F oot care is an often overlooked aspect of health care. Yet taking care of our feet is an important step towards feeling well in body and spirit. Jess Clark worked as a nurse and saw a need for specialized foot care services. She opened Zenflex in Stratford in May 2022. “Nurses really don’t have time to work with their patients’ foot issues while on shift,” Clark says. “Yet often those issues will magnify and contribute to larger problems.” Those with diabetes, arthritis or underlying health issues can benefit greatly from nursing foot care and reflexology, which are the cornerstones of Zenflex’s services. Foot care includes nail trimming, reduction of thick and fungal nails, corn and bunion care, callus buffing, ingrown nails, skin, nail, foot assessments and specialized education. Reflexology works with the body’s pathways. Gentle pressure forces a nervous stimulation that triggers a response in the area where pressure is applied. This promotes healing and well-being. Reflexology is relaxing, stress-reducing, and aids circulation. It’s a great tool for better sleep and pain reduction. Clients who have enjoyed reflexology sessions also report improvement in gut health.
Clark, who has two small children, reflects on the challenges of opening her business. “I left my job and took the leap.” The first year threw all kinds of roadblocks her way. “I did my research and was self-aware but there are things you just can’t prepare for. I had to organize everything — plumbing, construction, electrical…” Clark says she really had to find her big girl voice and push her way through a male- dominated industry to get Zenflex open. “My first year was all about education, networking, and building a client list.” For example, someone newly diagnosed with diabetes likely isn’t thinking about their feet when they are trying to adjust their life. Yet diabetes can have many complications. Some people develop neuropathy (lack of sensation) in their feet; they may step on something and not feel it, which creates a wound. Ingrown nails can also get infected and cause bigger issues for people with diabetes. “Lack of care can create bigger problems,” Clark says. “Zenflex works on the preventative side to keep feet healthy, and in turn helps take a load off of the health care system.” Clark’s mother works with her, which is a fun perk. “She knows my schedule better than I do, and she can take off and help with the kids if they need something.” Clark has advice for those considering entrepreneurship. “Don’t give up. If you are truly passionate, just keep going. Think outside the box to solve challenges.” Foot and toenail disorders affect over eighty per cent of our population. Yet feet are often the last thing on anyone’s mind when they consider their overall health. Comfort and functionality can
“Lack of care can create bigger problems, Zenflex
works on the preventative
side to keep feet healthy, and in turn helps take a load off of the health care system.”
- Jess Clark
be increased by taking proper care of feet. Limb-threatening issues typically related to infection or poor circulation can be moderated and avoided. At Zenflex, Clark discusses issues with her clients, and together they create a treatment plan. “At the end of the day I really care about helping people. That’s what Zenflex is all about.”
ZENFLEX
175 Shakespeare Dr, Stratford 902.569.0349 jess@zenflex.ca www.zenflex.ca
SPRING 2023 www.pei-living.ca
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