Discover Life-Changing Podiatry and Chiropody Care to improve your health
Welcome to The Orchard Clinic, your trusted destination for holistic health and wellness in Upper Basildon, near Reading. We provide specialised care for your feet to keep them healthy and pain-free, including podiatry and chiropody services. Let’s explore what they are, how they help, and their many benefits.
What are Podiatry and Chiropody?
These therapies focus on problems with the feet and lower limbs. They involve diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders in these areas. While people often use the terms interchangeably, subtle differences exist between them.
Podiatry
Podiatry is a branch of medicine that deals with foot, ankle, and lower extremity issues. It involves diagnosing and treating these problems through medical or surgical methods. Podiatrists are experts in treating foot and lower limb issues, from simple problems to more complicated conditions. They are healthcare professionals.
Chiropody
Chiropody is an old term for podiatry in the UK. It mainly deals with caring for and treating foot problems without surgery. Chiropodists address issues such as calluses, corns, ingrown toenails, and general foot care. Today, chiropody is essentially synonymous with podiatry, and practitioners often use both terms.
How Do Podiatry and Chiropody Work?
Podiatrists and chiropodists use a variety of techniques and treatments to address foot and lower limb problems. Here’s a closer look at how these professionals work to keep your feet healthy:
• Ingrown Toenails
1. Assessment and Diagnosis
The process begins with a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s feet and lower limbs. This includes examining the skin, nails, and structure of the feet, as well as assessing gait and posture.
2. Treatment of Common Foot Conditions
We treat a wide range of conditions, including:
• Corns and Calluses: These are thickened areas of skin caused by pressure or friction. Treatment involves careful removal and advice on footwear and foot care.
This painful condition occurs when the edges of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin. Treatment may involve trimming the nail or, in severe cases, minor surgery.
• Fungal Infections
Doctors treat conditions like athlete’s foot and fungal toenails with antifungal medications and provide advice on hygiene.
• Foot Ulcers
Doctors treat foot ulcers in diabetic patients through wound care, pressure relief, and infection control, which are particularly important.
3. Orthotics and Biomechanics
For patients with structural issues or gait abnormalities, podiatrists may prescribe custom orthotic devices. These insoles or shoe inserts help correct alignment, distribute pressure evenly, and improve overall foot function.
Orthotics can help reduce pain and improve function in patients with foot problems. This was shown in a study published in the Journal of Foot and Ankle Research.
The study found that orthotics are effective in treating various foot issues. Patients can benefit from using orthotics to alleviate pain and enhance their foot function.
4. Surgical Interventions: For more severe or complex conditions, podiatrists may perform surgical procedures. These can range from minor surgeries, such as ingrown toenail removal, to more complex surgeries to correct deformities.
5. Preventative Care and Education:
Podiatrists and chiropodists provide valuable advice on foot care, footwear, and exercises to prevent future problems. This holistic approach ensures long-term foot health.
Benefits of Podiatry and Chiropody
The benefits are extensive, offering relief from pain, improved mobility, and enhanced overall well-being. Here are some key advantages, supported by scientific research:
Pain Relief
Treatments effectively alleviate pain caused by various foot conditions. A study in the Journal of the American Podiatric Medical Association found that patients who received podiatric care reported significant reductions in foot pain and improved quality of life.
A study in a medical journal found that people who got treatment for their feet felt less pain and better overall. They also had better movement and function.
By addressing structural issues and providing custom orthotics, podiatry enhances mobility and foot function. A study showed that orthotic devices can improve walking and reduce falls in older adults, according to Gait & Posture.
Prevention of Complications
Regular care is crucial for preventing complications, particularly for patients with diabetes or circulatory problems. Caring for your feet can reduce the risk of foot ulcers and amputations in people with diabetes. This information comes from the Journal of Diabetes Research.
Prioritising foot care is important for individuals with diabetes. By taking proper care of your feet, you can prevent serious complications.
Enhanced Sports Performance
For athletes, treatment plays a vital role in optimising performance and preventing injuries. A study in a sports medicine journal found that foot treatments can help prevent injuries and improve athletic performance.
Better Foot Health for All Ages
Treatment can assist individuals of all ages. This includes children with foot issues and older adults with age-related foot problems. Early intervention and regular care ensure healthy development and prevent future complications.
Experience Expert Podiatry and Chiropody at The Orchard Clinic
At The Orchard Clinic, we are committed to providing exceptional podiatry and chiropody care tailored to your unique needs. Our skilled experts use modern methods and proven treatments to keep your feet healthy and free from pain.
If you have foot pain, a foot condition, or want to keep your feet healthy, The Orchard Clinic can help. We offer services to assist you in achieving your goals. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and take the first step towards better foot health and overall well-being.
Welcome to The Orchard Clinic, where your wellness is our priority.
