Chiropody 101

We’re all guilty of taking our feet for granted. It’s easy to forget about them as they generally ‘just work’, taking us from A to B and back again and generally being central to our daily lives. But because they are so central, they can be put under a lot of strain as we put them through their paces.

Though our feet are terrific at their job and can put up with most that we throw at them (or under them), they’re certainly not immune to wear and tear. That’s when your friendly neighbourhood podiatrist / chiropodist comes in handy.

We’ve been speaking with Gosforth Physio and Wellness who offer chiropodist services in Newcastle and they’ve helped us answer some of the most common questions relating to chiropody.

I’ve heard of chiropodists, but what do podiatrists do?

SPOILER ALERT: there really is no actual difference between podiatry and chiropody. However, for future reference, podiatry is generally considered to be the preferred ‘umbrella term’ for foot health services. FUN FOOT FACT: though chiropodist is still widely used in the UK, in the majority of other English-speaking countries, podiatry is the phrase that is used more commonly. The main thing to remember is that the terms are interchangeable.

So what do chiropodists (podiatrists) actually do?

In short, they work in the area of foot and lower limb care and maintenance.

Treatments can range from general foot care to those involving complex conditions.

Typically, your chiropodist will offer services such as:
• The removal of corns and calluses • Treating problematic nails, such in-growing nails • Treatments for ulcers, and wounds • Treatment for mechanical hip, knee, heel or foot pain and sports injuries • Diabetic foot assessment and treatment • Assessment and provision of insoles or orthotics (custom-made inserts that fit inside the shoe) if required • Advice on maintaining mobility and prevention of falls • Treatment of painful verrucae • General foot care advice

How do chiropody services work?

The primary role of your chiropodist during initial consultation is to identify and diagnose disorders, diseases and deformities of the feet and legs and then put together and appropriate schedule of treatment. Everyone’s feet, and everyone’s lifestyles, are different, and this will be reflected in the recommendations for treatment that are made.

What if my feet are in such a way that getting to a chiropodist is difficult?

Not a problem! If you would prefer to be treated in the comfort of your own home, or are incapacitated and simply cannot make it to a clinic, then your chiropodist should be happy to bring a professional and friendly service to your home, whatever your circumstances.

So, there's no reason not to have happy feet!