Product Guides and FAQs
Your go-to resource for additional product information on Algeos products
Here, you'll find detailed guides that provide insights into the features, benefits, and best practices for using our innovative solutions across various fields, including podiatry, physiotherapy, sensory education, rehabilitation and healthcare at home. Whether you're a professional seeking to enhance outcomes or a seeker of home health and wellbeing solutions, these guides are designed to support your needs. Explore the latest updates and expert advice to help you make informed decisions and get the most out of our products.
Featured news
Algeos steps forward with orthotic and diabetic innovations at Podiatry 2024
Algeos returns to the Royal College of Podiatry conference in 2024 to showcase its new partnerships, advancements in podiatric technology, and brand-new educational offering.
Exhibiting across two stands, two demo zones, and workshop area, the team are bringing exciting new product launches, partnerships, and space for foot health professionals to get stuck in with orthotic therapy and diabetic foot solutions.
Read moreLatest News
-
Curing Plantar Fasciitis: A Research-Backed Guide
If left untreated, plantar fasciitis can lead to chronic pain and even affect mobility. This guide delves into research-backed treatments, exercises, and lifestyle adjustments to help manage and cure plantar fasciitis.
-
Barefoot Walking as a Potential Aid for Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common and often painful condition that affects the plantar fascia—a band of connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot. In recent years, some individuals and professionals have explored barefoot walking as a possible remedy, despite its risks and nuances.
-
Plantar Fasciitis Exercises with Resistance Band
This exercise is designed to strengthen the small muscles in the foot, helping alleviate symptoms of plantar fasciitis. Regularly incorporating this into your routine can improve foot strength and flexibility.
The video below illustrates the exercise perfectly from NHS Ayrshire & Arran.
-
Podiatry Felt Guide for Podiatrists
Podiatry felt, also known as chiropody felt, is a versatile tool widely used in foot care to alleviate discomfort from conditions such as corns, calluses, blisters, and ulcers. Its primary function is to redistribute pressure away from sensitive areas, providing immediate relief and promoting healing.
-
Living with Newly Diagnosed Drop Foot
Being diagnosed with drop foot can be overwhelming, but understanding the condition and its management options can make a significant difference in improving your quality of life. Drop foot, also known as foot drop, is a condition that causes difficulty in lifting the front part of the foot, often leading to an altered gait.
-
How a Dermatoscope Can Support Clinicians in the Private Sector
In the UK’s private healthcare sector, clinicians face the challenge of providing high-quality, personalised care that meets patients' expectations and aligns with best practices. A dermatoscope, a diagnostic tool that allows magnified examination of the skin and nails, has become an invaluable resource for many clinicians.
-
Towel Curl Plantar Fasciitis Exercise Guide
The towel curl exercise is an effective and easy way to strengthen the muscles in your feet, particularly the plantar fascia, which can help alleviate discomfort associated with plantar fasciitis. This exercise can improve the strength and flexibility of your foot's arch, aiding in long-term relief and injury prevention.
-
Children's Insoles: Helping Young Feet
Insoles can be an effective solution, providing essential support and guidance for developing arches and improving overall foot alignment. This guide will offer an in-depth look at kids insoles, helping you make informed decisions for your young patients or children.
-
Drop Foot: Causes and How Ankle Braces Can Help
Foot drop, or drop foot, is a condition that makes it hard for a person to lift the front of their foot, causing problems when walking. It’s not a disease in itself but a sign of an underlying issue, often related to neurological, muscular, or anatomical problems. This article will look at the signs and symptoms of foot drop.
-
Plantar Fasciitis Research Review 2024
Plantar fasciitis is a widespread condition that causes heel pain, typically due to strain or overuse. While several treatment options exist, ongoing research continues to refine and develop more effective approaches. This article explores the latest research studies on plantar fasciitis treatments, with a focus on their efficacy and long-term outcomes.
-
Acupuncture Techniques in 2024
Acupuncture is one of the most sought-after therapies. It is generally known to employ a number of methods in its practices for the purpose of balancing the body's energy, Qi, which improves overall health. In fact, this ancient practice can be utilised to treat sleep disorders, respiratory problems, neurological ones and even orthopaedic issues.
