Podiatry

What types of services do podiatrists provide?

Here’s an expanded look at the podiatric services provided:

1. General Podiatry Care: This encompasses routine foot health assessments and treatments to address common issues such as corns, calluses, ingrown toenails, fungal infections, and foot pain. For individuals with limited mobility or those who struggle with self-care tasks, regular podiatry visits ensure these issues are managed effectively. By maintaining overall foot health, podiatrists help prevent further complications that could impact a participant’s ability to walk or perform daily activities comfortably.
    
2. Medical-Grade Footwear: Podiatrists often recommend and provide medical-grade footwear tailored to the unique needs of each participant. These specialised shoes are designed to offer enhanced support, cushioning, and protection for individuals with foot deformities, neuropathy, or other medical conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. Proper footwear is essential for preventing sores, reducing pressure on vulnerable areas, and providing the stability needed for safe and comfortable movement. Podiatrists work closely with participants to ensure their footwear meets their specific health and mobility needs.
    
3. Compression Socks: For individuals experiencing poor circulation, swelling, or conditions such as varicose veins, compression socks are an invaluable tool in managing symptoms. Podiatrists assess the level of compression required and provide guidance on proper use. These socks are particularly beneficial for individuals with limited movement, as they can help reduce swelling, prevent blood clots, and improve overall circulation in the lower limbs. By providing compression socks, podiatrists help participants maintain comfort and reduce the risk of further complications related to circulation.
    
4. Diabetic Foot Care and Wound Care: Individuals with diabetes are at high risk of foot complications due to reduced sensation, circulation issues, and slower healing rates. Podiatrists provide specialised diabetic foot care, which includes regular foot checks, monitoring for any signs of injury or infection, and proactive treatment of wounds to prevent serious complications. Wound care is especially important, as even minor injuries can escalate into severe infections if not managed promptly. By providing preventive care and close monitoring, podiatrists help diabetic participants maintain foot health, avoid complications, and improve their overall quality of life.
    
5. In-Home Podiatry Services: For participants with limited mobility or transportation challenges, in-home podiatry services are a convenient and accessible option. Podiatrists visit the participant’s home to provide the same level of care they would receive in a clinic. This includes all general podiatry treatments, assessments for medical-grade footwear, and fittings for orthotics or compression socks, as well as diabetic and wound care. In-home services ensure that all participants, regardless of mobility, have access to essential podiatric care, making it easier to maintain foot health and prevent complications that could otherwise limit independence.