Homeopathic Podiatry
It is acknowledged that a number of podiatric disorders seen in foot clinics are relieved only in the short term by traditional treatments, necessitating regular attendance every few weeks. Some chronic conditions do not respond to traditional treatments. The chemical and surgical treatments commonly used in podiatric practice are invasive and can cause pain or discomfort, especially in the case of post-operative complications of surgery. Some treatments are contraindicated for patients who are at risk, e.g. diabetics and the elderly.

Whilst homoeopathy has numerous medicines indicated for conditions affecting the skin, bones and nails, the prognosis is influenced in weight-bearing areas by the effects of friction and pressure on the lesion and by biomechanical factors which may predispose or contribute to the problem. Subsequently, there is a need for a non-invasive, painless method of treatment, which would be therapeutic rather than palliative.

Homoeopathic podiatry is a method of treatment for conditions of the skin, bones and nails that were developed by combining homoeopathy with podiatric practice. An integral part of the speciality is Marigold Therapy, a painless, non-invasive form of topical treatment which has been researched and developed by combining homeopathic medicinal plants such as Symphytum officinalis, Thuja occidentalis, Ruta graveolens, Rosemary officinalis, Bellis perennis, Hypericum perforatum and Calendula officinalis with different species of Tagetes. Homoepathic and biochemical medicines are prescribed orally when indicated.

The topical preparations are in the form of paste, tincture, oil, ointment, and cream. Treatment consists of weekly applications of the paste for 3 to 4 weeks, followed by the use of tincture, oil, ointment or cream applied by the patient as a preventative measure. The effectiveness and safety in the treatment of foot disorders has been demonstrated clinically and in double-blind placebo-controlled trials.

Double-blind placebo-controlled studies to investigate hyperkeratotic plantar lesions, hallux valgus and verruca pedis have shown a level of significance giving P<0.001. Fungal skin and nail infections and diabetic ulcers have responded well to treatment and are currently under investigation.

Homeopathic podiatry treatment is a non-invasive method requiring less frequent follow up patient consultations when compared with “conventional treatment”. This also encourages patient satisfaction and a low DNA rate especially in the case of juveniles. The success rate shown by the products and painless, infrequent treatment allows for good patient concordance. The lack of demand for regular ongoing treatments allows for economic savings, both with fewer staff and saving of NHS resources.

Today’s patients have greater expectations of the outcome of treatment, an attitude supported by the importance given to evidence based medicine in the NHS. Homeopathic podiatry meets these demands of the patients and is coherent with Government policy on evidence-based medicine. Most importantly for NHS purchasing authorities, the high rate of resolution makes homoeopathic podiatry cost effective.


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