B.C. podiatrists promote Foot Health Month with a free hotline and charity shoe drive

Vancouver - May is Foot Health Awareness Month and the BC Association of Podiatrists encourages you to "live a little and get a little" by taking part in two events drawing attention to foot health. Get free foot-health advice on the Ask a Podiatrist hotline, or give your gently used shoes to charity at any podiatrist's office during the Share Your Soles shoe drive.

"We want to spread the message that no-one needs to live with foot pain," says Dr. Scott Schumacher, president of the B.C. Association of Podiatrists. "Whether you're young or old, male or female, athletic or not, a podiatrist can help you stay active, healthy and pain-free."

Ask a Podiatrist hotline
Each year, the BC Association of Podiatrists hosts a hotline that allows people all over B.C. to call in for free advice on their foot pain or general foot health. This year, the Ask a Podiatrist hotlines will be open on Saturday, May 12th, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. "Everyone is encouraged to call," says Dr. Schumacher, "especially people in remote communities, who might not have access to a podiatrist's services." B.C. residents can call 1-866-611-FEET (3338) toll-free for professional advice on any foot-related issue.

Share Your Soles shoe drive
Throughout the month of May, you can drop off your gently used shoes at podiatry offices throughout B.C. during the Share Your Soles shoe drive. "Share Your Soles is a great way to clean out your closet while helping a worthwhile cause," says Dr. Stern. "Most of us have a pair or two that don't fit our feet or our style any more. As long as they're clean and in wearable condition, we're happy to take them off your hands-or feet!" Donated shoes are polished up and given to the Canadian Diabetes Association Clothesline program.

To find the podiatry office nearest you, visit the BC Association of Podiatrists' web site at www.foothealth.ca or call the association at 604-602-0400 or 1-866-FEET (3338).

Podiatrists are doctors who specialize in preventing, diagnosing and treating foot pain and foot disorders both medically and surgically. Patients do not need a referral from their family doctor to see a podiatrist. For the location of a podiatrist near you, call 1-866-611-FEET (3338) or visit www.foothealth.ca.

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For more information or to arrange an interview, contact Hayden Jackson at 604-623-3007