Podology: what is it (in simple words), what problems it solves

Our feet and toes bear a lot of stress from walking. They come into contact with different surfaces, rubbed by shoes. Problems with the lower part of the feet sometimes arise due to systemic diseases and lack of care. Foot health is engaged in a separate specialization at the junction of medicine and cosmetology - podiatry.

What is a podologist?

A podologist is not a doctor, he does not prescribe systemic treatment. A podologist differs from a master pedicurist in medical knowledge, equipment and techniques for treatment procedures. His expertise includes examinations, referrals for tests, and referrals for medical appointments.

Podologist must have a medical education. He has knowledge of dermatology, endocrinology, orthopedics, foot surgery, etc. Such a specialist diagnoses diseases of the feet and toes, relieves the symptoms of such abnormalities:

• diabetic foot;
• transverse flat feet;
• arthritis and arthrosis of small joints;
• ingrown toenail, fungus, deformation of nail plates due to trauma or wearing tight shoes;
• warts on the sole or top of the foot;
• Calluses on toes and corns;
• cracked heels;
• problems with the ligaments of the feet;
• circulatory disorders;
• foot sweating;
• eczemas that occur on the skin of the feet and toes.

At the reception, the podologist examines the patient's feet, finds out his complaints and draws a conclusion. Then he selects therapeutic procedures, gives advice on home care. The podologist can teach how to do pedicures properly on their own, how to strengthen nails, eliminate spots and delaminations on the nail plate.

If the podologist suspects that problems with the feet and toes are the result of systemic diseases, he will refer the patient to a general practitioner, orthopedist, endocrinologist or cardiologist. If necessary, the podiatrist takes scrapings and refers the patient to a laboratory for tests. Based on the test results, the podiatrist prescribes the necessary procedures.

What procedures are used in podology

Podologists often prescribe:

• hardware pedicure - exfoliation and removal of keratinized deposits on the heels and other areas of the feet and toes;
• correction of ingrown nails with special plates;
• antifungal ointments, etc;
• Suitable orthopedic insoles for corns.

There are virtually no contraindications to podology procedures. People with hemophilia should be cautious about buffing the cuticle and keratinized tissue. Small injuries may occur during the procedure, causing minor bleeding, which is dangerous for such patients.

Before using ointments and other preparations, patients should read the instructions and the composition. It is important to see if you are allergic to any of their components.

Podology is a common practice in civilized countries. This is true, because the podologist helps to eliminate the causes of problems with the feet and toes, not just to restore beauty. In many cases, the condition of the feet improves so much that patients do not have to go to the hospital to see a doctor.