A new year is the perfect time to prioritise your health from the ground up – quite literally! Your feet work hard every day, and small problems can quickly turn into bigger issues if they’re ignored. At Park Road Podiatry in Coventry, we regularly help people start the year on the right foot by identifying and treating common foot conditions before they become painful or limiting. Below are some of the most frequent problems we see, along with tips on what to look out for.
Plantar Fasciitis: Heel Pain That Won’t Quit
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain and often appears after changes in activity. Which is something many people experience in January when getting back into exercise routines.
Signs to watch for
Sharp pain in the heel, especially on the first steps in the morning
Discomfort after long periods of standing or walking
How we can help
At Park Road Podiatry, we assess your foot mechanics and provide treatments such as stretching plans, footwear advice, and custom orthotics to reduce strain on the plantar fascia.
Ingrown Toenails: Small Problem, Big Pain
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the skin, causing redness, swelling, and discomfort. They’re often the result of improper nail cutting, tight footwear, or natural nail shape.
Signs to watch for
Pain along the side of the nail
Redness or swelling
Signs of infection, such as warmth or discharge
How we can help
We offer safe, professional treatment for ingrown nails, including simple nail care, pain-relieving procedures, and long-term solutions if the problem keeps coming back.
Corns and Calluses: Pressure Points Gone Wrong
Corns and calluses form due to excess pressure or friction, usually from footwear or abnormal gait patterns. While they may seem minor, they can become painful and make walking uncomfortable.
Signs to watch for
Hard, thickened areas of skin
Tenderness when walking
Burning sensation beneath the skin
How we can help
We remove corns and reduce calluses safely, something you should never attempt at home. We also look at the underlying cause, to help prevent them from returning.
Bunions: A New Year Nuisance
Bunions develop gradually but can worsen quickly if ignored. Ill-fitting shoes and genetics are common contributors.
Signs to watch for
A bony lump at the base of the big toe
Redness or swelling
Difficulty finding comfortable shoes
How we can help
Our podiatrists assess joint alignment, recommend supportive footwear, and provide custom insoles to relieve pressure and slow progression.
Fungal Nail or Skin Infections: Easy to Pick Up, Hard to Get Rid Of
Gyms, swimming pools, and shared changing rooms become busier in the new year, making fungal infections more common.
Signs to watch for
White or yellow discolouration of nails
Itchy, peeling skin between the toes
Brittle or thickened nails
How we can help
We diagnose fungal infections properly and recommend effective treatment options. This is far more reliable than over-the-counter guesswork.
If you’ve decided that 2025 is the year to focus on your health, don’t forget your feet. At Park Road Podiatry in Coventry, we’re here to help you stay active, comfortable, and pain-free. If you’re in Coventry or the surrounding areas and need expert care, book an appointment with us today.
Your feet will thank you for it.