What is Podiatry?
I get asked many times “What is a Podiatrist?”, “What do you do?” Here is a short video in brief of the amazing profession I have been privileged to be a part of for the last 22 years.
I get asked many times “What is a Podiatrist?”, “What do you do?” Here is a short video in brief of the amazing profession I have been privileged to be a part of for the last 22 years.
High levels of sugar in the blood can cause damage to nerves. This can affect any nerve in the body but usually affects the longest nerves first. This may result in a gradual loss of feeling in the foot.
As your sensitivity to pain is reduced you will become more prone to injury. This information is designed to provide you with a practical guide to keeping your feet healthy.
What are appropriate footwear?
If possible when buying shoes you should have your feet measured. It may be that because of your sensory loss you are buying shoes that are too small. Your Podiatric or Orthotic clinic can help with sizing if required.
You should always wear standard closed in shoes, avoid sandals, open back or slip on styles. The footwear should be the correct length and have adequate depth and width with few internal seams.
What else do I need to do?
To avoid injury to your feet check inside the shoes before you put them on. Check for any loose objects that may have found their way into your shoes and remove them.
How should I use new shoes?
Shoes should always be worn in gradually, only wearing them for one hour initially. Build the wear time up one hour per day, increasing to full time wear. After taking your shoes off you should check your feet for any signs of excessive pressure or damage.
What if I wear special insoles?
If you have been issued with special insoles as part of your condition, it is essential the shoes are not too tight when using them. Try and buy footwear with removable insoles or slightly bigger than you would normally take.
Your Orthotist or Podiatrist will be glad to check the fit of shoes and advise you accordingly. Insoles usually reduce the depth of a shoes so do not try to accommodate them in tight fitting shallow shoes.
Who is more at risk?
People who neglect their feet.
A Podiatrist/Chiropodist is a health professional who can assess, diagnose, treat and manage conditions of the feet and lower limbs. They have an extensive scope of practice including;
Assessment and treatment of common foot complaints such as corns, other skin pathologies, and nail problems
• Assessment of the structure, alignment and function of the feet and legs with appropriate treatment such as insoles, stretching and strengthening exercises to correct any abnormality. A referral may be made to a bio-mechanical specialist
• Nail surgery using local anaesthetics
• Management of patients at increased risk of foot problems such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and peripheral vascular disease. Annual diabetic foot checks can also be performed.
• Advice on prevention of foot problems and how to keep feet in good health
• Advice on suitable footwear
• Assessment and treatment of common foot complaints such as corns, other skin pathologies, and nail problems
• Assessment of the structure, alignment and function of the feet and legs with appropriate treatment such as insoles, stretching and strengthening exercises to correct any abnormality. A referral may be made to a bio-mechanical specialist
• Nail surgery using local anaesthetics
• Management of patients at increased risk of foot problems such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis and peripheral vascular disease. Annual diabetic foot checks can also be performed.
• Advice on prevention of foot problems and how to keep feet in good health
• Advice on suitable footwear
Established in February 2017, Purbeck Podiatry is a busy and growing clinic, treating residents in the local area. We deliver a very high standard of experienced professional care in a very welcoming environment to visitors of all ages.
Purbeck Podiatry & Chiropody
B1 Charity Farm, Dorchester Road
Lytchett Minster, Dorset, BH16 6JF
01202 920 576
info@purbeckpodiatry.co.uk
Mon: Home Visit
Tue: 9am-6pm
Wed: 9am-6pm
Thur: 9am-6pm
Fri: 9am-6pm
Sat: By Appointment
Opening hours stated may vary at the Podiatrist’s discretion