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What is Podiatry.This is a new speciality for Greece and it is concerned with the conditions that affect the lower limbs and feet. Podiatry applies to all age groups because each age has its' own spectrum of problems. Skin problems such as corns and calluses, fungal infections of the nails, bunions and flat feet are only a few of these problems that most people will experience in their life, but some problems can be "silent" as far as pain is concerned, and can create symptoms further up - in the knees, hips or even the spine. Additionally, there are systemic conditions such as Diabetes and Rheumatoid Arthritis that affect the feet and cause serious complications when they are not treated properly. It is important to mention that podiatry is not a simple pedicure or a beauty therapy for the feet. It is a medically-orientated profession that manages a wide spectrum of foot problems; the main aim is to treat them efficiently and quickly, keeping the patient functional. Education and professional qualifications.All the Podiatrists have completed their studies at International Academic Institutes around the world and they all hold a Bachelors Degree in Podiatry after three to four years studying. Most podiatrists have expanded their skills, and they hold a Masters Degree in the area of their interest (i.e. Diabetic foot, biomechanics, sport injuries or others). All the Podiatrists are registered with the Greek Podiatry Association. Although Podiatry is a very new profession in our country, it is growing each year. Your first visit to a Podiatrist.The Podiatrist will take a full history in order to collect all the relevant information about the presenting complaint and the general health status of the patient. Next, the Podiatrist will focus on the observation of the feet (colour, temperature, condition of the skin and nails) and run a series of tests such as sensation, vibration, the range of motion of the joints of the foot, the reflexes and gaint analysis.The collection of the information gained from the history, observation and tests identifies any possible problems affecting the status of the patient, and allows the Podiatrist to organize a treatment plan for the presenting complaint, the number of visits required, the cost and any other parameters that need to be taken into consideration, such as the prognosis and the home advice for the patient. |
