I hope your podiatrist has an open mind and heart to considering that there can be other avenues for helping people who suffer from chronic, and oftentimes unrelenting episodes of pain. Do prepare yourself to possible skepticism, as well as disapproval/dismissiveness of the use of compounded pain creams/salves. As I wrote before, it was an arduous, intense search online that led me to Dr. I. but totally worth the journey. He is but one of several hand-picked professionals in my Medical Team. I say hand-picked because one by one the doctors within the "umbrella" medical group that were proving not to be addressing my laundry list of problems were dropped and replaced. I'm fortunate to have insurance that doesn't require that I stay with "one group" and I don't need referrals for being seen. I'm also quite assertive and self-advocating, not hesitant to question, not hesitant to voice what I need, and definitely exercise the power of the firm words "No, thank you". I'm 75, and just don't want what time exists within God's will for me to be disrespected and devalued.

One more thing: When I do go for a pedicure, I always have the same technician attend to me. She learned from the very first time that she must be gentle, no deep manipulation of any part of my feet (especially the left one) or lower legs. At first she was confused (partly since English is not her fist language, but she comprehended what she can and cannot do. I don't go often, but always go on same day of week, early morning (assures that place is just about empty) and call ahead to make sure that she will be in. No nail polish so I can best monitor the blue-black presence of Raynaud's, and important for podiatrist as well. My feet literally rejoice while in the swirling, hot water basin! Being Asian, she shows such respect for me since in her culture seniors are respected and treated with courtesy. She is so sweet when done, gently drying my feet and then putting on my socks and shoes, followed by taking my hand to assist with the step down from that area. Will help with coat or sweater as well. Overall a relaxing, pleasant experience. If you go for pedicures, I highly recommend communicating about areas of pain and what you will accept (or not) being done. 🌺