Visiting a podiatrist for the first time can feel a little daunting, especially if you’re unsure what to expect. At Instep of Oakham, we pride ourselves on providing a welcoming, professional, and patient-focused experience to help you achieve healthy, pain-free feet. Whether you’re coming in for foot pain, nail problems, or a routine check-up, here’s a step-by-step guide to your first appointment with us.

Booking Your Appointment

Booking your first appointment at Instep of Oakham is simple. You can:

📞 Call us to speak to our friendly team and schedule a convenient time.
🖥️ Book online through our website (if available).
📍 Visit us in person if you prefer to book at the clinic.

If you have any specific concerns—such as diabetic foot care, sports injuries, or fungal nails—let us know when booking so we can tailor your appointment accordingly.

Arriving at the Clinic

When you arrive at Instep of Oakham, you’ll be greeted by our reception team. Our clinic is designed to be a calm and comfortable space where you can feel at ease.

🔹 Please arrive a few minutes early to fill out a brief medical history form if it’s your first visit.
🔹 Wear comfortable footwear and, if applicable, bring any relevant medical notes, footwear, or orthotics you currently use.

What Happens During Your Consultation?

Your first appointment is a detailed assessment where our expert podiatrists take the time to understand your concerns and tailor a treatment plan to your needs. Here’s what to expect:

1. Medical & Foot Health History

✅ We’ll ask about your medical history, lifestyle, and any current foot problems.
✅ If you have conditions such as diabetes, arthritis, or circulation issues, we’ll discuss how these may impact your foot health.

2. Foot Examination

✅ Your podiatrist will examine your feet, skin, nails, and lower limbs, checking for any abnormalities, pain points, or structural issues.

3. Diagnosis & Treatment Plan

✅ Based on your assessment, we’ll explain our findings and discuss the best treatment options.
✅ This could include nail care, callus or corn removal, orthotics, exercises, or referrals for further tests if needed.

4. Immediate Treatment (If Necessary)

✅ If you have an ingrown toenail, thickened nails, corns, calluses, or fungal infections, we may be able to start treatment straight away.
✅ For conditions requiring ongoing care (e.g., plantar fasciitis or biomechanical issues), we’ll advise on follow-up appointments and home care.

 5. Gait Analysis (If Required)

✅ If you have issues with walking, balance, or biomechanics, we may conduct a gait analysis, observing how you walk to assess foot function if you have booked a Gait and Biomechanical appointment.  Please chat with us if you are not sure which appointment is best suited to your concerns.

What Conditions Do We Treat?

At Instep of Oakham, we offer comprehensive foot care for a wide range of conditions, including:

✔ Ingrown toenails & fungal nails
✔ Heel pain & plantar fasciitis
✔ Bunions, corns & calluses
✔ Diabetic foot assessments
✔ Sports injuries & foot pain
✔ Flat feet & arch issues
✔ Orthotics & gait analysis

If you’re unsure whether podiatry can help with your specific issue, feel free to ask—our team is happy to advise!

After Your Appointment

📌 Treatment & Advice – You’ll leave with a clear treatment plan, whether it’s footwear advice, exercises, medication, or a follow-up appointment.
📌 Next Steps – If ongoing care is needed, we’ll arrange future visits or refer you to specialists if necessary.
📌 Home Care Guidance – We provide tailored foot care tips to help manage your condition and maintain foot health.

Why Choose Instep of Oakham?

✔ Expert, friendly podiatrists with years of experience
✔ Personalised care for all ages and foot conditions
✔ Convenient appointment scheduling

Whether you need urgent care or a routine check-up, we’re here to support your foot health journey.

Book your first appointment at Instep of Oakham today and take the first step towards healthier, pain-free feet!

At Instep of Oakham, we understand that foot problems can arise unexpectedly, sometimes causing significant pain, discomfort, or mobility issues. That’s why we offer SOS podiatry appointments – urgent consultations for those who need immediate professional care. But when should you book an urgent podiatry appointment? Let’s explore the key reasons why fast treatment may be necessary.

When Should You Book an SOS Podiatry Appointment?

You should consider an urgent appointment at Instep of Oakham if you are experiencing:

1. Sudden or Severe Foot Pain

If you’re experiencing sharp, throbbing, or persistent pain in your feet, ankles, or lower legs, it could indicate:
❌ A stress fracture or broken bone

Delaying treatment could worsen the condition, so seeking expert care quickly is essential.

