Understanding Low-Level Laser Therapy

Low-Level Laser Therapy is widely used nowadays in the treatment of various ailments. Learn about the treatment and know when it is the right time to seek this type of remedy.

An array of ailments and health conditions have been alleviated by an alternate treatment for many years now, and that treatment is known as low-level laser therapy. Health conditions like arthritis, hair loss, injuries from sports, and other wounds can all be addressed effectively with this type of treatment. It involves usage of laser and its application on human body in certain ways; hence the name. The light emitted from the laser machine does not burn the skin like high-intensity lasers, thereby making this treatment safe and effective.

In addition to that, low-level laser therapy (LLLT) promotes natural cell regeneration, which is why this treatment is healthier for our bodies than some harsh and strong medicines with lots of side-effects. Though LLLT is not fully safe at all times, yet it is much better than harsh medicines.

Is There Any Side Effect?

LLLT, also referred to as “Cold Laser Therapy”, is an effective treatment against chronic and acute injuries. Arthritis pain, tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, fibromyalgia pain, as well as back, neck, and knee pain are just some conditions that can be treated with this type of therapy.

No long-term side effect has been reported in all these years of practice of LLLT. Other than averting your eyes from the red laser or infrared light, no major side effects or constraints have been found. A person can only experience pain or other irritations if he/she is already having other issues with laser therapy.

What Are The Drawbacks?

People having certain health conditions or disorders, should speak to their doctor before using LLLT. This is because no treatment is 100% safe, but there is obviously a large number of postivite effects associated with this form of treatment. Some of the health conditions which can get aggravated by LLLT are as follows:

• Malignant tumours — Always remember to get permission from a trusted doctor before getting LLLT. This form of treatment is used in the treatment of cancer-side-effects and for pain relief during the terminal stages.
  
• Thyroid — This type of treatment should be purposely avoided if the patient is already having issues with his/her thyroid.
  
• Pregnancy — Although there is no evidence that LLLT is harmful for pregnant women, but still risk should not be taken. There is not enough evidence to assure a pregnant woman that LLLT is fine for her.

These are some basics of low-level laser therapy and if you are planning to opt for this kind of treatment, then make sure to get in touch with professionals from Perth.

Kill Your Muscular Pain with The Myofascial Release Therapy

Myofascial therapy is one of the well-known therapeutic tools that can focus on releasing any kind of muscular tightness. Generally, it is used to address the impact of tenderness on the structure of your body. Moreover, it comes with lot’s of massage techniques to reduce pain. A myofascial therapist can do a visual analysis and movement for determining the tissue barriers. This treatment helps you to reduce all kinds of discomfort and alleviate your pain. It can help you get the ultimate relaxation. Your body muscles will be improved with this treatment. Apart from this, if you are a sports person then also you can get the fastest recovery provided you are suffering from any kind of foot injury. In Perth, you can get the best myofascial therapy.  

Generally, myofascial therapy is a common form of soft tissue treatment which is widely used to treat pain, dysfunction, and restriction of motion. It helps to contract muscles, maximize the blood circulation, improve the lymphatic and venous drainage and can stimulate the stretch reflex of muscles.

Causes of Myofascial Release Syndrome

This pain can be caused by a muscle injury or it can develop from excessive muscle strain. You can also feel this pain due to a lack of muscle activity. Some common causes of this pain are as follows:

• Sitting for a very long time in poor positions
• Lack of nutrition
• Lack of movements and exercise
• Any kind of hormonal changes
• Depression and anxiety
• Excessive smoking

What are the Symptoms?

Symptoms of myofascial pain usually involve muscle pain more specifically on"tender" or “trigger” points. The pain can be caused by excessive stress.  Let’s check out some common symptoms of myofascial pain.

• A muscle which is tender or sensitive when touched
• You feel a burning, aching, stabbing or stinging pain in the muscle. 
• Muscles become stiff and inflexible
• Sleeping disturbance due to pain
• A pain, which worsens or persists

These are the most popular symptoms that you can face if you suffer from this pain. So, consult a doctor or a podiatrist if you face this problem. 

We have discussed all the basic things of this pain, which includes what it is the actual treatment, its causes, and symptoms. So, if you are facing this pain consult a doctor. Remember, myofascial release is a simple hands-on technique. So, you will get great success with this alternative pain therapy.

How to Take Care of Your Feet? Some Tips for You

Feet are a very important part of the human body and if it is not taken care of well then you might face difficulty. That is why you have to make sure that you are taking care of your feet in a proper manner. 

If you want to stay fit and healthy then ensure to take care of your feet. Once you ignore your feet, it will start creating a problem for your health. Now the question is how can you take proper care of your feet in your house. Given below are some of the tips that you can implement yourself if you want to take care for your feet at home. But remember one thing that if you want to have the best care of your feet then you have to go to a podiatristin Perth. 

