General Podiatry

PODIATRY / CHIROPODY
EXPLAINED

General Podiatry – A podiatrist specialises in the overall health of the feet, ankles and lower leg. Furthermore, a podiatrists can diagnose and treat conditions resulting from bone and joint disorders. These include arthritis, injuries to the feet and lower limbs, and other sources of pain such as muscular, neurological and circulatory diseases.

Podiatrists can also treat disorders of the skin and nails. Seeing a podiatrist regularly is very beneficial in all age groups. In addition, you don’t need a referral to visit a podiatrist.

WHY SEE A HCPC REGISTERED PODIATRIST / CHIROPODIST?

Podiatrists have completed a 3 year degree in Podiatry. This involves studying biomedical sciences including anatomy and physiology, as well as, pharmacology, general medicine and foot surgery. The degree incorporates extensive clinical training on the foot and lower limb. Furthermore, podiatrists qualify with a thorough understanding of the foot in health and disease.

In order to practice in the UK, Podiatrists must register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

HOW DO I KNOW MY PODIATRIST
IS QUALIFIED?

You can check your Podiatrist is registered with the HCPC by contacting them on (0)20 7582 0866 or checking their website: www.hcpc-uk.org

All podiatrists, who have qualified in the UK, have minimum of a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Podiatry or a Diploma in Podiatric Medicine (DPodM). Furthermore, some Podiatrists also have completed a Masters Degree (MSc) or Doctorate (PhD).

In addition, all Podiatrists must continue their professional development to remain registered with the HCPC. The professional body regulates and assesses Podiatrists every two years.

THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A PODIATRIST AND A FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER?

Podiatrists / Chiropodists hold a Bachelors Degree in Podiatry and have had extensive clinical training in the NHS.

Foot Health Practitioners have completed a Certificate in Foot Health (up to 12 months) including 5 days of observation and “hands-on” practice. They are trained to provide basic foot care. They are not trained in nail surgery or in depth mechanical function of the foot like Podiatrists.

If you have Diabetes or any other medical conditions, we would advise you to consult a HCPC Registered Podiatrist.