2. Ingrowing Toenail Infection

An ingrown toenail can rapidly become red, swollen, and infected, leading to extreme discomfort. If you notice:
❌ Pus, redness, or warmth around the toenail
❌ Difficulty walking due to pain
❌ Repeated infections

Our podiatrists can provide safe, effective treatment, including professional nail trimming, infection management, and, if necessary, a minor nail procedure to prevent further issues.

3. Foot Wounds & Ulcers (Especially for Diabetics)

People with diabetes or poor circulation are at a higher risk of developing foot ulcers and infections that can lead to serious complications. Seek urgent care if you notice:
❌ A wound that isn’t healing
❌ Signs of infection (redness, warmth, oozing, foul odour)
❌ Loss of sensation (numbness or tingling)

Immediate podiatry intervention can prevent the situation from worsening.

What to Expect at Your SOS Podiatry Appointment

When you book an urgent appointment at Instep of Oakham, our expert podiatrists will:

✅ Assess your symptoms – Identifying the root cause of your foot problem
✅ Provide pain relief & treatment – This may include dressings, localised nail care or minor procedure.
✅ Offer expert advice on recovery – Helping you prevent further issues and speed up healing

✅ Offer follow up appointment to continue your care with expert advice on recovery – Helping you prevent further issues and speed up healing
✅ Refer you for further investigations if needed – We may recommend X-rays, scans, or specialist referrals for more complex conditions

Our goal is to get you back on your feet as quickly and comfortably as possible.

How to Book an SOS Podiatry Appointment at Instep of Oakham

If you are in pain, experiencing an infection, or concerned about any sudden foot problems, don’t wait – early intervention is key to preventing complications.

Call us today at Instep of Oakham to book an urgent podiatry appointment and receive expert care when you need it most!

Expert Advice from Instep of Oakham Podiatrists

Flat feet, or pes planus, is a common concern among parents. If you’ve noticed that your child’s feet appear flat when standing, you might be wondering if this is normal or if it requires treatment. At Instep of Oakham, our podiatrists have a specialist interest in children’s foot health, and we’re here to help you understand the natural development of children’s feet and when intervention may be necessary.

Understanding Foot Development in Children

At birth, all babies have naturally flat feet due to the presence of a fat pad in the arch area and the flexibility of their developing bones and ligaments. Over time, as they grow and become more active, their foot structure changes.

🔹 Newborn to Toddler (0–3 years) – Feet appear flat due to soft tissues and fat pads. Arches are not yet developed.
🔹 Early Childhood (3–6 years) – Arches begin forming as muscles strengthen and the foot structure develops.
🔹 By Age 6–7 – Most children have a noticeable arch when standing. Some may take longer, but most cases resolve naturally.
🔹 After Age 7 – If the feet remain flat and rigid, or if the child experiences pain or walking difficulties, an assessment by a podiatrist is recommended.

📌 Key Fact: Studies show that around 44% of children aged 3–6 have flat feet, but this number decreases with age as the arch develops naturally (Wegener et al., 2011).

Types of Flat Feet in Children

1. Flexible Flat Feet (Most Common)

✅ The arch is visible when the child is sitting or standing on tiptoes but disappears when standing normally.
✅ Usually painless and improves with age.
✅ No treatment is needed unless there is discomfort or difficulty walking.

2. Rigid Flat Feet (Less Common, May Require Treatment)

❌ The arch remains absent even when the child is sitting or on tiptoes.
❌ May be associated with tight tendons, abnormal bone structure, or joint conditions such as tarsal coalition (fusion of foot bones).
❌ Often causes pain, stiffness, or difficulty walking.

3. Flat Feet with Overpronation

❌ Some children’s feet roll inwards excessively (overpronation), leading to poor posture, knee pain, or ankle discomfort.
❌ May benefit from supportive footwear, exercises, or orthotics.

When Should You Be Concerned?

Most children’s flat feet improve naturally, but book an appointment at Instep of Oakham if you notice:
❌ Foot, ankle, or knee pain – Flat feet can alter leg alignment, causing discomfort.
❌ Frequent tripping, clumsiness, or difficulty walking – May indicate a biomechanical issue.
❌ Uneven shoe wear – Shoes wearing down excessively on the inside may signal overpronation.
❌ Rigid flat feet or limited foot movement – This may require further investigation.

How Instep of Oakham Can Help

Our podiatrists at Instep of Oakham provide expert assessments, gait analysis, and tailored treatment plans for children with persistent flat feet or foot-related discomfort.