Make Sure You Dry Your Feet after Washing

Once you wash your feet, you have to make sure that you are drying it properly. If your feet are left with moisture then it can get caught by a fungal infection. That is why you have to ensure to dry your feet in a proper way.

Keep Your Feet Clean

If you want to take proper care of your feet in the right shape then you need to clean it regularly. An unclean and dirty foot is the storehouse of germs which can put your health into danger. That is why whenever you return home, clean your feet with lukewarm water and dry it properly with a soft cloth.

Clean or Cut the Nails Periodically

Toenails are another place where there will be a lot of accumulation of dirt. So, what you have to do is clean it quite often. However, if you think cleaning them to be a time-consuming job you can cut them periodically as well.

Buy the Right Shoe 
It is very important to wear shoes that fit you well and are comfortable. Don't wear something that looks good but hurts you. Tight shoes may worsen bunions and distort the shape of the toe. Also make sure not to wear high heels everyday. Even if you wear them sometimes, choose the ones that are wide, stable & not higher than 2 inches.

Final Thoughts

These tips are going to be very helpful to you if you want to take care of your feet at home. But if you want a professional's help for the purpose, it is highly advisable to go to a reputed podiatrist in Perth who will help you to keep your feet well-maintained and healthy.  

Top 5 Benefits You Will Get From Custom Orthotics

Just like an orthodontist applies braces to make changes in a person’s teeth position, in the same way, a podiatry specialist suggests orthotics to the patients who have problems with their feet. Custom orthotics has several benefits to offer, starting with feet, the instruments hold the entire weight of your body. You can find two types of custom orthotics, one is accommodative and the other one is the function. 

Function orthotics are specifically designed keeping in mind to improve the function of the foot. They are made up of rigid material to limit the motion of your foot joints. On the other hand, accommodative orthotics are normally formed with softer and more pliable materials. These two orthotics are intended to offer support and relief to those who are experiencing pain or discomfort associated with legs, feet and back. And a podiatry specialist prescribes custom orthotics with a specific intent and purpose in mind.

Offers Support Where You Need It 

Custom orthotics offer support for the feet, including all the three anatomical arches. Over-the-counter shoe inserts provide support in some areas, however, they have a generic genre which restricts them from providing all kinds of relief and treatment. Whereas custom orthotics offer benefits to the entire surface of the foot, resulting in relieving all the problematic areas of your foot.

Get All-day Comfort

First off, to create orthotics, the podiatrist creates a 3D impression of your foot and will try to find out the perfect fit or the comfort areas of your feet. You may have love or carvings for a particular shoe, however, if that shoe does not fit properly, then that shoe will give you comfort, instead gives pain or injury. Custom orthotics with measurement cradling every portion of the foot will offer the optimal comfort while running, standing or walking. 

Durability That Can Save Money

Most of the retail purchases get deprecated pretty early, however, the custom orthotics have designed in such a way that it can withstand long-term wear and tear, and it can last near about five years. That means throughout these five years you can get continual support and comfort.

Treating Post Injury

If you are having any foot injury, custom orthotics can help you to prevent any further surgical intervention or injury. While some other treatments may work or may not work, but custom orthotics can help you to get back on your feet in no time. 

Pain Reduction

While someone experiences pain standing or walking, there is a natural tendency, you change your body and body activities to lessen the pain. And, on changing your gait or stance, you can create problems in your spine, feet or legs. However, custom orthotics can help you to get relief from the pain without placing an improper strain on other parts of your body. Orthotics heal patients suffering from arthritis pain, by freezing these joints.

In Perth, many people have been benefited so far from the use of custom orthotics. So, if you want to heal your foot pain, contact a podiatrist right now, he or she will help you to get out of for discomfort and pain.

Opt for Podiatry to Get Rid of Foot Problems

Do you know what podiatry exactly is? Well, podiatry refers to that branch of medicine that deals with complaints in lower extremities. The experts in this field plays valuable role in curing, preventing and diagnosing further ankle and foot pain. 

Are you thinking of consulting a podiatrist for the foot-related issues you're suffering from? If yes, feel free to rely on a reputable and licensed medical expert who has years of experience. But prior to looking for a doctor, it is significant to comprehend the benefits of consulting a reliable podiatrist. 

The Can Cure The Foot Problems 

Though it sounds quite obvious but it is significant for you to know that the podiatrists specialize in treating a number of minor and major foot related ailment including fungal infections, nail conditions as well as skin lesions. It is always recommended to see a doctor at the minor stage as they may transform quickly intp major complaints in no time. 

