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LETTERS TO THE MINISTER

Letter to The Hon. Silvia Jones 

Deputy Premier & Minister of Health

Click Here to Read

 


Letter to The Hon. Doug Ford 

Premier of Ontario

 

 

 Letter to Mr. Matthew Anderson 

Chief Executive Officer, Ontario Health 

 

LOCUM NOTICE | ALLEN FRANKEL AVAILABLE

OPMA Members, please contact Allen Frankel, DPM if you have any locum interests over the 2023 year.

Many podiatric practices may need access to qualified podiatric support to meet post-COVID patient demands.

Allen’s services are broad spectrum including open, minimal incision, and laser procedures.

Please contact Allen directly.


You can reach him at  allenfrankel@rogers.com

or 647 298 2440 



IN MEMORIAM


RENEWAL OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT'S PUBLIC SERVICE HEALTH CARE PLAN (PSHCP)

As of July 1, 2023 a renewed and expanded PSHCP will come into force and effect. The new Plan will be administered by Canada Life Assurance, replacing Sun Life. 

The revised Plan provides up to $500 per calendar year for podiatrist or chiropodist services and up to $250 per year for "orthopedic shoes" (an increase from $150 per year). 

The Plan provides health care coverage to federal public servants and retirees, members of the Canadian Forces and the RCMP and employees and retirees of selected other agencies of the Government of Canada.


LIMB PRESERVATION SYMPOSIUM | MAY 06, 2022

This one-day virtual learning event on limb preservation is a joint venture between Wounds Canada and the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association.

The program, chaired by Dr. Ahmed Kayssi, will provide national and international perspectives on the advances in managing diabetic foot-related complications.

     CLICK HERE TO REGISTER        CLICK HERE TO VIEW AGENDA

        





LOWER-LIMB PRESERVATION STRATEGY

CorHealth Ontario (CorHealth) is excited to announce its Lower-Limb Preservation Strategy (LLPS) with the following goals:

  1. To reduce avoidable, non-traumatic major lower-limb amputations in Ontario 
  2. To improve equitable access to high-quality best-practice early screening, cardiovascular risk factor modification and integrated lower-limb would care 

Foundational components of the LLPS are the Ontario Framework for Lower-Limb Preservation, an evidence-informed best-practice roadmap, and accompanying Change Package of ideas, tools and resources.  For more information and to view and download LLPS resources, please visit our CorHealth LLPS website.

CorHealth is engaging with demonstration programs from across the province to test implementation of the LLPS.  We invite you to attend a provincial webinar to learn more about joining us to save lower-limbs.  Please forward this message to your lower-limb preservation colleagues and networks and invite them to join you.

STATISTICS

Every year in Ontario approximately 1200 people have a major lower-limb amputation that arises from complications of vascular disease and/or diabetes, with annual direct health care costs of approximately $70-105 million. 

Successful implementation of organized, integrated lower-limb preservation efforts has shown tremendous reductions in amputation rates (up to 85%), saving millions in health care dollars, and most critically, providing standardized best-practice lower-limb saving care to patients and communities.


NOTICE TO PATIENTS AND THE PUBLIC ABOUT THE "PODIATRIC CAP"

Because of legislation passed over three decades ago, since July 1993 no new podiatrists have been able to be registered to practice in Ontario. No other health profession in Ontario has ever been restricted in this way. It's highly discriminatory and it makes no sense, particularly in today's world when we are facing real human resources deficits in the health professions. It also makes no sense because more podiatrists could keep more people out of hospitals and, thereby, help solve "hallway medicine" and long waiting lists for hospital care that the Ford government claims to want to fix. Since about 60% of podiatrists' patients are 55 years of age or older, the impact of the growing lack of podiatrists is felt particularly by seniors. Nursing homes, retirement homes, home care and supportive housing for seniors are constantly complaining that they can't find enough podiatrists to take care of their residents and patients.

Due to this podiatric cap (as it's called) the podiatry profession is getting smaller and smaller in Ontario and will soon disappear entirely. Today, Ontario has the lowest ratio of podiatrists to population compared to anywhere else in the developed world . The time will soon come when you will lose your podiatrist and will not be able to find another . Time to fix this very difficult situation is rapidly running out.

JOIN CPMA FOR THEIR NOVEMBER 2021 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE

Join the CPMA for the second Virtual Conference.  CPMA is returning to you online in an effort to continue to provide our members and the podiatry community with new CME opportunities.

This one-day conference opens on Saturday, November 20, 2021, at 10:45 AM ET and provides six (6) hours of CME credits /continuing education hours, industry intelligence, and networking with 12 thought-provoking sessions in the day.  There will be opportunities set aside for you as a delegate to visit and network with the exhibitors by individual chat or group video meeting to get information on their products.

REGISTER FOR THE CONFERENCE HERE



SESAMOIDITIS: TREATMENT & HOW TO HEAL IT

Symptoms of Sesamoiditis

It’s important to note that the sesamoid bones can either become fractured or have sesamoiditis. The main difference is in the way you feel pain.

