Podiatrist/Chiropodists are available to deal with a full range of painful foot problems. Podiatry/Chiropody is mistakenly believed to be only for the elderly; the unfortunate reason for this is that people don't pay attention to their feet until they have permanent problems in later life. Regular checkups with a Podiatrist/Chiropodist can prevent these problems from occuring.

Our aim is to give you, the patient, the best treatment available, using the latest techniques and treatment protocols. We have a saying "Your Feet Are Our Feet" and as such we will treat you as though they were our own. When required we have a network of Consultants that we can refer to both through the NHS and privately. We will see high risk patients, such as diabetics, rheumatoid and vascular problems, and we offer regular foot health screening, working closely with a clients GP.

What's the difference between a Podiatrist and a Chiropodist?
In the UK Podiatry is simply the new name for Chiropody. The name was changed to Podiatry in 1993 as it is the internationally recognised name for a foot specialist, also it is more appropriate; Podiatry refers to feet while Chiropody refers to hands and feet.

It is not just the name that has changed. Podiatry is a constantly evolving medical profession, the extensive training given over the 3 or 4 years and the continuing education after graduation enable a Podiatrist to treat a vast array of foot and lower limb problems. Along with the most obvious treatments for corns and hard skin, specialties exist within the profession for almost any lower limb problem.

General Foot Care
Routine visits to a Podiatrist should be part of your general health checks. Having routine care on a regular basis will ensure that any problems will be seen earlier and the effects of these problems will be reduced. You should treat your feet like your teeth and see a Podiatrist at least twice a year as you do with a Dentist.

What do the letters Podiatrists use mean?
DPodM or BSc (Podiatry) - This signifies that the Podiatrist has completed a full training course in Podiatry at an approved institution. Originally this course was a Diploma in Podiatric Medicine, but was changed to a degree course at a later stage. In July 2003 the title State Registered became defunct, though it is likely that you may still see it being used. The current and only form of registration is given by the new Health Professions Council, which replaced the old Council for Professions Supplementary to Medicine (CPSM). The register can be viewed at www.hpc-uk.org where you can check to see if your practitioner is on the register. From July 2005 the title Chiropodist/Podiatrist is a protected title under law, this means that anyone who is not on the register cannot call themselves a Chiropodist or Podiatrist or imply, refer, or give the impression that they are a Chiropodist or Podiatrist.

How can I be sure?
When making appointments ask if your Podiatrist is HPC registered, and if they are a member of the Society of Chiropodists and Podiatrists (fornerly State Registered). Those that are will not mind these questions, as it is illegal to not declare if you are HPC registered and to which organisation you are insured with. You can check the website for the HPC (see previous) or check www.feetforlife.org.uk where you will see all the Society of Chiropodists/Podiatrists listed in your area.