CHIROPODY (PODIATRY)

What is Chiropody/Podiatry?

The two terms are synonymous - in other words, chiropodists and podiatrists are two names for the same profession and the use of both terms is restricted by law to qualified professionals registered with the Health Professions Council. Chiropodists/podiatrists assess, diagnose and treat problems of all kinds with the feet and lower limbs. These problems may stem from injury, arthritis, diabetes, surgery and many other causes and chiropody (podiatry) can be particularly important in helping older people and disabled people to retain maximum mobility.

What conditions can be treated by Chiropody?

Chiropody/podiatry can be useful to a wide range of foot and lower limb problems stemming from injury, arthritis, diabetes, surgery and many other causes and can be particularly important in helping older people and disabled people to retain maximum mobility. More everyday problems such as hard skin & callouses, veruccas, ingrowing toenails, flat feet and so on are also within the chiropodist's field of specialism.

What is a Chiropody treatment like?

The Initial Consultation will involve taking a detailed case history and during the Initial Consultation a Treatment Plan may be suggested and the likely timescale and cost indicated. You will be asked to sit in a treatment chair or, occasionally, to lie on a treatment couch with shoes and socks/tights removed whilst the chiropodist/podiatrist works on your problem. The treatment may involve the use of instruments (e.g. to cut nails or file away dead skin), creams & lotions and manual massage/manipulation. Exercises may be recommended for between sessions.