If you have sesamoiditis, here are some of the symptoms you may observe:

  • Difficulty and pain in straightening or bending your big toe
  • Pain directly below the big toe on the ball of the foot
  • Pain that starts gradually, unlike a fracture that triggers instant pain
  • Swelling around your big toe




JULY 5TH IS NATIONAL INJURY PREVENTION DAY

On Monday, July 5, 2021, Parachute is celebrate the fifth National Injury Prevention Day in Canada to raise awareness about the devastating effects of predictable and preventable injuries. Their goal is to educate others and help all Canadians live long lives to the fullest.

Parachute’s National Injury Prevention Day is a day to raise awareness around the importance of injury prevention and aid Canadians to live long lives to the fullest through education and advocacy. Health Canada recognizes this date as an official national Health Promotion Day.

                      READ MORE HERE                   

 FOOT INJURY PREVENTION 

NOT registered yet? There's still time!

  • Largest amount of CME credits for a single conference(Category A & B)
  • International lecturers you will never see at a single event in person S
  • socialize with international practitioners 
  • Half the price of a regular conference Enjoy the event in the comfort of your own home 
  • View a conference welcome from someone who has circled the earth at 28,000 km/hr 
  • Support a group of volunteers that work for you and utilize the funds to lobby, market and promote YOU as a practitioner.  
  •  For video information on the presenters at the 2021 OSC conference click on their lin




Join CPMA & Wounds Canada For Their 3rd Annual Limb Preservation Symposium

Read More Here

Diabetes-related major and minor amputation risk increased during the COVID-19 pandemic

Background: Along with significant case transmission, hospitalizations, and mortality experienced during the global Sars-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic, there existed a disruption in the delivery of health care across multiple specialties. We studied the effect of the pandemic on inpatients with diabetic foot problems in a level-one trauma center in Central Ohio. Methods: A retrospective chart review of patients necessitating a consultation by the foot and ankle surgery service were reviewed from the first 8 months of 2020. A total of 270 patients met the inclusion criteria and divided into pre-pandemic (n = 120) and pandemic groups (n = 150). Demographics, medical history, severity of current infection, and medical or surgical management were collected and analyzed.Results: The odds of undergoing any level of amputation was 10.8 times higher during the pandemic versus before the pandemic. The risk of major amputations (below-the-knee or higher) likewise increased with an odds ratio of 12.5 among all patients in the foot and ankle service during the pandemic. Of the patients undergoing any amputation, the odds for receiving a major amputation was 3.1 times higher than before the pandemic. Additionally, the severity of infections increased during the pandemic and a larger proportion of the cases were classified as emergent in the pandemic group compared to the pre-pandemic group.Conclusions: The effect of the pandemic on the health-care system has had a deleterious effect on people with diabetes-related foot problems resulting in more severe infections, more emergencies, and necessitating more amputations. When an amputation was performed, the likelihood it was a major amputation also increased.Editor's Note: This Original Article accompanies "Diabetes-Related Amputations: A Pandemic within a Pandemic," by Lee C. Rogers, DPM, Robert J. Snyder, DPM, and Warren S. Joseph, DPM, FIDSA, available at https://doi.org/10.7547/20-248

View more: https://doi.org/10.7547/20-224

ONTARIO’S PODIATRISTS TIPS FOR WINTER FOOTWEAR


It’s that time of year again. Winter arrives with a vengeance and the first thing you want to be sure is you have invested in proper winter footwear.

Here is some basic advice –

  • Choose a pair of boots with a cushioned, removable insole and a deep heel cup.
  • Choose a pair of boots with an insole that is thick and cushioned that will provide support for arches and heels – a bonus for people who suffer from plantar fasciitis or flat feet.
  • The benefit of the removable insole is it allows you to use custom orthotics or more supportive insoles if required.

Frequently Asked Questions:

What size snow boots should I buy?

You should be able to stick to your everyday shoe size. Many snow boots are designed to just slip on because, more often than not, the sole of the boot and the boot upper are made from the same piece of hardened rubber. This ensures maximum waterproofing and protection against any hidden obstacles or debris.

They’ll likely also have a neoprene, leather or waterproof textile collar too for added comfort. Because they slip on, show boots are generally made slightly larger than other types of footwear to allow you to get your foot in comfortably.

How loose should my snow boots be?

Loose fitting snow boots are a big no-no. Due to the change in how you walk when wearing snow boots, oversized boots are a potential tripping hazard. Any added unsteadiness is definitely not needed when it comes to winter weather. A one-finger width gap down the heel of the shoe is the maximum wiggle room you should leave. The same rules apply for fitting kids’ snow boots, too.

How Should Snow Boots Fit?

Snow boots should hug your foot comfortably, providing both support and insulation. A looser fitting boot will offer greater warmth and comfort but will cause problems when walking longer distances. Snow boots that are too tight will lead to circulation issues and problems walking.

To find the right balance, always fit snow boots while you’re wearing appropriate socks (as in the socks you’ll be wearing when you wear the boots). Make sure you have enough room to wiggle your toes comfortably.

