A foot specialist performs a medical pedicure rather than a traditional pedicurist.
It is geared towardpreventing infectionby using sterile tools and being mindful of health issues affecting feet.
Preventive and corrective care are central to medical pedicures.
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They aim to prevent problems and conditions that may need medical intervention.
For example, a pedicure in a traditional nail salon often starts with afoot soak.
But a medi-pedi is soak-free and does not involve water.
It prioritizes foot health over appearance.
You may also ask a healthcare provider for a referral.
What to Expect
A medical pedicure is different from one in a spa setting.
Typically, the ambiance is sterile rather than soothing.
The process is usually performed in a podiatrist’s office.
The MNT examines your feet and assesses the treatments you will need.
The podiatrist and nail techs can advise you on any issues present.
Who Should Consider a Medical Pedicure?
Not everybody needs a medical pedicure.
A medical pedicure should be considered for those with the following conditions.
Diabetes
Diabetes is marked by poor circulation and slow healing.
People with diabetes need to prevent even minor nicks or foot sores.
Even mild infections canlead to gangrene, which may ultimately require some form of amputation.
With diabetes, what otherwise would be routine nail care can be crucial to health, requiring medical expertise.
If a foot sore is noticed and effectively treated early, it may save a more severe outcome.
Withrheumatoid arthritis, for example, your nails may develop vertical ridges.
Changes in nails, hair, and skin also occur withlupus.
Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatmentmay affect your skin and your nails.
If you’reundergoing chemotherapy, your nails may crack and darken, and your skin may become itchy.
With radiation treatment, you may have dry, itchy, red, and sensitive skin.
Summary
Trained professionals typically perform a medical pedicure in a podiatrist’s office.
The emphasis is on foot health and infection control rather than aesthetic appeal.
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Direct Podiatry Arizona.A foot doctor breaks down the medical pedicure.
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American Academy of Dermatology.Lupus and your skin: signs and symptoms.
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