home treatment include:
- Protecting the blister with a clean dressing.
- Avoiding further irritation.
- Keeping the area clean and dry.
In most cases, blisters heal on their own, but if one becomes painful, swollen, or shows signs of infection, medical attention may be needed.
Please book a Podiatrist initial consultation and treatment appointment or for subsequent visits a podiatrist treatment . However, if you have a new/painful wound an Emergency appointment would be appropriate.
Eczema, Psoriasis and Skin Rashes
Eczema, psoriasis, and skin rashes on the feet are common dermatological conditions that can cause significant discomfort.
Eczema often results from allergens, irritants, or genetics and presents with dry, itchy, inflamed skin.
Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder causing thick, scaly patches, often triggered by stress, infections, or certain medications.
General skin rashes on the feet may arise from fungal infections (like athlete’s foot), contact dermatitis or other dermatological conditions.
Please contact us if you are suffering with a skin rash, as our podiatrists are continually refreshing their knowledge.
Splinters & Foreign Bodies
Splinters and foreign bodies in the feet occur when small objects like wood, glass, animal hair or metal shard penetrate the skin, often due to walking barefoot or stepping on sharp debris.
Common symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, and a visible or palpable object under the skin. If not properly removed, they can lead to infection.
Home treatment includes:
- Cleaning the area.
- Using sterilized tweezers or a needle to remove the object.
- Applying antiseptic.
In some cases, medical help may be needed, especially if the object is deeply embedded, not visible, or signs of infection (pus, increased redness, warmth) appear. Tetanus shots may be necessary for certain injuries.
Podiatrist will thoroughly cleanse the area, then use a sharp blade to extract the object and finally apply a sterile dressing.
Please book a Podiatrist initial consultation and treatment appointment or for subsequent visits a podiatrist treatment . However, if you have a new/painful wound an Emergency appointment would be appropriate.
Ulcers & Wounds
Ulcers and wounds on the feet are open sores or injuries that can result from trauma, poor circulation, diabetes (systemic diseases), or prolonged pressure, especially in individuals with reduced sensation or mobility.
Symptoms often include pain (or numbness), redness, swelling, drainage, and slow healing. Infected wounds may show pus or a foul odour.
Early treatment is crucial to prevent complications like infection or tissue damage.
Please book a Podiatrist initial consultation and treatment appointment or for subsequent visits a podiatrist treatment . However, if you have a new/painful wound an Emergency appointment would be appropriate.
Chilblains
Chilblains are small, itchy, and painful swellings on the skin caused by prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. They occur when the skin is suddenly warmed after being cold, leading to inflammation of small blood vessels.
Treatment options include:
- Gently warming the affected area.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes.
- Keep your feet warm and dry.
- Wear appropriate clothing in cold weather to help prevent chilblains
Severe or persistent cases may require podiatric attention.
General Foot Care Advice:
Maintaining good foot skin health is essential for overall comfort, mobility, and preventing infections. The feet are often exposed to moisture, friction, and pressure, making them prone to conditions like dryness, cracking, fungal infections, and calluses.
Regular foot hygiene, including daily washing, thorough drying, and moisturising, helps keep the skin soft and intact.
Wearing breathable, well-fitting shoes and clean socks also supports healthy skin.
It's important to inspect feet regularly for cuts, blisters, or signs of infection, especially for individuals with diabetes or poor circulation. Prompt care and protective measures can help preserve healthy, resilient skin on the feet.
If you would like further advice please contact us to book an appointment.
