Podiatry
Podiatrists play an important role in treating foot problems in children with cancer. From their own practice, they support children during and after oncological treatment. They help with alignment problems, skin conditions, or neuropathy and in doing so contribute to comfort, mobility, and quality of life. The podiatrist is the lead professional for preventive foot care and works closely with medical pedicurists and footwear technologists.
Contribution to quality of life
The Princess Máxima Center takes a broad view of quality of life in children with cancer, including physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and spiritual aspects. As a podiatrist, you contribute to the physical domain by treating or preventing problems affecting the feet, skin, and nails.
General foot problems
Children who are still growing more often experience foot problems, for example due to alignment issues. During oncological treatment, maintaining mobility is essential. As a podiatrist, you support children by helping to achieve:
pain reduction
improved gait pattern
faster recovery of foot function
During treatment
Chemotherapy can lead to:
nail toxicity, such as nail detachment
ingrown toenails
small wounds around the nail folds
These problems can cause pain and increase the risk of infection. You can contribute by:
reducing pressure on sensitive areas
providing wound and nail care
giving advice on footwear
Treatment preferably takes place shortly before a new chemotherapy cycle, when the leukocyte count is highest. If needed, consult with the nurse specialist. Care is provided under the ‘care module for the prevention of foot ulcers’ and is reimbursed through basic health insurance.
Late effects
Long-term problems after chemotherapy may include:
neuropathy, such as numbness or pain
skin problems, including dryness, cracks, or blisters
You check the feet for high-risk areas, advise on daily foot care, and can involve a medical pedicurist, for example in cases of amputation or rotationplasty.
Podiatric treatment options
During the first consultation, you assess:
sensation and circulation
alignment and mobility
skin and nail condition
Treatment options include:
instrumental foot care
wound treatment
podiatric insoles
advice on footwear and skin care
Contact
Do you have questions or would you like to discuss a patient? Feel free to contact the nurse specialist at the Princess Máxima Center.
You can reach us via the numbers below. The medical assistant can connect you with the relevant nurse specialist.
Solid tumor / neuro-oncology department
Hemato-oncology / stem cell transplantation department
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