Foot Health
Foot Healthcare is the field of medicine devoted to the treatment of problems related to the foot and ankle.
Such treatment often brings about improved well-being in other parts of the body, especially the relief of body aches and pain.
This is because problems and pain in the foot affect both posture and gait – the way we stand and the way we walk. And when we do not stand and walk in a proper, balanced manner, we tend to develop problems such as knee pain, back ache or even pain in the neck.
As such, Foot Healthcare Practitioners routinely work with other healthcare professionals who treat musculo-skeletal aches and pain, including osteopaths and chiropractors.
Foot and ankle problems commonly treated by Foot Healthcare Practitioners include:-
- corns and calluses
- in-grown toenails
- plantar warts/verrucae
- dry, cracked heels ,
- foot fungal infection, also known as Athlete’s foot ,
- Thickened nails,
- bunions ,
- hammer toes ,
- flat foot ,
- weak arches
What can I expect on my first visit?
An initial consultation will include a detailed medical history, examination of the foot and, if appropriate, treatment.
You will need to remove both your shoes and socks (or other hosiery), and have your toenails clear of any nail varnish, for Kathy to fully evaluate the conditions.
The treatment will be explained and agreed between both parties. Advice will be given to improve the foot health and prevent other problems.
If a different type of treatment would be more appropriate, she will refer you accordingly. This could be to your GP, osteopath or other specialist.
At the end of the consultation a foot massage is given. This has the following benefits: It relaxes the foot, improves the blood supply and helps lymphatic drainage.
A suitable massage cream is used to improve the hydration of the skin.
Clients are requested to visit Kathy at her clinic to benefit from the range of treatment options and equipment. For those unable to attend, a home visit can be arranged to suit the client.