Most people have foot problems at some time in their lives, and many of these can be helped
by chiropody / podiatry treatment. This is the field of healthcare devoted to the study and
treatment of disorders of the foot and ankle. We also help diagnose problems so that a patient
can provide the right self-care.
Good foot health is especially important for people with other health problems such as
diabetes, poor circulation or rheumatism. These problems can make self-treatment, even
cutting their own nails, difficult. You do not need a doctor’s referral to see a Podiatrist.
Common foot problems include:
hard skin, corns, cracked heels and calluses
painful and in-growing nails
Skin problems and fungal infections, e.g. athlete’s foot
heel and foot pains
walking problems (gait) and sport injuries (relating to the lower limb)
Normal appointments last about 30 minutes. This can include taking a full medical history,
treatment and advice. Special treatments such as nail surgery may need longer.
Treatments regularly provided include:
hard skin reduction (debridement) and temporary padding.
a range of treatments for verrucae and common nail disorders
footcare advice: shoes and skincare
supplying and modifying various items, such as toe separators
diabetic foot assessment
simple or modified insoles
The two names Chiropody/Podiatry may seem confusing. This is due to recent changes in
qualification and registration for the profession. A three year training course now leads to a
degree in Podiatric Medicine. Only those registered with the H.C.P.C. are entitled to its use.
All Chiropody / Podiatry professionals at the Complementary Health Centre are registered
with the Health and Care Professions Council (H.C.P.C.).