The Power of Preventative Health: From your mouth to your feet and everywhere in between
Throughout my working week, I’m often asked, "So why feet?" It makes me giggle a little because, coming from a dental background, I used to hear a similar question: "Why did you choose to look in people's mouths all day?" For many, the thought of working with feet or teeth seems unappealing, but for me, it’s quite the opposite. I love working with people, and whether it’s through dentistry or podiatry, it’s all about helping others lead healthier lives.
Over the years, I’ve found fascinating similarities between dental care and foot care, especially when it comes to preventative health. In both fields, my role is to prevent health issues before they become serious problems. For example, diabetes is known to be a risk factor for periodontal disease, and unmanaged periodontal conditions can, in turn, complicate diabetes management. It’s a clear demonstration of how interconnected our bodies are.
Similarly, feet shouldn’t be looked at in isolation. They play a crucial role in our overall health. Diabetes, for instance, can significantly impact foot health, leading to serious complications if not managed properly. But beyond managing existing conditions, my real passion lies in preventing chronic diseases from developing in the first place.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, poor nutrition and physical inactivity are significant risk factors for obesity and other chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, and depression. While nutrition is a vital aspect of health, my expertise lies in combating physical inactivity.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is helping people move more. Many visit a podiatrist because pain is limiting their activities. By addressing and alleviating this pain, we can significantly improve their mobility and physical activity levels. This, in turn, can have a profound impact on their overall health.
When we help someone move better, we’re not just addressing immediate discomfort. We’re empowering them to engage in physical activity, which can reduce their risk of developing chronic illnesses or help manage existing conditions. It’s a bit of a stretch to compare this directly to dental care, but the underlying principle is the same: preventative health can significantly improve quality of life.
By focusing on common risk factors like physical inactivity, we can achieve bigger picture goals of improving overall health and well-being. It’s about taking proactive steps today to ensure a healthier tomorrow.