The American Podiatric Medical Association shares tips on Warm & Cozy Feet

APMA offers some advice for keeping feet healthy in common winter scenarios:

  • Winter is skiing and snowboarding season, activities enjoyed by millions of active North Americans. Make sure your boots fit properly; you should be able to wiggle your toes, but the boots should immobilize the heel, instep, and ball of your foot. You can use orthotics (support devices that go inside shoes) to help control the foot's movement inside ski boots or ice skates.
  • Committed runners don't need to let the cold stop them. A variety of warm, light-weight, moisture-wicking active wear available at most running or sporting goods stores helps ensure runners stay warm and dry in bitter temperatures. However, some runners may compensate for icy conditions by altering how their foot strikes the ground. Instead of changing your foot strike pattern, shorten your stride to help maintain stability. And remember, it's more important than ever to stretch before you begin your run. Cold weather can make you less flexible in winter than you are in summer, so it's important to warm muscles up before running.
  • Boots are must-have footwear in winter climates, especially when dealing with winter precipitation. Between the waterproof material of the boots themselves and the warm socks you wear to keep toes toasty, you may find your feet sweat a lot. Damp, sweaty feet can chill more easily and are more prone to bacterial infections. To keep feet clean and dry, consider using foot powder inside socks and incorporating extra foot baths into your foot care regimen this winter.
  • Be size smart. It may be tempting to buy pricey specialty footwear (like winter boots or ski boots) for kids in a slightly larger size, thinking they'll be able to get two seasons of wear out of them. But unlike coats that kids can grow into, footwear needs to fit properly right away. Properly fitted skates and boots can help prevent blisters, chafing, and ankle or foot injuries. Likewise, if socks are too small, they can force toes to bunch together, and that friction can cause painful blisters or corns.

Finally—and although this one seems like it should go without saying, it bears spelling out—don't try to tip-toe through winter snow, ice, and temperatures in summer-appropriate footwear.

Ontario’s Podiatrists remind you: Good Health Feet First!!

Markham lawyer dies after being discharged from hospital with foot infection

Man should not have been released during coronavirus pandemic, friend says.

Michael Pierce diabetes

Michael Pierce was sent home from Scarborough Health Network's Birchmount site with a foot infection. He died hours later. Now family and friends are wondering what happened. - Photo by Paul Koziorowski

For Michael Pierce, criminal law was his charity. He got into it for the right reasons and he lived that reality each and every day.

“He would drive to clients' homes at 1:30 a.m. if they needed him, he would work on cases 60 hours in three days, only closing his eyes for a few hours – even if clients burned him and didn’t pay him, he’d still work hard for them,” said Mustafa Sheikh, Pierce's grieving law partner.

But it wasn’t just his work ethic or huge heart that left Sheikh in daily awe. Pierce was also a genius who put his Christian faith front and centre.

Unfortunately for Pierce, according to Sheikh, he may not have been given the same respect in death as he gave to those around him in life.

That’s because, as Sheikh tells it, Pierce died only hours after being sent home from Scarborough Health Network's Birchmount site, a place he went to seek help.

Now, Sheikh said, the Pierce family are looking into a wrongful-death suit against the hospital, alleging that even with COVID-19 rules in place, Pierce should have been kept in hospital – and if he was, he might still be here.

Pierce's condition began in early March when the lawyer, who resided and worked in Markham, developed a nasty foot infection from split skin at the back of his heel.

“There was pain and discomfort and it was affecting his walking,” Sheikh said.

After the courts shut down at the end of March, the 38-year-old, who was five feet nine inches tall and weighed around 300 pounds, decided to go into hospital.

“They told him, ‘It’s bad and not healing,’ and gave him antibiotics,” Sheikh said, adding they further diagnosed Pierce with diabetes and scheduled an appointment with a specialist.

Between that day and April 14, Pierce's condition worsened, including a loss of vision, severe pain and hallucinations, according to Sheikh.

On April 14, Pierce's mother, Patricia, drove him back to the Birchmount hospital, but because of COVID-19 rules she was not allowed inside.

Pierce was discharged later that day and was visited by a nurse at his Markham home around 7 p.m., Sheikh said, at which point he was given an injection.

One hour later, his heart stopped beating.

Sheikh added that Pierce's family has been told it will take between 10 to 12 months for a report on his death.

“He was young, he had issues, but nothing that should have caused his death,” Sheikh added. “He went to the hospital a second time because it wasn’t working. He was in so much pain, there’s no way he should have been discharged.”

He added that he believed without COVID-19 rules, the hospital would have kept him in the hospital for observation.

“Why would they send a nurse two hours later?" he asked. "It doesn’t make any sense."

Since Pierce's death, Sheikh has put his law partner's mother in touch with some personal injury lawyers and has encouraged them to seek damages as part of a wrongful-death suit against the hospital.

In response, Leigh Duncan, the communications representative for the hospital, cited patient confidentiality as far as releasing any information about why Pierce was released or just how bad his condition was.

