What is Podiatry?
Podiatry is a specialised area of healthcare that involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of conditions associated to the foot, ankle, and lower limb.
It encompasses both conservative care for existing complaints, and corrective management for acute and chronic conditions.
What is the difference between Podiatry and Chiropody?
There is often confusion between the use of the term chiropodist and podiatrist. Simply, both are used to describe the registered profession specialising in foot health. The term podiatry was adopted in the UK in 1993 and is the internationally recognised name for a foot specialist.
Is my Podiatrist qualified?
To practice, a podiatrist must first successfully complete an approved 3-year degree (BSc Hons) in Podiatry. Upon graduation the use of the title podiatrist can only be used after registering with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). The HCPC ensures that each podiatrist adheres to a professional code of conduct and performs Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
You can check if your podiatrist is registered on the HCPC website.
Additionally, podiatrists are also required to have professional liability insurance to ensure both they, and their patients are covered, and that they are safe to practice.
Greencross Podiatry & Chiropody Clinic is affiliated with The College of Podiatry (CoP)
What do Podiatrists do?
Often associated to ‘just’ cutting toenails, and removal of hard skin; these are only the fundamental aspects of a podiatrist’s role.
The sphere of treatment podiatrists provide is board and continues to expand. Podiatrists will regularly carry out diabetic foot assessments, nail surgery; treat ulcerations/wounds; and diagnose, treat sports injuries and musculoskeletal conditions.
What can a Podiatrist help with?
Podiatrists can treat a comprehensive list of aliments.
Problematic toenails (ingrown toenails, fungal and mis shaped nails) • Corns and callus • Cracked heels • Dermatological conditions (including athletes’ foot) • Verrucae • Blisters • Help pain • Sports injuries
They can help prevent, and correct deformities, keep people mobile and active; as well as relieving pain, and treat infections.