-
Importance of Customised Inter-Digital Silicone Orthoses
Foot health is a vital component of overall well-being. Our feet support mobility and balance, but many people suffer from discomfort due to deformities, pressure points, and poor biomechanics. Fortunately, customised silicone orthoses provide an effective solution to alleviate foot pain and correct alignment issues. These tailor-made devices, commonly used by podiatrists, offer a personalised approach to support and improve foot function.
-
How to Fix Flat Feet - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
Flat feet, medically referred to as pes planus or fallen arches, occur when the arch of the foot collapses, resulting in the entire sole making contact with the ground. While this condition is often asymptomatic, it can lead to discomfort, pain, and other complications, especially if it alters the body’s alignment.
-
Diabetic Socks: Do They Work?
While it’s not mandatory for all diabetics to wear diabetic socks, it is highly recommended for those with existing foot complications or a high risk of developing them. Diabetic socks provide preventive care, comfort, and protection, making them suitable for daily wear, especially during activities that put stress on the feet.
-
What Does Kinesiology Tape Do?
Introducing our comprehensive range of sports injury tape and supports, designed to keep athletes performing at their best while providing essential protection and relief. Whether you're a football player, rugby enthusiast, or hockey pro, our products are engineered to support you through every twist, turn, and tackle.
-
Acupuncture Needle Types - The Options
An overview of acupuncture needle types and how different countries approach treatment.
-
Slimflex Orthotic Insoles Range Explained (2024)
Among the various prefabricated orthotic options available, Slimflex stands out as a versatile and effective solution. Slimflex orthotics are designed to be used straight out of the box or easily modified with additional orthotic components, such as metatarsal domes, valgus pads, and orthotic wedges.
This flexibility makes them an excellent choice for both practitioners and patients seeking a reliable and adaptable foot orthotic solution.
-
Podiatry Bunion Treatment: Evidence-Based Perspectives
Bunion treatment options range from conservative protection measures, such as padding and orthoses, to surgical correction, each with distinct pros and cons. For podiatrists, choosing the best approach often depends on the severity of the deformity, patient lifestyle, and the latest clinical evidence.
-
How to choose the correct Orthotic Insoles
The main types of orthotic insoles used in clinics are simple insoles, custom-made orthotics, and prefabricated orthotics. Simple Insoles are hand made shoe inserts designed specifically for individual needs. Usually Podiatrists make them with traditional materials like leatherboard and EVA foam as a base. On this base, additions like met domes or arch supports are added, then a cover is applied to finish the device.
-
How to Use Kinesiology KT Tapes
Kinesiology sports tapes, often seen adorning the bodies of athletes, have grown in popularity for their potential to aid in injury recovery and performance enhancement. These colourful tapes, with their distinctive patterns, are not just for show. They serve various functional purposes that can benefit anyone from professional athletes to everyday fitness enthusiasts. Here’s a guide on how to use them effectively.
-
Treating Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects approximately 0.8% of the adult population worldwide, with a notable impact on foot health and mobility (NICE, 2022). For podiatrists, RA presents a unique challenge as it can lead to progressive joint deformities, pain, and compromised gait. This article explores effective strategies for managing foot complications in RA.
-
Massage with FIT Muscle Care
Massage therapists across a variety of settings are achieving superior results with FIT Muscle Care products. These high-quality products are not only used during treatments but are also often sold directly to clients for home use. The FIT Sports Balm and FIT Professional Care Massage Oil are popular choices, forming the foundation for a wide range of massage therapies.
-
How Night Splints Help and Treat Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of heel pain, affecting both active individuals and those who spend a lot of time on their feet. It is characterised by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot, connecting your heel bone to your toes. This condition can cause significant discomfort, especially during the first few steps in the morning or after periods of rest. Fortunately, there are effective treatment options available, and one of the most effective, yet often overlooked, is the use of night splints.
-
How to Use Exercise Balls During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a time of immense physical change, and maintaining an exercise routine can be beneficial for both the mother and the baby. One versatile tool that can aid in pregnancy exercises is the exercise ball, also known as a stability ball or birthing ball. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to use exercise balls effectively during pregnancy.
-
Multiple Uses of Fine Plaster of Paris
Fine Plaster of Paris (PoP) is a versatile material known for its rapid setting, smooth texture, and adaptability, making it ideal for a variety of applications across different industries. From construction to healthcare and even the arts, this material has proven itself essential for both professional and domestic uses.