“Our hearts go out to Mr. Pierce’s family and we are sorry to hear of his passing,” she wrote in an email to Yorkregion.com. “We are unable to comment on this specific case out of respect for patient privacy. We are committed to supporting a patient’s transition out of the hospital and discussing what recovery may look like so they know what to expect. We are committed to exceptional care and safety for all of our patients, at all times.”

As for his own pain, Sheikh said he continues to struggle through it.

“I lost my best friend. He was such a good soul, I’m devastated,” he said. “I feel like I lost a little piece of myself. There’s all these what-ifs – I just feel as though this could have been avoided. He was so innocent.”

He said what has remained with him since Pierce’s passing is the idea that a man can die in this way in Canada in 2020.

“They say our medical system (in Canada) is so good,” he said. “But this is about someone falling through the cracks. It’s hard to see someone of his calibre not get the medical attention he deserved.”

Dr. Jim Hill, president of the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association, said that he's been trying to convince the Ontario government for some 20 years that hospitals should have access to a podiatrist, yet the province is so behind the rest of the world – and even other parts of Canada – that the profession isn't even taught in Ontario. That means doctors at Scarborough Health Network, like all other hospitals in Ontario, do not have a podiatrist with whom to consult.


WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT NOVEL CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19)

Feb 26 2020 | Sinai Health Foundation

Ontario has only had a few confirmed cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) but the amount of media on the topic would suggest we should be worried.  Can you provide some perspective?
As this is a new virus, it takes some time for scientists to learn about the symptoms it causes and how it spreads. It’s understandable for people to experience worry in a situation like this where we don’t have all these answers right away.
However, public health experts continue to advise that at this time the risk in Canada remains low. It’s also important for people to know that health care providers are well prepared to deal with this situation and are now taking additional precautions.  For example, hospitals already have screening in place for respiratory illnesses such as influenza. Additional measures have been added to quickly and safely screen, isolate and test patients as recommended in guidance documents provided by the Ministry of Health in Ontario.
What can I do to protect myself and my family from getting novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
Coronaviruses spread from person to person in tiny droplets of moisture expelled when someone who is infected coughs or sneezes. The best way to protect ourselves and others is with the same steps that help prevent the spread of colds or influenza:
  • Clean your hands often either with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid touching your face.
  • Cough or sneeze into a tissue or your elbow and clean your hands after.
  • Stay home from work or school if you are feeling ill to avoid spreading infection to others.
Should I avoid travelling altogether, or only to certain countries?
For the latest travel advisories, visit the Government of Canada’s website to help inform any decisions about travel.

Read Full Article


MINISTRY OF HEALTH MEMO ON CORONAVIRUS

JAN 10


READ THE MEMO


BIENNIAL FOOT AND ANKLE SYMPOSIUM 

April 17-18, 2020 - Metro Toronto Convention Centre

The Biennial Foot and Ankle Symposium is Canada’s largest surgical Foot & Ankle meeting. Not only does it provide a centralized forum for practising orthopaedic surgeons to stay current, it allows for an opportunity to meet face to face. Biennial Foot & Ankle Symposium is the yearly hub for the Canadian orthopaedic community. 

2020 Hot Topics include: 

  • Minimally invasive forefoot surgery
  • Use of minimally invasive surgery for deformity correction in Charcot
  • Salvaging complications of the Ring Fixator
  • Deformity correction and TAR; Salvage of failed TAR
  • Cartilage- transfer/transplant – why aren’t we doing better
  • Lesser toe mtp oa salvage
  • Perceptions vs reality in forefoot surgery
  • Small Quality improvement initiatives and where to start

Additional details can be found at https://www.cpd.utoronto.ca/footankle/

NEW PERSPECTIVES IN DIABETIC LIMB PRESERVATION

WOUNDS CANADA | CPMA

 

Wounds Canada will be holding its first-ever limb preservation symposium, May 31, 2019, in Toronto. This one-day event is aimed at primary care practitioners and specialists working with patients with lower limb complications that can lead to amputation. Topics will include medical management of persons with diabetic foot ulcers, vascular considerations, infection, wound management, offloading, the challenges of renal patients and more.

The OPMA President, James Hill, will be presenting at the symposium.



Register Now

OPMA ANNUAL MEMBERS' MEETING

At the Canadian Podiatry Conference 2018 | Delta Hotel Airport

October 19, 2018

AMERICAN PODIATRIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION | REP. WENSTRUP EXTOLS BENEFITS OF PODIATRY IN OPENING ADDRESS

July 13, 2018

Rep. Wenstrup

During a celebratory opening session Thursday, Rep. Brad Wenstrup, DPM (R-OH), the first podiatrist to serve in the US House of Representatives, congratulated APMA members on the passage of the VA MISSION Act, including APMA’s VA Provider Equity Act.  

“This was not only about pay,” Rep. Wenstrup said, referring to the bill, which placed podiatrists in the same authority as their allopathic and osteopathic colleagues at the Veterans’ Health Administration. “It was about leadership. And it was important for our veterans. Our veterans so often have comorbidities. And that’s what we do as podiatrists.”  

