The Vodafone Malta Foundation extended its support to the Association of Podiatrists of Malta (APM) to screen children’s feet in a project called ‘The Growing Foot’ conducted in various private, church and government schools.

The APM is concerned that there is lack of awareness regarding the profession and the skills of the podiatrist. “Through this project we aimed at educating parents and guardians on certain foot conditions which sometimes are ignored to the detriment of the child,” said Ivan Farrugia, Association president. This exercise benefited children, parents and the health care professionals as it promoted the profession of Podiatrists among the Maltese public.

Chairperson of the Vodafone Malta Foundation, Gemma Mifsud Bonnici, said the Foundation was all out to help in such a sensitive health care initiative that contributes towards a healthier society. “Such an initiative falls within the Foundation’s mission statement of supporting local communities, contributing towards the natural environment, national culture and heritage.”

Mr Farrugia said podiatric clinical evidence has been showing that untreated foot problems can lead to more serious and persistent skeletal disorders in adulthood. “Therefore, the Association is sparing no effort to raise awareness of potential foot problems that may occur during childhood,” remarked Mr Farrugia, while thanking Vodafone Malta Foundation for their support.

Association members carried out a foot assessment on children between six and eight years of age. Members of the APM and its students helped in this initiative. The Association of Podiatrists of Malta represents the collective interests of podiatrists in any matter related to their profession and their status. It aims to promote and raise awareness of the need of a podiatrist in our community.

One’s foot health can be a clue to his/her overall health. For example, joint stiffness could mean arthritis; tingling or numbness could be a sign of diabetes; swelling might indicate kidney disease, heart disease or high blood pressure.

The association encourages the public that whatever the problem is, this should not be buried in their shoe, hoping it will go away!