Have you ever wondered how our podiatrist's got into the career they love? This International Podiatry Day we dive deep in conversation with one of our wonderful podiatrists.
We’re giving you a behind-the-scenes look at one of our passionate and dedicated footcare expert, Joanna Smith, a podiatrist based at Shuropody, Derby branch. From the things that inspired her journey, to her top tips on footcare. Watch the full interview below:
How long have you been doing podiatry? What lead you into the career?
I’ve been doing podiatry for almost 20 years. I began by taking part in the army band, then an army medic - I saw that a lot of people needed medical help on their feet in the hospitals on camp, so I decided to go into the career as a podiatrist.
How long did it take you to qualify as a podiatrist?
Almost 2 years, I did an open study course, as I have 2 children and was out in Germany at the time. When I returned to the UK, I was able to learn the practical side of podiatry. I then did the HCPC course and became a qualified podiatrist.
What do you love the most about your job?
It’s the satisfaction when you finish a treatment on a client, and they walk out the clinic pain-free. That’s the best feeling!
Why is foot care important?
We have to keep ourselves physically active and we use our feet for this, therefore, we must keep our feet healthy. Having problems with your feet can lead to other complications in the body. It’s important to keep your feet going.
What is your favourite foot fact?
I found such an interesting fact! Madeline Albrecht worked in the testing lab for the foot care company Dr. Scholl (which Shuropody previously was). She is in the Guinness World Records book for the most number of feet smells, it’s 5,600!
What are your go-to shoes?
Definitely my Joya’s, I can’t live without them! They have arch support to keep me balanced and stable. The curve technology that the shoe offers consists of five layers within the insole. Each shoe has its specific purpose with the overall aim to provide better foot and lower limb health.
What is your footcare routine like? Talk us through it.
I like to make sure I have clean feet. My foot care routine is usually at night after a long day. Your feet have been through a lot during the day, and I wear my shoes throughout the whole day, so some TLC is always necessary! I put my feet in a bowl of water with tea-tree oil and make sure I thoroughly dry them (including in-between your toes) and finish off by applying some cream on them.
Best piece of advice anyone has given you?
“Treat others how you would want to be treated”
I apply this advice in the clinic room too, I make sure I respect all my clients and look after them when they are being treated in our clinic.
What would you say to someone looking to pursue a career in podiatry?
Podiatry is very interesting! Podiatry isn’t just cutting feet, there are a lot of other areas within the career. You can go into a wide range of different sectors such as, wound control, surgery diabetes, biomechanics and much more...
Now that the winter months are approaching, do you have any key tips?
Keep your body moving by exercising and staying healthy. It's important to keep the circulation flowing around your body. Winter boots and wool socks will keep your feet warm and toasty. Check out our new autumn/winter range here.
TREATMENTS OUR PODIATRIST'S OFFER
Here is a list of treatments our in-store clinic podiatrists:
- Nail surgery - For ingrown toenails, which can be a permanent cure.
- Biomechanical assessment - To assess if you would benefit from a custom-made insole to help you walk and stay active.
- Verruca’s- Various treatments can be available.
- Corns and callous- Removal of these and foot care advice on how to prevent future issues.
- Fungal nails- Various options available to help cure this.
- Diabetic Foot assessments- It is very important to have a thorough assessment of the feet of you are diabetic.
- Footwear advice- Advise you on what the best type of footwear would be for your feet.
- Foot care advice- Provide you with valuable advice on how to maintain and look after your feet and advice on any foot care products that may help.
Passion is at the heart of everything our podiatrists do. From professional health checks to expert advice, our exceptional team are always on foot to help.
Book an appointment HERE.