Step Up To Healthy Feet!

 

Good foot care is an important part of keeping fit.

 

What is podiatry?

 

Podiatry focuses on the treatment of foot ailments and injuries.  It involves many areas of expertise, including surgery, sports medicine (the treatment of athletic foot problems), childhood and senior foot disorders, limb locomotion and abnormal gait problems.

 

What is a Podiatrist?

 

A Podiatrist is a doctor who specialized in treating injuries, diseases, infections and deformities of the feet.  Your Podiatrist works closely with your family doctor and other medical specialists to provide quality health care.

 

How much training does it take to become a Podiatrist?

 

A Podiatrist studies for eight years.  Four years for an undergraduate degree, followed by another four years at an accredited podiatric medical school.  After receiving a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine, the Podiatrist must complete a residency program at a teaching hospital for another one to four years.

 

When do I need to see my Podiatrist?

 

Pain in your feet is the most noticeable sign of foot problems.  Many people experience ingrown and infected toenails, skin disorders (athlete’s feet, plantar warts, corns and calluses), high arches and flat feet.  Your Podiatrist is also trained to treat more serious problems involving injuries and deformities of bones, muscles and ligaments.

 

Podiatrists are trained to recognize many systemic medical conditions.  Prompt detection and management of diseases such as diabetes, poor circulation, and arthritis can help you avoid serious foot problems in the future.  Make sure you take advantage of the preventive medicine your Podiatrist has to offer.

 

Foot Care Tips for Happy Feet!

1. Keep your feet clean, warm and dry.  Treat perspiration by changing socks two or more times a day.
2. Inspect your feet daily.
3. Dry your feet carefully after bathing, especially between the toes.  You can use a hair dryer in cool position if necessary.
4. Apply a moisturizing lotion after bathing.
5. Cut your toenails after bathing, when they are soft, following the contour of the toes, never getting too close to the skin.  If you suffer poor vision or unsteady hands, ask your Podiatrist for help.
6. Switch off your electric blanket before falling asleep.  Never bind bed covers down over your feet.
7. Powder your feet after bathing.  Powder your shoes as well.
8. Wear socks to bed if you have cold feet.  Never warm your feet with any kind of heater.
9. Treat cuts with a mild antiseptic.
10. See your podiatrist if you have any problems or questions with regards to your feet.