Medical Pedicure
A medical pedicure promotes overall foot and nail wellness in addition to enhancing the appearance of the toes. This procedure is often recommended for patients with corns, calluses or other minor foot conditions who may require more intensive treatment than a traditional pedicure. Medical pedicures are becoming increasingly popular at nail salons, spas and podiatric offices and are often performed on patients with diabetes, vascular disease or rheumatoid arthritis, who may be at an increased risk for recurring foot ailments and are looking for a safe and healthy maintenance treatment.
Medical pedicures may help to treat or prevent such conditions as:
- Athlete's foot
- Cracked heels
- Corns and calluses
- Ingrown toenails
During a medical pedicure, the feet are cleansed with an anti-bacterial solution and gently exfoliated to help remove dry or dead skin. Depending on the needs and preferences of each patient, treatment may also include a glycolic peel, microdermabrasion or detoxing techniques such as massage. In some cases, buffers, pumice stones or electric files may be used to treat problem areas and soften the feet. Medical pedicure technicians can help to increase circulation to the feet, through massage and stimulation to the reflexology pressure points on the feet.
Medical pedicures are a much more thorough treatment than traditional pedicures and may take up to two hours to perform. Medical pedicures offer a reduced risk of fungal and bacterial infections because of their extremely sterile practices, and patients leave feeling healthy and refreshed. It is important for patients to note that while a medical pedicure is effective in improving the overall condition of the feet and even treating certain minor conditions, it is not an adequate substitute for professional podiatric care and cannot effectively replace medical treatment.
