As we get ready for the New Year, we begin to consider how to put our best foot forward—literally! Implementing a foot care routine will benefit your overall health and improve mobility. At Parkway Back and Foot Clinic in Stoney Creek, happy feet lead to a healthier you.
Here are some practical tips for foot care, the vital role of a chiropodist, and clearing up the common confusion between chiropody and podiatry.
Tips to Fix and Take Care of Your Feet
Daily Hygiene is Key
Your feet should be washed with warm water and soap on the top, bottom, and between the toes; however, make sure all areas are dry, especially between the toes, to avoid any infections. A gentle exfoliation will help in keeping the skin smooth.
Moisturize Regularly
Applying a moisturizing foot cream daily on the soles and heels will prevent hard or cracking skin. Avoid moisturizing between the toes to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Choose the Right Footwear
Ill-fitting shoes can cause blisters, bunions, and long-term deformities. You want to be sure that your shoes provide comfort and support for the arch and plenty of room for your toes to move with ease.
Trim Your Nails
To avoid the chance of ingrown toenails and infection, the nails should be trimmed straight across rather than rounded. A Chiropodist can suggest the proper steps to ensure good foot health.
Stay Active
There are toe and calf stretching exercises to improve circulation and strengthen foot muscles. If you stand on your feet all day, you may notice swelling, and it is a good habit to find a way to elevate your feet periodically.
The Role of a Chiropodist
A Chiropodist is a regulated foot specialist who assesses, treats and helps prevent foot and lower limb disorders. Danielle Ellis is the Chiropodist at Parkway Back and Foot Clinic and can help with the following:
Diabetic Foot Care
Custom Orthotics
Wound Care
Nail and Skin Conditions
At Parkway Back and Foot Clinic, our Chiropodists are trained to deliver expert care and guidance, ensuring your feet are in the best hands.
Chiropody vs. Podiatry: What’s the Difference?
Many people use "chiropody" and "podiatry" interchangeably, but the terms have distinct meanings depending on where you are:
Chiropody for Foot Care
The term Chiropody is used in Canada to describe the care provided by foot specialists. Chiropodists undergo extensive education and training, focusing on foot health and related lower-limb concerns, and can treat a broad range of medical conditions of the foot.
Is There a Difference in Podiatry?
Podiatrists may "communicate a diagnosis" to their patients and perform surgical procedures. Podiatrists are required to have a "Doctor of Podiatric Medicine/DPM" degree. This term is often used in the U.S. Podiatrists may bill OHIP for their services, whereas Chiropodists may not.
Both professions aim to improve foot health, but knowing what each profession offers will enable you to choose who will provide your foot health essentials.
Toe-tally Kickstart the New Year with Healthy Feet
As we move into a new year, let's make your foot care a priority. Whether it's adopting better daily habits or consulting with a Chiropodist, the team at Parkway Back and Foot Clinic in Stoney Creek is here to support you.
Book a consultation with Parkway's Chiropodist, and let's toe-tally implement good foot care in the new year together!
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