A medi-pedi addresses and treats ailments such as:

• cracked heels

• nail discoloration

• a buildup of skin in the nail folds and cuticles

• dead skin removal (exfoliation)

• corn and callus removal

• thick nails

All treatments use medical-grade or disposable products and freshly sanitized instruments for each client. The sterilization process removes microorganisms such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and spores to prevent the transfer between individuals.

Clinical pedicures are not just for people experiencing dry, cracked skin and other foot issues. These pedicures are for everyone. They are especially recommended for athletes and anyone who spends a lot of time on their feet.

ARE MEDICAL PEDICURES COVERED BY INSURANCE?

Most likely not, but whether these services are covered or reimbursed by your insurance depends upon the insurance 

company and the limitations of the insurance policy you purchased

Pay attention to your feet and treat them with care. Keep those toenails in great shape, whether you’re at home, at the  spa, or in the podiatrist office!

A Medical Pedicure involves:

• the removal of dead skin by buffing the heels with professional, medical-grade equipment

• mending cracked dry heels

• professional nail nipping (removal of cuticles and hangnails)

• filing, shaping, and buffing the toenails

• reduction of corns or calluses

The final step is to thoroughly moisturize the feet; moisturizing the feet can help prevent several skin conditions.

A waterless procedure avoids cross-contamination. If someone has cracked heels or a wound on their foot, soaking  their feet in water could increase the risk of infection as microorganisms can enter through the broken skin.

Medical pedicures are useful corrective- and preventive-care tools. Incorporating medi-pedis into your routine can prevent problems that might need more invasive correction. Even if you don't currently have foot problems, regular pedicures are great preventive care, safer and more private than a traditional nail salon.

WHAT DOES A MEDICAL NAIL TECHNICIAN DO DURING A MEDICAL PEDICURE?

A Medical Nail Technician specializes in the assessment, management, and prevention of disorders and diseases of the foot.

After reviewing medical history the technician will then check for the following:

• signs of infection (bacterial, fungal, or viral)

• skin pathologies (callus, corns, psoriasis, eczema/dermatitis)

• nail abnormalities (thickened, discolored, or ingrown nails)

WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A TRADITIONAL PEDICURE AND A MEDICAL PEDICURE?

The difference lies in the purpose and details of the treatments. A medi-pedi is a service that bridges podiatry and basic nail care with a focus on the assessment and the treatment of foot issues, rather than just the aesthetics. It's completed by a certified Nail Technician in a podiatry setting.

Medi-pedis are performed in a private room at The Foot and Ankle Wellness Center office for optimal comfort and sanitation.

Calluses can be reduced, and cracked heels buffed without risk of infection due to an unsterile procedure. Medical pedicures are a safe option as there’s minimal risk of cuts or infection. They ensure the health of your feet and nails by managing existing foot problems as well as detecting and treating issues in their early stages.

WHAT MEDICAL CONDITIONS ARE BEST SUITED FOR MEDICAL PEDICURES?

Those who suffer from certain underlying medical conditions are great candidates for a medical pedicures. Such conditions include:

Diabetes

Diabetics have a high risk of developing foot ulceration and/or infection because of decreased blood flow and poor circulation. Infection is dangerous and can lead to gangrene, and ultimately to amputation if it becomes severe. A medical pedicure is a good choice for diabetics who maintain controlled blood sugar levels and don’t have periperheral artery disease. Diabetics must be very careful about maintaining the health of their feet and preventing infection. Proper nail care takes on a whole new level of importance for them.

Cancer

Many different types of cancer treatments may cause changes in your nails and skin. For example:

• Radiation therapy may cause skin irritation in the areas treated. The skin may become red, sensitive, dry, itchy, or moist

• Chemotherapy may cause nails to crack and darken. It may also cause dry, itchy skin and photosensitive skin that  burns easily.

• Stem cell transplants may cause rashes and blisters on the skin.

• Immunotherapy may cause rashes or other nail and skin issues.

It would keep the nails and skin clean, protected, moisturized, and monitored for cracks and breaks in the skin and nails. The medical recommendation is that the nails be cut short, and cuticles should not be cut.

Autoimmune diseases can affect almost any part of the body including skin and nails. Antibodies, components of the 

immune system, attack healthy cells throughout the body, causing autoimmune diseases, including:

Lupus — Lupus causes excessively thick or rough nail folds and cuticles with spots or hyperpigmentation. Changes in the skin, hair, and nails are very common, occurring in 85% of patients.

Rheumatoid arthritis — RA causes changes in the nails, such as vertical ridges, yellowing, and thickening.

Foot care, for the elderly, is an imperative part of their overall healthcare plan. The expertise of a podiatrist may be necessary if an elderly patient has thick or deformed toenails due to a fungal infection. Some have compromised immune systems, cancer, or diabetes.

A medical pedicure provides the personalized treatment, care, and monitoring that those afflicted require.