FOOT HEALTH
TREATMENTS IN WOODHALL SPA
The first step to having healthier feet, is knowing how to look after them. View the answers to some frequently asked questions below. If you feel that you would benefit from professional foot health treatments in Woodhall Spa, visit my foot health services page.
FAQS
WHAT IS A FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER?
Often people wonder the difference between a Podiatrist/Chiropodist and a Foot Health Practitioner. A Foot Health Practitioner is fully qualified and insured professional who is able to offer all foot care services including nail cutting and treating verruca's, just without the degree title of a Podiatrist or Chiropodist.
WHAT QUALIFICATIONS DO YOU HAVE?
I studied at The SMAE Institute, a nationally renowned establishment since 1919. This involved a 12 module Diploma usually completed over a year with Degree level written assignments at the end of each module. It is the only University accredited Foot Health course in the UK. Infection detection and prevention, as well as Diabetic foot care, is focused on throughout the course and this plays a major part in patient care on a daily basis.
On successfully passing the theory modules, a two-week intense practical course is attended, where students work alongside tutors in the Institute’s clinic. Once the required standards are achieved, the student is eligible for Membership of the College of Foot Health Professionals (MCFHP) and Membership of the British Association of Foot Health Professionals (MAFHP).
This training allows the FHP to carry out assessments of circulation and nerves in the lower legs and feet, detect abnormalities, cut finger and toenails, treat nail thinning, treat fungal infections, remove corns and hard skin, prevent and treat minor ingrown toenails, treat diabetic foot conditions, and give advice in all areas.
CAN YOU GET RID OF FUNGAL INFECTIONS?
I can contain fungal infections by cutting the infected nail away. As the nail grows, the infection can be contained to prevent infecting the new nail. In order to effectively contain the infection, it will need to be treated daily and cut regularly. Once the infected nail has been completely replaced by the new nail, the fungal infection will have been removed. This process can take 6 to 12 months, depending on the speed of your nail growth.
IS NAIL VARNISH SAFE TO WEAR?
If you enjoy wearing nail varnish, then continue to do so, as long as you do not have any underlying issues such as a fungal infection. However, it is vital that you remove it regularly (at least once per week) and treat the nail with a product with anti-bacterial properties. Tea Tree oil and Vicks Vapour Rub both work well.
WHAT MOISTURISER SHOULD I USE ON MY FEET?
Treating yourself to a regular foot massage at home, (whether that is by using our mobile foot massage service, or by rubbing lotion into your own feet) helps to increase circulation, promotes relaxation, and works out any stiffness. I recommend using aqueous cream as it is non-greasy and absorbs well into the skin. Rub the cream from the heel downwards towards the toes, applying comfortable pressure. Follow by wearing warm socks to allow heat to generate, to promote blood flow.
WHAT CAUSES AN INGROWN TOENAIL?
Ingrown toenails can be caused in a variety of ways, including cutting the toenails too short, cutting your toenails at an angle, or wearing ill-fitting shoes. As the nail continues to grow, you will notice the skin beside the nail becoming red, sore, and swollen.
You can prevent ingrown toenails by cutting toenails in a straight line with clean cutters, wearing comfortable shoes with enough room to wiggle your toes, and maintaining good hygiene.
If you suspect you may have an ingrown toenail, please get in touch to discuss treatment as soon as possible to prevent infection.
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Please get in contact using any of the details below:
Tor-O-Moor Road, Woodhall Spa LN10 6SD
07799 400631