Atlantic Podiatry marks its third year in business with the hiring of a British-trained sports and musculoskeletal podiatrist.

Yaw Nimoh brings expertise in dealing with foot, ankle and lower-limb injuries, said clinical director and managing podiatrist Matthew Francis.

“His arrival allows us to expand our sports podiatry and MSK services, including gait analysis, injury rehabilitation, custom orthotics, exercise-based treatment plans and advanced treatment options for active patients, athletes and anyone struggling with persistent lower-limb pain,” Mr Francis said.

He said Mr Nimoh’s appointment will help broaden public understanding of what podiatry can offer in Bermuda.

“Many people still think podiatry is only about toenails, corns and calluses,” Mr Francis said. “Those are important services, but podiatrists also assess gait, biomechanics, sports injuries and other things.”

Mr Francis opened Atlantic Podiatry with a vision of raising the standard and visibility of foot and lower-limb care in Bermuda.

“We treat a wide range of foot and lower-limb problems, from routine nail and skin care through to diabetic foot checks, wound care, custom orthotics, sports injuries, musculoskeletal complaints, house calls and care home visits,” Mr Francis said.

The practice has grown considerably since he launched.

“We have expanded our team from just myself to three practitioners,” he said.

They have also developed their care home and house-call services and strengthened the diabetic and wound-care side of the business.

The firm has also committed $100,000 to support two Bermudians studying podiatry in the UK, with a guaranteed job at the practice upon their return.

“The aim is to help build Bermuda’s future healthcare workforce,” Mr Francis said.

He said podiatry is under-represented locally, but plays an important role in diabetes care, wound prevention, mobility, falls prevention, sports injury management and general wellness.

The scholarship is about helping Bermuda develop more home-grown clinicians in an increasingly important area of healthcare, he said.

The most common foot problems the clinic sees are painful toenails, corns, callus and general forefoot pain.

“These may sound simple, but they can have a major impact on someone’s ability to walk, work, exercise and remain independent,” the podiatrist said.

He sees a significant number of diabetic foot concerns, including reduced sensation.

Mr Francis said for many people pain is what finally causes them to see a podiatrist.

“We are trying to shift that mindset,” he said. “Podiatry should not just be reactive; it should be preventive.”

Bermuda’s warm, humid climate can also encourage fungal infections and sweating related skin irritation.

“Many people spend a lot of time in sandals or unsupportive footwear, which can contribute to pain, Achilles problems and overuse injuries,” Mr Francis said.

Footwear is one of the simplest but most powerful ways to protect foot health, he said. Flip-flops are good for short periods, but not for long walks or exercise. He recommended a good, everyday shoe with a supportive sole, cushioning and room around the toes.

“Our aim is simple,” he said, “to keep Bermuda moving.”

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