Take a load off with free footcare services
30 August 2010
On average a person walks 128,000km in their lifetime – that’s more than three times around the world. We expect our feet to carry our bodies around throughout life.
Our feet, however, cannot be replaced like a pair of shoes. Caring for our feet is an investment in the future ensuring our feet are up to transporting us for a lifetime.
Inverell district community members are being encouraged to take advantage of the free footcare clinic operating at Inverell Community Health Centre.
The clinic offers first-class nursing care and operates Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm by appointment.
The clinic has been running successfully for many years, with Endorsed Enrolled Nurse Jo Storm having specialised in footcare since 1999.
“Many people unnecessarily put up with irritations or debilitating problems because they are unaware simple treatment is possible. People often accept foot pain as part of life and do not realise that treatment can significantly improve their quality of life,” Jo said.
“There are many reasons why a person may not be able to attend to his or her own basic footcare needs. Common reasons are knee and hip replacements, failing eyesight, and decreased flexibility. Annual diabetic footcare assessments are also recommended for all diabetes clients.
“Our footcare service is available to all community members, particularly those who are frail, aged or who have a disability, and it really can improve a person’s quality of life.”
Why are healthy feet so important?
• Healthy feet allow you to be active which has numerous benefits such as keeping weight off, maintaining and improving muscle and bone strength, and improving our emotional and mental health
• Feet that are healthy allow for proper foot and body mechanics which help prevent falls in seniors
• Proper foot care can alert people to early signs of other more serious health issues such as diabetes or poor circulation.
Community members can refer themselves to the Inverell footcare clinic. Referrals can also be made by General Practitioners, hospital staff or even by a family member or friend.
The Inverell Community Health clinic operates Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 3.30pm by appointment. Clinics are also held at Bundarra, Tingha and Ashford.
Appointments for any of these clinics can be made via Inverell Community Health by calling 6721 9600.
A photo of Enrolled Nurse Jo Storm is available on request.
(HNE-2347)
Contact: Carisa Green
Phone: 0428 106 183