Advanced Footcare for Seniors
I have been doing pedicures for such a long time, I could do them in my sleep. However, since I work alone, there was no one I could watch and learn from. The only place that I could learn new techniques was from the internet. And to make matters worse, there were not a lot of post-educational classes. While talking amongst colleagues kept me in the loop, real knowledge of foot conditions and issues could only be taught by a professional and learning from case studies. But then I stumbled upon a school that taught the Certified Master Pedicurist® (CMP) Program. This program taught knowledge beyond the classic pedicure. The service provided by a CMP falls between getting a polish change at the local spa and needing to see a foot doctor. Elements such as foot structure, body alignment, and biomechanics were highlighted as it can help you understand why certain problems manifested. Methods are taught to recognize and manage different diseases and disorders of the skin and nail. However, what interested me the most was learning the proper treatment for the diabetic and geriatric foot.
Seniors are one of the fastest growing demographics. Some seniors have told me that it is quite expensive to see a podiatrist. Many did not realize that certain issues could be addressed by a pedicurist. They struggled to deal with everything themselves. Coupled with loss of mobility, eyesight, and range of hand motion may further hamper what they can do themselves. While I felt that I could treat most issues, the aging foot is tricky to deal with. Thin skin, chronic health issues, medications, corns, misshapen toes and nails, infections… the list is a mile wide to why treating senior clients can be difficult.
Case in point: diabetes. An estimated 1.2 million people 65+ have been diagnosed and it is the 6th leading direct cause of death. One common problem with diabetic feet is the development of ulcers and infection that could set in, if not identified, yet still worked on. Loss of sensation in the foot is a whole other issue. This could hinder the foot from properly protecting itself, as the individual might not be aware of any issues. A diabetic client can be quite challenging to treat because they are quite vulnerable to injury. Decreased circulation allows the slightest break in the skin to be a doorway for bacteria and fungi to enter and may result in an infection. With the lack of blood circulating, healing is impaired and greater complications occur.
I wanted peace of mind knowing that I am doing everything safely and according to best practices for both myself and my client’s well-being. Since esthetics are not regulated in BC, depth of knowledge differentiates between every practitioner. Not every foot treatment is equal.
As a Certified Master Pedicurist® I can now offer you options for all your foot care needs. From learning how to apply the BS Brace for ingrown toenails, to using the Nanoflex to reconstruct nails damaged by trauma or fungus; foot care has been brought up to the next level. So, if you are looking for some pampering and have a minimal number of issues, the classic pedicure will still be your go-to service. For those with more difficult foot care problems such as corns, extreme calluses or thickened, curved or ingrown toenails, the Advanced Foot Care Treatment might be for you. This treatment is designed to keep your feet in the best condition possible, dedicating all the time to addressing the problem.
Your foot should be well cared for, not only in appearance but also to function to its best ability. Of note, while the Advanced Foot Care Treatment is targeted to older clients with more problematic feet, it is for anyone that has specific issues that cannot be addressed properly during a regular pedicure. Booking an Advanced Foot Care Treatment at regular intervals (usually between four to six weeks) can reduce the chances for some common foot problems. So, drop me a line today and receive the best care and service you deserve.