Georgina goes extra mile for her patient

Scarborough resident Jackie Fairbairn, who has Motor Neurone Disease, praised the care she received from Advanced Podiatrist Georgina Glew.

She helped her walk again without discomfort thanks to providing specialised insoles which are also known as orthotics.

Georgina, who works for Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s Scarborough, Whitby and Ryedale Podiatry Team, fabricated the orthotics which has allowed Jackie to retain her independence.

Motor Neurone Disease progressively damages parts of the nervous system, often leading to weaknesses in the ankles.

This had led to Jackie’s referral to the podiatry clinic where Georgina spent time researching her condition and then planning a bespoke solution for her needs.

This was supported by the Podiatry Laboratory Technicians who were able to manufacture the orthotics to meet the podiatrist’s prescription.

Biomechanics is just one of many specialist areas within podiatry. Many patients benefit from a biomechanical assessment of the foot and lower limb. The assessments focus on how the lower limb is functioning and how this can be made more efficient to improve mobility and reduce pain.

Jackie was so pleased with the level of care she received that she decided to nominate Georgina for the Motor Neurone Disease (MND) Association Extra Mile Award.

Launched in 2007, the awards encourage anyone affected by the disease, including carers and family members, to nominate people or teams who have gone that extra mile by providing outstanding support.

When asked about the nomination, Jackie said: “It was a way to give recognition to Georgina and also a way to highlight to the MND Association the value of podiatrists to people like myself.

“I have been totally amazed at what this lady can do for me, as on my initial visit I thought I was in the wrong place and was wasting her time.

“If it wasn’t for her skill and knowledge I wouldn’t be walking now.

“She made me some insoles and asked me to trial them.

“They were so good I forgot and wore them for the rest of the day and have used them ever since.”