Firstly, there is some historical confusion related to the two healthcare professional titles, both names origins are from ancient Greece.
History and evolution of podiatry
Podiatry is the name used all over the world, but unusually, in the UK, the profession was originally called Chiropody.
This is very strange as the Greek word for hand is ‘Cheir’, but the Greek word for feet is ’Pous’. Therefore, Podiatry (Pous) is the more accurate and now-established name for the foot health profession in the UK.
Frequently online, both are referred to as a ‘foot doctor’.
Definition and role of a podiatrist/chiropodist
Over the past twenty years, the podiatry profession’s scope of practice has developed into a three-year Bachelor of Science Honours Degree, and the role has significantly developed and expanded. The role now includes some surgical procedures, biomechanical examination with prescribing of orthotic insoles, administration of local anaesthetic and prescription (POM-A / POM-S) of antibiotics and pain-killing analgesia.
The Podiatry profession is regulated by the Health Care Professions Council (HCPC), and most Podiatrists are members of the Royal College of Podiatry.
Foot specialists for foot problems
The podiatry profession is well-placed to be a first-line healthcare solution to numerous foot-related health problems. We treat all the health issues the original chiropodists managed, such as callus and corn removal and nail care. For example, should an in-growing nail require surgery, a minimally invasive surgical procedure with local anaesthetic is available.
Additionally, some foot pain conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, heel pain, tibial tendonitis, bunion pain, or forefoot pain, can all be successfully treated by a podiatrist. Painful and complex lower limb conditions can be assessed using advanced ‘GaitScan Technology’ to accurately diagnose and develop a treatment plan, which may include prescription orthotic insoles to resolve the pain on a long-term basis.
Podiatrists treat many conditions
Below are various areas in which a podiatrist and a chiropodist can offer assistance:
- Ingrown toenails
- Nail surgery
- Sports injuries
- Cracked heels
- Athletes foot problems
- Smelly feet
- Flat feet
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendonitis
- Orthotics Diagnose
- Infected toenails (more about this issue below)
Fungal nail infections
Another embarrassing problem many patients endure is ‘fungal nail infections’. These are when fungal spores infect toenails and the skin, such as an athlete’s foot, and are usually found on both. The fungus slowly spreads from toenail to toenail and to both feet. The nails become thickened, brown/yellow in colour, crumbly, and ultimately pungent.
Podiatrists are experts in this situation and can advise on and access all treatment options, which may include ‘cold’ laser therapy.
Learn more about K-laser & Lunula Laser treatment.
Podiatry at Waverely Clinic
Podiatry at Waverley Clinic in Farnham, Surrey covers all the areas covered in this blog. I hope that this has cleared up the confusion between Chiropody and Podiatry. Our lead podiatrist, Jonathan Kirk, is always happy to answer any questions about podiatry generally or specific foot and lower limb issues.
What to expect at your first appointment
If you were to book a podiatry appointment, the first thing to say is that the Waverley Clinic team will do everything to ensure your experience is stress-free and professional. From completing the initial information, medical history and medication paperwork, our aim is to ensure a relaxed and pleasant experience.
A professional podiatry assessment is carried out, followed by a discussion of treatment options and the development and implementation of an agreed-upon treatment plan.
Can the NHS refer you to a podiatrist?
Yes, the NHS can refer you to an NHS podiatrist.
However, there is no referral requirement to see a Podiatrist in Private Practice. Simply cut out the long NHS referral waiting list and make an appointment.
Podiatrists, also known as chiropodists, are healthcare professionals who specialise in diagnosing and treating conditions related to the feet and lower limbs. If your GP determines that you need expert help with foot issues such as foot pain, injuries, or conditions like diabetes that affect your feet, they can refer to the NHS, or you can self-refer to a Private Podiatrist for further assessment and treatment.
Final thoughts: book a private podiatry appointment today!
So please don’t struggle with any foot pain or foot health conditions any longer. Returning patients to a pain-free or embarrassment-free life is our number one objective.
To book an appointment with our lead podiatrist, Jonathan Kirk, please call 01252 716611 – a seven-day booking service.
You can also read about further podiatric advice on our blog here
