In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors, I’m joined by Samantha, CEO of Spotlight YOPD, and Emma, Deputy CEO, for an important conversation about Young Onset Parkinson’s Disease (YOPD).We discuss what YOPD is, how diagnosis can look different for younger individuals, and the symptoms that people may experience. This episode focuses on raising awareness and understanding, helping practitioners, clinicians, and the wider community build knowledge and confidence when supporting those living with Young Onset Parkinson’s.This conversation is about education and awareness only and is not intended to diagnose or replace professional medical advice. Samantha and Emma share valuable insights into the lived experiences of those within the YOPD community and the importance of early support, understanding, and collaboration across healthcare.

To learn more about Spotlight YOPD and the work they do, visit:https://spotlightyopd.org/

#YoungOnsetParkinsons #ParkinsonsAwareness #YOPD #BehindTheClinicDoors #HealthPodcast #HealthcareEducation #PatientAwareness #ChronicIllness #ClinicalPractice #FootHealthProfessionals #HealthcareProfessionals #SpotlightYOPD #ParkinsonsSupport

In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors, I’m joined by Jenna Chow, an orthotist from Canada, for a fascinating and insightful conversation about orthotics, patient care, and the realities of working in this field.

Jenna explains what an orthotist is, how she began her career, and the key differences between orthotics and prosthetics. We bust some common myths, discuss what Jenna most commonly sees in practice, and explore the underlying causes behind many foot and lower limb issues.

Jenna shares some powerful and changing stories from her patients, highlights when someone may benefit from orthotics, and explains how personalised assessment plays a vital role in long-term outcomes. Her passion for orthotics and her wealth of knowledge truly shine through, and she speaks openly about supporting those who are interested in pursuing a career in this field or who simply want to learn more.

There is so much more of Jenna’s expertise to explore, and this episode marks the beginning of future conversations where we will dive deeper into topics such as orthotic devices, footwear, and how feet change over time.

You can follow Jenna on Instagram to learn more about her work and watch her clinical insights in action:
https://www.instagram.com/oandpwithjennac

#Orthotics #Orthotist #Podiatry #FootHealth #BehindTheClinicDoors #PatientCare #Prosthetics #LowerLimbHealth #HealthcareCareers #ClinicalPractice #FootHealthProfessionals #HealthPodcast #OrthoticDevices #Footwear

In this episode of Behind the Clinic Doors: The Foot Health Podcast, I’m joined by Ian Reilly, Consultant Podiatric Surgeon, for an in-depth and honest conversation about podiatric surgery, patient care, and the evolving role of the profession.

Ian shares his journey from starting as a chiropodist to becoming a consultant podiatric surgeon, reflecting on his education, mentorship, and the experiences that shaped his career. We discuss the large number of procedures Ian has carried out to date, the surgeries he performs most often, and his role in taking over the podiatric surgery service within Northamptonshire NHS Trust.

We explore how podiatric surgery has changed over the years, including shifts in scope of practice, advances in equipment, and the growing role of minimally invasive surgery. Ian talks openly about patient expectations, surgical planning, safe recovery, and common myths surrounding podiatric surgery. His most common procedure is hammer toe correction, while bunions remain the most frequent referral he receives.

The conversation also covers challenges within referrals, the disconnect that can sometimes exist between podiatrists and podiatric surgeons, and the importance of communication and shared understanding. Ian speaks passionately about education, mentorship, and the need to share skills with those aspiring to enter podiatric surgery. We also reflect on how open and respectful professional discussions, including conversations Ian and I have had ourselves, can lead to better understanding.

We finish by discussing what makes a great podiatric surgeon, the importance of constructive challenge, the meaning of the title “podiatric surgeon”, and the uncertainty surrounding the future growth of the profession and the need for new surgeons.

To learn more about Ian’s work, education, and professional insights, you can find him here:
https://linktr.ee/podsurgeon
https://podsurgeon.co.uk
You can also explore Ian’s CPD Foot Notes on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/podsurgeon.co.uk

#PodiatricSurgery #Podiatry #BehindTheClinicDoors #FootHealth #PatientCare #MinimallyInvasiveSurgery #FootSurgery #HealthcareProfessionals #PodiatricSurgeon #ClinicalEducation #Mentorship #BunionSurgery #HammerToe #FootHealthProfessionals #HealthPodcast