Podiatry is a field of medicine almost unknown in Poland. It deals with examining foot deformities and dysfunctions. The name comes from the Greek words Podos - foot and Logos - science. Podiatry helps people who often do not know that the cause of their suffering and ailments are disorders of their own feet.
A podiatrist independently recognizes pathological changes on the feet and performs appropriate treatments or refers the patient to the appropriate specialist doctor. An interview and podiatric examination allow for early detection of risks and referral of the patient to the appropriate specialist doctor, increasing the chances of stopping further pathological changes, not only within the foot.
A podiatrist is prepared to provide professional care for patients at risk groups, such as diabetics, hemophiliacs, or rheumatics. They act as advisors giving advice on foot care and the use of specialized cosmetic products. They have knowledge in using basic pharmaceuticals, prosthetic offloading especially of high-risk feet using specialized dressings and orthoses.
WHEN IS IT WORTH SEEING A PODIATRIST?
Podiatry combines both preventive and therapeutic actions. It is worth consulting a podiatrist if:
- You experience pain, numbness, tingling, or burning in your feet
- You have a problem with ingrown toenails causing discomfort and inflammation
- You have noticed calluses, corns, or cracked heels on your feet
- You suffer from nail fungus or skin fungus on your feet
- You are diabetic, have rheumatism, or have hemophilia and require professional podiatric care
- You have foot deformities such as bunions, flat feet, or hammer toes
- You care about having healthy and well-groomed foot skin and strong nails
JAK PRZEBIEGA WIZYTA U PODOLOGA?
Each visit to a podiatrist begins with a thorough interview and assessment of the foot health. The podiatrist examines the skin, nails, and foot biomechanics to detect any abnormalities. Based on the diagnosis, they take appropriate actions, which may include:
- Removing calluses, corns, viral warts, and other skin lesions
- Correcting ingrown toenails and treating inflammatory conditions around them
- Treating and preventing diabetic foot problems to prevent complications such as ulcers
- Antifungal and antibacterial therapies
- Prosthetic offloading of sensitive areas on the foot using specialized orthoses and dressings
A podiatrist not only treats but also serves as an advisor. They provide guidance on proper foot care, selection of cosmetics and pharmaceuticals, as well as disease prevention.
PODOLOGY FOR PATIENTS AT RISK GROUPS
People with diabetes, hemophilia, rheumatoid arthritis, and other chronic conditions require special care in foot care. A podiatrist is prepared to serve patients at risk, helping prevent complications and selecting appropriate treatment methods. With specialized knowledge and skills, they can effectively minimize the risk of ulcers, inflammation, or infections.
Effects of regular podiatric care
- Pain relief and improved walking comfort
- Healthy, elastic, and moisturized skin on the feet
- No corns, calluses, or other painful changes
- Healthy and well-groomed toenails without fungal infections
- Reduced risk of health complications, especially for diabetics and rheumatoid patients
- Professional advice on foot care and prevention