The Curb Future Problems 

The saying, “prevention is the best cure” is certainly applicable while visiting the expert regularly. The ones who make check-up appointments on a regular note can curb many potential issues as the experts are capable enough of diagnosing the problems even before its occurence. A podiatrist also provide one with relevant solutions to prevent those issues and offer medications if needed. 

They Assure Faster Recovery 

Sports injuries are indeed one of the common areas that a podiatrist deal with. Not only the experts provide effectual solutions and medications for treating the problems but also guarantee faster recovery. The experts also provide one with aftercare treatment sessions to ensure that a better foot hygiene is maintained. However, for the best solutions, it is significant to rely on a trusted medical expert. 

They Help In Making Lasting Lifestyle Changes

An expert delivers commendable advice related to foot care. Nutrition is extremely significant when talked about toenail health. Alongside prescribing quality nail treatment, an expert recommends the best ways of enhancing the diet plan with additional protein and iron supplements. 

Podiatrists can offer valuable advice on using the best breathable footwear and other hygiene practices. Foot problems must not be hidden or covered up. If you're suffering from any issue, don't feel reluctant to visit the doctor. Make sure that the expert you choose among the lot is licensed and experienced in this field. 

How To Treat Your Feet With Computerised Gait Analysis?

After an extensive research podiatry specialists finally find the way for faster and more accurate ways to test patient’s feet and advise the most appropriate treatment. In fact with the aid of podiatric technology now many feet problems can be treated in a most effective way. With the help of latest Computerised Gait Analysis technology, biomechanical faults within the feet can be identified faster and more accurately than ever before.

Asses Your Gait

Computerised Gait Analysis is a revolution in the podiatric research, it is used to assess the way an individual walks or runs. Gait Analysis highlights all the biomechanical abnormalities associated with feet. Many of the feet problems can be treated with the help of the modern machine. However, it was not possible to assess one’s motion and more importantly how one walks prior to the advent of the Computerised Gait Analysis. But now a patient can be treated with a collaborative approach to Gait Analysis and medical treatment.

Procedural Approach

A Computerised Gait Analysis utilises a pressure mapping technology to detect the pressure points in a patient’s feet as the patient runs or walks. Gait Analysis helps podiatry specialist to closely observe and analyse the movement of a patient when he runs or walks by looking at his hips, ankles and knees. First of all the walking style and the running style of a patient are recorded, after that they are relayed to the computer screen. Here the doctor assesses the motion of the patient through slow motion and freezes frames displayed on the computer screen. In this way, by analysing the movement of the feet, the doctor detects the exact problem in the patient’s feet. The podiatry specialist takes necessary actions on the data.

So, with the aid of Gait Analysis, first of all, the flexibility of a patient’s hips and backs, the mechanics of his stance and postural alignment are analysed, recommendations are made for orthotics. Doctors also make shoe modifications and also prescribe a course of physical therapies to strengthen the core muscles. In many instances, with the appropriate treatment, surgery can be avoided, thereby reducing the recovery time from varieties of injuries or disorders. 

Now with the invention of new Gait Analysis technology, podiatric doctors can now identify any feet abnormalities and can make accurate treatments like never before. If you are having a problem at your foot seek help from the foot doctor.

You can find several podiatric specialists in Perth, heal your feet with ease.

How To Know If You Need A Podiatrist?

Oftentimes, the problems related to feet and ankle go away with time, rest, application of ice, anti-inflammatories and proper shoes but there are instances when feet problems need medical attention for proper alleviation.

The problem with feet issues is that patients do not realise the right time to visit a podiatry specialist. There are a few feet ailments which are not likely to subside without proper treatment. Foot problems can occur due to intense strain or some other underlying health conditions. Whatever the reason is, it is always better to visit a podiatrist if you are experiencing one of these problems:

• A Sore that is not Healing - Having an open sore on your foot and ankle is common but if that does not heal, you should seek medical attention. This is especially important if you have diabetes because it usually takes longer to heal. A podiatrist can study your condition and start proper treatment right away.

• Discolouration of Foot - More often than not, both of your feet should look alike. If you are experiencing any kind of colour change in one of your feet, there maybe a problem. Feet redness can be a symptom of infection or gout, blue or purple foot indicates nervous problem, and other complications may also be there. Any kind of colour change in feet should be treated without any delay.

• Numbness or Burning Feeling - Feelings of numbness, burning or tingling in the feet can be signs of neuropathy. These signs, if left untreated, may cause decreased sensation in your feet and lead to ulcers. People with diabetes are more likely to feel these kinds of problems. These problems need professional care as there are no home remedies.

• Flattened Arch in one of the Feet - If you notice sudden flattening of arch in one of your feet then you need to go to a podiatrist right away. Foot flattening can be a sign of tendon dysfunction or even rupture. Flat feet give rise to many orthopedic complexities. It is better to get your problem checked at the earliest.