-
Medical Shoe FAQ
Offloading medical shoes are specialized footwear designed to alleviate pressure and reduce weight-bearing on injured or sensitive areas of the feet. These shoes are particularly beneficial for individuals recovering from foot injuries, undergoing surgery, or managing conditions such as toe fractures, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and post-operative recovery.
-
Ankle Weights and Physical Conditioning (2024)
Ankle weights are a valuable tool for enhancing physical conditioning, offering benefits such as improved muscle strength, endurance, and cardiovascular fitness. They provide an effective way to increase the intensity of workouts, making them a great addition to any fitness routine.
-
The 5 Best Exercises You Can Do at Home on a Budget
Exercising at home has become an increasingly popular choice for many people seeking to stay fit without needing a gym membership or expensive equipment.
The good news is, you can achieve an effective full-body workout with just a few affordable tools. From resistance bands to jump ropes, these inexpensive pieces of equipment can transform your home fitness routine.
-
How to Reduce the Appearance of Scars
Scars are a natural part of the body’s healing process, but they can be a source of concern for many. Whether from surgery, injury, or a skin condition, scars can affect self-confidence and may be difficult to fade. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to reduce their appearance over time.
-
Ankle Injury Management
Accurate diagnosis is crucial. A thorough clinical examination and appropriate imaging (X-ray, MRI, or ultrasound) help identify the extent of the injury. Early intervention minimises complications such as chronic instability or persistent pain.
-
Treatment for Ankle Injuries
Managing ankle injuries effectively involves addressing the problem in three key phases: the acute phase, the rehabilitation phase, and the prevention phase. These stages ensure that immediate needs are met, long-term function is restored, and risks of re-injury are minimised.
-
Orthotic Insoles: A Guide to Relieving Sore Feet
Sore feet are a common complaint for many people, whether you're on your feet all day, have a medical condition, or simply wear unsupportive shoes. The pain can range from mild discomfort to severe, chronic conditions that affect your mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, orthotic insoles provide a simple yet highly effective solution for many foot-related problems.
-
Conditioning with Weighted Skipping Ropes (2024) Does it Work?
Conditioning with weighted skipping ropes is an effective and versatile way to enhance your physical fitness. By combining cardiovascular exercise with added resistance, these ropes help improve muscle strength, endurance, coordination, and overall conditioning.
Whether you’re looking to boost your calorie burn, improve cardiovascular health, or simply add variety to your workouts, weighted skipping ropes can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine.
-
Insoles - Shoe, Orthotic and Comfort Explained
One of the earliest documented uses of insoles dates back to the ancient Egyptians around 1500 BCE. They crafted sandals with padded insoles made from plant fibres and leather to provide extra comfort and protection for their feet. Similarly, the ancient Greeks and Romans also utilised insoles made from various materials, including wool, felt, and leather, to improve the fit and comfort of their footwear.
-
Inflatable Exercise Balls: A Buyers Guide
Inflatable exercise balls, known as stability balls, Swiss balls, or fitness balls, are essential in fitness and rehabilitation. These versatile tools enhance core strength, balance, flexibility, and aid in injury recovery. Made from durable, burst-resistant materials, they support various exercises that engage multiple muscle groups, making them invaluable for home gyms, fitness centres, and therapeutic settings.
-
Living with Bunions: Patient Advice
Effective ways to manage bunions without surgery, particularly for those who prefer non-invasive approaches or are on NHS waiting lists for surgical treatment.
-
How do Therapeutic Insoles Support Diabetes and Pressure Relief?
Therapeutic insoles are designed to provide, support, alignment, and relief for various foot conditions or biomechanical issues. They help support the arch, redistributing pressure evenly across the foot and providing stability. They can correct biomechanical imbalances in the feet by aligning the foot properly, and can help alleviate associated discomfort or prevent injuries.
-
Physioworx Combined Hot and Cold Packs
In the realm of self-care and first-aid essentials, few products offer the versatility and effectiveness of the combined hot and cold pack. Engineered to provide targeted relief for a myriad of ailments, these innovative packs serve as indispensable assets in every household, gym bag, and medical kit.
-
Versatility of the Peanut Ball - A Guide
The Physioworx 50cm Peanut Ball is a versatile and innovative exercise tool designed to enhance comfort, support, and effectiveness in various applications, including pregnancy, labor, physical therapy, and general fitness.
