When we think of self-care, traditional nail salons often come to mind. But there’s a hidden gem many people overlook: the medical pedicure, or 'medi pedi'. This special treatment not only beautifies your feet but also promotes their health. What is a medical pedicure? Let’s explore this innovative service and discover why you should give it a try.
What is a Medical Pedicure?
A medical pedicure is a professional foot treatment performed by podiatrists (THE experts in foot care), in a clinical setting. Unlike regular pedicures that primarily focus on appearance, medical pedicures blend beauty with therapeutic techniques, significantly enhancing your foot and nail health.
During a medical pedicure, you receive the typical nail trimming, cuticle push, reduction and smoothing of calluses and corns. However, this service goes further with a thorough analysis of your feet and toes to identify any underlying conditions. Common issues such as ingrown toenails, bunions, and fungal infections can be effectively identified, professionally assessed and a treatment plan commenced. For instance, research indicates that early treatment of ingrown toenails can reduce the likelihood of infection by over 70%.
How is a Medical Pedicure Different from a Regular Pedicure?
Traditional pedicures are often concerned with aesthetics, focusing on painting toenails and softening the skin. In contrast, medical pedicures offer a multitude of health benefits. Here are some crucial distinctions:
Health Focus: Medical pedicures prioritise the overall functionality and health of your nails and feet. The process includes identifying potential issues and bespoke treatments.
Trained Professionals: Podiatrists whom offer medical pedicures are allied health professionals, with a university degree in podiatric medicine. This training enables them to tackle various foot conditions safely and expertly.
Specialized Tools: Clinics offering medical pedicures use sterile instruments designed for medical-grade treatments and follow advanced hygiene protocols, contrasting with the basic tools often found in nail salons - no Barbicide in sight! (Yuk). You can rest assured that fungal infections can be diagnosed, but will certainly not be picked up, in this setting. Fungal spores need to be treated at 90*C in order to be killed. Podiatrists either use disposable instruments, or autoclave (sterilise) tools at 134*C.
Follow-Up Care: Clients receive guidance on maintaining foot health after their appointment, empowering them to continue caring for their feet at home.
With an emphasis on health and hygiene, it's clear why medical pedicures are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious individuals.
Benefits of a Medical Pedicure
So why should a medical pedicure be on your radar? Here are several compelling benefits:
1. Improved Foot Health
Regular medical pedicures help catch problems early. For example, they can identify and treat issues such as fungal infections early on, potentially preventing conditions that could require costly medical intervention later - or could cause long-term (irreparable) damage to nails and feet.
2. Relief from Pain
Many people experience foot pain due to poor nail care or specific conditions like plantar warts (verrucas) and bunions. A medical pedicure provides relief through targeted treatments and expert foot care advice, which can reduce pain levels by up to 100% in some cases.
3. Enhanced Circulation
Massage is often part of the medical pedicure experience. This feels great and boosts blood circulation in your feet. Improved circulation can enhance overall foot health and reduce fatigue.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
While health is essential, we all enjoy beautiful feet! After a medical pedicure, you will leave with feet that look and feel revitalized.
5. Education and Prevention
During your appointment, you will gain insights on proper foot care practices. For instance, understanding how to trim your nails correctly and recognise early signs of foot issues can help prevent serious problems down the line.
Given these benefits, a medical pedicure isn't just a luxury—it's a vital addition to your self-care routine!
6. Suitable for High Risk Feet
By being assessed and treated by a medical professional, you are removing the risks associated by being treated by a lesser qualified person. Podiatrists are trained to identify and mitigate long-term foot complications that could be caused by conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation and ageing. Not sure whether someone is a qualified podiatrist? Check the register here. If someone is not on this register, they are NOT a podiatrist.
The Process of a Medical Pedicure
Wondering what to expect during a medical pedicure? Here's a typical journey:
Step 1: Consultation
Your session begins with a detailed consultation. You will discuss any specific foot issues, allowing the podiatrist to customise the treatment to your specific needs.
Step 2: Examination
Next, a thorough examination of your feet will identify any visible problems. The podiatrist will look for fungal infections, ingrown toenails, or any other skin conditions that require attention. They may also evaluate the shape and growth patterns of your toenails. Depending on your foot concerns, the movement of your foot joints may be assessed and a gait analysis may be performed.
Step 3: Treatment
Once the examination is complete, the podiatrist will proceed with treatment. This usually includes trimming and filing your nails along with treating any nail, cuticle or skin issues such as corns and calluses (hard skin). A gentle foot scrub and a relaxing massage may also be included.
Step 4: Follow-Up
Finally, you will receive practical tips for maintaining foot health and advice on scheduling follow-up appointments. Maintaining your feet's health is an ongoing commitment!
In summary, a medical pedicure is a transformative way to combine self-care with health benefits. By visiting a qualified professional podiatrist for this unique experience, your feet can become a source of both beauty and comfort.
You can book a Signature Medical Pedicure with Felicity at Oxfordshire Chiropody & Podiatry here.
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