The shockwaves are abrupt, high-amplitude pulses of mechanical energy, similar to sound waves, generated by an electromagnetic coil. Similar technology using focused higher energies is used to break up kidney and gallstones, and is termed lithotripsy. “Extracorporeal” means that the shockwaves are generated externally to the body and transmitted from a pad through the skin. Shockwave therapy is thought to work by inducing microtrauma to the tissue that is injured. This microtrauma initiates a healing response by the body. This healing response causes blood vessel formation and increases the d ..read more

Verruca plantaris, or plantar warts, is a viral infection caused by the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The most common causes of transmission of plantar warts are due to barefoot walking in high-risk areas such as communal showers, locker rooms, and/or indoor swimming pools. Plantar warts typically present as small calloused areas with circular black dots on the surface of your skin. These black dots represent the capillaries or blood source supplying the wart underneath your skin. Prevention: Some simple things you can do to reduce your risk of getting plantar warts is to wear shower shoes or ..read more

Cold Laser Treatment is a game changer. It's safe, effective, and, most importantly, painless. This advanced approach utilizes low-level lasers to target and eliminate toenail fungus, offering patients a sigh of relief. No more hiding toenails or worrying about spreading the infection to loved ones. As podiatrists, we now have a powerful tool to provide our patients in the Mackay region with a real solution to fungal toenail infections. Cold Laser treatment is the most effective and advanced method available, ensuring a quicker and more successful recovery. By offering this cutting-edge treat ..read more

An ankle sprain is one of the most common injuries. It is a stretching or tearing of ligaments — the tough bands of fibrous tissue that connect two bones together in your joints. The most common location for a sprain is in your ankle. Initial treatment includes rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Mild sprains can be successfully treated at home. Severe sprains sometimes require surgery to repair torn ligaments. Signs and symptoms of a sprained ankle vary depending on the severity of the injury. They may include: Pain, especially when you bear weight on the affected foot Tenderness ..read more

Those of you who have been in to see us for a foot problem know how disruptive a foot problem can be to our daily lives. Let's all make a few resolutions for the health of our feet in 2024. In today’s article, we share easy and simple ways that you can put your feet and ankles first in the new year. If you want to increase your likelihood of having strong and healthy feet this year, consider doing these five things for your foot health in 2024. 1. Exercise More – While it’s true that exercise will place more strain on your feet, it’s important to remember that your body and its structur ..read more

Soothing Young Soles: Understanding Growing Pains vs Foot Problems Distinguishing growing pains from potential foot problems is crucial for children's well-being. Let's navigate the differences and ensure their comfort and health. Growing Pains: Growing pains typically manifest as mild, intermittent discomfort in the muscles, often in the legs or calves. They're more likely to occur in the evening or at night, and they're not usually localized to a specific area. Growing pains don't lead to limping or difficulty walking. They are often associated with growth spurts and tend to subside on th ..read more

Today, we delve into a topic that affects many active individuals – the relationship between exercise, physical activity, and heel pain. As foot health experts, we understand the importance of staying active while taking care of your feet to prevent and manage heel pain. Regular exercise is beneficial for overall health, but certain activities can put a strain on the feet and lead to heel pain. High-impact exercises like running, jumping, and intense sports can stress the plantar fascia and Achilles tendon, increasing the risk of conditions such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendinitis ..read more

In recent years, advancements in footwear technology have revolutionized the way we care for our feet.  Innovative features and materials are now available to address various foot conditions and enhance overall comfort. Gone are the days of compromising comfort for style or settling for generic shoes that don't meet your specific needs. Today, we have access to an array of innovative features and designs that can significantly improve your foot health and quality of life. One of the key developments is the integration of orthotic inserts. These customized insoles are designed to pro ..read more

Ingrown toenails can cause sharp pain and inflammation and even lead to infection if left untreated. At Pioneer Podiatry, we understand the impact that these nail troubles can have on your daily life. That's why our expert podiatrists specialize in nail surgery, offering innovative techniques that bring lasting relief. Through precise diagnosis and personalized treatment plans, we aim to alleviate your pain, promote proper nail growth, and restore your overall foot health. Our skilled podiatrists utilize state-of-the-art equipment and follow the latest advancements in the field to ensure opti ..read more

During the colder months, our patients find that their foot pain is worse than during the previous warmer months. The following are some reasons why. Cold weather: Cold weather can wreak havoc on your body in the way of achy bones, joints, and muscles. The cold temperature can cause the tissues in your joints to contract and pull on the nerve endings, causing joint pain. It also tends to intensify foot conditions such as plantar fasciitis and arch and heel pain. Added weight: Additional weight is associated with an elevated risk of foot pain, which can eventually lead to other conditions such ..read more