The profession of podiatry is the branch of medicine that deals with the Assessment, Diagnosis and treatment of the foot, ankle and lower leg.

The profession of foot care dates back as far as ancient Egypt and Rome.  It is believed the service was of great value in these societies, who recognised the importance of foot care in maintaining longevity of the body as a whole.  
 
There is no difference between a podiatrist or a chiropodist.  The term podiatry is used in place of chiropodist in other English Speaking Nations.  

Podiatrists and Chiropodists are qualified to treat people with conditions of the skin, remove corns and callus via scalpel use, perform nail surgery under local anaesthesia, arthritis, diabetes, paediatrics and sports injuries, orthotic prescription and offer advice on foot care and foot health.

They work with people of all age groups.
 
Podiatrists work with sports patients, fitness enthusiasts, working professionals and many others to maintain healthy functioning feet and   also play an important role in helping older people to stay mobile, preventing falls and maintaining independence.

Podiatrists usually operate out of a clinical setting, however may also arrange a domiciliary service should it be required for those with mobility difficulties.

How does Podiatry work?

Podiatry works by taking a detailed medical history, assessing the structural and functional anatomy of the foot and observing your walking style. Your podiatrist can then provide you with a treatment plan, to help keep your feet in optimal and healthy condition.

During a treatment the podiatrist will use pre-sterilized instruments.  They are also licensed to use a number of medicaments in the treatment of various conditions, particularly useful in the treatment of plantar warts (verrucae). 

Podiatrists often work closely with other healthcare professionals.  You may be offered a referral should it be required.

Innovations in podiatry and advancements in technology has led to a better understanding of footwear choices and the importance of functional orthotics.  These orthotic devices work to correctly align the body during a gait cycle (a complete stride) and therefore assist in protecting and cushioning the foot against forces experienced when walking or running.

What can Podiatry treat?

• Aching and/or tired feet
• Musckuloskeletal problems
• Aid and improve posture
• Biomechanical abnormalities of the foot and ankle
• Bunions
• Flat feet and fallen arches
• Hammer toes
• Mortens neuroma
• Metatarsalgia (metatarsal joint pain)
• Stiff and rigid feet
• Surgery referral and post-operative treatment and advice (orthotics may be indicated)
• Dermatological conditions
• Corns and Callus
• Verrucae and warts
• Psoriasis
• Eczema
• Fungal infections of the skin and nail
• Diabetes and circulatory disorders
• Arthritis
• Foot ulceration
• Infection control
• Sports and Sports Injuries
• Paediatric (children’s) feet
• Padding and strapping

We also offer:

• Foot Health Education
• Medical Orthotics and arch supports
• Ski boot inserts
• Cycling shoe inserts and set up
• Footwear Advice
• Wound care and injury