-
Pressure Off-loading Devices for Foot Ulcer Prevention
In the UK, over 4.9 million people have the condition, with a further 13.6 million people at increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Unfortunately, the implications of diabetes to the individual can be severe. Without proper preventative care, people with the condition are at risk of complications such as foot ulceration, which can lead to lower-limb amputation. Lets look at offloading pressure and some of the tools available to achieve this.
-
Do Orthotic Insoles Work? Examining the Evidence
Orthotic insoles, also known as orthotic inserts or shoe inserts, are custom-made or over-the-counter devices designed to support, align, or improve the function of the feet. They are commonly used to address various foot conditions such as flat feet, plantar fasciitis, and metatarsalgia, among others. While these insoles are widely used, the question of their effectiveness remains a topic of debate. This article examines the evidence regarding the effectiveness of orthotic insoles in addressing foot-related problems.
-
Transparent Bonding with Renia Contact Adhesives
Renia Contact Adhesives offer a clear solution for bonding a wide variety of materials while maintaining a transparent, aesthetically pleasing finish. Whether you're in the footwear industry, crafting leather goods, or working in orthotic design, the need for a bond that is not only strong but also invisible is essential.
-
Physioworx Resistance Bands FAQ
Resistance bands are a versatile and essential tool in fitness, rehabilitation, and strength training. They provide a wide range of benefits, including improving muscle tone, enhancing flexibility, and aiding in injury recovery. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start a fitness routine or an advanced athlete seeking to add variety to your workouts, resistance bands offer an effective solution. This FAQ guide addresses common questions about resistance bands, covering their use, benefits, and how to select the right one for your needs.
-
Plantar Fasciitis Exercises with Spiky Balls
The Physioworx Spiky Ball can help with plantar fasciitis by providing targeted massage therapy to the affected area. Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot. Using a spiky ball for self-massage helps to release tension in the muscles and fascia, improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation.
-
Toe Protection Tips using Silipos Foot Care Gels
Silipos Gel products are designed to offer protection, comfort, and relief for various foot-related issues. These products, which include toe protectors, toe separators, gel caps, and toe straighteners, are made from high-quality, medical-grade gels that are soft, flexible, and durable. They are specifically crafted to alleviate discomfort caused by conditions such as blisters, corns, calluses, bunions, and hammertoes.
-
Orthotic Insoles vs Foot Orthotics: What’s the Difference?
The terms orthotic insoles and foot orthotics are often used interchangeably, but they differ in design, purpose, and customisation. Here’s an overview to help you understand which might be best for you.
-
Fidget Cushions - Do they work?
Fidget cushions, also known as sensory cushions or wobble cushions, have become increasingly popular as tools for improving concentration, posture, and sensory processing in children and adults. These cushions are designed to encourage movement and provide sensory feedback, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with ADHD, autism, or sensory processing disorders. This article will explore the different types of fidget cushions available, how they work, and the scientific evidence supporting their use.
-
How to Dye Leather for Best Results
Brillo Leather colour sprays are a fantastic way to restore, refresh, or customise leather surfaces. Whether you're changing the colour, covering scuffs, or updating a worn finish, following the correct preparation and application techniques will give you a smooth, professional result.
-
Lower Limb Biomechanics Quick Reference Guide
Here is a comprehensive list of biomechanical conditions that could benefit from orthotic therapy, podiatry treatments or other interventions. It has been created as quick reference guide for clinicians looking at each condtion and the basic treat options.
-
Exercise Ball Chairs as Office Seats: Pros & Cons
Using an exercise ball as a chair in the workplace has become a popular alternative to traditional seating. While there are some potential benefits, there are also notable disadvantages to consider. Below, we explore both the advantages and drawbacks of using an exercise ball as a chair, as well as tips on how to use it properly and alternative ways to improve posture.
-
Renia Primers: Solving Difficult Shoe Repairs with Contact Adhesives
When it comes to modifying or repairing shoes, especially those made from tricky materials like "plastic" soles often found in cheaper footwear, it can feel like nothing will stick. This is a common issue for professionals such as podiatrists and orthotists when patients bring in either a newly purchased pair of shoes or their favourite, well-worn pair, asking for orthopaedic adjustments.
