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Heart problems monitored through feet

Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is one of three centres in the country running the pilot programme

Patients in Devon are being monitored for potential heart problems through their feet.
The tests can identify an irregular heartbeat which may be a sign of an increased risk of stroke.
Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust is one of three centres in the country running the pilot programme using routine foot checks by the podiatry team.
A report to the trust board said: "The tests can pick up an irregular heartbeat, which may indicate someone is at a higher risk of stroke. 
"The data is then shared with GPs, who can then carry out further tests and identify whether treatment is needed. 
"This programme has the potential to save many lives, by intervening before strokes occur, and as a result also save the NHS hundreds of thousands of pounds."
Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who have been trained to diagnose and treat abnormal conditions of the feet and lower limbs.
The trust runs Torbay Hospital and community hospitals and health centres.
 

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