Your health

Health Yo ur

INSTANT appointment Tony G Founde

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Back again Q My 11-year-old son keeps getting athlete’s foot. What’s the best way to get rid of it for good? Jen, Blackpool

AThere needs to be an approach that both reduces the fungal load on the skin and also prevents it from thriving in the future. Topical t, and a or ist can n

ne is t iate. ne of sing d effective ying (especially in etween the digits) is essential, and frequent sock and shoe changes will reduce the likelihood of the fungal infection returning. Fungus thrives in dark, warm and moist environments, so try and deny them these key elements for the best success and try and encourage your son not to scratch the affected skin, as this can spread the infection.

Reason to worry? Q My four-year-old daughter has flat feet. Should I be worried? R ia, Leeds

AA low arch profile is quite common in children, and if your child’s walking and running development is normal then there is no need for you to be worrying. It takes the foot many years to fully develop, but a podiatrist can assess and let you know if there’s something to worry about.

Sore point Q After years of wearing heels I’ve got terrible bunions. The pain is awful. Is there anything I can do? Leah, Somerset

ABunions are often painless, and their cause is likely to be genetic and usually not from wearing high heels for long periods of time. If heels are causing you pain then a change of shoe type or heel size is likely the best place to start. A visit to a podiatrist will help in assessing the best footwear option, but wearing wide shoes with a low heel and soft sole could help deal with the pain. You could also buy bunion pads to place in your shoes to help. A podiatrist may also suggest using a splint to help support the toes.

There is no evidence that splints can reverse the progress of bunions, but footwear changes and orthoses can reduce any pain that is experienced.

If conservative measures don’t work , then an opinion from a podiatric surgeon may be needed.

Treat constipation HOW TOÉ

1Stay hydrated Constipation is related to dehydration, so drinking plenty of water is key to relieving and preventing symptoms.

2Eat lots of fibre Increasing the fibre in your diet will prevent constipation and help digestion.

3Get active A daily walk or run can help reduce the symptoms of constipation and help you go to the toilet more regularly.

4Improve your toilet routine Keep to a regular time and place and give yourself plenty of time to us the toilet.

Choose wholegrains like brown rice to add fibre to your diet