Podiatry: Everything about professional foot care

The most important information at a glance:

• What is podiatry and what tasks do certified podiatrists perform?
• What treatment options are available for common foot problems and diabetic foot syndrome?
• How do you find a qualified podiatrist and what costs can you expect?
• Practical tips for foot care at home, as well as product recommendations to support your foot health.

What is podiatry?

Podiatry is a specialized medical field that deals with the preventive, diagnostic, and therapeutic care of foot problems. Podiatrists have extensive, state-recognized training that enables them to develop individually tailored treatment plans.

They also advise their patients on optimal foot health and preventive measures, so that problems such as pain and limitations in mobility can be avoided.

What foot problems does a podiatrist treat?

The range of foot problems treated is large:

• Corns and calluses: Identify the causes and prevent them through targeted care.
• Ingrown toenails: Professional nail corrections help to relieve pain.
• Athlete's foot and nail fungus: diagnosis and therapy are the focus of podiatric treatment.
• Foot deformities: Corrections and adjustments, often supported by orthopedic aids.
• Diabetic foot syndrome: Preventive measures and special wound care are particularly important here.
• Rhagades and painful skin fissures: These are also treated professionally.
• Plantar fasciitis/heel spur: The strain can be reduced through individually made insoles and physiotherapy measures.
• Warts on the foot: Local treatment approaches to reduce symptoms.

The treatment of diabetic foot syndrome requires special attention, as diabetic patients often suffer from peripheral nerve damage and circulatory disorders. Early intervention can significantly reduce the risk of major complications.

Treatment methods in podiatry

The methods used in podiatric therapy are diverse and individually tailored to the patient.

Below is an overview of the most important treatment techniques:

Treatment method	Description	To use
Nail correction	Correction of ingrown toenails and support in podiatric care for nail changes (e.g. due to fungal infection)	Pain reduction and prevention of Infections
Corn removal	Professional removal of corns and calluses	Reduction of pressure points and long-term protection
Wound care	Gentle treatment methods specifically adapted for diabetics	Prevention of serious infections
Production of Orthoses/Insoles	Individually adapted aids for pressure relief	Optimization of biomechanics and pain relief
Biomechanical Gait analysis	Gait analysis to identify incorrect loading patterns	Long-term prevention and therapy adjustment
Advice on choosing shoes	Recommendations for suitable, breathable shoes	Prevention of malpositions and complaints

How do I find a good podiatrist?

You can find a qualified podiatrist through various channels:

• German Association of Podiatrists: A reliable point of contact for certified professionals.
• Health insurance companies: They often offer search functions to find certified podiatrists in your region.
• Recommendations from your family doctor: They can often provide you with the appropriate contact person.
• Online directories: Platforms that contain ratings and reviews.

Always keep in mind that a podiatrist is only allowed to perform certain medical procedures if they have state accreditation.

How much does podiatric treatment cost, and does health insurance cover the costs?

The cost of podiatric treatment depends on the type and extent of the required therapy.

In certain cases, such as for diabetics or patients with severe foot deformities, the costs are covered by health insurance. A doctor's prescription is usually required.

Below is an overview:

category	Cost coverage	Notice
Diabetics with Foot problems	Up to six treatments per year	Medical prescription required
Severe foot deformities	Partial coverage by health insurance companies	Individual review required
Neurological Diseases	According to the health insurance company	Consultation is absolutely necessary

It is recommended that you contact your health insurance company directly before starting treatment to clarify all details regarding cost coverage.

Foot care at home: tips and tricks

Regular foot care at home is an essential part of maintaining foot health.

Important foot care measures

Below is a checklist to help you take optimal care of your feet:

Step	measure	To use
1	Daily washing and thorough drying, especially between the toes	Can prevent the growth of bacteria
2	Regular application of a high-quality cream for dry skin	Can maintain skin moisture and prevent cracks
3	Careful trimming of the nails	Can prevent ingrown toenails and injuries
4	Use of foot baths	Relaxes the feet and cares for the skin.
5	Wearing well-fitting, breathable shoes	Supports normal foot shape and can prevent pressure points

Foot care products

Choosing the right foot care products plays a crucial role in preventing foot problems. In addition to tried-and-tested foot creams and deodorants, Health Routine products also contain nourishing ingredients for stressed feet.

A regular foot care routine can help prevent flaking and the formation of corns. This involves using products based on natural ingredients, specially formulated to care for and support the skin.

Nails with Health Routine

Beautiful and healthy nails contribute significantly to your well-being. Products like the Nail Care Pen and the Nail Growth Serum from Health Routine have become an integral part of your daily nail care routine.

These products support natural nail care by strengthening the nail and giving it a well-groomed, naturally shiny surface.

Practical tips for your daily foot care

To ensure your foot health in the long term, you should not only undergo professional treatments, but also integrate consistent podiatric foot care at home into your routine.

In addition to the checklist mentioned, the following tips may also be helpful:

• Schedule fixed times for your foot care ritual – this will turn it into self-care.
• Use products specifically designed for the needs of your feet to avoid irritation.
• If symptoms persist, always consult a podiatrist to prevent serious complications.

Conclusion

Holistic foot health care is essential to maintain your mobility and overall well-being.

Podiatry We not only offer a wide range of treatment options, but also support you preventively before serious foot problems develop. Rely on qualified podiatrists, regular at-home foot care, and high-quality products to optimally care for your feet.

FAQs 

What is podiatry?

Podiatry is a medical specialty that focuses on the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of foot problems. Certified podiatrists combine medical expertise with targeted care approaches to maintain your foot health.

What does a podiatrist do?

Podiatrists treat a wide range of conditions, including corns, ingrown toenails, athlete's foot, and diabetic foot syndrome. They provide professional foot care and create individualized treatment and prevention plans.

What foot problems can a podiatrist treat?

The range of treatments extends from simple problems like calluses and corns to complex cases such as foot deformities and diabetic foot syndrome. Early and targeted intervention helps to prevent debilitating secondary problems.

How do I find a qualified podiatrist?

Recommendations from doctors, search functions at health insurance companies or direct contact with the Federal Association of Podiatrists are good starting points to find a qualified podiatrist in your region.

How much does a podiatric treatment cost?

The costs vary depending on the complexity and type of treatment. In many cases, especially for diabetics, health insurance covers part or all of the costs with a doctor's prescription.

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