Our team works closely with you from the initial consultation through to the end of your recovery. You’ll get to know your specialist well, but it helps to know who you might meet before your first appointment.
We recently spent some time chatting to Mr Antony Kontos, our podiatrist, who spoke openly about his experience working in podiatry.
Mr Kontos has undertaken clinical teaching at University College Hospital, London and also lectured on courses at the Royal College of General Practitioners. He has a well-established private practice in Sloane Square and in the past has provided podiatric services to the City of London and Metropolitan Police.
He has extensive experience in all aspects of podiatry, including bio- mechanics, management of the diabetic foot and day-case podiatric surgery.
Why did you choose podiatry?
There were a number of reasons why I chose podiatry.
A friend of mine‘s brother was a podiatrist near my home where I grew up in South Wales. He was someone who was very decent and who I admired. He told me of the work that he used to do and I thought how gratifying that must be.
I also remember seeing an elderly lady who was pictured on the front page of the South Wales Echo soaking her feet in order to obtain some relief, there was a huge shortage of qualified podiatrists in the NHS.
Many members of my family are doctors and also dentists but none were podiatrists.
How do you become a podiatrist?
The profession today has developed immeasurably from the time I qualified.
It is of course a university based undergraduate training with a greater emphasis on evidence based practice and clinical research.
After qualifying, there are many areas to sub-specialise in such as sports medicine, surgery, care of the diabetic foot and a number of others. Masters and Doctorate level programs are available for those that want to pursue further academic learning.
What problems do you see on a day-to-day basis?
The most common problems seen in general Podiatric practice include:
- Ingrowing and fungal nails
- Various skin conditions, including corns /callosities /Verrucae /eczema and dermatitis
- Foot pain due to a variety of different causes
These can include conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bunions or arthritis of different foot joints. Pain can also be related to the architecture of the foot, including high arched or low arched feet. Many of these conditions can be treated non-operatively by means of orthotics and injection therapy especially if treated early.
I have diabetes – will you be able to help me?
Diabetes related foot problems can often pose the most significant challenges.
The condition can affect the sensation and circulation to the feet along with influencing the shape of the foot itself. This means that often trivial injury to the skin may go unnoticed ultimately leading to severe and deeper damage to the tissues of the foot. At London Foot and Ankle Clinic, we monitor and treat the effects of diabetes on the lower limbs.
When should I visit the podiatrist?
Whatever the condition may be, if things are not improving with simple self help remedies patients should seek professional advice. Elderly patients, diabetics or those who may be immunocompromised should obtain an opinion from a podiatrist rather than attempt treatment themselves.
What successes have you had in your career?
Over the years there have been many cases. One is fortunate that in clinical practice success stories occur every day. Often patients present with common complaints that cause an undue amount of pain and discomfort.Untreated they can affect the quality of one’s life. Treatment by a skilled podiatrist can often lead to instant relief symptoms.Getting the diagnosis correct in the first instance is key. Listening to the patient and taking a good history is essential.
Knowing when to get help from us cannot be understated. I remember a patient who presented with ill defined dark discolouration underneath his big toe nail which he had been told was either a fungal infection or bruising. To my eye it did not look right and additionally and crucially he had pigmentation on the skin adjacent to the nail ,he did in fact have a melanoma.
I referred him to a surgical oncology colleague immediately which was treated with a good outcome.
How important is good foot health?
Foot health is essential to all age group groups.
Simple strategies should include good daily basic foot hygiene and wearing appropriately fitting footwear. We guide you on quick improvements like making sure you’re cutting nails appropriately, choosing the right shoe, and maintaining a healthy weight.
An integral aspect of the role of the podiatrist is providing health education advice. This is especially in patients who may have general medical conditions which can impact specifically on the health of the limbs and feet.These would include rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.
How do you make patients feel relaxed?
Many patients are understandably nervous on their first visit. It might be the first occasion that they have ever had to consult a podiatrist and might be presenting with a painful condition. They may understandably have a degree of apprehension as to what might happen especially if the condition has been present for a long time.
Professionalism combined with good communication and empathy goes a long way to allay patients’ anxiety. It is important to give patients time to consider the possible treatment options fully before they consent to treatment.
What’s your favourite part of working in LFAC?
At LFAC we employ a collaborative approach to patients with foot problems.
I am fortunate to have worked with wonderful and supportive colleagues for many years and I cannot overstate what a privilege that has been.
How do you spend your free time?
When I am not working I like to go to the south coast where I am fortunate to have a home that overlooks the sea.
Book an appointment
Whether you’re in need of a podiatrist or orthopaedist, our team at London Foot and Ankle Clinic can help you.
Please call us or fill out our enquiry form to arrange an appointment today. While we endeavour to answer all enquiries as soon as possible, we encourage patients to telephone us should they require an immediate response.