He cited statistics showing a startlingly large number of podiatrists working within the VHA compared to orthopedic surgeons. “We’re the ones doing the work.” 

Rep. Wenstrup reminded the attendees of “the power of advocacy and building relationships,” detailing the hard work he and his colleagues accomplished alongside APMA staff and members as they addressed opposition from orthopedists, building relationships with them and with other members of the legislative and health-care communities. 

He encouraged members to maintain the momentum of this important legislative victory. “Invite your representatives to your office. Get to know their health-care staff. Invite them to your hospital or surgical center and let them see what you do; let them meet your patients.” 

Seeing firsthand the good that podiatrists do will make an impression, Rep. Wenstrup said. “We need to make our case. We have never asked for something we haven’t earned and trained for.” 

Rep. Wenstrup also spoke at length about the many opportunities podiatry has afforded him, saying he wouldn’t have had the opportunity to serve his country were it not for podiatry. “Podiatry afforded me the opportunity to take part in the defense of our nation and to serve with heroes.” He remembered fallen heroes who sacrificed all for their country and their peers, including a reservist who volunteered for a dangerous mission so that two of his fellow soldiers who had children would be spared. He was killed by a sniper during that mission. “Two families have fathers today because of him,” Rep. Wenstrup said. 

He recalled two recent situations in which his podiatric training as a physician and combat surgeon allowed him to help people in critical need. Last summer, during a congressional baseball team practice, a shooter opened fire, severely injuring Majority Whip Stephen Scalise (R-LA). Rep. Wenstrup was able to treat Whip Scalise on the field. Earlier this year, he was called to action again when the Amtrak train on which he was riding struck a truck. Rep. Wenstrup treated victims on the scene of that incident, as well. 

“Any time you have the opportunity to make life better for others, you do it,” he said. “If you fail to do so, you’re wasting your time on earth,” he continued, paraphrasing Roberto Clemente.  

He strongly encouraged podiatrists to keep up their work, focusing on their service to patients. “I don’t want Washington to tell me if I’m doing a good job. I want my referring doctors to tell me. I want my patients to tell me,” he said. “You do a lot of good. Remember that whatever you do, you’re representing podiatric medicine.”

APMA Announces New Benefits at Opening Session 

During the opening session Thursday, APMA President Dennis R. Frisch, DPM, announced two exciting new benefits of APMA membership: the APMA MIPS app and an APMA electronic health record.  

The APMA MIPS app will be free of charge to members, offering the ability to track a provider’s MIPS score in real time and see how changes in activities would affect that score. It also will be an important adjunct to the APMA Registry, allowing users to submit MIPS data to CMS via the APMA Registry regardless of which EHR they use. Visit the APMA booth (#633) to learn more. 

APMA is beginning work to develop an EHR in collaboration with Darena Solutions. The EHR will be designed for podiatrists based on feedback from members. It will be fully integrated with the APMA Registry and 2015 ONC-certified. APMA and Darena Solutions plan to offer other vendors the opportunity to resell the APMA EHR, meaning you could enjoy the benefits without changing service providers. Watch for an opportunity in the near future to sign up for an early beta version.


Ask a Podiatrist Hotline: We need volunteers

On Saturday, May 26, 2018, during the final week of Foot Health Awareness Month, the CPMA will be opening an Ask A Podiatrist Hotline: a temporary 1-800 number where the general public can call in to speak directly to a podiatrist. We did successfully this in BC a few years ago, and we are now rolling the program out nationally. To do this, we need volunteers.

During each two-hour window, the line will be picked up by a CPMA member who has volunteered to answer foot health-related questions. To do this, we will be acquiring a temporary toll-free VOIP number which will forward to a pool of designated phone numbers matching participating Podiatrists on duty for that window.

For each time slot, we will need five podiatrists to comprise that pool.

We are looking to cover a window that spans 9am to 5pm in each time zone (12 hours total). Ideally, we would have people in the East covering the earlier part of the day, and have podiatrists in the West close out the schedule.

Please visit: https://goo.gl/RUvGVs to select a time slot that works best for you.  We encourage your participation!

Amputations due to diabetes can be prevented
Diabetes patients urged to take simple precautions to help save their feet during Foot Health Awareness Month and beyond

Windsor, ON, May 8, 2018 – Taking a minute or two every day to inspect your feet and observing a few simple rules can make the difference in sparing diabetes patients from a preventable outcome of the disease – a foot amputation.

“Of all diabetes-related complications, a serious foot ulcer and subsequent amputation might be the most preventable with proper care, which means vigilance in checking the feet at least once a day for small cuts and other abrasions,” says James Hill, DPM, FACFAS, President of the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association. “Even those with good control of their blood sugar can experience foot ulcers, especially if neuropathy, a frequent diabetes complication, has caused decreased feeling on the bottom of their feet.”

Loss of sensation inhibits the body’s normal pain response. As a result, walking can apply repetitive, unfelt pressure to a wound, making it larger and deeper. Left untreated, diabetic ulcers lead to serious infections, which may result in amputation.

