Performed by a podiatrist, foot care includes many treatments and assessments aimed at preventing pain, reducing restrictions and promoting comfort. The podiatrist uses various treatments such as physical, pharmacological, orthopedic, and surgical to maintain foot health. Some foot care treatments require professional clinic visits with sterilized equipment.
Discover the main treatment options below.
Common Foot Care Treatments
Foot care techniques often performed by podiatrists include:
- Application of special creams;
- Prescription of medicines;
- Foot baths and emollient use;
- Biomechanical assessments of pressure points;
- Cutting and thinning of nails;
- Surgical removal of corns and calluses.
Below are frequent foot problems requiring such care.
Onychomycosis (Nail Fungus)
Foot care for nail fungus (onychomycosis), especially common on the big toe, aims to relieve pain and discomfort. This fungal infection causes nail thickening, discoloration, and deformation, difficult to treat at home. Podiatrists provide relief through oral medication, prescription antifungal creams, and specialized nail cutting.
Preventive tips include wearing sandals in public changing rooms, thoroughly drying feet, and keeping spare socks. People with diabetes are more prone to infections, and podiatrists adjust treatments accordingly.
Ingrown Toenail (Onychocryptosis)
Ingrown toenails cause pain and inflammation, impacting daily life and activities like travel or sports. Podiatric foot care helps avoid complications via medical nail clipping, nail insert correction, antibiotic creams and baths, and if required, surgical intervention.
Home care involves soaking feet in warm antibacterial soap, using over-the-counter antibiotic creams, and daily foot hygiene with thorough drying. Consulting a podiatrist is advised for appropriate treatment.
Plantar Warts
Proper foot care helps prevent plantar warts, contagious lesions caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). Treatments include antiverrucous medications, drug injections, and surgery.
Home remedies may involve applying salicylic acid cautiously or over-the-counter cryotherapy, with podiatrist guidance. Those frequently exposed to warts or with conditions like eczema should seek professional foot care to control the infection.
Corns and Calluses
Corns and calluses are localized skin thickenings under the foot that can cause pain, especially in diabetics and the elderly. Specialized foot care involves silicone orthotics, moisturizing creams, and removal of corns and calluses.
Podiatrists recommend pressure-reducing insoles and consistent moisturizing to prevent recurrence.
Cracks on the Feet
Foot care moisturizes skin and removes calluses to prevent and treat cracks. Treatments include topical ointments and therapeutic taping. Prevention remains the best approach to avoid foot cracks.
Personalized and Professional Foot Care by PiedReseau
PiedReseau operates about forty podiatry clinics across Quebec, delivering tailored foot care to relieve pain and treat conditions effectively.
Locate your closest clinic to access expert podiatry services and improve your foot health.