TAKING STEPS TOWARDS HEALTHIER FEET

We were pleased to welcome Steve Kriss MPhil FC Pod(S), consultant Podiatric Surgeon, Battle Hospital, Reading, as guest speaker at our AGM. He gave a very informative and interesting talk which is summarised as follows:

Scleroderma patients have many foot problems and care should be taken to keep feet warm, moisturise daily and to inspect them regularly. General footcare is very important and simple measure can be taken to minimise some of the problems that can occur.

Shoes - These should be lace up with a moulded rubber sole and one piece leather upper. Most importantly they should be comfortable. It is sensible to buy shoes at the end of the day when your feet have swollen. Alternate shoes daily to prevent fungal infection.

Nail Care - Cut nails straight across (not around the side of the nail) to prevent ingrowing toenails. Cut nails after a bath when the nail is soft. Nails that are discoloured, thickened or brittle could be so as a result of fungal infection which can be treated.

Hard Skin (Calluses) - This develops as a result of pressure and can be helped by orthoses (insoles). If you have calluses or corns it is very important to keep returning to your Podiatrist for treatment as they can lead to ulceration.

Ulcers - Treat ulcers with respect and apply antiseptic dressing and gauze. Seek medical help as ulcers will not heal on their own.

Orthoses (Insoles) - These are designed to cushion and support the foot. It is vital that they are made to measure by a professional - never fit your own. Ensure that they are soft, never buy hard or metal insoles.

Stockings and Socks - Preferably natural fibres. Two layers will give more warmth than one so try wearing two thin layers instead of one thick.

Bathing -Do not immerse feet in hot water.
Footbaths are not necessary, whirlpools shouldn’t be used.
Don’t add salts or caustic soda to the bath
Dry in-between toes carefully
Allow air to circulate between toes
Talcum powder is not advisable as it can lead to irritation in the spaces between the toes
Refrain from using a hot air dryer

Common Foot Problems - heel pain , bunions, various forms of arthritis, trapped nerves (Neurones). Corrective surgery is viable in some people with Scleroderma and can be carried out by podiatric surgeons under local anaesthetic.

Steve Kriss is the author of the Society’s new leaflet ‘Scleroderma and the Foot’.