James says foot and ankle surgeons use a variety of surgical and non-surgical methods to heal diabetic ulcers, but stressed early intervention yields the most favorable outcomes.

“Daily self-exams are the best protection. Too often, patients fail to check their feet for small cuts or punctures that over time will ulcerate and become infected,” he says. “If you have diabetes and see anything suspicious on your feet, consult a foot and ankle surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. Even a few days can make a difference in preventing serious foot problems from developing.”

An estimated seven in 10 diabetes patients have nerve damage that impairs feeling in their feet. Fifteen percent eventually will develop a foot ulcer. Among those with ulcers, one in four will lose a foot. Each year more than 86,000 amputations are performed as a direct result of diabetes, and studies show that half of those who have one foot or leg amputated will lose the other within five years. Proper diabetic foot care, says James Hill DPM FACFAS, prevents foot loss.

In some cases, amputation might be the preferred option. If vascular and podiatric surgeries can’t improve blood circulation and foot function, resolve infection, or restore foot function, amputation may be the only solution that enables the patient to heal. Today, advances in prosthetics make it possible for patients to return to an active lifestyle, a necessity for keeping diabetes under control.

Foot problems are not an inevitable consequence of diabetes. The risk can be lessened significantly by following a few simple precautions:

    • Keep your blood sugar under control to help minimize cardiovascular and blood circulation problems;
    • Lose weight, don’t smoke, and adhere to a prescribed dietary, medication, and exercise regime;
    • At least once a day, examine your feet for cuts and other small wounds you may not feel;
    • Never walk barefoot, outdoors and indoors;
    • Cut nails carefully – straight across and not too short; never trim corns and calluses yourself;
    • Wash your feet every day in lukewarm water, then dry carefully;
    • Choose comfortable shoes with adequate room for the toes;
    • Wear clean, dry, non-bulky socks; change daily;
    • Shake pebbles or bits of gravel out of your shoes before wearing them;
    • Seek treatment from a foot and ankle surgeon if minor cuts and sore spots don’t seem to be healing.

For more information on diabetic foot conditions, contact the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association office at 1-888-220-3338, or visit our website: www.podiatrycanada.org 


On Friday, April 20, 2018, OPMA President James Hill attended the Midwest Podiatry Leadership Breakfast in Chicago, Illinois, on behalf of the CPMA and OPMA. 

"The APMA Board of Trustees sponsored a leadership breakfast with APMA representatives, Region Five executive directors, presidents and chief delegates. APMA President, Dennis Frisch, DPM and other APMA board members were in attendance. I was honoured to meet and speak with Congressman Dr. Brad Wenstrup.  Dr. Wenstrup is a current member of the US House of Representatives and is also a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine. 

Last year he introduced the Veterans Affairs Provider Equity Act (HR 1058) that would grant Podiatrists the same supervisory roles and pay scales as other VA doctors in Veterans' hospitals. The Bill has passed the House of Representatives and has been referred to the Senate, where it has been read twice and is now before the Committee on Veterans Affairs"

Jim Hill, DPM, FACFAS


Dr. Brad Wenstrup & Jim Hill


OPMA PARTICIPATES IN HEALTH FAIR AT 

ONTARIO LEGISLATURE

The OPMA was invited to participate in the annual Health Fair held in the Ontario Legislature on March 21. Members Bob  Chelin, David Shaw and Peter Stavropolous staffed our booth and answered questions from Ministers, MPPs and their staff about podiatry and about the benefits of Ontario converting to a podiatry model of foot care. The new Minister of Health and Long-Term Care (Dr. Jaczek) was kind enough to arrange for David Shaw and Peter Stavropolous to observe Question Period from the Members' Gallery (while Bob Chelin handled our booth) and she also introduced them to MPPs and visitors during the legislative proceedings.

Legislative Assembly of Ontario Hansard March 21, 2018: Hon. Helena Jaczek (Minister of Health and Long-Term Care): 

       "I’ve just been informed that we’re joined by David Shaw and Peter Stavropoulos.            They are from the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association and they will be at the health fair today".

Good Morning,

I would like to thank you and your organization for being part of Health and Wellness 2018.  The Health Fair was a success. The feedback received was very positive.  The participants found the event very engaging and interactive. They were also pleased with how your organization interacted with them and provided them with valuable information.   Please pass my thanks to your staff for taking time out of their busy schedules to be part of this day.  This event would not be a success without all of you.  I am very grateful your assistance, hard work, enthusiasm and participation. Hope we can work together for future events.  Thank you again and take care.

Thank you very much.

Daryl De Pala,  RN

Occupational Health Nurse, Health Services

Legislative Assembly of Ontario


OPMA Submission to Minsitry

On March 7, 2017, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care released the Health Professions Regulatory Advisory Council's (HPRAC) Chiropody and Podiatry: Regulation of the Profession and the Model of Foot Care in Ontario

The Ministry held a 45-day public consultation on the report and recommendations.

The OPMA made a submission to the Ministry on April 21, 2017. Click the picture below to read the submission. 

