Is a Podiatrist the same as a Chiropodist? I have been asked this question so many times – essentially yes, they are the same! Podiatry is an internationally recognised term which was brought into use in the UK in 1993.
Podiatrists are healthcare professionals who have been trained to diagnose and treat pathology of the foot and ankle. Podiatrists are concerned with the maintenance of skin integrity and a person’s mobility - these are incredibly important for a person’s overall health and wellbeing.
If you have certain health conditions such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis or peripheral arterial disease your feet are at high risk of developing problems which means you may be eligible for Podiatry care from the NHS. Unfortunately the majority of people who need help don’t fall into this category. There are a huge number of people who might use a private sector Podiatrist ranging from those who simply want perfect feet for summer sandals to those suffering with problem nails, skin infection, wounds, sports injuries, or pain due to pathological foot function or gait (the way they walk).
What conditions could a Podiatrist help you with?
What happens at a Podiatry appointment?
At your first consultation your Podiatrist will take a thorough medical history and carry out some non-invasive and pain free assessments of your circulation and nerve function. These assessments can detect underlying health conditions as well as inform appropriate treatments/precautions. If necessary or requested your Podiatrist can assess your footwear and offer footwear advice.
Routine Care :
Routine care appointments take care of skin and nail conditions. Painful corns, callus and nails can usually be treated there and then while some problems might need more prolonged input. Here at Plymouth Podiatry your Podiatrist will painlessly use nail nippers and surgical blades, before gently buffing the skin smooth and applying an appropriate foot cream.
Musculoskeletal Assessment:
This appointment includes full biomechanical assessment of your foot, ankle and lower limb function. Your Podiatrist will assess your footwear, muscle strength and flexibility, your joints’ range and quality of movement and any deformity or pain. It might also be necessary or appropriate for your Podiatrist to assess your gait (the way you walk).
Minor Surgery:
During minor surgical procedures local anaesthesia is used to numb the area to enable painless removal of the offending object. This could be used for nail surgery, removal of painful neurovascular corns, or foreign objects.
What kind of treatment can you expect from a Podiatrist?
Be aware and don't be afraid to check !
Podiatrists and Chiropodists are governed by a professional body known as the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). It is advisable to check that your Podiatrist is registered with the HCPC as this means they are fully trained and adhere to the standards set by the governing body.
You can follow this link to check the HCPC register: https://www.hcpc-uk.org