• A Lump or Bump - A growing and painful lump or bump on one of your feet can be actually a type of cyst or more serious things like tumor. Though tumors in the feet are rare but still they occur sometimes and you should not take any risk.

Now you know when to visit a podiatrist. All the above mentioned conditions might seem normal but they can turn severe by time and a good podiatrist can alleviate the problems from the root. 

There are some reputed podiatrists from Perth whom you should contact at the time of your need.  

Effective Winter Foot Care Tips

With the dry season already upon us, soon the temperatures will start to drop and herald the arrival of winter. During the cold season, physical well-being is one of the most important things that you'll have to ensure, with some special emphasis on foot care. As such, those who wish to stay dynamic outside amid the cold months must follow certain tips by many a professional podiatry specialist, which have been discussed below in detail: 

• Wear shoes with great hold, support and durability.
• Consider warmer and thicker socks when choosing any footwear.
• Wear suitable socks with well fitting shoes to avoid blistering & dampness.
• Warm up and stretch enough before work out.
• Abbreviate strides for greater security in tricky conditions when running.

To avoid wounds, make sure that you bear these things in mind: 

• Running on elusive surfaces without sufficient grasp can prompt injury.
• Running shoes that are unnecessarily tight/constrictive may cause ingrown nails and even skin damage.
• Cold weather diminishes body resilience and double the dangers of injury.

Suitable dress amid winter exercise is likewise critical to keep winter workout related exercises at bay. Layering ought to be your closest companion while overcoming the cool climate to get proper work out. 

Diabetic foot care

Amid the colder months, diabetic foot care turns out to be more essential due to potential issues from the dampness, dryness and cold. Here are a few hints to ensure proper care: 

• Lower temperatures can increase neuropathy and numbness, thereby leading to blisters, sores and injury to the feet.
• Maintaining dry and warm feet is of great significance.
• Dry feet can prompt splitting, which may be followed by skin breakdown, and gradually wounds, however every day cleaning as well as moisturizing with cream can help avoid dry feet issues .
• As usual, diabetics should keep their glucose levels under control.
• Keep your nails trimmed straight crosswise over (can be done right after you've showered, when your nails have gotten softer).

Diabetic footwear amid the winter months ought to take after fundamental standards of solace, fit and protection from components: 

• Occasional footwear ought to give sufficient cushioning, protection from cold and enough room.
• The toe of the footwear ought to be rounded for allowing free movement of the toes.
• Ensure that your footwear utilises materials that don't trap dampness for maintaining dry/warm feet.

Thus, make sure you follow these tips to ensure the right care for your feet during the cold months of winter. 

Why Are Sprinters Prone To Injury?

Sprinters are prone to knee pain, cramps, calf stiffness, and hip or ankle pain. Some get multiple areas of injuries, others none at all. Why is this so?

Running injuries are best explained by the concept of “Running Threshold”. There are specific risk factors that will make you more or less prone to certain injuries:

• Strength
• Structure
• Training
• Biomechanics
• Flexibility/ Range of Movement
• Past Medical History

Strength

Strength is a modifiable factor. You can become weaker or stronger, depending on how much effort or strength you're applying to perform a task. In terms of running, strength mainly refers to how well you stabilise or control your joints, but also for your general power to produce speed.

Structure

Structure is largely unchangeable except for reconstructive surgery and other special exceptions. Your feet structure plays a key role in deciding whether you'll meet injury or success. It is recommended to opt for podiatry gait analysis to find out the underlying cause which is often not detectable in open eyes.

Training

Training is an external factor and can be modified. Intense training often needs relaxing sessions. If this is not opted or compromised by some means, a runner can fall into the trap of injury soon. Also, runners must focus on the types of shoes they use.

Biomechanics

This is to determine the appropriate amounts of movement at each joint in all three planes of movement – sagittal, frontal, transverse. Too much or too little movement at these joints when running over long distances can create problems of compensation and overload.

Flexibility

Some people naturally have more flexibility than others. What you do in regular days apart from training will also impact your range of motion. If you stretch, roll, or perhaps are a yoga teacher, it is likely your body will be more flexible.

Past medical history

Past medical history can be anything from previous injuries that you've had, to a genetic disorder that changes your ability to move or build muscle. If you have an achillies tendinopathy, your body heals from these injuries by replacing damaged tissues with weaker collagen fibres than the original. Although you will have still healed from the original injury, that is going to be an area of weakness and risk if overloaded. Injuries often lead to a pathway of compensations that are hard to unravel if you don't know exactly what is going on.

If you are a runner, be sure to hire a professional podiatrist to stay away from injuries and to follow the proper maintenance of your feet.