The College of Chiropodists of Ontario also made a submission to the Ministry on April 21, 2017. Click the image below to read the submission.


Click here for more on the submission


OPMA's Submission to HPRAC

With the support of the OPMA, the College of Chiropodists asked the Minister of Health and Long-Term Care to initiate a review by the Health Professions  Regulatory Advisory Council (HPRAC) on the proposal to convert to a podiatry model, analogous to the models operating in British Columbia and Alberta, not to mention all US states and an increasing number of foreign jurisdictions. The OPMA made two submissions to HPRAC regarding the Chiropody and Podiatry review. 

See OPMA's final submission to HPRAC here 

On August 28, 2015, HPRAC transmitted its reports on Ontario's footcare model and the chiropody and podiatry professions to the Minister and Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. In September, the Minister determined that he wants the Ministry to do additional work relating to HPRAC's recommendations pertaining to the podiatric scope of practice. At this time we have not been given the timeframe for the work to be completed and the report to be released.

Representatives of the OPMA have met with Minister Hoskins himself several times, as well as with the members of his personal staff who are responsible for this file and with senior Ministry officials. The OPMA has also been very actively engaged with the College and with the OSC. The OSC has indicated that it is "100%" supportive of the College's recommendations to HPRAC and we are all working together to try to get the necessary legislation drafted, tabled in the Legislature and passed before the next election in June 2018.

AND HOW IT AFFECTS YOU


If you rely on, or have benefited from, footcare provided by a podiatrist in Ontario, or if you are a member of the public who just thinks this is wrong, we encourage you to write to your MPP or to Premier Ford himself to complain about the podiatric cap and to urge the Ford government to remove it before the next provincial election.

If you want more information about the podiatric cap, help in identifying your MPP, or help in drafting your letter or email, call or email the OPMA and we will be happy to help and be grateful for your support. 

Tel: 905-475-3098 or Email: contact@opma.ca





CPMA CONFERENCE FEES:

  • Members & Affiliates: $79
  • Non-members: $129 
  • Podiatry students: Free

*Prices don't include taxes


Why attend?

  • Six (6) full CME credits.
  • Show your support for the CPMA.
  • Network with your colleagues.
  • Stay informed.
  • Registration costs less than the fees of an in-person conference.
  • No travel time or costs are involved. 


Seven Ways to Treat Sesamoiditis at Home

In most cases, your sesamoiditis can be treated at home. Some of the best treatment methods include:

  1. Reduce or stop activities that are causing the pain, including sports and running
  2. Take over-the-counter pain medication to reduce pain and inflammation
  3. Apply ice for 10 minutes every 3 hours to reduce swelling
  4. Wear low-heeled, soft-soled shoes
  5. Add an insole to provide additional cushioning inside your shoes
  6. Refrain from wearing high-heeled shoes to prevent future irritation and inflammation of the tendon
  7. Wear shoes that provide adequate support when you resume normal activities


QUICK FACTS

  • Injuries cost $29.4 billion in 2018, including $20.4 billion in direct health-care costs.
  • Potential lost, potential for change in 2018, injuries stole 333,791 years of potential life lived, of missed celebrations, milestones, and contributions through work and volunteering. 
  • Preventable injuries divert essential health-care resources the total direct cost of $20.4 billion translates to an average of $56 million spent per day in the Canadian health-care system. 
  • Injury is the leading cause of death for Canadians aged one to 44, ahead of cancer and heart disease Injury is the third leading cause of death overall in Canada, after cancer and heart disease.
  • Injuries from falls cost $10.3 billion, more than one-third of the total cost of injury. Falls are the leading cause of injury deaths, hospitalizations, ED visits and disabilities.

COVID-19 Skin Manifestations And The Foot: What We Know So Far

While determining the evolution of this viral disease, health-care providers are sharing their observations in peer-reviewed journals and on social media in order to diagnose COVID-19 faster. Specifically, a colleague sent me a video via Facebook that was originally a lecture from Dr. Maria Del Mar Ruiz Herrera in Spain. One of Dr. Herrera’s PowerPoint slides lists the pedal skin manifestations of COVID-19 as a chilblains-like lesion or as a vasculitis-like presentation on fingers and toes that can occur in children, teenagers and adults who have been diagnosed as positive for COVID-19 or are asymptomatic.

                      

Click Here to Read the Full Article 

Early bird registration ends this Friday April 16th at 11:59 PM!

This one-day virtual learning event is a joint venture between Wounds Canada and the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association. The program will provide national and international perspectives on the advances in managing diabetic foot-related complications. The event runs from 8 AM - 6 PM ET.

Pre-Register Here 




Mom left with gaping hole in foot after suspected wart revealed to be cancer


A mother in England who first went to the doctor for what she thought was a painful wart on the sole of her foot was left with a gaping hole after she was diagnosed with malignant melanoma that set off a years-long cancer battle.