1. Gait Analysis & Foot Assessment

✅ We assess how your child walks, their foot structure, and any alignment issues.
✅ Identifying whether the flat feet are flexible or rigid helps determine the best course of action.

2. Footwear Advice

✅ Well-fitted, supportive shoes can help prevent overpronation and improve stability.
✅ Avoid overly rigid shoes – flexibility is key for natural arch development.

3. Orthotics (Custom Insoles)

✅ For children experiencing pain or excessive foot rolling, orthotic insoles can provide arch support and improve posture.
✅ Used only when necessary, as most children’s feet develop naturally without intervention.

4. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises

✅ Toe curls, calf stretches, and balance exercises help strengthen foot muscles and support arch development.

Final Thoughts

Flat feet in children are usually a normal part of development and correct themselves as they grow. However, if your child experiences pain, difficulty walking, or persistent flat feet beyond age 7, a podiatry assessment can provide reassurance and treatment options if needed.

Book an Appointment at Instep of Oakham for a professional foot assessment and expert paediatric podiatry advice.

References

• Wegener, C., Hunt, A., Vanwanseele, B., Burns, J., & Smith, R. (2011). Flat feet in children: When to worry? Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, 4(1), 24.
• Evans, A. M. (2008). The development of the arch in children: A systematic review. Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association, 98(3), 181-191.

Expert Advice from Pauline Kelly – Instep of Oakham

Your baby’s feet are the foundation for a lifetime of movement, balance, and mobility. From their first little kicks to their first steps, proper foot care is essential to ensure healthy growth and development. At Instep of Oakham, we specialise in paediatric foot health, helping parents support their child’s foot development from birth to toddlerhood.

Newborn Foot Care (0–6 Months)

How to Care for Newborn Feet

✅ Allow natural movement – Let your baby kick freely to strengthen their muscles.
✅ Check foot positioning – Slightly turned-in feet are common and usually self-correct.
✅ Encourage tummy time – Strengthens leg and foot muscles, preparing for standing and walking.
✅ Avoid restrictive clothing – Sleepsuits and socks should have enough space for toe movement.
✅ No need for shoes – Soft socks or booties are enough to keep little feet warm.

Infant Foot Care (6–12 Months) – Preparing for Crawling & Standing

As your baby becomes more active, their feet start developing arches and stronger muscles in preparation for standing and walking.

How to Care for Infant Feet

✅ Let them go barefoot indoors – This helps develop balance, coordination, and sensory awareness.
✅ Check for tight socks or clothing – Ensure toes can move freely without restriction.
✅ Gently massage and stretch their feet – Promotes circulation and flexibility.
✅ Encourage crawling and standing on different surfaces – Strengthens foot and leg muscles.

Toddler Foot Care (12–24 Months) – First Steps & Walking

Once your child starts walking, their feet undergo rapid changes. It is normal for toddlers to have flat feet or wobbly steps as they develop strength and coordination.

Choosing the Right Shoes for First Walkers

👣 Wait before buying shoes – Walking barefoot strengthens foot muscles and improves coordination.
👣 Opt for lightweight, flexible shoes – Soft, breathable materials with a wide toe box allow natural movement.
👣 Check for proper fit – There should be a thumb’s width of space between the longest toe and the shoe front.
👣 Avoid stiff soles – A flexible sole helps with balance and proper foot development.

Common Toddler Foot Issues

🔹 Flat feet – Normal in early walking stages but should be monitored beyond age 3.
🔹 Toe-walking – Occasional toe-walking is fine, but persistent toe-walking may require assessment.
🔹 In-toeing (pigeon toes) – Usually corrects itself but should be monitored if it continues past early childhood.
🔹 Blisters or redness from shoes – Ensure shoes fit properly and replace them as feet grow rapidly.

When to See a Podiatrist at Instep of Oakham?

Book an appointment at Instep of Oakham if you notice:
❌ Delayed walking beyond 18 months
❌ Frequent tripping or falling
❌ Persistent toe-walking or in-toeing beyond age 3
❌ Pain, swelling, or difficulty standing
❌ Uneven shoe wear patterns

At Instep of Oakham, Pauline Kelly specialises in children’s foot health and provides expert assessments, gait analysis, and treatment plans to support your child’s healthy foot development.

Final Thoughts

Your baby’s feet are constantly growing and changing. By providing the right care, footwear, and early intervention when needed, you can help prevent potential foot problems and support healthy movement.

Book an Appointment with Pauline Kelly at Instep of Oakham for expert paediatric foot care and guidance!