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This May, Feet First Podiatry in Newry celebrates ten years in business. For Director Judith Watson it's her passion.
After years of travelling she returned home at 25 with her 4-month-old son. Judith explains "I realised it was time to kickstart my career. Initially, I ventured into nursing as my son began primary school, but by the second year, I recognised the toll my hectic schedule (5 days in University and working in community care at weekends) was taking on both of us. It was clear I needed a change."
Podiatry caught her eye, but with the priority her son, the thought of spending another three years in university plus weekend work didn't sit well with her. Instead she opted for a more balanced path and trained as a foot health practitioner, promising that she would pursue podiatry once her son was more independent, post-GCSEs. Judith graduated in 2022 with a first class honours from University of Ulster.
Now celebrating a decade with Feet First Judith said "It's been a journey of adaptability, growth, and lots of feet! This path has taught me the importance of balancing personal commitments with professional ambitions, and I'm grateful for every step."
Passion and Dedication
The history of Feet First is a tale of passion, and unwavering dedication to excellence. Judith explains "In the initial months of operation, I was just working part-time as I wasn’t sure if the business would be successful. However, a strong connection with clients and a deep love for the work propelled the business forward." Taking a leap of faith, the decision was made to commit full-time to the venture. With the acquisition of a podiatry degree, the business began to flourish, driven by passion and a clear vision for growth. To further enhance services Judith has embarked on a post-graduate program in Diagnostic Ultrasound Scanning of the foot and ankle.
The small business she started off with just herself has now blossomed into a thriving enterprise, with three dedicated employees and a bi-monthly visiting specialist enriching the clinic's offerings. Judith is most appreciative of her receptionists "The ladies are fabulous and I would be lost without them. I love how they give a warm welcome to every single person that comes through the door and if they have time they always offer tea coffee and biscuits." she explains.
FEET FIRST SERVICES
Feet First Podiatry offer an extensive range of services, each designed to ensure your feet are in the best hands possible. Their commitment to excellence and innovative treatments sets them apart, offering a comprehensive range of options that cater to every need. The business has invested approximately £50k this year alone in top of the range diagnostic equipment and training as well as an amazing new Swift microwave therapy for verrucae. Feet First believe in standing alongside our community, enhancing the health and comfort of every step you take.
Routine Podiatry Treatments
The clinic provides top-tier care for all your routine podiatry needs, including nail and skin care, diabetic foot assessments, and treatments for corns and calluses. Their approach ensures that your feet remain healthy and happy, all at an affordable cost.
Specialist Verruca Treatments
Feet First are the only clinic in Newry and Mourne offering the cutting-edge Swift microwave therapy for verrucas, alongside verruca needling. These advanced treatments boast a success rate of 74%-78%, significantly higher than traditional methods such as Salicylic acid, freeze and silver nitrate which are below 30% successful, ensuring you receive the most effective care available.
Nail Surgery
Suffering from painful ingrown toenails? The clinic has a 100% success rate for nail surgery to date, providing a permanent solution to bring you relief and peace of mind.
Specialist Injury Clinic for the Lower Limb
Their specialist podiatrist is not only CASE Accredited in Diagnostic Ultrasound Scanning, he also specialises in Podiatric Sports Medicine. He looks after the podiatry needs of the Northern Ireland football team and is a visiting lecturer at a number of universities.
Steroid Injection Therapy
For those tough cases where pain persists, steroid injections under local anaesthesia and ultrasound guidance serve as a potent anti-inflammatory treatment, significantly reducing discomfort and enhancing your quality of life.
Ostenil Injection Therapy
Improve movement in arthritic joints with Ostenil injection therapy, designed to offer relief and increase mobility in those struggling with arthritis.
Custom Made Orthotics
Tailored to your unique needs, custom-made orthotics provide unparalleled support and comfort, addressing various foot conditions and ensuring optimal foot health.
Aesthetic Treatments
For nails that need a little extra care, their aesthetic treatments, including nail reconstruction, offer a solution. Whether dealing with a deformed or unsightly nail, Feet First can craft a natural-looking nail, boosting your confidence and foot appearance.
The wide array of services, coupled with Feet First's dedication to pioneering treatments, ensures that feet are not just treated but truly cared for.
THE FUTURE
Judiths vision for the future at Feet First Podiatry is deeply rooted in her commitment to comprehensive foot and ankle care. "My dream is to evolve our clinic into a one-stop destination for everything related to foot and ankle health. This includes expanding our services to encompass podiatric surgery, advanced musculoskeletal assessments, and biomechanical evaluations. Additionally, integrating physiotherapy services would provide a holistic approach to treatment, ensuring our patients receive the most effective and personalised care possible.
She continues "The cherry on top of this vision is the aspiration to open a second clinic, creating more opportunities to serve and reach those in need. Having all these services under one roof would not only greatly benefit our patients by offering a seamless and comprehensive care experience but also foster a collaborative environment among our team. This synergy would enable us to bounce ideas off each other, leading to the formulation of the best treatment plans and outcomes for our patients."
While this vision is currently at the dream stage, her dreams so far have turned into reality, so you never know!
At Feet First Podiatry, we are excited about the future and committed to continuing our legacy of excellence in podiatric care, always putting our patients' feet first.
REVIEWS
Check out just some of the glowing reviews from Feet First's amazing clients. The stories of transformation and gratitude illuminate their dedication to exceptional podiatric care. Every review fuels their passion, reminding us of the impact made. Judith adds "We're grateful for this community's trust and shared experiences, inspiring us to continually elevate foot health."
"I suffered with an extremely painful ingrown toenail for most of the year, and the staff at feet first were very accommodating, and helps make me feel extremely comfortable while getting nail surgery done, and it has been a massive relief that i can now walk without the pain.
While there the atmosphere was extremely nice, cups of tea were offered and Judith and the staff were such nice people and easy to talk to.
Before and after the surgery Judith has kept in touch with me and offered any help she can, helping me get anti biotics I need, dressings I need for my toe to recover, and checking up on my progress, it's obvious she really cares about what she does!" JMcD
"Had booked this place not knowing but went by reviews, Booked it for my two parents to use from the Louth Area, and they can’t talk highly enough of Judith and the service provided at Feet First Foot Clinic…" G F
"Judith is the kindest human being I've come across. She was so supportive to my daughter - who was super nervous and anxious. I have never experienced such a warm sweet person who was super professional, a refreshing experience. If you need any foot care look no further than Juith. Thanks again Judith" TLQ
CONTACT
Feet First Podiatry are at 15 St Marys Street, Newry, BT34 2AA
You can contact them by calling one of their amazing receptionists Pauline or Sylvia on 028 300 54444.
Appointments can also be booked online at feetfirstnewry.com
Check out their Facebook at www.facebook.com/feetfirstnewry
Follow them on Facebook, instagram and /or TikTok for news of treatment success, new treatments available etc