Click Here to Read Full Article 


INNOVATION

PODIATRY DEVICE TAKES TOP PRIZE AT NORTHEAST OHIO INNOVATION CONTEST



A team of Kent State researchers took top prize at the Burton D. Morgan Foundation’s LAUNCHTOWN SOARTM Competition, held at Baldwin Wallace University in April, beating teams from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, and the University of Akron.


Their winnings ($7,000) will allow the team to further develop a device which could solve an age-old problem for diabetics.


The device, called a “Shear Force Mat,” represents a breakthrough for physicians seeking to understand the formation of plantar ulcers — one of the most prevalent and dangerous problems facing diabetic patients.


Click Here to Read Full Article 


INNOVATION

PODIATRY DEVICE TAKES TOP PRIZE AT NORTHEAST OHIO INNOVATION CONTEST



A team of Kent State researchers took top prize at the Burton D. Morgan Foundation’s LAUNCHTOWN SOARTM Competition, held at Baldwin Wallace University in April, beating teams from Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland State University, and the University of Akron.


Their winnings ($7,000) will allow the team to further develop a device which could solve an age-old problem for diabetics.


The device, called a “Shear Force Mat,” represents a breakthrough for physicians seeking to understand the formation of plantar ulcers — one of the most prevalent and dangerous problems facing diabetic patients.


Click Here to Read Full Article 

DERMATOLOGY OF THE LOWER LIMBS SYMPOSIUM

 

The Order of podiatrists of Québec and the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières are happy to work together in preparation for the next dermatology symposium. It will take place at the UQTR campus in Trois-Rivières on Saturday November 17th 2018.

Dr. Ashfaq A. Marghoob, a reputable American dermatologist whom specializes in dermoscopy will cover the following topics: dermoscopy evaluation of the nails and of the plantar aspect of the foot.

Dr. Bernard Cohen, an exceptional dermatologist specialized in pediatric dermatology will discuss the following subjects:

  • Emergency pediatric dermatology
  • Pediatric nail pathology
  • How the approach rashes and skin flares in the pediatric population

For more Information & Registration

Click Here 

The OPMA and its members salute the B.C. podiatrists for taking proper foot health care to the public. 

Free foot care pilot project in Abbotsford, B.C. showing positive signs for patients.

The Globe and Mail
by Megan Devlin
THE GLOBE AND MAIL

Dr. Scott Schumacher poses for a photograph at his podiatry practice in Surrey, B.C., on Jan. 6, 2018.

DARRYL DYCK/THE GLOBE AND MAIL


...The program in Abbotsford, about an hour's drive east of Vancouver, is studying the impact of providing a free foot clinic to vulnerable patients in the dsialysis unit. Poor circulation paired with neuropathy, a lack of sensation in the feet, means these patients are prone to developing open wounds and infections that put them at risk for amputation.

Initial results from the three-year study indicate the free care has reduced the number of leg amputations by half, echoing larger studies from the United States that have shown access to foot care reduces leg amputation in diabetics.

However, the clinic's future is in doubt. Funding from the BC Renal Agency, which is overseen by the Provincial Health Services Authority, for the three-year project ended at the end of 2017, though the renal agency recently provided additional funding to keep the clinic open until March.

Dr. Scott Schumacher, a podiatrist who specializes in diabetic wounds and works at the foot clinic, said there's no question the clinic is saving patients' legs – while also saving the health-care system money...

Click Here to Read the Full Article

OPMA President Jim Hill presents MPP Cristina Martins with Award for Bill Prohibiting Mandatory High Heels in the Workplace

    

"Putting Your Best Foot Forward Act" Cristina Martins, Toronto MPP.

Follow the "Putting Your Best Foot Forward Act".

Toronto MPP Cristina Martins (Davenport) tabled her “Putting Your Best Foot Forward Act” today, October 17, 2017, in the Ontario Legislature. The Bill will make changes to the Occupational Health and Safety Act and “prohibit employers from requiring an employee to wear footwear that is not appropriate to the protection required for their work."

The President of the Ontario Podiatric Medical Association, James Hill stated: “Clinical evidence demonstrates that wearing high heeled shoes causes a much higher incidence of bunions, musculoskeletal pain and injury than those who do not wear high heels.”

OPMA applauds this Private Member's Bill  for advancing workers' foot health in Ontario.

Click image to view full news


Tej Sahota on CH Morning Live Promotes healthcare.

Hartley Miltchin, DPM,  on behalf of The Ontario Podiatric Medical Association appeared on TORONTO’S NUMBER ONE MORNING SHOW, BREAKFAST TELEVISION on CITY TV to promote FOOT HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH.

Dangers of Pedicures

CBC INVESTIGATES | Worker with open sore, reuse of disposables among recent problems found at Manitoba nail salons


Follow the full story at CBC.ca

Learn more about the growing dangers of pedicures and some helpful "Stay Safe" tips in an installment of CTV's "Customer Alert".


                                               

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OPMA | Ontario Podiatric Medical Association

P.O. Box 87538 Thornhill Square RPO

300 John Street Markham, ON L3T7R3

Tel: 905-475-3098 

Email: contact@opma.ca 


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