Podiatry deals with the diagnosis, treatment, study, and care of the lower extremities, especially the feet, including non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures. A podiatrist not only takes care of the feet but also timely recognizes changes in the skin and nails that require medical attention. They act as a link between the patient, physicians of various specialties, and other healthcare professionals.
A podiatrist combines in-depth medical and natural science knowledge acquired through a 3-year bachelor’s degree in podiatry. The competencies include:
Podiatry is a specialized field that identifies, prevents, and treats changes and diseases of the feet. These are often the result of:
mechanical stress (pressure, friction),
dermatological or orthopedic conditions,
chronic diseases such as diabetes,
improper foot care.
Effective treatment requires broad knowledge – from anatomy, physiology, dermatology, and orthopedics to the basics of diabetology and hygiene.
Podiatry differs from classical pedicure: while pedicure focuses primarily on aesthetics, podiatry includes clinical assessment, diagnostics, and a therapeutic approach.
As part of podiatric care, a podiatrist identifies both early and advanced changes in the skin and nails. They provide advice on hygiene, appropriate footwear, and daily care, implement preventive measures, and, if necessary, refer the patient to a medical specialist.
Common issues treated by podiatrists include:
ingrown toenails,
cracks,
corns,
fungal infections,
nail deformities.
»Based on our experience at the PEDIMED podiatric center, we find that people often seek help too late – when the problems are already affecting mobility. Ingrown toenails are a common and painful condition, but in the early stages they can be treated with less invasive procedures. Understanding the types and stages of ingrown toenails is crucial for successful management.«
Regular check-ups with a podiatrist allow for monitoring the condition of the feet, early detection of problems, and education on proper care. This is especially important in chronic diseases such as diabetes, where improper care can lead to serious consequences.
Unprofessional pedicure or superficial treatment can lead to worsening of problems or infections. This is particularly true for:
people with diabetes,
elderly individuals,
people with weakened immune systems or circulatory disorders.
In these cases, podiatric care is essential, not just advisable.
Foot health is often overlooked, even though it significantly affects mobility, independence, and overall quality of life. Podiatry, as a professional discipline, provides safe, effective, and long-term management of many common as well as more complex conditions. Through regular care, an individual approach, and proper education, we can make an important contribution to maintaining healthy, functional, and pain-free feet – throughout all stages of life.
KARMEN PERKO
Graduate Podiatrist (BSc)
PEDIMED d.o.o.
»The profession of podiatrist represents an extremely important branch for the comprehensive management and health of the feet. A podiatrist collaborates with doctors, recognizes various foot deformities and nail pathologies. Around the world, it is a highly respected profession, and I am convinced that, in time, it will also establish itself in its full significance here.«
