What are the Functions of Chiropodists?

Have you ever experienced nagging foot pain or discomfort that just won't go away? Or perhaps you're dealing with a more serious foot condition that's impacting your mobility and quality of life. If so, you may have considered seeking help from a chiropodist – but what exactly do these foot health specialists do?

At Align, we understand the importance of maintaining healthy feet. After all, our feet are the foundation that supports our entire body weight and enables us to move freely. That's why we're dedicated to educating our clients on the vital role chiropodists play in promoting foot health and overall well-being.

Scope of Practice

Chiropodists, also known as podiatrists in Canada, are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions affecting the feet and lower limbs. Their expertise extends far beyond just trimming toenails or providing basic foot care. Chiropodists undergo extensive training to assess, diagnose, and treat a wide range of foot and ankle disorders, both through conservative and surgical interventions.

Common Conditions Treated

From minor issues like ingrown toenails and calluses to more complex problems like bunions, hammertoes, and plantar fasciitis, chiropodists are equipped to handle a variety of foot and lower limb conditions. They also play a crucial role in managing foot complications associated with chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis, and peripheral neuropathy.

One of the most common reasons people seek chiropodist care is for biomechanical issues, such as flat feet or high arches. These conditions can lead to imbalances in the way weight is distributed across the feet, potentially causing pain, discomfort, and even injuries in other parts of the body like the knees, hips, and lower back. At Align, our chiropodists excel at diagnosing and treating biomechanical problems through the use of Align Orthotics ™. These medical devices are designed to correct foot imbalances, redistribute weight evenly, and provide support where it's needed most, helping to alleviate pain and prevent further complications.

Treatment Approaches

Chiropodists have a wide range of treatment approaches at their disposal, allowing them to develop personalized care plans tailored to each patient's unique needs. Depending on the condition, they may recommend:

• Conservative Treatments
• Align Orthotics ™ to correct biomechanical imbalances and improve foot function
• Padding and strapping techniques to redistribute pressure and reduce friction
• Physical therapies like mobilization, stretching, and strengthening exercises
• Medications
• Topical or oral medications to treat infections, reduce inflammation, or manage pain
• Surgical Interventions
• Nail surgery to address ingrown toenails or fungal infections
• Bunion surgery to correct deformities and relieve pain
• Other procedures like joint fusions or tendon repairs

Patient Education and Preventive Care

Beyond treating existing conditions, chiropodists play a vital role in educating patients on proper foot care and preventive measures. They can provide valuable advice on:

• Selecting appropriate footwear for different activities and foot types
• Practicing good foot hygiene and nail care
• Incorporating stretches and exercises to maintain foot flexibility and strength
• Making lifestyle modifications to reduce strain on the feet, such as weight management or activity modifications

For patients with chronic conditions like diabetes, chiropodists are instrumental in teaching proper foot inspection techniques and providing guidance on managing high-risk feet to prevent complications like ulcers or infections.

Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals

Foot health is intrinsically linked to overall body alignment and well-being. As such, chiropodists often work in multidisciplinary teams, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to provide comprehensive care. For example, they may:

• Consult with physicians to co-manage complex cases or refer patients for additional testing or treatment
• Work alongside physiotherapists and occupational therapists to develop rehabilitation plans that address foot and lower limb issues

At Align, we understand the invaluable role chiropodists play in maintaining foot health and overall body alignment. Whether you're dealing with a specific foot condition or simply want to prioritize preventive care, our team of experienced chiropodists is here to provide personalized, expert guidance.

Don't let foot pain or discomfort hold you back any longer. Schedule an appointment with one of our chiropodists today and take the first step towards moving better, aligned!