Prevention Prevention Prevention Prevention Prevention

....did I mention prevention?

The benefits of proper foot and lower leg care are endless: improved mobility, reduced discomfort, and the prevention of bigger problems down the road. 

With potentially limited access to front line healthcare professionals and those dreaded long waits in emergency rooms, I'd much rather see you in my chair for a quick assessment and some helpful education than the alternative - a traumatic fall, lengthy hospital stays, or worse, a wound that spirals out of control. Yikes!

I'm here to keep you moving, stay healthy, and out of trouble.

Avoiding Falls, Wounds, and Complications Before They Start

Many serious health events, from infected wounds to emergency room visits, begin with something small and overlooked. Routine foot care nursing appointments catch those problems early, when they are easiest to treat.

Here are the conditions I see most often in practice:

Poor Circulation Conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD) or diabetes can reduce blood flow to the feet, leading to slow healing, ulcers, or infections. A proper compression stocking fitting can make a meaningful difference in managing swelling and supporting healthy circulation.

Arthritis Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can cause joint pain, stiffness, and deformities, making walking difficult and affecting foot health.

Diabetes Diabetic foot care is one of the most important preventive steps for anyone managing diabetes. Diabetic neuropathy can lead to a loss of sensation in the feet, increasing the risk of undetected injuries and ulcers. Early stage diabetic foot ulcers are far easier to treat when caught quickly, which is why regular assessments matter so much.

Decreased Mobility Reduced physical activity, muscle weakness, or joint replacements can change walking patterns, leading to uneven pressure on the feet.

Falls and Injuries Assessment of properly fitting footwear and mobility aids to reduce falls risk. Senior foot care that includes regular nursing assessments is one of the most effective ways to reduce fall-related injuries in older adults.

Edema (Swelling) Fluid retention in the lower legs and feet, often due to heart, kidney, or vascular conditions, can cause discomfort and make wearing shoes difficult.

Bone Density Loss Osteoporosis or general bone thinning increases the risk of fractures in the feet and toes.

Wounds and Pressure Sores Prolonged pressure, especially for individuals with reduced mobility, can lead to sores or ulcers on the feet.

Infections Seniors may be more prone to bacterial or fungal infections due to weakened immune systems or poor hygiene.

What to Expect at Your First Appointment

Your first visit runs about 45 to 60 minutes and covers a brief health history, a visual and circulatory assessment of your feet and lower legs, nail and skin care, and a quick rundown of what I found and what to watch for at home. Most people leave feeling immediate relief and a lot more informed about their foot health.

Book your first appointment online, or get in touch if you have questions first.

Registered Nurse Care for Toenails, Circulation, Diabetic Feet, and More

This section covers conditions related to the skin, nails, and structure of the feet — areas where nursing foot care makes a real, visible difference.

Skin and Nail Issues Dry skin, corns, calluses, and fungal infections including toenail fungus are more common with age and can become problematic if untreated. Toenail fungus treatment options include Photodisinfection (ToeFX), a low-risk, laser-free and painless light with no heat applied and no burning sensation. For persistent callus buildup, visit the foot callus treatment page to learn what to expect.

Toenail Problems: Thickened, brittle, or ingrown toenails can lead to pain or infection if not properly managed. Ingrown toenail care is a routine part of nursing foot care, and treating it early prevents a lot of unnecessary discomfort. I treat all ages, children and teenagers included. For ongoing nail correction, see the painless nail correction page for more details.

Foot Deformities: Conditions like bunions, hammertoes, or claw toes may worsen over time, causing discomfort and difficulty finding properly fitting shoes.

Changes in Foot Structure: Over time, the arches may flatten and the fat pads on the soles of the feet may thin, reducing natural cushioning and leading to pain.

Neuropathy: Beyond diabetes, other nerve-related conditions can cause tingling, numbness, or burning sensations in the feet, affecting mobility and increasing the risk of injury.

Inadequate Footwear: Wearing poorly fitting shoes or slippers can lead to blisters, calluses, or worsened foot deformities.

Why Choose a Registered Nurse for Foot Care?

A registered nurse brings a level of clinical assessment to your foot care appointment that goes beyond standard nail and skin maintenance. Laura Ross, RN has the training to identify early warning signs of systemic conditions, refer appropriately, and provide care that keeps you out of the emergency room. Learn more about Laura's background and approach, or get in touch to ask a question before booking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most clients benefit from appointments every 6 to 8 weeks, though frequency depends on your individual health needs. Clients with diabetes or active nail and skin concerns may be seen more regularly.

Yes. Toenail fungus treatment using Photodisinfection (ToeFX) is available, and ingrown toenail care is a regular part of the services offered. Both conditions are best addressed early to prevent pain and infection from worsening.

No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by phone at any time.

Yes. Older adults make up a large part of the practice, and there is a dedicated focus on the conditions that affect aging feet, including thick toenails, diabetic neuropathy, circulation issues, and fall prevention. Visit the senior foot care page to learn more about what that care looks like.

Laura Ross, RN

7-50 Hedley Street,
Fredericton, NB
E3C 0S7

506 261 9662

laurarossfootcare@gmail.com

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