It is time for us all to stop and take a look at our feet! The importance of good foot health and the role played by the Podiatrist cannot be overstated. Most people will develop some foot or ankle problem during their lifetime.

World Foot Health Awareness Month is a marvellous opportunity to stop to consider the value and importance of our feet. Members of the public, medical and other professionals are being encouraged to visit this website to obtain valuable information about foot and ankle health.

The average person takes about 8,000 to 10,000 steps every day. Add that up over the course of a lifetime and it’s the equivalent of walking four times around the world!
 
And while you’re walking, your feet are taking a pounding; often enduring more than your body weight with each step. The pressure can be three or four times your weight when you run. A child’s feet may absorb two million pounds over the course of a single day.
 
That’s why it’s so important to have your podiatrist check your feet regularly, the same way a dentist regularly checks your teeth. Podiatrists are doctors trained to diagnose and treat foot and ankle ailments who look after patients ranging in age from children to seniors.
 
Podiatrists treat common ailments such as athletes’ foot and plantar warts. They also treat bone deformities and can recognize the initial symptoms of serious diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and circulatory disorders, which often appear first in the feet.
 
Studies show that 75 per cent of people experience foot ailments at some point in their lives, but many don’t seek medical attention until the problem becomes more severe.
 
Our feet are complex instruments, containing one-quarter of the bones in our bodies. With regular checkups, you and your podiatrist can keep them in top shape.

The Federation of International Podiatrists's aim is to ensure access to high quality foot and ankle care for all people, through collaboration with national and international organisations.