As part of our goal to offer integrated medical services to all our patients, the Medical Center at Woods’ team of healthcare professionals includes a podiatrist experienced in caring for special needs individuals. We understand that foot and ankle issues are common among the special needs community, including those who are neurodivergent or have conditions such as Down syndrome and autism. If left untreated, their foot issues can significantly impact their overall health and quality of life.
Individuals with Down syndrome often have flat feet and other structural anomalies that can lead to pain and mobility challenges. Neurodivergent individuals, such as those with autism, may experience sensory sensitivities that make it difficult to tolerate certain types of footwear or touch on their feet. Addressing these issues is crucial for maintaining mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing the overall well-being of these individuals. Our team is dedicated to meeting the unique podiatry needs of the special needs population, ensuring that they receive the highest quality care tailored to their specific requirements.
What is a Podiatrist?
A podiatrist is a medical professional specializing in diagnosing and treating foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. A podiatrist for special needs patients has additional training and experience in understanding the unique challenges faced by patients with developmental and neurological conditions. Our podiatrists are adept at communicating with special needs patients to understand their feelings. We create treatment plans that accommodate the unique physical and sensory needs of each patient, ensuring effective and compassionate care.
When Should You See a Podiatrist?
It’s important to seek the expertise of a podiatrist if you notice any of the following symptoms or issues in yourself or a loved one with special needs:
- Persistent foot or ankle pain
- Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
- Visible deformities in the feet or toes
- Ingrown toenails or nail infections
- Skin issues such as calluses or warts
- Unusual gait or posture
- Shoes that wear unevenly
Even though many of the most common issues that affect your feet aren’t life-threatening, it’s important to see a podiatrist before starting any treatment at home. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems, making regular podiatric care an essential part of overall health management for special needs individuals.
Podiatry Conditions and Issues We Treat
At The Medical Center at Woods, we provide comprehensive podiatric care for a wide range of conditions, including:
- Overall foot and ankle care: Regular check-ups and maintenance for healthy feet.
- Diabetes foot care: Preventive care and treatment for diabetes-related foot problems.
- Nail fungus: Diagnosis and treatment of fungal infections in the nails.
- Nail care: Regular trimming and care to prevent and treat ingrown nails.
- Bunions: Treatment for bony bumps formed on the joint at the base of the big toe.
- Heel pain: Diagnosis and treatment of conditions that cause heel pain.
- Ingrown nails: Treatment for nails that grow into the surrounding skin.
- Hammertoes: Correction and management of toes that bend or curl downward.
- Calluses: Removal and prevention of thickened skin caused by friction.
- Plantar fasciitis: Treatment for tissue inflammation along the bottom of the foot.
Common In-Office Treatments By Our Special Needs Podiatrist
Every patient’s treatment needs are different. Our facility is equipped to provide a variety of in-office podiatry treatments to address a patient’s individual needs, including:
- Orthotics: Evaluation and referral for appropriate footwear, arch supports, custom orthotics, and/or lower extremity bracing.
- Physical Therapy: Referral to physical therapy for muscle stretching/strengthening exercises, range of motion exercises, and balance evaluation and treatment.
- Surgical Consultation: Conservative treatment and surgical consultation for progressive deformities of the lower extremities affecting gait function, balance, and resulting in painful ambulation.
Specialized Facility and Podiatry Team at The Medical Center at Woods
The Medical Center at Woods is designed to meet the unique requirements of special needs patients. Our professionally designed facility features a sensory-friendly environment and specially designed spaces that accommodate wheelchairs, ensuring a comfortable and calming experience for our patients. Our team of providers includes specialists trained in caring for and communicating with adults and children with Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, and other developmental disabilities. This expertise ensures that every patient receives personalized, effective care tailored to their needs.
Our commitment to inclusive and comprehensive care means that individuals with special needs can rely on us for all their podiatric issues. We understand the importance of addressing foot and ankle issues promptly and effectively to enhance overall quality of life for our patients. By providing specialized podiatry services in the same facility as our other medical services, our patients benefit from convenient scheduling, a familiar environment, and integral healthcare. We aim to support the health and well-being of individuals with special needs, helping them lead more comfortable and active lives.
Whether you’re a caregiver, parent, or patient with foot or ankle issues, you can request an appointment here to see our podiatrists trained in special needs patient care.