-
Feet Facts - 101 Fun and Interesting Stats
Feet are extraordinary! They support us, help us move, and have played a huge part in history, culture, and sports. From ancient foot binding practices to modern sports achievements, our feet are not only biologically significant but also culturally impactful. Hopefully, these fun and interesting facts have given you a newfound appreciation for the complex and fascinating structure that keeps you standing strong.
-
Manufacturing Custom Foot Orthotics
In principle, the use of custom-made foot orthotics allows clinicians to provide a more accurate device to better treat patients, however this depends on the materials and methods used, as well as cost and manufacturing time. Staff shortages within O&P roles, as well as funding cuts, means that orthotists and workshop managers need to use the most cost and time effective materials and methods to best serve their patients.
-
Boat Building and Repair Techniques using EVA Foam
Welcome aboard! In this blog, we will explore the world of boat building and repairs with EVA (Ethylene-Vinyl Acetate). EVA has become increasingly popular as a preferred material for boat construction and repairs due to its numerous advantages from its durability and versatility to its comfort safety, aesthetics, low maintenance and environmental friendliness.
-
How Voxelcare is Revolutionising Orthotics
According to NHS data, there are an estimated two million orthotic patients treated at one time in England alone. From diabetes to post op trauma, orthotic services provide health benefits for a wide range of conditions in a variety of settings.
-
The History of Podiatry
Podiatry, the branch of medicine devoted to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the feet, has an interesting and varied history. From its origins in ancient civilisations to its modern-day practice, the field has undergone significant evolution, not just in name but in the scope of treatments and the level of medical training involved. The distinction between podiatry and chiropody has often caused confusion, but understanding their historical development helps clarify their differences.
-
Healthy Feet Rule Book - 6 Steps
This blog highlights the importance of foot care, given the wear and tear our feet endure on a daily basis. The average person takes around 8,000-10,000 steps each day, which can lead to various foot conditions such as dryness, cracked skin, blisters, cuts and bruises. The blog provides six steps to follow for healthy feet.
-
Top Tips for Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetic lower limb products and daily living aids. Includes diabetic insoles, monitoring and prevention solutions to ensure safe and healthy feet.
-
Accessing Foot Orthotics from the NHS
The NHS provides access to foot orthotics for those with medically diagnosed foot problems. However, the process can take time due to waiting lists and the need for assessment by a healthcare professional.
-
Does Your Child Need Orthotics?
As a child develops, the feet go through several stages of maturity, from a softer structure at a young age to a more rigid structure with growth. Many complications can occur from improper foot function making it important to screen children’s feet during development.
-
Elevate 360 Drop Foot Brace Fitting Instructions
Orient the brace on the ankle. Place the Boa center to your foot or shoe. Wrap brace around ankle to test for fit. Trim the brace if desired (not required). Place the Boa center to your foot or shoe. Place the left side first against your leg, then follow with right to secure hook and loop.
-
Plantar Fascia Grooves in Foot Orthoses
It is widely acknowledged that the foot should be a supportive structure to resist the forces that are applied to it during the propulsive or push of phase of gait. To do this the arch of the foot should be become elevated and the foot becomes more supinated. There are a number of ways in which the foot can do this.
-
What is Pes Planus? (Flat Feet)
Pes planus otherwise termed as flat feet is a biomechanical problem experienced by a surprisingly high percentage of the population. Flat feet are a condition where the arch of the foot appears flattened.
-
Heel Lifts - Buyers Guide
This article is intended to give an overview of the different types of in-shoe orthotic heel inserts available and their strengths and shortcomings, and to assist you in choosing appropriate heel lift product
-
What is Achilles Tendonitis?
If you have Achilles tendonitis you will experience discomfort at the back of the leg which consists of a burning, shooting, or piercing pain due to the inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon.
-
Heel Pain, Bursitis and Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain is a common issue affecting many people, impacting daily activities and quality of life. Two frequent causes of heel pain are bursitis and plantar fasciitis. Understanding these conditions, their causes, and their treatments can help manage and alleviate pain effectively.
-
How to Prevent and Cure Blisters
A blister is a bubble of fluid under the outer layer of skin. The fluid may be clear or filled with blood or pus. There are many possible causes of blisters including a burn, disease, an allergic reaction, or from your skin rubbing against something.
-
Understanding Overlapping and Underlapping Toes
Toes can sometimes overlap or underlap the other toes and can be the cause of constant irritation. The cause of underlapping or overlapping toes is generally unknown.